I won a copy of this book from BookRiot.

This is a great book for comic and graphic novel lovers. Consisting of thirteen interviews and presented in question-answer format, this book gives some insight into creating graphic novels.

Each graphic novelist also created a short comic for the book around a central theme. I loved seeing all of the different styles of art included in the book.

The only real drawback for me with this book was that the question-answer format was a little boring to read at times. The interviews were interesting, but I found it best to read an interview, take a break, then read another one. Otherwise, they all kind of blended together.

One thing that really resonated with me personally was how many of the artists discussed feeling pigeonholed into superhero comics. They recalled how freeing it was to discover that an artist can create whatever they want with their art. I have always been fascinated with comics and graphic novels, but don't really like the style and representation of superhero comics and I am so thankful that there are so many more options now. Comics are so diverse today, in part, because of the hard work of some of the graphic novelists featured in this book. I loved the emphasis on being yourself and doing what is meaningful to you.

Overall, a good read. I recommend to people who enjoy reading or creating comics and graphic novels.

Sutherland's personal selection of 294 novelists undoubtedly leaves people asking questions like - where is Byatt, Carter, and Pratchett. Sutherland, however, points out this is his list. And you know what - he does a rather impressive job including non-canon writers, in particular many women writers outside of the standard big ones of Austen, Brontes, Elliot, and so on. Quite frankly, he should get some major props for including writers of popular fiction. He includes VC Andrews. How many women read her (or him) as young girls?

Quick review for a quick read. I read this book as a reference from my local library during my Camp Nano writing pursuits. I thought it was a thorough examination of scene building on several levels - from character to setting to genre. It was logical in its orientation and organization, with examples from literature, film, and the author's own writings. However, for me I wouldn't say it was as helpful as other resources on writing I've perused.

Overall score : 3/5 stars.

Under "nobody knows:"

• Time-travelling pirates
• Über-chimp astrologers
• Ham-fisted hosers
• Over-emotional AIs

AUTHOR'S NOTE: Feel free to share, but please give credit to E. or Edward Lorn. Thank you.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream, by Neil Gaiman

Sympathy had no choice. No, not at all. It was war, death, and sickness that caused it such horrible trouble. Very short, like a terrible dream. And quick, it was, like a shadow. And very, very British.

Her vagina gobbled up the darkness.

Romeo & Juliet, by Dean Koontz

But, smart! what golden retriever through yonder window breaks. It is man’s best friend, and Juliet is the blonde, wittily sarcastic love interest. Arise, fair precocious child, and follow the clairvoyant fry cook into danger.

Othello, by Chuck Palahniuk

I am Othello’s bubbling rage. Please replace your oar and chains to their upright positions.

Hamlet, by Stephen King

“A hit! Ayuh, a very palpable hit!”

And hit he was. Because there was blood. Lots of blood. Loads of it. And didn’t it just drip, drip, drip onto the floor?

That’s your life just drip, drip, dripping onto the floor, Hammie. Reminds you of that poor girl, doesn't it? (what was her name? the one those damn kids dropped that pig blood on?) All drip, drip, dripping and full of fiery rage. She burned down her castle, and ruined the ball. It was the same year that rabid dog trapped that mother and her little boy in their car. You remember. Eventually, everyone remembers.

Now all this party needed was a clown, if you could but dig.

The Taming of the Shrew, by James Patterson

SHREW, the new thrill ride by James Patterson. And introducing William Shakespeare.

Do you have a popular novelist you'd like to see rewrite a bit of Shakespeare? If so, drop your suggestions in the comment section of this post, and I will do my best. 

Later!

E.