While there are three graphic novels in the Hereville series, each book does well as a stand-alone. How Mirka Caught a Fish (second in the series) has found a home in the teen loft collection. In this particular tale, our heroine Mirka summons a reluctantly dutiful troll, seeks support from a frighteningly powerful witch, and outsmarts a magical wishing fish with a bad temper. As Mirka follows her curiosity and upholds her duty to her half-sister, we learn about the values and way of life for this religious blended-family. Mirka is an “11-year-old time-traveling Orthodox Jewish babysitter,” with a penchant for misadventure. Ultimately the choice she must face is a difficult one, but Mirka has learned from her stepmother that doing the right thing is meaningless if you only do it when it’s easy.
Tag: comic books
Extra! Extra! Read All About It!
July 14, 2012
Waiting for the King
Writer Dave Eggers talks about his new novel A Hologram for the King with the NY Times. Along with discussing his differing approaches to fiction and nonfiction, the Zeitoun author explores how Waiting for Godot, Willy Loman, and a visit to Saudi Arabia subtly influenced the book.
Superheroes for the Silver Screen
The Onion presents 21 comic book super teams perfect for the movies. Inspired by The Avengers’ blockbuster and this weekend’s Comic-Con, they lobby for bringing Alpha Flight, Doom Patrol, the Champions, the Thunderbolts, Seven Soldiers, and the Zoo Crew to Hollywood.
The Importance of Being Orwell
George Orwell’s diaries are dissected by the late Christopher Hitchens in this fascinating Vanity Fair feature. Due out next month, the 1984 author’s personal writings shed light on how his years in Morocco and Spain in the 1930’s and ’40’s greatly influenced his political convictions.
Thank You for Being a Friend
Learn the art of bromance with this look at 11 great literary friendships. Through inspiring highs and jealous lows, peek inside the complex relationships between Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald, C.S Lewis and J.R.R Tolkien, and Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus.
Local Art @ EPL
April 7, 2012
We are very happy to introduce local painter, illustrator, and designer Ronnie Dukes as the next artist in our ongoing exhibition series Local Art @ EPL. From now through the end of April, his visionary collection Vitruvian Hero: Act I will be on display on the 2nd floor of EPL’s Main Branch. Inspired by Da Vinci’s famous Vitruvian Man, this first of a planned three-part series explores the possibilities of “super” human evolution using elements of sci-fi and fantasy in the striking style of comic-book illustrations. You can view more of Mr. Dukes’ work by visiting his website, and make sure to check back with Off the Shelf later in April for a featured interview with the artist himself. Stay tuned.