In this updated and expanded version of Sara Varon's first book, floppy cats, dogs in caps, and beach-loving robots populate a whimsical look into the author's creative process. Two-color mixed-media illustrations.
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A rerelease of Varon’s first work, a 2003 comics collection, with new stories added. Varon has penned introductions to each tale that give readers a glimpse into her creative process, including the backstory behind her popular 2007 graphic novel, Robot Dreams (First Second). Varon charms readers in the way that only she can, with her beautifully drawn two-color tales of a s’more-stealing (yet repentant) raccoon and sweltering dinosaurs who cool off with a visit to the ice cream truck as well as informational and exquisitely detailed depictions of beekeeping and the Mexico City subway system. She also treats readers to some fun Easter eggs—a tiny flier bound into the book’s pages and an intricate paper doll set. The selections’ introductions and a few of the pieces themselves may hold more appeal for adults than children due to their mature (but certainly not inappropriate) themes, but that won’t detract from the delight this collection will give to a wide range of graphic novel lovers. VERDICT A highly recommended purchase for fans of Varon’s previous works and for lovers of offbeat, big-hearted comics.—Laura Lintz, Henrietta Public Library, Rochester, NY