Lenni Reviews: "Luda" by Grant Morrison

(Image Source)

Drag artist, Luci, has been a performer for a long time but when her co-star has a mysterious accident, she begins training a young talented newcomer; Luda. As they work together, Luda’s talent cannot be denied but when other actors also have mysterious accidents, Luci wonders if Luda is involved in much more than onstage transformations.

This is a very wordy book. It’s told as if you’re sitting with Luci over cocktails listening to her dish the tea rather than just her perspective as things happen. She’s great to experience as she’s a fun character but this is so verbose, I found myself skimming chunks of this. It was harder than usual for me to connect with the story. It’s almost like homework to get to the end. I really wanted to like this since I love the imagination and the concept but what a slog. 2 out of 5.

Special Edition Spider-Man Library Card Coming from NYPL and Marvel

NYPL's Special Edition Spider-Man Library Card Coming October 11

The New York Public Library and Marvel to Issue Special Edition Spider-Man Library Card

Knowledge is power! Scale new heights with NYPL's special, limited-edition Spider-Man library card, available in branches starting October 11. Tap into the power of reading with book recommendations, including a multitude of Marvel graphic novels, plus free programs, events, and more for all ages at your friendly neighborhood library.

The New York Public Library (NYPL) and Marvel Entertainment join forces to release a special, limited-edition Spider-Man library card on October 11 to inspire new and existing patrons to explore a multitude of free books, resources, and programs at the Library, including Marvel graphic novels. This dynamic collaboration—which debuts just in time for New York Comic Con—marks the 60th anniversary of Spider-Man’s first comic book appearance in Amazing Fantasy #15 and emphasizes the importance of reading, knowledge, and libraries to Peter Parker’s crime-fighting comic book adventures. Images of Spider-Man—alongside Miles Morales and Gwen Stacy, two other iconic web-slingers—will be featured on the card, as well as on upcoming banners outside the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building and the windows of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library (SNFL), exciting patrons of all ages to tap into the unique power of reading, comics, and libraries to discover their inner super hero. Details about the card and related activities are available online: nypl.org/beyondamazing

 The release of the Spider-Man card also marks the one-year anniversary of the Library’s decision to eliminate fines as a way to remove barriers to accessing the Library for all New Yorkers. This historic move was even a plot point in Marvel Comics’ Amazing Spider-Man #900, released on July 27. In a special story written by Daniel Kibblesmith, drawn by David Lopez, and colored by Nathan Fairbairn, Peter Parker returns a large stack of overdue books to the Library after learning of the elimination of late fines. Readers can check out Amazing Spider-Man #900 in a special bonus release on Marvel Unlimited, Marvel’s premier digital comics subscription service.

The launch of the special-edition card also marks the start of the Library’s Open House week, which begins October 11. The card will be available to new and current patrons free on a first-come, first-serve basis at all NYPL branches, located throughout the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island. Libraries will be hosting a variety of programs and events throughout the week, as well as featuring book displays and reading recommendations from a special reading list curated by NYPL staff.

“Reading is a superpower—one that provides everyone with the ability to learn, to be inspired, and understand the world more fully,” said New York Public Library President Anthony W. Marx. “At The New York Public Library we remain dedicated to providing books and resources that help New Yorkers reach new heights and working with Marvel on this exciting, limited-edition Spider-Man card reinforces the exceptional accomplishments people can achieve when they have access to information. It also states unequivocally that we think our patrons are ‘beyond amazing.’"

“Marvel’s history has always been rooted in telling stories on the page. And to many people, those stories taught them the joy and power of reading, whether it was their first comic book or graphic novel at a young age or the first time they shared their passion for Marvel comics with their friends and families,” said Marvel Vice President of Licensed Publishing Sven Larsen. “With so many of our most iconic moments and characters established in New York City, we’re thrilled to work with The New York Public Library to invite even more people to dive into Marvel and find their own favorites across Spider-Man’s legacy.”

Interview: PROTECTORS OF WAKANDA: A HISTORY AND TRAINING MANUAL OF THE DORA MILAJE by Karama Horne

Find out if you have what it takes to become a member of the Dora Milaje and bring honor to your tribe!

Courtesy of Marvel, I got to preview the upcoming book PROTECTORS OF WAKANDA: A HISTORY AND TRAINING MANUAL OF THE DORA MILAJE by Karama Horne. Catch us discuss her process, inspirations, the Wakandan alphabet, and the intricacies of Wakandan culture. There is a reason the Dora Milaje are often referred to as “living weapons.”

Now publishing September 20, 2022, PROTECTORS OF WAKANDA: A HISTORY AND TRAINING MANUAL OF THE DORA MILAJE takes you inside Wakanda’s elite, all-female guard—to learn what it takes to join their ranks. In this manual you will learn all about Wakandan history, Dora training, weapons and attire.

To master your evaluation you must master your lessons, you must adhere to the five tenets of the Dora Milaje:

Tradition
Honor
Strength
Courage
Compassion

In this exclusive, in-world manual, you’ll step inside this elite society of women warriors and discover what it’s like to train as member of the Dora Milaje. Recruited from across all tribes, the selected initiates undergo intense training, both physical and mental.

Passed down from elder Dora to initiates, with entries by General Okoye, Princess Shuri, and Queen Mother Ramonda, Protectors of Wakanda reveals not only the history and foundation of the unit, but collects the strategy, weapons, and combat training as well as the code of honor and nuances of service required to protect the Black Panther and the nation of Wakanda.

Added commentary and guidance from notable warriors, such as Mistress Zola, Ayo, Aneka and M’yra, fill the margins of this treasured text.

“The history of Wakanda is a marriage of tradition and technology.” Vibranium is the greatest source of power – used to create weapons and advanced tools for agriculture. The very rare and valuable type of vibranium could only be found and mined from Wakanda. Learn all about its rich history from characters such as Queen Romonda and Princess Shuri. (See preview pages below)

There were many methods the warriors used to prepare for battle, including meditation rituals.
“Rest and healing are as important as strength and fighting.” I not only loved learning about the Warrior practices for battles and their choice of weapons but how they mentally prepare themselves and recover.

Learn about Queen Nehanda, the founder of the Dora Milaje and how she chooses her initiates: “the Adorned Ones” aka the Dora Milaje. The manual breaks down the use of weapons, and the different attire based on levels of training. Cosplayers will love seeing all the different costume breakdowns. Loved chatting with Karama about her inspirations and which comics and cultures she drew inspiration from in writing this book. We also talk about which artist she got to work with on this manual, and the importance in telling these kind of stories.

PREORDER NOW: (contact your local book store)

Protectors of Wakanda: A History and Training Manual for the Dora Milaje cover art by Ashley A. Woods

*Photos courtesy of Marvel/ Epic ink

Karama Horne (@theblerdgurl”) is a writer, podcaster, host and critic parked at the intersection of geekdom and diversity. Founder of theblerdgurl® brand, Karama is recognized throughout genre entertainment as an authority on geekdom and inclusion. She has been seen on red carpets, hosting comic con panels from New York to San Diego and has been featured in USA Today, The New York Times, The Guardian, The San Francisco Chronicle, and Black Enterprise. She curated the sequential art exhibit “Artist’s Experience: From Brotherman to Batman” Karama also has bylines at Marvel.com, Rotten Tomatoes, NERDIST, SYFYWIRE, and The Wrap. Her first novel, set in the world of the Black Panther Universe, “Protectors of Wakanda: A History and Training Manual for the Dora Milaje”, hits bookshelves Fall of 2022

PIRATE QUEENS the Dauntless Women who Dared to Rule the High Seas (Interview with Creators)

PIRATE QUEENS (NatGeo) Interview with creators Sara Woolley and Leigh Lewis

This incredible nonfiction project, tells the story of six different women from six different cultures who turn to piracy and RULED their day! Each one has elaborate illustrations which recreate their lives, an original poem, factual information, maps, and photos galore! 

I loved everything about this book, from learning about how a female pirate had fleets with literally thousands more than Blackbeard, to a female pirate essentially setting the stage for Vikings centuries later, and how female pirates successfully commanded ships through some of the most significant battles! Pirate Queens features a stunning cover and vibrant intricate artwork by award winning children’s book illustrator and comic artist Sara Woolley, who had to go through an extensive process to ensure both cultural and historical accuracy. Her beautiful hand-painted and digital paintings paired beautifully with Leigh Lewis’ writing and vision. Leigh tells the story of this 6 incredible women in such an interesting way that you want to dive in and learn all about these powerful warriors andtheir adventures.

Each pirate profile includes gorgeous full-color portraits, an original poem and fascinating information about the real life stories of these 6 extraordinary pirates. Sara and Leigh worked with some of the world’s leading experts and historians to make sure everything is accurate and properly represented. 

Pirate Queens tells the true incredible stories about 6 pirate women throughout ancient history. These powerful females are among some of the most fearsome pirates in history so why don’t we know more about these women ? 

Catch us discuss these powerful women, the creators process/inspiration/challenges, the importance of telling these stories, and how we can continue using art such as poetry, comics, and children’s books as a platform to teach important lessons. (Full-length Interview above)

Written by: Leigh Lewis @leighwriting
Illustrated by: Sara Gomez Woolley @saritajeanine

Meet the Queens

Pirate Queens: (NAT GEO)

Artemisia of Caria, Anne Bonny, Sayyida al Hurrah, Sela, Grace O’Malley, and Ching Shih

“Most powerful pirate ever to have lived was a woman named Ching Shih, who dominated the South China Sea some 200 years ago.” She reigned over 80,000 men and women, the largest pirate fleet ever assembled. 

-Pirate Queens (NATGEO)

This book is perfect for any history lovers, pirate fans, kids curious about adventures, parents that want to show their kids/teens what textbooks neglect to highlight, or for any female that wants to explore female empowerment and leadership. 

About the Creators:

LEIGH LEWIS is a children’s writer and poet who has been “playing pirates” since she could walk. She does her best work in loud cafes, on long journeys, or in bed, late at night while everyone else sleeps. Her adventures on the high seas have enabled her to call many places “home,” including Turkey, Greece, England, and Russia, as well as cities all over the United States. Eventually, Lewis navigated her way back to her hometown of Columbus, Ohio, where she spends her time dreaming up stories for kids of all ages.

SARA GÓMEZ WOOLLEY is an award-winning children’s book illustrator whose clients include Scholastic, Random House, and more. Her recent children’s book, Charlotte and the Quiet Place, received a Foreword Reviews 2015 Book of the Year Gold Medal, an IPPY Award Silver Medal, and has been featured in Creative Quarterly’s Journal of Art & Design.

PIRATE QUEENS the Dauntless Women who Dared to Rule the High Seas, written by @leighwriting and illustrated by @saritajeanine is available NOW!

Pirate Queens (NATGEO)

Get Your copy HERE:

The Witcher Season 2 Ep 1 Review

Hey O&G fans, the new season of Netflix adaptation of the Witcher premieres on the streaming service Friday Dec 17th. We got a chance to check out the first episode and also participate in a virtual Q&A with Henry Cavill. The first season premiered in 2019, based on the books by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski that also spawned the wildly popular video game series.

Geralt of Rivia (Henry Cavill), the brooding, monster-fighting hero is working to complete his mission to protect Ciri. One thing you get from the first episode, is that they have fixed some of the mistakes from the first season with all the time jumping. Its focused on the current story and adventure. Before author Andrzej Sapkowski wrote the five-novel Witcher Saga about Geralt, Ciri, and the Elder Blood prophecy, he filled two books with short stories. He then dove into Ciri's growth, the prophecy around her, and the politics of the Continent and its kingdoms.

Freya Allan and Henry Cavill both do a great job of bringing these characters to life in ways that reflect both the novels and pieces of the games as well. In Episode one Ciri and Geralt travelling to see Geralt’s old pal Nivellen, played by Game of Thrones actor Kristofer Hivju, who is hiding a monstrous secret. The scenes in this episode are both action packed and full of intrigue as to where the season is headed. Over all the Witcher season 2 episode one is something the fans will love and keep them watching the rest of the season.

by Sean Tucker

Lenni Reviews: “Gunpowder Moon” by David Pedreira

(Image Source)

*This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review.

Set in the year 2072,  in Veteran Caden Dechert is in charge of a US mining operation on the moon. When a bomb goes off and kills a crew member, already strained international relations may turn the moon into a warzone unless Dechart can find the culprit first.

While I like Dechert and his crew and I wanted to find out what happened, this felt like a dry read. Not unenjoyable because Dechert is a relatable guy thrust into a crazy situation and has to figure out what’s really going on but I get the feeling you need to heavily be into space scifi to get into this. The conclusion delivers on some action though to make it all worth it. 3.9 out of 5.

Ringdom: The Online Community for Sci- Fi Lovers and Upcoming Storytellers

RINGDOM OFFERS A FICTIONAL LAND FEATURING ADVENTUROUS STORIES FOR BOOKLOVERS EVERYWHERE 

*Courtesy of Ringdom/ the Brand Agency

Check out the new immersive App. Ringdom; the perfect online Book Club For Sci-Fi Lovers! Ringdom, Stary’s sci-fi platform, gives fiction fans a platform to discover new authors and genres, as well as publish their own written adventures.  

Brought to you by Stary, an entertainment company of storytelling, Ringdom is an up-and-coming online fictional land featuring adventurous, high-concept, and page-turning stories for booklovers everywhere.  

Courtesy of Ringdom

“Ringdom is dedicated to collecting high-quality genre fiction to provide its readers with the best immersive experience. Whether it’s an imaginary universe, paranormal endeavors, or even godly-like creatures, there’s a world of adventure for everyone to enjoy and immerse themselves in. The team at Ringdom believes that stories can help us has a temporary escape from our daily lives and awaken our souls to different worlds. Because of this, the app’s mission is to provide an odyssey for anyone to embark on and meet amazing new characters.  

The app, which is available on Google Play, offers readers relevant lists of recommended books based off a user’s previous reads. They have created a community of fiction fans who have access to various genres like thrillers, fantasies, gaming, paranormal urban, realistic urban and more. Ringdom has focused on engineering a reading ecosphere where everyone is connected. In order to create a sense of community within the platform, users are able to publish comments and thoughts on their favorite stories or share their own stories with others in the Ringdom community.”

Courtesy of Ringdom

“Not only does Ringdom create a community of fiction-loving readers, but it also encourages its members to start their storytelling careers through Stary, which offers aspiring writers a comfortable space to maximize their full potential by providing tools to publish and monetize their finished stories. Over  300,000 books have been written and published on Stary, reaching over  100 million readers  in over 130 regions and countries. Whether it’s gaining an upwards of $100K from one of their writing contests, establishing a following of devoted readers, or publishing their very first hardcover novel, authors have seen great success. 

Stary works with up-and-coming authors to publish their work on one of its relevant sub-platforms, depending on what the novel is about, to reach maximum readership. Writers can monetize their finished pieces and start getting paid once they publish over 3000 words to the platform. Once they reach this goal, they work with Stary to come up with a contract that encompasses payment and commission rates, which is always easily accessible to the writer.”

https://h5.ringdomstory.com/act/StaryWritingAcademyII

*Courtesy of Ringdom/ the Brand Agency

The chilling tale of Daphne Byrne (Hill House Comics)

By: Gothamgeekgirl

From the horror based DC Comics Black label imprint (Hill House Comics) comes the mysterious and chilling Victorian- era supernatural thriller Daphne Byrne. Set in 19th- century New York, we meet Daphne, a young and curious 14-year old girl who is dealing with the loss of her father and her now grief- stricken mother. This tragic mini- series follows Daphne and her mysterious new demon acquaintance “Brother” as she discovers who she is, while ultimately trying to save her mother from hitting rock bottom. 

Award- winning playwright and TV Writer Laura Marks makes her graphic novel debut as the author of the 6-issue mini- series with fantastically nightmarish artwork by the horror comics legend Kelley Jones. The pair deliver a new and twisted tale that not only intrigues readers but explores early womanhood, personal demons, tragedy, and different ways of grieving all set in the 1800s which adds even more suspense to the tragic tale. 

It’s 1886 in gaslit New York, the dark candle lit scenery and natural lightning adds to the chilling ambiance. Daphne, who felt her father was the only person that really understood her, feels completely helpless and alone after his death. Not only does she have to deal with this loss and the constant bullying at school, but with her mother who has gone off the deep end. Using all her last resources her mother is relentlessly trying to contact the spirit of her dead husband leaving Daphne to take charge.

Courtesy of Hill House Comics

Daphne’s mother is in a very fragile state, now widowed and alone struggling with finances and keeping their estate she begins to see a medium eager to speak with her husband once more. In the 1800’s appearance and title was of most importance. Mrs. Byrne now left without a husband who rumor has it died of faulty circumstances becomes an easy target for a manipulative occult group.

Meanwhile kids at school who already bully Daphne, spread rumors about her father and make rude remarks about her mother not being able to pay their debts. Daphne, feeling more alone than ever and knowing that these mediums are nonsense, begins to feel a strange and supernatural presence who introduces himself as “Brother.” Brother appears as a friend, a guide and pushes Daphne to reach limits she has never thought possible. But is she dreaming? Is she being manipulated? Does she already have these dark abilities or is Brother controlling her? Does he even exist? Does she embrace this new darkness?

Courtesy of Hill House Comics

This series really makes the reader think about human interactions, filling voids and dealing with personal demons. It explores the mind and how easily people can be influenced or manipulated. When people show weakness it can be taken for granted and even the most “helpful” people can be looking out for their own interests at the detriment of others. Marks introduces us to characters such as Mrs. Swarthmore and Mr. Brooke that really expand upon human desires and how such evils already exist without monsters and demons. Even though this is a horror story full of demons and dark ghoulish creatures, are they hallucinations or more a representation of our darkest moments? 

Courtesy of Hill House Comics

Choosing the 19th century for the setting is really the driving force behind this supernatural story. Jones really brings to life Laura Marks’ vision and you really see Marks’ cinematic influence with her background in film. Although the story does a great job in making the reader feel like they are in the 1800’s and features incredible spine-chilling imagery it leaves the reader a bit confused with what’s actually happening with Daphne. It leaves a lot up to the reader. I would’ve liked to see more with her character development and to learn more about her abilities, where did they come from and did she already have these powers inside her all along? Also without giving spoilers why call him “Brother”? Otherwise this is a very fun and unique read, and I would love to see where this story goes and how far Daphne takes her supernatural powers.

Daphne Byrne by Laura Marks, Kelley Jones (Illustrator)
(Contains 6 issues)

For more chilling horror comics check out the Hill House Comics imprint from DC Black Label!

Joe Hill—the mastermind behind N0S4A2 and Locke & Key—has arrived at DC, curating his own cutting-edge horror comics pop-up! Hill House Comics will terrify readers with a smart, subversive and scary lineup of five original limited series. 

https://www.dccomics.com/HillHouseComics

Lenni Reviews: “The Prey of Gods” by Nicky Drayden

(Image Source)

*This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review.

Set in a futuristic South Africa where everyone has a personal robot and designer drugs are a frequent past time; we have a seemingly unconnected cast of characters slowly drawn into what could be a cataclysmic series of events.

I really can’t say too much more about the plot without spoiling the experience of how a young man named Muzi, his layabout friend, Elkin, a nail technician named Sydney, a superstar singer named Riya, a politician named Sydney, and a young girl named Nomvula are all connected to the end of the human race. You just need to read this. It’s ruthlessly creative, character-driven, thrilling, and almost perfect except for some aspects of the ending I didn’t like; which I won’t spoil. I loved it and highly recommend it if you’d like some futuristic sci-fi in a unique setting. 5 out of 5 and I hope there is more to come.

Lenni Reviews: "The Medium-Sized Book of Zim Scripts: Vol. 1: Pigs ’n’ Waffles" by Rikki Simons, Eric Trueheart & Aaron Alexovich

(Image Source)

* This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review.

This book is a collection of not only scripts but behind the scenes stories. I knew I would love this book from the introduction, which has all the wit and humor once comes to expect from a show like Invader Zim. I'm not even one for digging into the background goings-on of a show I like; tending to just enjoy my chosen media and move on (or watch repeatedly). Despite this, I had a great time with the backstories and inspirations for the plots in the episodes.

This book brings even more fun to the original show and has me wanting to binge the entire thing all over again to see the fruits of such interesting labors. And these side stories are fantastically written. You get the feeling of being there with the emotions expressed and interactions of everybody - especially towards the end with the show's cancellation. It isn't accurate to say I can't know what it would be like to work with these people because this book showed me and I am delighted to have read it. I encourage fans of the show to give this a try.