Graphic-Novel-Loving Librarian Blog

Summary: Often times in a Sir Arthur Conan Doyle mystery involving Sherlock Holmes, the protagonist relied on the assistance of individuals that he referred to as the Baker Street Irregulars.  These "irregulars" were the people of the streets or in this case the children.  These kids were more than likely orphaned or abandoned to the streets of London, left to fend for themselves.  Despite their sordid lives, Sherlock saw them as invaluable and would consistently turn to them for help.  In The Baker Street Four , we follow three such children, Tom, Charlie, and Billy, along with their pet cat, Watson, on two of their own personal cases: The Blue Curtain and The Rabúkin Case. The children get to practice the techniques that they most likely learned from associating with Holmes and their own street-wise expertise in order to solve their mysteries, which it turns out to be a great help to those they're aiding.  As we get to know each of these kids, we learn that each one

Summary:   As the subtitle of the book suggests, this exquisitely illustrated biography is about a young artist growing up in a life of uncertainty and doubt.  Jarrett Krosoczka tells of his life growing up with a drug addicted mother, whose presence fluctuates in and out of his life. Forced to be brought up by his grandparents and young aunts, a young Jarrett has to adapt to an unusual and atypical upbringing.  His grandparents do their best to raise Jarrett, but Jarrett can't help but long to be with his mother and, believe it or not, his absentee father, despite not even knowing who he is.  Jarrett just wants what he believes to be a normal happy life.  Despite all of this uncertainty, there is one thing that does bring Jarrett comfort and self-confidence: drawing.  Jarrett's drawing skills bring him recognition and self-identity, and to some degree happiness.  However, as he is growing up, beginning to feel comfortable about his life, he discovers who his father really i