Carlton Crumple Creature Catcher Book Two: Tater Invaders! by David Fremont. Pixel Ink, 9781645950066, 2021
Format: Hardcover Graphic Novel
Rating: 1-5 (5 is an excellent or a Starred review) 4
Genre: Action/Adventure/Humor
What did you like about the book? This is a great graphic novel with lots of action and silly puns that will be easily enjoyed by readers of all ages. The story stands on its own without needing to read the first book in the series, though now I want to read about the other adventures! Carlton Crumple, Creature Catcher creates various inventions that he uses to outsmart and catch the evil tater and his tater army. His friend Lulu, as well as some animal friends, help and I appreciated the positive support they gave each other in their communication. Most of the jokes are not at any other character’s expense, and include lots of food puns. The small sized book has ten short chapters, and the story moves fast. The cartoon-style illustrations include thick black lines around the panels to focus the reader’s attention, though there are lots of elements that break outside the lines to add to the tone and humor.
Anything you did not like about the book. Some of the silly words and slang will likely be difficult for beginning readers to read independently.
To whom would you recommend this book? This is an early chapter book in graphic novel format, and would be ideal for 2nd or 3rd grade readers. I would recommend it to readers who like silly graphic novels with action and lots of puns. I would specifically give it to readers who enjoyed Creepy Carrots (Reynolds) and want something longer. Read-alike with the Super Potato series (Laperla).
Who should buy this book? Elementary school librarians, public librarians
Where would you shelve it? Graphic Novels
Should we (librarians) put this on the top of our “to read” piles? No
Reviewer’s Name, Library (or school), City: Sarah Bickel, Greenlodge Elementary School, Dedham, Massachusetts
Date of review: April 21, 2021
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