Written by Jennifer Holm
Illustrated by Matthew Holm
Age Range: 7-10
 |
Published 2012 by Random House
ISBN: 978-0375867804
MSRP: $12.99
|
Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards for Best Publication for Early Readers (2013)
Babymouse has had many adventures (a lot of
them in her own mind) as the star of her own graphic novel series. She’s
imagined herself a rock star, a surf bum, a dragonslayer and, of course, queen
of the world. Now she’s tackling politics. In Babymouse for President, the sixteenth installment in the series, Babymouse
decides that she needs to be the change she wants in the world – or at least
that she needs to be the one in charge. Over the course of the campaign she
realizes that being president is not about power, it is about being the voice
of one’s constituents, and while the election may not turn out how she would
like, the experience is a positive one.
Jennifer and Matthew Holm are the
sister-and-brother team who created Babymouse and who bring her to life.
Jennifer’s writing shows a sweet, if at times awkward and self-centered, young
girl trying to navigate the ins and outs of being a tween. Matthew makes
effective use of a black, white and pink color palette and his line drawings
are simple but expressive.
Babymouse is yet another
series (like the earlier-reviewed Origami
Yoda) that presents the trials of public school life in ways that many
children can relate to. Whereas Origami
Yoda skews more toward boys, Babymouse
definitely aims to reach girls. While she is not the only female middle-grade
graphic novel heroine, there are not very many. The series’ popularity,
however, demonstrates that there is a definite interest among young girls in
the comic format. Graphic novels hold great appeal for reluctant readers who
may be intimidated by chapter books. They also help children learn to interpret
things visually as well as verbally and develop critical literacy skills, and
can act as a gateway to other types of literature. This would be a great series
for little girls who are reluctant readers and who face confidence and identity
issues as they begin the road to teendom. Additionally, Babymouse is just a
lovable kid with a great imagination and a relatable personality. Just about
anyone can enjoy that.
Readalikes:
Bird and Squirrel on the Run by James Burks
Lunch Lady by Jarrett Krosoczka
Zita the Spacegirl by Ben Hatke
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