In this episode, the first thing I do is review the new book by Phil Rink – Jimi & Isaac 1a: School Soccer. This book is a wonderful story of how trying something new and changing up habits is a good thing which can lead you to discovering talents you didn’t know you had! You can pick it up here at Amazon – please support independent authors that you like! Thanks to Phil for the book, and we look forward to more in this fun series, aimed at upper elementary and middle schoolers.

Air-dry clay, cardboard, acrylic craft paints and printed pictures
Then I discuss two different topics that work well together – supplies for school projects and having lots of craft supplies for cold, dreary afternoons with bored kids. I list basic supplies to have on hand that are good for all ages, and then talk about how we’ve used some more advanced supplies in craft projects and how that can be helpful for those school dioramas and models. Check out these pics for some of the projects I mention.

Geronimo Stilton puppet made from polymer clay, pipe cleaners, construction paper, tape and a wooden dowel

Polymer clay organelles in a glycerin soap cell model
Please email me with your own comments at howtogrowyourgeek-at-gmail-dot-com, or call my voicemail number at  (678) 235-GROW (4769) and leave your thoughts.  And last but not least, you can follow me on Twitter at SusietheGeek or the show at HowToGrowGeek!

Theme music courtesy of Jonathan Coulton

Promo: Technorama and Tuning in to SciFi TV

Please email me with your own comments at howtogrowyourgeek-at-gmail-dot-com, or call my NEW voicemail number at  (678) 235-GROW (4769) and leave your thoughts.  And last but not least, you can follow me on Twitter at SusietheGeek or the show at HowToGrowGeek!

Theme music and Chiron Beta Prime courtesy of Jonathan Coulton

In this episode, I recommend a number of YA books and a couple of video games, in case you need a few gift ideas for your little geek! Here’s the list of books reviewed (not all pictured above):

Leviathan, Behemoth and Goliath (The Leviathan Series #1-3) by Scott Westerfield

Incarceron and Sapphique by Catherine Fisher

The Alchemist ( The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel #1) by Michael Scott

The Red Pyramid (Kane Chronicles #1) and The Throne of Fire (Kane Chronicles #2) by Rick Riordan

The Summoning (Darkest Powers Series #1) by Kelley Armstrong

And these games I recommend – I’ve not played them yet, but the reviews are good, and we’re getting them!

Little Big Planet 2 by Sony (PS3)

The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword by Nintendo (Wii)

Please email me with your own comments at howtogrowyourgeek-at-gmail-dot-com, or call my NEW voicemail number at  (678) 235-GROW (4769) and leave your thoughts.  And last but not least, you can follow me on Twitter at SusietheGeek or the show at HowToGrowGeek!

Theme music courtesy of Jonathan Coulton

Promo: Adventures in SciFi Publishing and Tuning in to SciFi TV

I also present the places on this CNN Travel list 15  American places your kids should see by age 15. Le me know if you’ve been to any of these places and what you think of this list!

And we are planning to celebrate our 100th episode next time, and want you all to call, email or send us a message, telling us what you like about the show, where you found us, or what you’d love to hear. We want to make a clip show featuring all of these messages, so please send us something soon!

A big shout out to our friends at Technorama, Chuck and Kreg! They’ve hit their #300 show, and we want to help them celebrate this milestone. Go check them out!

And, dear listeners, the huge earthquakes and tsunamis that hit Japan have caused great damage and loss of life.  Here’s a way you can help. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies accepts donations via text message. Text “redcross” to 90999, and you can make a $10 donation to the organization. It will show up on your next mobile phone bill.

Please email me with your own comments at howtogrowyourgeek-at-gmail-dot-com, or call my NEW voicemail number at  (678) 235-GROW (4769) and leave your thoughts.  And last but not least, you can follow me on Twitter at SusietheGeek or the show at HowToGrowGeek!

Theme music courtesy of Jonathan Coulton

Promo: Dragon Page with Class and the Safe Haven Podcast

Wimpy Kid Books

Owly

Allie Finkle’s Rules for Girls

The Elements

Girls on the Run is the program that Amanda is joining again to train for running a 5K! Check it out for your girls!

And check out the last two Space Shuttle flights – happening this year! Check the NASA Human Spaceflight Site for info and NASA TV!

Please email me with your own comments at howtogrowyourgeek-at-gmail-dot-com, or call my NEW voicemail number at  (678) 235-GROW (4769) and leave your thoughts.  And last but not least, you can follow me on Twitter at SusietheGeek or the show at HowToGrowGeek!

Theme music courtesy of Jonathan Coulton

Promo: Dragon Page Cover to Cover and Podculture

Alton Brown’s Good Eats, on the Food Network

The Joy of Cooking

The Better Homes and Gardens New CookBook

Please email me with your own comments at howtogrowyourgeek-at-gmail-dot-com, or call my NEW voicemail number at  (678) 235-GROW (4769) and leave your thoughts.  And last but not least, you can follow me on Twitter at SusietheGeek or the show at HowToGrowGeek!

Theme music courtesy of Jonathan Coulton

Promo: The Babylon Podcast and Marc Gunn’s Irish & Celtic Music Podcast

Alex Rider

Monster High

Star Wars: Millennium Falcon- A 3-D Owner’s Guide

Star Wars Blueprints: Rebel Edition Book

Extreme 3-D Scary Bugs

Classic books:

The Nancy Drew Mysteries

The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

The Prydain Chronicles by Lloyd Alexander

The Dragonriders of Pern by Anne McCaffrey

The Amelia Peabody Mysteries by Elizabeth Peters

The Mary Russell Mysteries by Lori R. King

Please email me with your own comments at howtogrowyourgeek-at-gmail-dot-com, or call my NEW voicemail number at  (678) 235-GROW (4769) and leave your thoughts.  And last but not least, you can follow me on Twitter at SusietheGeek or the show at HowToGrowGeek!

Theme music courtesy of Jonathan Coulton

Promo: Dragon Page Cover to Cover and Podculture

In this episode, I announce our first HTGYG Contest Giveaway!

Ok, everyone, we are going to have our first contest giveaway! Our friend Tabitha Grace Smith, from the BTL Studios podcasts, has written her first children’s book in the “Machu & Jack” series, called “Jack the Kitten is Very Brave,” and is offering a free copy to one of our listeners!  This story is based on her real-life cats, who were both rescued kittens, and it tells the story of Jack’s fear of water, and how imagination and fun helped him get over his fears (and it has pirates!). It is intended for 3-7 year olds, but everyone can enjoy this cute book!

You can enter to win this by emailing your name, Twitter name (if you have one), and email address to: howtogrowyourgeek at gmail.com, with “Jack the Kitten” in the subject line! You may enter once per day, until midnight EST on Dec 30! I’ll pick a winner out of the hat on Dec. 31, and notify you via email and Twitter, and here on the site, and then Tabitha will send you out your very own copy! U.S. or Canadian Shipping only – sorry! You can also visit Jack’s Facebook page, and find cool Jack merchandise at Zazzle!

I also review the great kids’ book “The Strange Case of Origami Yoda” by Tom Angleberger. This is Kevin’s new favorite book! Check out the Origami Yoda  site here!  Next, my friend Jen, who is a talented artist, has a site where you can commission artwork, or browse her collection of paintings inspired by music. Visit her site here! And finally, Gary and I both heartily recommend ThinkGeek for great geeky gift ideas for kids and adults!

Also, check our some funny voice work by me and some truly talented others at Comedy4Cast. Clinton wrote a great spoof of “Ghost Hunters!” Part 2 is up now!

Please email me with your own comments at howtogrowyourgeek-at-gmail-dot-com, or call my NEW voicemail number at  (678) 235-GROW (4769) and leave your thoughts.  And last but not least, you can follow me on Twitter at SusietheGeek or the show at HowToGrowGeek!

Theme music courtesy of Jonathan Coulton

Promo: Tuning in to SciFi TV and Technorama

The Mousehunter – By Alex Milay
A book review by Darcy Low

From the cover: ” Across seventeen seas, there is no mousehunting pirate as feared as the legendary Captain Mousebeard. He seeks out the rarest and most precious breeds of mice to collect and trade, his fearsome reputation preceding him wherever he goes. Emiline, mousekeeper to one of Old Town’s wealthiest citizens; is anything but feared. So when her master puts a bounty on Mousebeard’s head, she sees it as the chance of a lifetime. Her journey takes her on a high seas adventure, filled with swords and sea monsters, betrayal, lies, and the chance to capture the most dangerous man in mousing history.”

This book really surprised me, like i said; I thought this was just going to be another kid’s book. But it really turned out to be a great adventure book, one that really pulled me in and kept me interested.

The mousehunter is set in a world where there are many, many species of mice, from Sharpclaws who have long razor sharp claws that can cut though anything including metal in seconds. To Powdermice, which are small mice used to run powder for cannons back and forth on ships. When the book first starts out, we find Emiline trying frantically to get a Sharpclaw mice back in in his cage. She is all padded up, and I got the impression of a little girl dressed as a hockey goalie. (Pretty cute.) Emiline is a orphaned girl living in the house of the richest mouse collector in all of Old Town, Isiah Lovelock. He has been collecting mice for years and is always looking for more, including some of the rarest mice. He has even written, Mousehunter’s Almanac; which deals with hunting, collecting and raising mice. This has become Emiline’s bible, and she has really gotten good at doing everything the book says. But she feels that she is not where she needs to be, she wants with all her heart to be a mousehunter.

One night late at night, a dead pirate is washed ashore bearing a wooden box tied around his neck. Inside the box, there is a warning to Isiah Lovelock. We learn that the feared pirate Mousebeard has found something incredibly rare, something that Lovelock will stop at nothing to get. He hires the pirate mercenary, Captain Devlin Drewshank. (He reminded me a lot of Indiana Jones in a way, a bit more egotistical). He is given the job of finding Mousebeard, and stopping him by any means, Locklock tells him that he is the only person that is skilled enough to bring him finally to justice. Drewshanks agrees but with reluctance, even though he has ego about him, he still; deep down has some personal doubts that come out later. Emiline over hears all of this, and sees this as her chance to get out into the world and finally become a Mousehunter. She packs what little she has, and goes to the docks to sneak on board Drewshank’s ship, she is also very upset that she was not able to find the Sharpclaw. It is such a dangerous mouse, that if it should get out into the world; it could be very bad. Her fears are soon realized when she gets to the boat and finds it in utter chaos, the Sharpclaw has made it on board the ship and a a young boy Emiline’s age is trying he best to get it caught. Eiline, feeling guilty; helps the boy capture the mouse and wins the admiration of Drewshanks and her way on board the ship. Scabbers, the young boy; feels put out by Emiline taking over, but later the two become good friends. I really liked his character, he does really want to be a mousecatcher it seems he is more at home as a pirate. Lovelock comes down and Emiline hides so not to be caught by her former employer, but the butler sees her and she tells him where she is going and why. At first he tells her this is far to dangerous for a young girl, but seeing how determined she is; he tells her to be careful and watchful. He also gives her a dagger, telling her there is a lot more going on than what appears. The ship sets out and Emiline’s adventure really begins. As the journey continues, she becomes better at catching mice and also helps Scabbers with his job. He also teaches her a lot about being a pirate and everything to expect while at sea. While Emiline is up in the crow’s nest, the ship is attacked by a sea monster, and is badly damaged.

Let me paused there a minute, and tell you about the creature itself. The creature is man made, by that I mean that it was once a breed of mouse that when thrown into the sea, becomes a giant sea monster. Now that has to be the most original monster I ever read about.  And it really got me going.

Emiline is thrown overboard, but is rescued by Scabbers and the first mate. While  in port making repairs, we learn that the butler was correct, there is far more going on here than just hunting down a dangerous pirate. This just adds to Drewshanks doubts and fears, but he has been hired to find Mousebeard and he decides to press on. While out to sea again, a mysterious fog comes up, so thick that you can hardly see your hand in front of your face. And it is FOLLOWING Drewshank’s ship. When the fog catches up to them and engulfs them, they see Mousebeard’s ship, The Sea Shark. A battle starts, but Drewshank’s cannon balls are of no use. The Sea Shark is a made of heavy metal armour, the cannon balls have little effect. The battle is very short and Drewshank and the crew are captured. Mousebeard comes on deck, as fearsome as all the legends say; and tells them they are all his prisoners. They found Mousebeard, but they are now his prisoners.

How will they escape? How will Emiline ever become a Mousehunter now? And what has Mousebeard found that is so important to Lovelock?

I loved this book, it was filled with action, plot twits and humor as well. The only thing that I had a problem with was the characters. I like them, but I really think the writer could have fleshed them out a lot more than he did. Emiline, herself we have no idea of her past, why she is a orphan, how she became a mousecather in the house of the richest man in town or really much about her at all. We are just thrown in to her story at the present date. I am hoping that her back story will come out later on. I don’t want to give the impression that this took me out of the story any, it didn’t. The writer kept the pace going fast, and the plot thickened a lot as well as the story went along. I liked how there would be a fight or a battle, then after the scene would go to someone else or something else that was happening in the story to fill us in on all the plot twists. And boy, are there ever twists in this story.

I can’t say much more, without giving away stuff. If you like adventure stories, stories of pirates; or even stories of mice you are going to like this one. It was really good and surprising as well.

This is Mr. Alex Milway’s first novel, he has written a lot of short stories and written for magazines before this. according to the back cover, he lives in England and had “Run in with a particularly deadly Sharpclaw, but lived to tell the tale”. hehe.

There is a web site for the books, this is the first one of a trilogy. But I will warn you; DON’T GO HERE UNTIL YOU READ THE FIRST BOOK! The title of the second will spoil the first book for you. But the web site is really fun, there is a lot of information on the books and the author, along with a short video on some of the mice in the books.

http://www.themousehunter.com/

You can also follow Mr. Milaway on hos blog here, see what he is up to and what he is working on.

http://www.themousehunter.com/blog/

And…

I managed to find for you guys the artist who did the cover’s blog page as well.

http://cbcangaart.blogspot.com/2008/10/mousehunter.html

So check these out and go check the book out, I think you will like this series

Darcy

Hey Guys,
Well my summer is almost over, I start a new school year next monday. I will be studying a lot of new things, chemistry, computer science and drama classes. I am looking forward to it.

this past summer, I choose to read smaller books, and a lot of graphic novels. They are just easier for busy days when you really don’t want be sitting around indoors. So I thought I would share the best ones out of the bunch.

Marvel’s Wonderful world of Oz graphic novel – By Eric Shanower and Skottie Young
Reviewed by Darcy Low

Growing up, my mom loved this movie. We watched it every time it came on. I am sure everyone has seen it, so nothing I will say here should be a spoiler to anyone.

The story is about Dorothy, a young farm girl from Kansas. Her parents are gone and she is being raised by her Aunt and Uncle. She seems like she loves it there and has fun with her cute little dog named Toto. One day when she is out, a big storm comes up. Her Uncle, who is sitting on the front porch see far off that the storm clouds are getting intense. He calls out, that everyone should take cover in the cellar. There is a huge tornado coming their way! Dorothy, who is outside playing; scoops up her dog and runs for cover. But just as she is at the door to the cellar, Toto becomes frightened and bolts from her arms. He runs under the front porch and Dorothy has to crawl in after him. The tornado is almost there, and time is running out for getting to safety. She finally gets him out, just when the storm is right on top of them both. Having no time to get to the cellar, Dorothy runs inside the house.
As the storm reaches it’s full strength, sounding like a train rushing by. The old farm house is lifted up and carried away inside the heart of the tornado.

Waking up hours later, Dorothy opens the front door. But instead of seeing the dusty old farm that she grew up on. She finds herself looking at green fields, blue skies, a group of funny dressed little people who are all cheering her. To quote the movie, “I don’t think we are in Kansas anymore.” Boy, was she ever right.

The little people of course are the Munkins, and the reason they are so happy is because Dorothy’s old farm house landed on the wicked witch of the east, killing her. She had been enslaving and terrorizing them for a long time.  They explain to Dorothy that she is in the land of Oz, and seeing how she is dressed as a good witch; (White.) and she is also wearing colors that the munkins wear themselves, they want to make her their new ruler.

The real good witch of the north shows up, and explains more to Dorothy, telling her there used to be evil witches from the east and west, and now with this one dead the witch of the west is all that remains. With the death of her sister, she is more powerful that ever and will come seeking out the person who killed her sister. Dorothy, a very small and innocent young girl, is very hurt that she has killed anyone. And says it was just a mistake, all she wants to do is to return home to her Aunt and Uncle’s farm. The good witch and the munkins have never heard of Kansas, but tell Dorothy there maybe one man in all of Oz wide enough to help her find her way home. The wonderful Wizard of Oz.

They tell her in order to find him, she must stay on the yellow brick road, which will lead her straight to him. But the road is full of danger, and she has to be very careful. Plus the witch will have minions about looking for her. Before setting out alone, Dorothy is given the silver shoes worn but the wicked witch, because the shoes she has on will not last the long journey. (They is no way I’d wear shoes off some dead body, gross.) She is also given a kiss by the good witch, who tells her this will protect her somewhat upon her journey.

Now we all know how Dorthy met her friends along the way, the Scarecrow, the Coward;y Lion and the Tin  Woodsman. This book though, goes into more detail of their backgrounds. The Tin Woodsman story really stands out at being very sad and tragic. As they journey on, they meet other munkins and have to get pass a lot of dangers. But as they do, each character becomes stronger in himself and as a team working together.

When they finally reach the wizard and his city, they find it and him not at all what they were expecting. When asked what they want from him, they each tell what they are seeking. He agrees to help them all get what they are , but instead of just giving them each item; he sends them out on a series of quests. Each one harder than the last. Can they all gain what they want? Will they find courage, gain a heart and gain knowledge? will Dorothy ever make it back home?

I loved this book. The drawings in it really brought the characters to life for me. Dorothy looked just how she should have to me, more of a young innocent girl than Judy Garlin’s character in the movie. I have never read any of the Oz books, but really want to now. Dad said they are what this book is based on and not the movie so much. There are a lot of differences here, as I said; there is more detail into each character’s life and why they are seeking what they are from the wizard. The Emerald city is that color for a very good reason, and Dorothy has a lot more power than she realizes.

The book also tells the story of the flying monkeys, and how the witch came to gain control over them.

This graphic novel is perfect for anyone that has seen the movie or read the books, and wants to  remember this great story. But more than that, this would be perfect if you have young kids that would be bored with the movie, but you want to share this with them. They would love this book and could act as a gateway to get them to read the novels.

The graphic novel is put out by Marvel, and comes in a hard bound edition. In the back you will find a sketch book  and various covers they were thinking of when they came up with the book. Also you see the next graphic novel which continues in the Land of Oz. “Jack the Punkinhead.” I will be looking for that one myself.

Seek this one out guys, i think everyone will enjoy it.

Darcy

A lot of things happened in the eighties. Pac man was big, as was rubik’s cube. Walter Cronkite retired after nineteen years doing the news and Harrison Ford stared in Raiders. Meryl Streep took home…..well everything. My dad cast his first vote and Ronald Regan was president. (Please note, dad says he is not to be held responsible for that last one.)
And a young college student set out writing one really cool and funny comic strip, then went on to write screen plays, novels, ect. His characters have become American icons, say one of their names and people all over the world know who you are talking about.

This time around I thought I would review a book collection of one of dad and Jenny’s favorite strips.

Bloom County The complete collection volume one. By Berkeley Breathed.
Review by Darcy Low

The book has comic strips from Mr Breathed very first comics that he did in his college paper, up to 1982. His first drawings were funny, but doesn’t look at all like they do later on. But you can still see his humor and a few of his characters that he stuck with.
The book starts out with even more of a treat after, we get to see for the first time anywhere; six comic strips he did “For emergencies” ; which means these are one papers can use when they need one quick. I guess cartoonist have to do that, i mean think about it; they must have to do a lot and turn them in at once? Just to keep up.

Then we get into the beggingins of Bloom County itself and it characters. First we meet are two older folks. One is a old man at a Burger King.  Now back in the day, you could order a hambuger anyway you want and back then you got it. It was Burger King’s motto. So he goes in and ask for a burger with out a bun. (Which we can get now.) After arguing with the guy behind the counter he gets what he wants. Then the guys asks if there will be anything else? “Milkshake, no cup.” Hehehe

Turns out that is Milo Bloom’s Grandpa that everyone calls the general. The general is like a lot older people I know from here. Still living the war, not trusting people and looking for “Darn Ruskies” under every rock and behind every tree. He is a big supporter of any war types in office and congress and feels the best answer to any troubles is to nuke em!
Milo Bloom is a heavy set young boy, maybe my age or so. He has glasses and is not at all afraid to speak his mind. He has a lot of views and points out things that people miss.
Later on we see him take on a role at the local small town paper as a reporter. He has dreams of being the next Walter Kronkite, but really comes off as one of those writers for the tabloids. Oftend making up wild stories about a crocked senitor that lives in town. Half the stuff he prints is made up, but turns out some are pretty close to being true too. One Funny strip shows Milo sitting at the obituary desk of the newspaper looking bored. He reaches over to a large telephone book and dials a number. “Hello? Mrs Johnson? Okay just checking.” HEHEHE!
Yeah okay bad taste I know, still funny.
Milo lives in a old boarding house. Most of the tennats are older people, but the nerby meadow is full of talking animals. Bunnies, bears, beavers, ect. All of them act like humans. With issues and concerns the same as ours. They love going to movies, protesting anything that will treaten them, and aren’t afraid to bring tomatoes to the senitor’s speaches.

Other peolpe of note are Steve Dallas, the local lawyer. He feels he is quite the ladies man, always hitting on women and always single. Bobbi Harlow, Bloom County’s first women liber; she becomes the new school teacher, ready to enlighten the girls and teach the men in the town a thing or two. Cutter John, a geeky guy in a wheel chair; loves Star Trek and Bobbi, also talks to the animals but more on that in a bit.
Then there is Milo’s friend and classmate Blinkey. Blinkey is a very shy very skinny kid. He likes reading, hanging out with Milo, and waking up his father at 3am with shocking celebrity news updates. His father, who recently got laid off; is not amused and thinks Blinkey is a dork. He keeps trying to get he to be more “manly” by getting into football and stuff. But he is not cut out for that, and would rather parley than tackle. (or get tackled.)
Then there is Bill the cat. Bill is a stray that some one let into the boarding house. Has seen better days and spends most of his time eating, sleeping and coughing up fur balls. He somehow manages to get his own toy and tshirt line though.

Lastly there is Opus. EVERYONE knows him, so what can you say? He starts out life in Bloom County as a Blinkey’s pet. Still learning words with the help of Mr Rodgers and tv, he later becomes everything from a cow in the christmas school play, Meadow party vice president canidant, to Mr Spock.

The whole book is full of comics, each one as funny as the last. You get to see the character progress and react to what is really going on in the real world at the time. Also, along each comic is the story behind it, or something that was happening in history at the time.Which is really cool to me. A lot of the people in politics I had no idea who they were, those little notes helped me get the jokes. Also made me research as well.

History lessons from a comic strip, hehe; who would have thought huh?

The book is a hard bound, coffee table size book from the libray of American comics. and comes with it’s own ribbon book mark. Volume two has just come out as well so make sure to check out both. Oh and parents, younger kids may not get the jokes; but there is nothing offensive that i saw here. I might recommend it for like 12 and up. That way they understand a little more.

Mr Breathed has gone on to write novels, one of my farovite movie screen plays; “Second hand Lions” And is working on a new movie called, “Mars needs moms.” How can you pass that up??

You can find more over on his web site at:
http://www.berkeleybreathed.com/

Go check it out and enjoy the books, this one is a keeper and I look forward to reading volume two.

Darcy

The web of Titan – by Dom Testa
A book review by Darcy Low

“When the tail of the comet Bhaktul flicks though Earth’s atmosphere, deadly particles are left in it’s wake. Suddenly mankind is confronted with a virus that devastates the adult population. Only those under the age of eighteen seem to be immune. Desperate to save humanity, a renowned scientist proposes a bold plan: to create a ship that will carry a crew of 251 teenagers to a home in a distant solar system. Two years later, the Galahad and it’s crew, none of eighteen; is launched.”

Okay I have to be careful here because this is the second book to the series, and I don’t want to spoil the first in order to review the second. So bear with me, I’ll touch on parts of the first just a little. I have not read the first book myself, but that’s okay. The writer weaved the storyline tough out this one, so you learn what went on and how things went.

It is months, (I think) later from the events of the first book, the crew of the Galahad are well on their way to there new home, having just gotten to the rings of Saturn. The crew itself is broken up into teams, each one having been trained to perform certain tasks, farming, tech, nursing, ect. The ship itself has areas set up for everything you could ever want, a gym with a floating skateboard track, class rooms so they can still study for the skills they will need, a sickbay, and a lunch room to name a few.

Our main characters make up the Council leaders of the ship. Triana is the leader of the council and she seems to be a natural born leader. She is always concerned about the others, and really keeps her head when things get crazy, thinking thing though and talking things out with other people on her team. She has feelings for two boys on the ship, and is dealing with that. Not certain about it all, being unsure of their feelings she is trying hard not to hurt either one. Add that to the thing that comes up and she has a lot to juggle. But she manages very well, and her actions and feelings make sense and (for once) are not stereo type teenage stuff like you find in most YA books.

Bon is one of the boys. He is a big, tall swede who is the head of the farming crew that feeds everyone. He is rather grumpy and even gruff at times, but he takes farming very seriously. He grew up on a farm and I think it helps him deal with what happened back on earth, the lost of his family. He too is dealing with his feelings, but he is like a lot of boys i know; he keeps his feelings bottled up. Which is part of his gruff and hard to get along with rep. He is a perfectionist when it comes to the farming, which is understandable, seeing how he and his crew are feeding everyone.

Roc is the ship’s computer and is the voice of the scientist who dreamed up the whole program. He was given no only the voice, but the man’s wisdom and insight as well. He was also given something of a personality, which is really funny at times. He runs the entire ship, but still manages to joke, tease the crew. He also acts a the story teller at the beginning of each chapter, sometimes filling you in on what happened in the first book and also letting you know how perfect he is. hehe.

Next up is Gap, one of my favorite characters. He is the crews chief tech guy, he is a computer wiz and is extremely smart. Even to the point of keeping up with Roc on a lot of things. He is also the ship’s best and fastest skateboarder, but a accident has now left him with a hurt collar bone and his arm in a sling. So he is dealing with the issue of being afraid of taking a chance again, with skating; and with his feelings towards Triana. I really liked how his character is written, you can see his fears and also can see how he grows as a person. He has a great sense of humor as well, but when the pressure is on; he really steps up to the plate.

The last main character I wanted to mention is Lita. She is in charge of the sick bay and is incredibly smart. She has this quirk about her too, she has to have everything organized just so. Like, when she is working at a desk; say writing in her journal. Her journal has to line up perfectly with the edge on the desk, and if she sets her pen down it lines up with the journal, etc. I am not sure what it’s called but I seen people do this. This just made her that more interesting to me.

The story picks up, as I said after the events of the first book. The crew, while still rattled; are still excited about coming so far in their journey. They are nearing Saturn, when they pick up a blip on the radar. The scanner identifies it as a life pod sent out into space from a base that was set up on the moon Titan. It held a group of scientists that no one had heard from in a long time. Thinking it my hold a clue, they swing by and pick it up, transferring it to one of the bays that hold their shuttle crafts. When they finally open it, all they find though is a empty container that would hold a person in animation for a trip into space, and a little kitten. (Pretty odd don’t ya think?)

Once the kitten gets checked out, they find food, cat toys, and stuff for the little kitten, and a note from a female doctor. The note itself makes little sense, along with one of the toys. It is a small silver ball with little bumps on it. When they roll it to the little kitten, she is not at all interested in it. (Stranger still.)

Meanwhile, there is a beam of some sort that is being aimed at the ship from Titan itself, and no matter how fast they go or the distance, it manages to hit the ship dead on. Then some of the crew members change, starting with Bon. People get sick with bad headaches that get worst over time, despite taking medicine. And Bon’s eyes turn a bright orange. When others come down with the same thing, they rush them all to sick bay. But the crew has no idea what it is or how to treat it.

The beam then starts to effect the ship it self, starting with random power outages, then taking over the ship all together, steadily increasing the speed and burning up the engines. As the ship reaches unheard of speeds and the engines near the melting point, Bon starts to talk, only he speaks in 12 languages, all at once and all on top of each other!

Can the crew come up with a way to shield the ship from the beam or somehow get away from it? Can they do it in time before the ship is torn apart? Will they find a cure for this sickness in the crew? And what is really causing it in the first place? And what is up with the strange metal ball?

This book took a little while to get going, but once it does you had better hang on tight! I mean to tell you I was really turning pages not able to wait to see what happens next. It’s that good! The suspense, the fact that you get involved with each character and their lives, their back grounds and how much they scarf iced just to get on board, you really want them to find the answers and fast.

Get this series guys! If you love sci fi, space, adventure; get this one. It really pulls you in and keeps you interested. The drama between the boys and the girls, who likes who, how do they feel for each other etc; is what we teen go though a lot. And when your on a spaceship for years or more, relationships are going to happen. Kind of have to happen really, I mean with so many adults passing away, they might have to populate this planet they are heading off too. I thought the writer did a real good job of making each character different and also I liked how the acted with each other. They were all interesting and I wouldn’t mind being friends with any of them.

I am looking forward to the next book, there is a short bit of it in the back of this book. I can’t say much about it because there is a spoiler in it. And i want you guys t read these.

Thanks to Aunt Lori and Uncle Mike, this was a really great birthday gift.

Darcy

Hey guys,
Well since Ashley and I are in a contest to see who can read the most books this summer, you get to see what I am reading in the order I read it. I am more than likely lose some greek creed on this one, seeing how I never read any of the books until now. But with this version of the first book; I think I might have found a gateway. A gateway into a really cool world full of dragons, lost gods, magic, adventure, and “Wizened thirteen year olds.” This time around, I am going to take you to Krynn. As we discover.

Dragonlance : Dragons of autumn twilight. (A graphic novel)
Reviewed by Darcy Low

” A dark and perilous time has dawned in a world beloved by fantasy readers the world over. Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman’s realm of Krynn has fallen under the shadow of war, as vile creatures threaten once peaceful citizens. Now, a unlikely band of companions must embark on a desperate quest. Or watch as all they hold dear is consumed in flame.” – From the back cover.

Wow, just wow. How could have ever gone so long without picking this series up? That’s what I kept asking myself the whole time I was reading this. Dad has been telling me about it for years, and I heard so much about it. Yet something else would always catch my eye and I’s never take down the big volume of the first three books off dad’s shelf and dive in. Then one day while walking though my uncle’s hobby shop, I see this graphic novel sitting among others on a rack. Dragonlance. That word just brings up images doesn’t it? Dragons, knights in armor fight them, and magical weapons forged to take them down. Oh this book did have all of that, but there was so much more. Get comfy guys, I know a lot of you are already fans, but for some this will all be new like it was for me. I will do my best not to spoil anything, but there is a lot to talk about here, the story is very full in dept and while not complex, it still has a lot that has deeper meaning. After all this is the first book in a LONG series, so we had a few characters that we need to discuss.

As the story begins, A band of adventurers have been traveling all over the world of Krynn, trying to find proof that the gods people once worshiped had not completely left mankind, but are still around; helping people pick up from a shattered world. But proof is very hard to find. As I said the world has been shattered, in a great war. The powers of good and evil met  to do battle. Resulting in a great Cataclysm. Dragons were seen, both good and evil; and the gods fought along side their followers. Now the people find themselves a lone, trying to cope, and now very cruel creatures have shown up to enslave humanity under the rule of a evil god who decided not to leave.

The first person we meet is Tanis, he is a half elf ranger. He was raised by elves, but as a “half human” he has never been truly embraced by them. They never trusted humans and now with everything that has happened to the world, they blame them for what has happened. He left to seek not only adventure, but I think to find his place in the world.

Next is the dwarf, Flint. Flint was the first person Tanis met when he started into adventuring and learned from him. He acts all grumpy and everything, but is a person that has seen a lot and he too is at a lost of why the gods left the world of Krynn. He seems like a father figure to Tanis, and is more than happy to give his thoughts on their current situation. Although he seems gruff, you can tell he has a big heart and cares a lot.

Next we have the twins, Caramon and Raistlan. They may be twins, but they sure are nothing a like at all. Caramon is big warrior type, he thinks with his sword arm but he is far from the big dumb jock type. He loves his brother a great deal and is always protecting him. Even puts up with his ribbing and teasing. He is in love with a girl he left behind to go adventuring, she seems to know how he feels; even though he seems to shy to say. Raistlan is a very interesting character, Dad says I should watch him as I read the series, seems there is a lot to him. He is a young wizard, following the teaching of the red robed mages. They are neutral, and not afraid to dip into the dark arts in order to gain more insights. He is power hungry and sometimes risks his own life in order to learn more spells. He was the youngest to do the trail of the tower. A trail all mages go though to gain the robes of their order. He survived but just barely, and it really took a toll on his body. Leaving him sickly, with yellow tinted skin. But also his eyes has changed. Now the pupils are shaped like a hour glass, and his body has developed racking cough.

Next there is the Paladin, Strum Brightblade. Strum wear ancient armor from back in the days before the cataclysm, handed down to him from his father. He is very noble, always putting himself in harm’s way to save his fellow friends. He still believes in the old ways and the gods of the old world.

As they are heading home, Tanis and his friends meet a young couple, Goldmoon and Riverwind. Goldmoon is cleric, and her father was the chief of her tribe, she comes into procession of a long wooden staff with a blue crystal, which allows her to perform healing. Something that has not been done since the big war, something people thought would never be done again.

Tanis and his friends find there home now occupied by hundreds of lizard like creatures, calling themselves Draconians. They are very cruel and have taken many people as slaves. Evil dragons are also among them, giving orders and destroying buildings. Leaving only a handful that will be helpful for supplies and weapons for their army as it marches across the world of Krynn. They seek a young woman and man, the woman carries a long staff with a blue crystal…..

This was a great introduction story, the characters each has their own little story and reason for what they are doing. each one has he or her strengths and also flaws as well. When something that happens causing them all to flee, Goldmoon gains a quest which will help prove that the gods have not turned away from men, but it is men that have turned away from the gods. Finally what Tanis and his friends have been searching for, could be here in this woman of the plains. The action is intense, but there is humor here as well.

The humor can be found in a character called Tasslehoff. (I meant to mention him earlier.) Tasslehoff is the thief of the group,being great at locks and traps. Tasslehoff is a Kender. A race that is a smaller version of a elf. they look like…..well..a wizened thirteen year old. They are thin with a top knot hair. They also carry a staff with a sling at the top which they use as a weapon. Kenders are very curious and fearless. It’s not that they don’t know fear, they just let their curiosity take control. And often put themselves at risk. They are very innocent in the ways of the world around them, and always ask questions. Kender are also know for “borrowing” things, sometimes from fellow party members. It isn’t stealing, they just see something lying around and decide to pick it up for safe keeping. From what dad told me, they have no concept of ownership. This often gets them into a lot of trouble.

This book was really great. The artwork, while not like the other graphic novel Stardust that I reviewed earlier. nut it still brought the story to life. You really come to care a lot about the characters and their struggle to survive in this shattered world. Their quest to save their world and getting proof seems hopeless, being that they are so out numbered. But i think that adds to it, it makes you feel for the characters and you want them to win.

This is just a perfect book for people like me who have never read any of the books. It is a great introduction into the world of Kyrnn and a really good summer read. Make sure to look up this graphic novel.

Also, go up on I tunes and look for “The Dragonlance Canticle” and also “Dragonhearth”. Both are great podcasts dealing with the Dragonlance series, and Dragonhearth is hosted bu Tracy Hickman and his wife! How cool is that? So there you go guys, a great book to add to your bookshelf. Just make sure you leave enough room for the rest of em.

Darcy

Hi everyone! This time, I have a whole lot of great voicemails from Gary and Tim about a lot of recent topics. Gary tells us about his gardening experience with his kids, bemoans the popularity of SillyBands, and calls me out on using the kids as an excuse to collect American Girls stuff and Galactic Heroes figures.  Then I compliment Darcy on the great batch of stuff she sent the kids for Amanda’s birthday, and let her know I swiped the Girl Genius comic (It won a HUGO!).

After that, Tim discusses what kids are really good for, and thanks Darcy for reminding him of his and Jenny’s first wedding anniversary (Congrats to you!). After I wistfully discuss the oil drilling disaster in the gulf, Tim lets us know of a great opportunity to catch Jacques Cousteau’s great documentary on the oceans, “Under the Sea,” on June 11.

Call or email me if you have any opinion on which video game franchises you think need a break, or just need to die. Wyatt has a rant on this subject that I am going to do a special episode on soon, and we would love your opinions!

Don’t forget – you have until June 1 to nominate your favorite podcasts for a Parsec Award! I’m not eligible, so I’m not asking for me – I’m asking for all those other great shows that you listen to and love!

Please email me with your own comments at howtogrowyourgeek – at-gmail -dot-com, or call my voicemail number at 206-202-7309   and leave your thoughts. You can also visit our forum at the Farpoint Forums. And last but not least, you can follow me on Twitter at SusietheGeek or the show at HowToGrowGeek!

Theme music courtesy of Jonathan Coulton

Promos: MilkCartonTV and The Parsec Awards