In the early days of my work as a librarian, the Animorphs series took up a shelf, maybe more, in the library. It was wildly popular, even if I never got into it. With the success of Scholastic’s adaptation of The Babysitters Club, it is no surprise that publishers looked for other series to bring in a new generation of readers.
Animorphs Graphix #1: The Invasion
By K.A. Applegate and Michael Grant, adapted by Chris Grine
Scholastic Graphix, October 6, 2020
Ages 8-12
When Jake and his friends, Rachel, Cassie, Tobias, and Marco cut through a construction site one evening, they see a strange light that changes their life forever. An alien spaceship lands and a wounded alien, an Andalite, emerges, warning the youngsters of the impending invasion of the Yerks, parasite-like aliens who take over other lifeforms and control their minds. He gives the youngsters the ability to morph, to change into any species, a power the Yerks don’t possess.
When Jake realizes his brother and their principal have been possessed by Yerks, he knows they must try to save their town. And so, the group tries to become comfortable with their power and use their abilities to save those they love.
Since I never really read the original series, I can’t compare it to the graphic novels, but this was a wonderful start to a series that will be a surefire hit. The action in the illustrations and the bold, vivid color jump off the page. The characterization is well developed and sympathetic, so readers will care enough to find out what else happens.
While this series will appeal to all sorts of readers, adults looking to entice reluctant readers, especially boys, will want to keep this book handy.
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