The G-Man Super Journal: Awesome Origins

Michael G and his classmates have each been given the task of keeping a journal and this book is, in effect, that journal. In it he records his experiences, both at home and at school. He seems to come from a very dysfunctional family with an older brother who will only let him use his video game when the controller is broken so that he can blame Michael for breaking it . . . a mother who seems to never believe anything Michael says . . . and a Dad who seems to only want to yell at him. He also has a Science teacher, Mr Leary, who hates Michael’s idolisation of superheroes, especially Captain Thunder and keeps on picking on him because of this. Michael obviously has a lots of conflicts in his life and how he tries to resolve these is the key factor throughout the story. The only person who seems to support him and be on his side is the Art teacher who got them to keep the journal!

There are great illustrations throughout the story, with comic style speech bubble conversations, as well as the notebook text. I could actually imagine a very articulate child writing something like this and others enjoying reading it even more! It will certainly appeal to independent readers, it is humorous and deals with some issues that they may encounter - though perhaps not the superheroes! How he resolves these issues to his satisfaction is inventive and effective.

A story that will appeal to children and works well as a standalone story without having to have read any of the associated comic books.

My son loved this book and looks forward to reading more like it

A "super" book that will engage even my most reluctant readers.

From Benjamin, age 9 - I loved how this book was a combination of a chapter book and a graphic novel. I liked how every day, when Michael went to school, there would be a new superpower. I also like how when Michael tries to become a sun trooper, he failed because of an annoying kid. His adventures are really cool. This is going to be a series and I can't wait to read the next one!!!

'The G-Man Super Journal: Awesome Origins' by Chris Giarrusso is part book, part graphic novel and all awesome. It's perfect for younger readers who like stories about superheroes.

When Michael G., or G-Man as his friends call him, is assigned the task of keeping a journal for school, he is initially reluctant. We learn about the origin of his last name, which is just G. We learn that he lives in a town of superheroes, chief among them is Captain Thunderman with hsi lightning bolt staff and horned helmet. Captain Thunderman's chief nemesis is Mister Mental. G-Man's chief nemesis is Mr. Leary who thinks that superheroes are stupid and that diplomas are more important. We also see some of G-Man's friends gaining superpowers, while G-Man is left without them. Will he be able to foil Mr. Leary? Will he be able to join the Suntrooper Space Force? Will he be able to prove to his parents that his brother Kevin is the one actually breaking the video game controllers?

Initially, I was a bit concerned because diplomas seemed to be getting the back seat, but when G-Man's friends prove they are smart and powerful, then the story becomes more about being the best at who you are. The art is great and there are full color pictures that look like magazine clippings thoughout the book. The text is broken up by black and white comic strips that continue the story (meaning you read the comics and text together). The humor is really great. It's a fun, fun book and I recommend it for younger readers.

I received a review copy of this ebook/graphic novel from Andrews McMeel Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this fun ebook/graphic novel for younger readers.

I really enjoyed this book and I think kids, especially boys will enjoy it too. It has all the elements of a good graphic novel and funny storyline. The drawings (similar to the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series) add to the story. I think this book will be a great addition to any children's collection. It will inspire kids to draw and create their own stories too.

Great hybrid

Origin stories are always a big hit!