Journey to the Far Lands by Pirate Sourcil

Today, we're taking a look at the 5th book in the Diary of an 8-Bit Warrior series, a graphic novel adventure with huge nods towards Minecraft and Co. I've, actually, looked at one (or two?) of the earlier books in the series, so I have a pretty good idea how this one is going to go. If it stays true to the rest of the books, that is. 

I've been diving into this series simply because I know more than a few young readers, who adore them. Yes, these kids love video games (especially the one mentioned above), and yes, they are reluctant readers. This is one of the only books I see them grab up and smile about. 

So, off we go to take a look and join in on what should be a quirky adventure!

JOURNEY TO THE FAR LANDS

Diary of an 8-Bit Warrior, #5

Cube Kid

by Pirate Sourcil

Illustrated by Jez and Odone

Andrews McMeel Publishing

Children's Fiction   /  Graphic Novel

96 pages

ages 7 to 11

COMING FEBRUARY 25th!!!

Grab your pickaxes and jump back into the action in this fifth installment of the Diary of an 8-Bit Warrior graphic novel series.

Runt and his crew are back for the fifth installment of the Diary of an 8-Bit Warrior Graphic Novel series. As they prepare for the epic battle against the evil incarnate of Minecraftia: Herobrine, they know they'll be stronger together, but first they have to get Sweetpea on their side. Unfortunately, the baby dragon does what he pleases. As they contemplate their best strategy, Runt and Blurp have the same nightmare: Herobrine won’t let anyone get out alive … unless they give him back Sweetpea. What should they do? Do they stand a chance of defeating Herobrine without losing all their friends? They will need to find courage to face this formidable adversary.

The zany fun continues as Runt embarks on his latest pixelated adventures with his friends. Grab your pickaxe and shovel and get ready for more fun!

GOODREADS   /    AMAZON   /    B&N

MY TIDBITS

Seemingly impossible battles aren't easy to prepare for, but this crew can do it with silly style...or maybe not.

Runt and his friends are getting ready for the huge battle against Herobrine, the evil-of-evilest villains. To do it, though, they're going to need the help of a little dragon. This little dragon has a mind of its own and is almost a battle in and of itself. Still, if they stick together, maybe they can pull this whole thing off.

This read is especially directed at fans of certain video games or those, who simply enjoy digital worlds. While there are obvious parallels to the gaming world for this age group (because this does stay nicely snuggled into the intended audience age level), this is an unique adventure to call its own with fun and quirky characters. The teamwork and friendships make it golden as little Runt keeps determination high, makes quite a few mistakes, and still presses forward to learn and grow. It's a great message for the age group and others.

The tale is fast-paced, packs enough heart to make the characters easy to root for, and always works in a bit of humor to keep things light. Sweetpea is a cute dragon, and his antics will have readers understanding and sympathizing with Runt and his group. The worries and other aspects also add a nice edge, but not enough to darken the story. Just a dab to increase tension, and it works.

The illustrations are, as always, colorful and lively. They accompany the story and add to the atmosphere and humor. The text is never heavy and gently works on word skills, while sinking into the adventures. It's very suited for even reluctant readers.

This is a nice adventure to add to the series and makes sure to keep things interesting so there's not even the slightest sign of boredom yet.