Comics for Early Readers

5/22/2017

Ape and Armadillo Take Over the World by James Sturm

Each year during the San Diego Comic-Con, winners of the prestigious Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards are announced. Recognition is awarded to outstanding comics and comic-related materials published during the previous year. Among the many categories, this year's nominees include a stellar group of comics published for early readers.
Take a look at one of the nominees for this year's award.

Ape and Armadillo Take Over the World by James Sturm introduces readers to the playground antics of two friends: Ape and Armadillo. As Agents of Evil, they devise a scheme to combat the evil forces of the world. However, there is a problem. Armadillo has developed his own special plan. Ape will combat the evil-doers. Armadillo will sweep in afterward, assuming the role of the conquering hero.
This is not working so well for Ape and he objects. It's unfair!
There follows a discussion on the meaning of "unfair" and what is a "good idea" entails. Eventually the friends compromise, negotiating a plan that both agree will work. Engaging characters, sparkling dialog that zings when read aloud, great action scenes which include a space cannon, plenty of gentle humor, and ice cream, make this a sure-fire hit for young readers.
Bonus: There are also dogs. Lots of dogs.
World domination like you've never experienced it.

But wait. There is more....

Sturm has ingeniously included mini comics at the bottom of each page. Each mini strip, three or four panels in length, asks a question such as: What super power would you want? If your friend was a cookie what kind with they be? Ape and Armadillo take turns giving their responses. A bonus comic at the conclusion of the story revolves around that old "psychic" number guessing games. Armadillo and Ape turn the game on its head. Guessing numbers has never been so much fun!

But wait. There is more...

Check out this bonus material which includes an interview with James Sturm who draws while he answers questions from Maria Russo and those viewing the live broadcast. Wow! He can draw and think and talk at the same time!
Be sure check out the templates which young readers can use to create their own comics based on the mini strips running along the bottom of each Ape and Armadillo page.

I have planned a few workshops and storytimes to take place this summer. One workshop will be with a group of teens and a separate storytime will be for children whose ages span a wide range. I plan to use this book along with the comic panel templates and prompts. While the book is specifically geared to younger readers, the concepts translate well with middle grade and teens interested in creating their own comics.

Thanks James Sturm and Toon Books for this fantastic leveled comic for early readers.

Why yes. I do have a signed copy!

Companion Books

Nominees for 2017 Eisner Award: Publication for Early Readers

Ape and Armadillo Take Over the World joins four other books nominated for this year's Eisner Award for Publication for Young Readers. The winner will be announced Friday, July 21 2017 at Comic-Con International. Which comic will win? Stay tuned.