A Look at Books

(From our May 2025 Issue)

Rachel Martin
Pikes Peak Library District

Reading comics, graphic novels, and manga promotes literacy by combining tile picture scenes with text snippets. These stories can be more engaging for reluctant readers, enhance comprehension, and serve as valuable tools for building literacy. Here are some titles to get started with!

Sharing Is UnBEARable! Image Orson and Izzy, two stubborn bears, want to nap on the same rock. When Izzy’s turn lasts too long, Orson retaliates by dumping cold water on Izzy, leading to a standoff. Orson tries offering a different rock, but it doesn’t work. They break the rock apart in their struggle and realize they must work together to fix it. Ultimately, both bears decide that while sharing is hard, not sharing is worse. Sharing Is UnBEARable! by J.E. Morris highlights the challenges of compromise and collaboration. Ages 4 – 8.

The Best Worst Camp Out Ever Image Ever had a camping trip where everything goes wrong? In The Best Worst Camp Out Ever by Joe Cepeda, a boy and his father embark on a camping trip where nothing seems to go their way. The campground is full, there are no trees to hang the hammock, and the tent poles aren't in the car. But they agree it was their best weekend ever! With simple text and engaging comic-book-style illustrations, the book offers a fun and accessible reading experience. Ages 4 – 8.

The Great Puptective Image Truffles, a grumpy housecat who loves peace and naps, has his world turned upside down when Poppy, an energetic and mystery-loving puppy, arrives. Sure, Poppy can be excitable, but what puppy isn't? While Truffles schemes to get rid of her, Poppy's enthusiasm might be what Truffles needs. The Great Puptective by Alina Tysoe is a fun, graphic chapter book perfect for young readers who enjoy humorous and quirky animal adventures. Ages 6 – 9.

Viewfinder Image Viewfinder by Christine D.U. Chung is a stunning, wordless graphic novel. The story is about a young space traveler who lands on an abandoned Earth, uncovering its past through a viewfinder in a schoolyard time capsule. As she explores empty streets, museums, and a library now home to zoo animals, she pieces together the story of why Earth is abandoned. While the planet remains beautiful, subtle hints make her feel that she may not be alone. The rich, atmospheric artwork transports the reader on a thought-provoking adventure to reflect on the resilience of our world. Ages 6 – 9.

In Jon Chad’s Science Comics: The Periodic Table of Elements, Mel, a bright but test-anxious student, falls asleep before a chemistry exam and enters the Land of the Elements. While there, she must stop the evil Elemancer from misusing a powerful chemistry book. As she travels through the Periodic Fortress, she faces elemental monsters and pop quiz challenges, and she applies her knowledge of atomic structure, bonding, isotopes, and more. This engaging nonfiction graphic novel blends adventure with science, making complex chemistry concepts fun and educational. Ages 9 – 12.

Looking for quality activities to enjoy with your child? Check the Kids Events calendar at ppld.org for fantastic programs at all our locations in May. See you there!