Tyler Brown Brown itibaren Büyükdoğanca Köyü itibaren Büyükdoğanca Köyü

Visually, this was the coolest graphic novel I've read. The volcano imagery was stunning, especially the lava flows. It's funny: When I first heard the title of this book, I assumed it was metaphorical - alluding to some kind of trying experience. But no - it's actually about going into a volcano! Which, by the way, is erupting when the characters go into it, so it ends up being a trying experience anyway. It's totally action-packed, and I liked how the most whiny character (Sumo) ends up being the hero. It wasn't clear to me, though, why Sumo ends up surfing with Come-and-Go at the end of the book - Come-and-Go essentially kidnaps Duffy and Sumo to use them as bait! How do they get to be all buddy-buddy? But really, such complaints are trifles compared to the overall awesomeness of this book. Definitely recommended for graphic novel readers.

I read and have the 1960 hardback tenth printing edition. I adored this book as a kid. I was intrigued by the idea of a little girl having the power of being able to hear others’ thoughts and how she’s able to use that ability to “know” so much beyond her years on a quiz show. Won’t give more than that away, but it’s great fun.

These are beautiful books telling a beautiful story. Utterly unique. Heartbreaking and hopeful.