Super Narwhal and Jelly Jolt

Starred review from May 1, 2017
Narwhal and Jelly returns in a second collection of short comics, and, much like pop culture at large, they are superhero obsessed. Having taken up the mantle of Super Narwhal, Clanton’s hero helps a star assume its place in the sky (a cannon is involved, as are wishes), among other adventures, including a waffle-themed comic created by the two friends. But although Super Narwhal has no trouble coming up with a mustachioed secret identity (Clark Parker Wayne, “a wealthy and eccentric trillionaire”), locating his superpower requires more work. The laughs are mighty, but even mightier is Narwhal’s anything-is-possible attitude and deep reserves of heart. Ages 6–9. Agent: Marietta Zacker, Gallt Zacker Literary.

June 1, 2017

Gr 1-3-Donning a cape, Narwhal decides to become a superhero-after eating lunch, of course. Super Narwhal needs a sidekick, so pal Jelly is dubbed Jelly Jolt. In this second installment of the sweetly surreal series, the characters are true to form; delightfully ditzy Narwhal remains upbeat even when he initially fails to exhibit a single superpower, while his jellyfish friend frets at every turn. In addition to three tales about Narwhal and Jelly, there's a section about the "superpowers" of various ocean creatures (for instance, crabs can regrow their legs, the mimic octopus can change its appearance to resemble other animals, and dolphins sleep with one eye open) and a pun-laced story "written" by Narwhal and Jelly, in which Super Waffle and Strawberry Sidekick rescue their city from a giant butter blob. Clanton crafts a whimsical narrative that focuses on quirky conversations rather than superheroic adventures, and the funny story will snare a range of readers. Lively illustrations, dominated by hues of blue and featuring irresistibly cheerful characters, have a childlike feel, as though scribbled by a youngster clutching a crayon. As in many of the best reads starring dynamic duos-Arnold Lobel's "Frog and Toad," Mo Willems's "Elephant and Piggie"-friendship is at the core; Narwhal always quells the many anxieties of his loyal companion. VERDICT A super addition to graphic novel collections serving younger readers, especially where the first volume is popular.-Mahnaz Dar, School Library Journal

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