Glitch

Izzy, 14, promises her friend Eric that she will wait to play Dungeon City until the weekend, when they can enjoy it together. But when the video game arrives, she opens it up and gets sucked in--literally. Inside, robot guide Rae befriends Izzy and leads her through the different levels, but spending time in the game's world takes a toll on Izzy when she returns to real life. Zapped of energy, she worries her parents and teacher and fights with Eric. Even worse, she discovers that a component of the game may have a terrifying agenda, and both girls need to work together to make it to the next level of their friendship. Art by Graley (Kim Reaper) reflects the gaming world with blocky characters, eight-bit-style lettering, and iconic visuals, including character profiles, health meters, and mission screens. Graley's comic includes a thinly veiled criticism of the addictive nature of video games and electronic entertainment, but readers will likely focus less on the message and more on the absorbing art and the story of incidentally diverse friends navigating worlds and growing closer along the way. Ages 8-12. Agent: Steven Salpeter, Curtis Brown Ltd. (May)

Izzy and her best friend, Eric, are stoked for the new release of Dungeon City. Even though Izzy promises Eric that she'll wait so the two can play it together, she can't resist the temptation when her game shows up early. To Izzy's surprise, she gets sucked into the game and a helpful robot companion named Rae informs her that she is the chosen one who must defeat the Big Boss. Soon, Izzy is spending all of her time in the game instead of hanging out with Eric, who starts to feel betrayed. Izzy must figure out how to save Dungeon City and her friendship with Eric, but unexpected obstacles crop up. Izzy and Rae's growing friendship meter provides a direct contrast to the fallout of Izzy and Eric's relationship in real life. The pacing sometimes feels a little off, but a major twist near the end will keep readers turning pages. Graley's artwork is richly detailed, especially in Dungeon City. (A particular highlight is when Izzy gets to choose her character type and obtains cool new powers and a space witch costume.) The characters' expressions are often humorously exaggerated. The focus on girl gamers is refreshing, and there are video game in-jokes galore. VERDICT A fun and vibrant adventure comic for fans of video games, adventure, or friendship tales.—Gretchen Hardin, Sterling Municipal Library, Baytown, TX