Sci-Fu (Sci-Fu #1)

In 1980s Brooklyn, eighth-grader Wax may be respected for his DJ skills (and, with his flattop and track suit, he looks the part), but his raps leave something to be desired. After Wax's spinning attracts extraterrestrial attention, he's transported to the futuristic city of Discopia along with his friend Cooky, his crush Polly, and his family. Wax quickly learns the art of Sci-Fu, a mixture of music and martial arts, from Kabuki Snowman, just one of many odd creatures they encounter. In a series of musical confrontations reminiscent of the Scott Pilgrim stories, Wax must fight the Five Deadly Dangers before taking on giant robot Choo Choo. Mercado has created a visually delicious adventure that does its best to imbue a visual medium with the power of sound. Mercado uses onomatopoeia and visualized sound waves to emphasize that this is an aural adventure; color-coded speech balloons help readers keep track of who is spitting rhymes. His caricatured figures and dynamic layouts, coupled with a neon palette and graffiti flourishes, make for an entertaining story with a little something for everyone: hip-hop, tech-driven action, and romance. Ages 9-12. (Mar.)

Gr 4-6--Wax, a budding deejay in 1980s Brooklyn, has a crush on his neighbor, Pirate Polly. He makes mixes with his friend Cooky P and works at his uncle Rashaad's ice-cream truck with Cooky and his sister D. One day Wax's beats accidentally get him, his crew, and his entire apartment building, including Polly and her pet cat, picked up by an alien ship and transported to the planet Discopia. Of course, the falling building kills the robot ruler King Chug Chug and rouses the anger of his son, Choo Choo, who vows revenge. All hopes of returning to Earth seem lost. With the help of Kabuki Snowman, who teaches Wax the art of Sci-Fu (or manipulating sound waves--the perfect talent for the aspiring deejay), our hero must create mixes that stop Choo Choo and his motley crew, the Five Deadly Dangers, in their tracks. Wax must learn Sci-Fu and remember what keeps him human before it's too late. This gem of a graphic novel is nostalgic but not overly retro. The art is exemplary, with a rich palette and eye-catching aliens, and the text is easy to read. Wax's raps are entertaining, and action words are interspersed liberally throughout. Thankfully, this fast-paced, lighthearted, fun title leaves room for a sequel. VERDICT For any middle grade reader looking for an engaging, out-of-this-world graphic novel.--Morgan Brickey, Arlington Public Library, TX