Athena the Brain (Goddess Girls Graphic Novel #1)

Gr 4-7--In this first volume of graphic novel adaptations of the "Goddess Girls" series, Athena, who lives an ordinary life in Greece, receives a talking, floating scroll with a message from her real father, Zeus, whom she's never before met. Zeus invites her to attend his prestigious school, Mount Olympus Academy, with the other young goddesses and godboys. Whisked away in Hermes's chariot, Athena arrives at her new school, where she meets Aphrodite, Poseidon, Artemis, and mean-girl Medusa. Athena may be the new girl, but she is a quick study. She crafts the Trojan Horse in Hero-ology class, wins best invention for creating olives, and accidentally gives Medusa her iconic snake hair and stone powers. The character designs are similar to those of the novels, but with their own unique style. Bright colors and expressive art add a new dimension to an already popular series, making it a worthwhile addition. This adaptation will especially appeal to those who have read the novels, but it will also attract new readership. Athena and most of the other characters are white, though there are characters of color as well, including Artemis, who is Black. VERDICT A quick and fun read that is sure to circulate; readers will eagerly await future graphic novels. Recommended for most graphic novel collections, especially where the prose novels have a following.--Marissa Lieberman