Batcat (Batcat #1)

This graphic novel for emerging readers spins an eerie yarn full of dead trees and secrets into a winning combination of charming and funny. 

Spooky fun, with a theme that’s relevant on Halloween and every other day besides.

Gr 2 Up--Batcat is a cute, round, and pink creature who enjoys living on Spooky Isle all alone. They are happy because they don't have to share their mushroom pizza or their hot cocoa or their video games with anyone else. When a ghost shows up in their tree house and refuses to leave, Batcat asks the Island Witch for help. The Island Witch tells Batcat to travel to different locations to gather ingredients for the spell that will get rid of the ghost, but this turns into an unusual journey. Along the way, Batcat meets bats, cats, ghosts, and other creatures. Batcat is a nonbinary character, so they have trouble fitting into just one category. As they explore their world and meet other characters, they face a dilemma about not being enough of a bat to please the bats, and not enough of a cat to satisfy the cats. Batcat will start to learn about how they fit into the world as a one-of-a-kind creature, and think about whether they want to remain alone or are ready to start making friends. This story is charming, uplifting, and silly, with adorable and colorful artwork that will make readers laugh. VERDICT For young readers who love funny animal stories, as well as sweet stories about self-acceptance.--Andrea Lipinski

Copyright 2023 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

"This graphic novel for emerging readers spins an eerie yarn full of dead trees and secrets into a winning combination of charming and funny. The story flies along at a brisk clip to a terrifically satisfying ending. This intentional celebration of nonbinary identity reminds readers that they don't have to be only one thing; they just have to be themselves."—Booklist