Staff Review: "Giants Beware!" by Rafael Rosado and Jorge Aguirre

Sometimes in life there are things that everyone fears and they don't quite know why. That fear is passed down through generations without challenge, until finally someone comes along who wants to know. People like that end up discovering new continents, finding new cancer treatments, and fighting to change unjust prejudice and dangerous ignorance. In homage to all such heroes, Rafael Rosado and Jorge Aguirre have written and illustrated the delightful graphic novel, "Giants Beware!"

Claudette is fierce and brave and wants to kill the baby-foot-eating giant that keeps the village of Mont Petite Pierre locked up in fear. First she has to convince her princess-in-training best friend Marie and frightened pastry chef brother Gaston to go with her. After tricking her crew and stealing her father's tools, the hapless three set out.  Along the way their ingenuity and courage are tested as they come up against powerful and magical beings in the forest and river. But the biggest challenge of all comes as they face the giant's mountain. Will Claudette really have the courage to slay the giant?

With strong character development, bold and whimsical artwork and an exciting storyline, the whole family will enjoy reading "Giants Beware". It's a  good story for those who are a little too bloodthirsty or a little too frightened, or if you really enjoy a new kind of fairy tale. Recommended for ages 8-13.

--Andrea W., HQ