1. Instagram Art Crush: Marguerite Sauvage
Marguerite Sauvage follows me on Instagram?! Okay, I’ll admit, I probably think this is way cooler than any of you do.
Something like 15 years ago, I came across Marguerite’s work online. She’s a French illustrator whose style had a comic book feel, though much more stylish and beautiful than most.
I was captivated by her work but this was before Instagram or much social media. So no real way to follow her work other than to specifically seek it out or stumble across it. Over time, I lost track.
Well, fast forward to last month: she followed me! I’ve only got a few hundred followers. I’m kind of a nobody on social media. Needless to say, I immediately followed back and spent way too much time scrolling through her art.
These days, Marguerite works regularly in comics—Marvel, DC, you name it—and she has a graphic novel coming out from First Second next year (a publisher that makes fantastic books for kids and teens).
Marguerite Sauvage 1
Marguerite Sauvage 2
Marguerite Sauvage 3
Marguerite Sauvage 4
Marguerite Sauvage 5
Marguerite Sauvage 6
2. 7 Graphic Novels with Girl Heroes (That Boys Will Love Too)
I wrote a piece for Imagination Soup about something I care a lot about: helping kids discover great comics.
There’s a common assumption that boys won’t like stories with female leads. I’ve seen parents dismiss a book on behalf of their kids before the kids even have a chance to try it.
This list busts that myth.
And if you don’t already, subscribe to their newsletter, it’s a goldmine for parents and teachers looking to help kids fall in love with reading.
Read the article on Imagination Soup
3. Something You Can Read Now x2
Two creators I’ve featured before have new books out this month, and they’re both worth grabbing.
Molly and the Bear – Campers Beware by Bob and Vicki Scott.
Possibly because its roots are in comic strips, Molly and the Bear gives me classic cartoon vibes. Heathcliff, Dennis the Menace, iconic character designs with an instantly clear premise.
Molly is an outgoing kid (though not without her doubts), and Bear is a 500-pound, anxious, well-meaning mess. In this newest book, the duo heads off on a camping trip… and yes, chaos follows.
Pick it up at your local book store or online.
Wagnificent – A New Dog in the Den by Bethanie Murguia.
I interviewed Bethanie when the first Wagnificent came out last year. If your kid is even remotely into dogs, they’ll love this. It’s funny, sweet, and also quite insightful. It gives readers a peek into how dogs see the world.
Pick it up at your local book store or online.
4. Juju’s Castle — A Wonderfully Cartoony Art Installation
Jean Jullien is a French artist who paints, draws, and builds the most delightful cartoony installations.
I find his work wonderfully creative. It’s lighthearted and playful. I can’t help but smile when I see it, particularly in real world settings.
His latest is Juju’s Castle is a kind of a D&D reimagining of his childhood.
Jean Jullien 2
Jean Jullien 1
Jean Julian 2
5. New Margo Maloo Story — Online Now!
Talk about perfect timing: I recommended The Creepy Case Files of Margo Maloo in my Imagination Soup article, and wouldn’t you know it, a brand new Margo story just launched online!
It’s called The Zombie Manor and is updating weekly. Jump in now.
6. Adorable D&D
I came across Adventures With Friends at a local bookstore. I love the charming art. If I played role playing games- and had friends, this is definitely an adventure I’d want to go on.
Pick it up at your local bookstore or online.
8. Bonus: My Favorite Thing I Drew This Month
I cannot begin to express how excited I am about working on Hullabaloo.
If you missed the news, Hullabaloo is a monthly kids’ comic magazine I’m creating, and the first issue is complete! The lineup of creators is phenomenal, and the comics are even better than I could have hoped for.
I’ve been sharing weekly updates and sneak peeks as we go. If you’re not following along, you are missing out!
Here’s a glimpse of the in progress cover.
As always, thanks for reading. Got a book, artist, or comic oddity you’re loving right now? Hit reply and tell me about it, I’m always on the lookout.
Until next time,
-Josh
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