Shock City

Gr 3-6–Comic artist Alexovich’s madcap illustration style perfectly suits this graphic novel about a boy, a girl, and a city on the brink. Milo is a kid from Shock City, where a coming-of-age dare to ring the creepy Von Shock doorbell brings unexpected results: Sunny, a young Von Shock monster, answers and delights at the prospect of a new friend. When Milo returns to tell Sunny that his family, and the rest of the town, are leaving the dilapidated city, Sunny refuses to accept it. Instead, Sunny sets on convincing Milo that she can fix all the problems—until she discovers that her grandfather is the source of everything bad happening to Shock City. Readers will enjoy the frenetic pace and witty dialogue as Sunny and Milo’s plan to save Shock City plays out. Their determination is highlighted, and if Milo can overcome being fearful and Sunny can improve her family’s reputation, even better. The artwork throughout is eye-catching and bold.