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Drained Brains Caper

by Trina Robbins
64p. 978-0-76134-601-2.
COPY ISBN
Gr 4—7—Thirteen-year-old Megan Yamamura has recently moved to Chicago. A vegetarian haiku poet and manga fan, she stands out at her new school, Stepford Academy, where the students appear to be brainwashed into complete conformity. With her new friend Raf Hernandez, Megan uncovers the exploits of campy villain Dr. Vorschak and rescues a talking dog who is a fan of old detective films. Though it is full of sophisticated references, this inventive, playful story should appeal to tween readers. Diverse characters and assured, accessible cartoon-style illustrations make it a promising start to a new series.—Lisa Goldstein, Brooklyn Public Library, NY
While looking for a pet tarantula, haiku-writing vegetarian Megan meets Raf at the pet store. Soon they form the Chicagoland Detective Agency and become embroiled in saving brainwashed teens and a talking dog from the evil Dr. Vorschak. The black-and-white cartoon illustrations are somewhat hard to follow. The story line, though facile, is diverting.
Trina Robbins cleverly mixes classic crime-story tropes—an evil villain who reveals her plans to the hero, crime-solving partners who initially don’t get along—with unique elements, such as Bradley the talking dog and Raf ’s computer program that saves the day. The manga-influenced artwork is eye-catching, with clean lines and uncluttered panels. The action is clearly depicted and easy to follow. Raf is a bit of a nerd, and Megan loves haiku. These characters aren’t typical heroes, but they act heroically. Kids will be able to both relate to and look up to Megan and Raf.

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