The ­Unlikely Story of Felix and Macabber

Gr 5-8–A world of monsters, an unlikely friendship, and a legacy at risk. Much to his chagrin, Felix is small for his age. Other monsters pick on him and call him names, and after one particularly intense bullying episode, Felix ends up at the door of Macabber, a former brawler and fight champion. The two strike up a friendship when Felix unknowingly gets in Macabber’s car as he goes to visit an old acquaintance. As the former fighter deals with his legacy and past, Felix finds himself immersed in a world of pride, broken friendships, and revenge. This graphic novel has a very unique and arresting art style. The fighting scenes will have readers frantically turning pages, and the lettering helps the pace and intensity of the story. The plot goes back and forth in the time line in a way that is occasionally confusing, but the overall message comes across. This book has broad appeal, especially for reluctant readers.