Beaky Barnes: Egg on the Loose by David Ezra Stein
2022; Johns Hopkins University Press; Volume: 76; Issue: 5 Linguagem: Inglês
10.1353/bcc.2023.0036
ISSN1558-6766
Autores Tópico(s)Comics and Graphic Narratives
ResumoReviewed by: Beaky Barnes: Egg on the Loose by David Ezra Stein Ally Byerly Stein, David Ezra Beaky Barnes: Egg on the Loose; written and illus. by David Ezra Stein. Penguin Workshop, 2023 [128p] Trade ed. ISBN 9780593094761 $18.99 E-book ed. ISBN 9780593225110 $10.99 Reviewed from digital galleys R Gr. 2-4 Stein’s first foray into graphic novels begins with a characteristically absurd premise: the fastidious inspector Cobb drops the fried egg from his sandwich and will not rest until he finds a new one. The local café is unfortunately all out of eggs, but the chef, eager to avoid an inspection of his chaotic kitchen, promises to secure a replacement. When the local inventor happens by with her chicken companion, Beaky Barnes, the chef believes he has found a solution to his problem in pilfering one of Beaky’s precious eggs. Spooked by the threat, Beaky takes off on the nearest bicycle, pursued by the inspector (who wants his bicycle back), the chef (who wants the egg), and the inventor (who just wants her friend back). Full of ridiculous characters, zany antics, and tongue-in-cheek humor, this rollicking tale takes off quickly and gleefully lurches off the rails, never taking itself too seriously. Stein’s informal line work and use of light hatching give the narrative a dashed-off, spontaneous feel reminiscent of Quentin Blake, and the animated, moment-to-moment sequencing of the panels impart a cinematic immediacy. This graphic novel’s absurd storyline and wry humor calls up classic cartoon comedies such as Rocky and Bullwinkle or Looney Tunes and will keep even reluctant readers turning the pages. If enjoyed in a pair or group, traditional reading time might be enlivened by assigning each reader a role or two in the colorful cast of characters. Copyright © 2022 The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois
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