Comics Will Break Your Heart
Heirs to comics series find love in sweet but slow novel.
Kids say
Based on 1 review
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Comics Will Break Your Heart is the first prose novel from graphic novelist Faith Erin Hicks. It's about two teens, Miriam Kendrick and Weldon Warrick, whose families are feuding over the rights to the popular comic series The TomorrowMen. Readers will recognize many of the pop culture references in the book, such as Comic-Con, Marvel, X-Men, and more. There are brief mentions of teens and adults drinking. Strong language includes variations of "ass," "s--t," "f--k," "d--k," and "Jesus Christ." There are a few fistfights, and one boy ends up with a black eye. Teens will learn about the comics industry, Canadian authors, and the importance of communication and humility.
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What's the Story?
COMICS WILL BREAK YOUR HEART tells the story of Miriam Kendrick and Weldon Warrick, whose grandfathers created the popular comic series The TomorrowMen. Weldon's family is wealthy, and when the highly anticipated movie adaptation is released, they'll make even more money. But Miriam's situation is drastically different. Her grandfather sold his rights to the characters and his artwork in the 1960s but later sued, which sparked a huge feud between the two families. So when Weldon arrives in Miriam's small Canadian town, she isn't his biggest fan. But the more time they spend together, in spite of the drama between their families, the more they sense they might have feelings for each other.
Is It Any Good?
This sweet but slow-paced prose novel from Faith Erin Hicks thoughtfully explores the comics industry and its relationship with artists. Fans of comics will appreciate all the pop culture references and might be inspired to learn more about the background and history of the industry. As the book progresses, readers will understand that the artists who create the superheroes and worlds we love should be remembered and recognized for their work. Although the chemistry and dialogue between Miriam and Weldon are sometimes underwhelming and the ending feels rushed, Comics Will Break Your Heart shows teens that communication and humility are significant factors in developing healthy relationships with friends, family, and each other.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the quote from comic book artist, writer, and editor Jack Kirby that inspired the title of Comics Will Break Your Heart. (Kirby created Captain America, Fantastic Four, X-Men.) What do you think he meant? What do you know about the artists who create your favorite comics and superheroes?
How do the adults in Miriam's and Weldon's lives affect the way they approach their relationship? What other stories of family feuds -- classic or modern day -- do you know?
How do the characters demonstrate communication and humility? Why are these important character strengths?
Book Details
- Author: Faith Erin Hicks
- Genre: Contemporary Fiction
- Topics: Superheroes, Book Characters, High School
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Roaring Brook Press
- Publication date: February 12, 2019
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 14 - 18
- Number of pages: 352
- Available on: Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Last updated: November 30, 2020
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