Lumberjanes, Vol 1: Beware the Kitten Holy
By Michael Berry,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Wacky, action-packed camp adventures promote girl power.

A Lot or a Little?
What you will—and won't—find in this book.
Where to Read
Community Reviews
Based on 4 parent reviews
Changing the world one novel at a time
Report this review
Great book!
Report this review
What's the Story?
Best friends for life Jo, April, Mal, Molly, and Ripley are determined to have the best summer ever at Miss Quinzella Thiskwin Penninquiqul Thistle Crumpet's Camp for Hardcore Lady-Types. But what's up with the mysterious Bearwoman, the three-eyed foxes, and the talking, arm-wrestling statues? What does it mean to "Beware the Kitten Holy"? The five Lumberjanes (the name of their brand of scouts) are determined to find out, even if it puts them in mortal danger from a host of supernatural critters.
Is It Any Good?
With crazy humor and nearly nonstop action, this frenetic series of illustrated adventures spotlights five young girls at their spunky, take-charge best. The Lumberjanes aren't afraid of much (other than their strict cabin counselor, Jen), and they throw themselves at anything that threatens their summer together.
Authors Noelle Stevenson and Grace Ellis' writing is fast, clever, and engaging. Illustrator Brooke A Allen divides the story beats into panels brimming with intriguing details and choreographs the action scenes with gusto. So far, the plot doesn't make a whole lot of sense, feeling like just one crazy thing after another, but most readers won't quibble. They'll be ready for the next collected volume as soon as they can get their hands on a copy.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about why comics and graphic novels are so popular now. What kinds of stories are best suited for the medium?
Why is it important to help and protect your friends? What are some of the best ways of lending support to a friend in need?
How do the Lumberjanes pay tribute to other strong women in history?
Book Details
- Authors: Noelle Stevenson, Grace Ellis, Shannon Watters
- Illustrator: Brooke Allen
- Genre: Graphic Novel
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy, Adventures, Friendship, Great Girl Role Models
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Boom! Box
- Publication date: April 14, 2015
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 10 - 18
- Number of pages: 128
- Available on: Paperback, Nook, iBooks, Kindle
- Last updated: April 8, 2020
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
Where to Read
Our Editors Recommend
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate