The October Girl (Book One), by Matthew Dow Smith

     I had my human pick this up at the local public library because I was in the mood for a graphic novel, and he thought this one looked interesting. I have not read anything by author/illustrator Matthew Dow Smith before, but it seems he also does some DC Comics work, which makes some sense, as his artwork in The October Girl is really interesting and cool! 

    Main character Autumn is 18 years old, and although she used to believe in magic and fairy tales, now she is wondering if there is anything more to her boring life than school and her part time job. She misses her childhood imaginary friend, Barnaby...until Barnaby appears again! The story then dives into a fantasy world of magic and characters beyond belief...even her family is involved! Another world exists right around her, and has all this time...but what is her role in it?

    A short book, and some very clever lines in it. Definitely written for older middle and high school readers, although there isn't anything questionable in the story, just a healthy dose of teen angst that 8th graders and older will totally understand. There is a Book Two that was just released, although I have not seen it yet, but might check it out if I happened across it someday. A lot less dark feeling than Halfway There was, and I liked it a bit better because of that. Not a must read, but if angsty graphic novels and/or fantasy stories appeal to you, I think you'd like this. 4 paws!