Two positive mentions of “Hereville”

The School Library Journal blog has a “best graphic novels of 2008” post, in which longtime friend of Hereville Brigid Alverson is nice enough to recommend Hereville. Thanks, Brigid! (And reading through the rest of the post, I’m very jazzed to be in such great company.)

And the blog Jewschool, which I’ve liked for a long time, posted a very positive review, as well.

Beyond the thrill of a well-told story that is steeped in Jewish culture without feeling forced or condescending, it’s a pleasure to read a story with an Orthodox heroine who’s both a feminist and feminine without being, well, a cartoon.

“How Mirka Got Her Sword,” cover art

“How Mirka Got Her Sword,” page 57

LAST PAGE!!!!!!

Took a long time to draw this page, too.

Next week: The front cover. (I know everyone’s already seen it in tiny form, but hopefully it’ll be nicer seeing it big.)

I recorded a Peter Beagle short story for Podcastle!

Head over to Podcastle to hear me read "Gordon, the Self-Made Cat," by Peter S. Beagle. I was a huge Beagle fan as a kid, so being able to record this was a major “squeeeee!” moment for me.

“How Mirka Got Her Sword,” page 56

“How Mirka Got Her Sword,” page 55

I don’t remember why I decided to draw the witch’s hair that way, but I’m not ruling out masochism. Takes a loooong while to ink that stuff.

Also, sorry this posted late. I messed up when I coded the time for this entry to appear.