Tune: Vanishing Point by Derek Kirk Kim
Review by Lauren
copy from publisher, but all opinions are my own
Official Summary: Andy’s life is going nowhere, fast. He left art school with his career all
worked out ahead of time, but …to say it didn’t work out is the understatement
of the century. Unemployed and living with his overbearing parents,
Andy struggles to keep sight of the lofty goals that once drove him. But it’s
hard, even when he reconnects with his old art school crush, Yumi.
job offer on the table. But then Andy takes the job offer–to work at a zoo–and
finds himself in an alternate dimension. The zoo? Is run by aliens. The exhibit?
Is him.
Review: I’ve reviewed a few other titles from First Second Books and I have to say, I’m quite impressed with the books they release. Tune: Vanishing Point is obviously included in that statement!
Andy Go drops out of art school, thinking he has enough skills to reach success…he soon realizes that’s not really the case. Now, he’s stuck at home with his parents bugging him to go out and get a job and he’s too embarrased to hang out with his old art school friends, including crush Yumi, so he just avoids them instead.
Most of the book is leading up to the main plotline, where a father and daughter duo want to hire him for a job in another dimension, but the rest of it is still interesting. It’s cool to see Andy navigate his way through life, love, and awkwardness. I also really enjoyed that Kim included a lot about Andy’s family and friends…it’s always nice to get a widespread view of someone’s life, especially since I feel like they might not make a huge appearance in the second book. I could be wrong, though.
I also want to mention that all the pictures are done in black and white, but it really doesn’t deter from a good story. I thought the whole book was interesting and the artwork was done really well (and I LOVE that everyone has a distinct look, since sometimes drawn characters have too many similarities).
The first chapter is actually what will take place in the second book, I think, as the story never really goes back to that moment. However, it pulls you in and made me very curious to read and learn more, so that was a plus!
Overall, I give this one a thumbs up! Check it out. I’m definitely getting into graphic novels. I must read more!
I don't care for graphic novels but the story itself sounds very interesting!
I've been reading a lot of First Second for the CYBILs and they are pretty awesome.
This sounds interesting. I've been reading more graphic novels lately. I might check this out.
I find it interesting that this is in black and white. I have no idea if that's a common thing or not for graphic novels – I rarely pick them up myself – but it sounds interesting. 🙂 Great review!
Ohmigosh how cute is this book cover? Love it! I have never read a graphic novel before!! 🙂
Not a genre I'm really into but your review (and that cute cover) make me want to check this one out.