The Red Pyramid: The Graphic Novel (The Kane Chronicles #1)

The first book in Riordan's Kane Chronicles gets the graphic novel treatment. The story follows that of Riordan's 2010 middle-grade novel of the same name, which stars Sadie and Carter Kane, the children of famed Egyptologist Julius Kane. When their father accidentally unleashes a dangerous Egyptian god at the British Museum and vanishes, the siblings embark on a perilous journey around the globe, which reveals hidden truths about their family. The plot lends itself fluidly to the graphic novel format, and Collar's cinematic artwork is well equipped to handle the story's larger-than-life mythological action. Gone is the digital recording narrative gimmick of the original book; instead, the twists and turns of Riordan's intricate story line are delivered through dialogue and through Sadie and Carter's dual narration, which appears in small color-coded panels. Collar, who also worked on Riordan's graphic novel adaptation of The Lightning Thief, packs his spreads with rousing technology and magic, as well as tongue-in-cheek details. New readers and existing fans alike will dive right in. Ages 10 and up. Agent: Nancy Gallt, Nancy Gallt Literary Agency. (Oct.)

Copyright 2012 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

Gr 4-8—In this graphic adaptation of the first book in the "Kane Chronicles" series (Hyperion), Sadie and Carter Kane search for their missing father, an archaeologist specializing in Egyptian antiquities. Their quest takes them to major world cities, where they learn of their family heritage as Egyptian magicians who seek to destroy evil forces throughout civilization. The book has a cinematic feel, with excellent aerial shots, images revealed from unique points of view, and action delineated by slanted panels. The full-color art has a slick, luminous quality, enhancing the magical elements. Color is used to excellent advantage. For example, historical images in monochromatic shades of silver, copper, and blue visually distinguish the old kingdoms. Judicious use of red text reinforces the evil voice of Sekhmet. The powerful superhero quality is evident throughout the tale, where gods and goddesses resemble superheroes. Women move like superheroes, especially Bast, who claims "Combat magic is my specialty." Contests between warring powers, the scorpion sequence, the appearance of Sekhmet, and the boat traversing the cataract all crackle with action. Occasionally, some of the changes in layout, such as a full-page horizontal spread of selected panels, abruptly interrupt the narrative flow and make following the story confusing. Still, readers will eagerly identify with Carter when he declares, "It was a fight to the death and I felt great." This action adventure is jam-packed with ancient Egyptian culture and mythology, and will captivate young readers.—Barbara M. Moon, Suffolk Cooperative Library System, Bellport, NY

Copyright 2013 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Sadie and her brother, Carter, hardly know each other. Separated after their mother died under mysterious circumstances, Sadie has enjoyed a stable, if mundane, upbringing by their grandparents in London. Meanwhile, Carter grew up traveling the globe with their Egyptologist father, Dr. Julius Kane, helping with research and archaeological digs. When Dr. Kane arranges a visit on Christmas Eve at the British Museum, the family reunion turns tragic when he unleashes the Egyptian god Set, who wastes no time in banishing Dr. Kane from this world. Sadie and Carter are mysteriously immune to Set's attacks, and they find themselves suddenly thrown into a centuries-old battle between the Egyptian gods. Strange dreams, unusual powers, and allies who are definitely not human make it clear that Sadie and Carter each have a part to play in defeating this ancient enemy. Established fans and newcomers alike will delight in this graphic adaptation of Riordan's Red Pyramid (Hyperion, 2010). Packed with intense action sequences and a large cast of dynamic characters, this highly condensed version is busy without being overwhelming. Out of necessity, much of the dialogue is dedicated to explaining actions and events, but a constant stream of humor prevents the reader from getting bogged down by logistics. The colorful artwork has an almost painting-like quality, setting it apart from typical graphic novel illustration, and some clever visual jokes and thoughtful use of panels make good use of the format. Expect high demand for the first volume in this new graphic series. — Summer Hayes. VOYA