Sequels are an interesting thing. In the book world you can wait years for one or sometimes, it can be only months. I was able to find two sequels that are probably no more than a year has passed between them, but I had forgotten some key pieces. This is the bane of sequels: forgetting plot points, characters or even a storyline. However, it just means, reading again book one!
Thankfully in Barb the Last Berzerker V02 Barb and the Ghost Blade, there was (or would have been if I had a finished copy and not a reader copy) a refresher of book one. Dan (Abdo) and Jason (Patterson) continue the adventures of the Berzerker Barb and her monster friends. This time we have monsters helping humans and humans helping monsters (and a few trying to make a buck or two). Aimed at strong ages six and up (no more than 10, but adults with an offbeat humor sense of humor could enjoy, as there are some “adult jokes” that are still “kid friendly”) this graphic novel is busy, on the almost “too far out” at times scale, but perfect for kids who like adventure and humor. Both titles have ended on a cliff hanger note, therefore read book one before you try book two.
And the other sequel is The Nightmare Bridge V02: Into the Woods. Since this is an aged at least 10 and up, more likely 12-13 and up, read I will get that out of the way. It is not so much context, but the concepts are a bit more mature. This time the characters from book one are learning more about the past and who Esteban and Sarah are. We also learn key information about the project of the teens entering people’s nightmares and secrets are every place. Maybe Frank Thillez’s volume two is not as strong as the first, but this series dealing with nightmares and family is twisted and outright odd. It does have a face pace to it, and some out-there images by Yomgui Dumont that could be a bit intense for the sensitive reader (such as car crashes, odd clowns, werewolves).
Both titles are not for everyone, therefore, know your reader(s) and find the perfect fit.
