Some days I find the hit of all hits when it comes to books and sometimes I find a book that is good but is not OMG Best ever! And that is the theme of these two graphic novels. I enjoyed them, I am glad I read them, but I am not going onto any sequels most likely with one and the other is a book in a series I will continue to read, but hope these “mini stories” are a smidgen stronger.
And I will start with that one. Azula in the Spirit Temple (Avatar: The Last Airbender) by Faith Erin Hicks and the gang of Peter Wartman, Adele Matera. Michael Dante DiMartino, and Bryan Konietzko was, as reviewer Emily on Goodreads said, “I didn’t think this was spectacular.” It is a redemption story that was not needed, and never comes full circle. It might be good as an episode of the show, but only if things follow through later. It is not really meant to be a solo story, but needs to be a larger arc to the Avatar Last Airbending mythology. Or it could work as a short story in a collection of graphic novel stories. Though the art is nice, it was also underwhelming as there was little variation to things. And I say that as a fan of the show, and Azula. However, if you are also a fan, please read it, as our girl has some interesting moments. (Read via an online reader copy, it will be available at the end of October 2023/early November 2023). 
Now, Poiko: Quests & Stuff by Brian Middleton and Rebecca Taylor was an adorable, cute story that has a very spiritual message, or messages as each story (or as they call it deliveries) has its own. Artwork is realistic fantasy, things are fun and “family friendly.” There are some adventure “thrills” but in the end nothing is “over the top bad” or too scary, making it really an all ages story. The adventure itself can be a bit subtle, therefore, it is not for everyone, but the story is still moving. These three stories follow Poiko (a lion) and Kenzie (a bat afraid of heights) and their wonderful times. They are a delivery service that has a low score for time delivery, but have a very large heart rating. They love meeting, talking to and listening to people. They love helping and being a friend to others. And though Poiko is a bit easily distracted, Kens does what he can to keep them on track. But sometimes even he knows our hearts need to be followed.
