I keep seeing the name Molly Knox Ostertag and I think, “Have I read them?” And I stop, think some more and say, “Yes! Oh duh! They have done….” and think about a book or two they have created. Why I can’t remember them I am not really sure. After all, they are a good author. So, I feel really bad that this name escapes me, but I assure you, you should not let Ostertag escape you!
Dungeon Club: Time to Party (Dungeons & Dragons: Dungeon Club, #2) is illustrated by Xanthe Bouma. This is a good sequel for book one. Which was one of the first table top/live role playing game graphic novels I had read. The issues they deal with in both are ones we know, we have probably dealt with and/or our children are currently dealing with. It is familiar in theme, with a more diverse cast of characters. Olivia and friends’ lives are mirroring their characters in the D&D like game they play. And the lessons they learn in both the fantasy and real world, can be used to help them through the other world.
This time around the emphasis on the game itself feels like it is more heavily used as a tool to present the theme. And we focus on the kids in a more one-on-one format. There are some gender themes, being a real friend vs. a “game” friend, and more. It is all wrapped up in bold, bright, medium details that give a cushion to the subjects. While I wouldn’t think some of the subjects could be trigger issues, there is (as mention) gender issues, friendship issues and how Olivia relates to her family (mother and sister) and to her friends and the pressures she puts on herself. Of course, read book one first, as Dungeons & Dragons: Dungeon Club: Roll Call does set things up, and book two starts pretty much where we left off in that volume.