Lake of Slime (The Super Roomies #1)

A quartet of superpowered roommates must put aside their differences to save the world in this goofy chapter book–level graphic novel, a series launch from Lerner (Nat the Cat Finds a Map). Who left an empty carton of milk in the fridge? That’s what frustrated superhero Blix Blaster, foiled in his pursuit of a cereal breakfast, demands of his super roomies Abby Astro, Captain Kooky Pants, and Wanda Weather. Blix Blaster’s interrogation is interrupted by a call from Big City Mayor Melissa McCorkle, who requests the heroes’ help in stopping supervillain Dr. Slimepeople from replacing Big City Lake’s water with goo. The group dispatches enemies using their unique powers—Abby Astro wields an energy lasso, Blix Blaster shoots explosions from his hands, Captain Kooky Pants’s glowing slacks blow baddies away, and Wanda Weather creates tornadoes—but Blix Blaster, his mind still on breakfast, derails the heroics to ask Dr. Slimepeople a question. Action-centered onomatopoeia (“DRAG!” “WAVE!” “REACH!”) and fourth wall breaks (“Before we get to chapter 5, I have a question...”) ensure readers’ investment. Blocky, geometrical b&w illustrations with yellow accents give the comic an energetic retro appeal reminiscent of Roy Lichtenstein and depict simple shape-based characters with various skin tones. Ages 5–9. (May)