Johnny Boo: Twinkle Power (Johnny Boo Book 2) - Hardcover

James Kochalka is, without question, one of the most unique and prolific alternative cartoonists working in America today. His comics have been published internationally by almost every alternative comics publisher; he's recorded several music albums under the name James Kochalka Superstar (making him a favorite at college radio stations across the country); and he's developed animated cartoons for Nickelodeon and Cartoon Hangover.

He is the first official Cartoonist Laureate of the state of Vermont, appointed in 2011.

Among his best known works are the Monkey vs Robot series, the beloved Johnny Boo and Dragon Puncher series for children, and his magnum opus, the decade-plus span of daily diary comics known as American Elf. James lives in Burlington, Vermont with his wife, Amy; their two sons; and their cats, all of whom appear frequently in his comics.

Kindergarten-Grade 2–This sequel to The Best Little Ghost in the World (Top Shelf, 2008) isn&'t as fully realized and compelling as its predecessor, but it retains the same charm and humor. Johnny Boo, a little ghost, has an ability to scare called &boo power,& while his pet ghost uses his &squiggle power& to swoop and swirl through the air. When Squiggle flies upward to find out how stars get their &twinkle power,& Johnny Boo runs into their old friend Ice Cream Monster, who wants to learn about Johnny&'s special talent. When Squiggle returns, the three friends invent an entirely new skill that sends people running: wiggle power. Johnny Boo&'s hair, however, performs the best trick of all: a flop to the side that leaves Squiggle (and, likely, readers) in stitches. Characters have genuine feelings–they get scared, upset, and jealous. They can be friendly and self-centered. Young readers will relate to the honest interactions among them. The vividly colored cartoon illustrations are basic, yet pack an expressive punch. Likable characters, humor, and attractive art make this title appropriate for general purchase.–Travis Jonker, Dorr Elementary School, MI
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