UltraSquad

I haven't read a graphic novel in ages and was drawn to the Ultra Squad series primarily because of its Puerto Rican illustrator (WorldReads!). I admit that the tween age group is a little young for me by several decades, but I still loved reading this exciting story. Our four heroines are unexpectedly thrust into Superhero status with amazing outfits, but very little preparation and so must rely mainly on their innate talents to save the Universe while each one must also overcome a debilitating fear such as vertigo on the way. They are accompanied by their little alien sidekicks, the Pallies, who are absolutely adorable - especially the hangry one!

I loved Ultra Squad's humour and its energy. Both the dialogue and colourful illustrations complement each other perfectly and ideas like the Pallies' camouflage onesies are just brilliant! There is a serious underlying message of what girls can achieve through self belief and teamwork, but this is allowed to influence the tale withouts its being hammered home so I never felt as though I was being preached at. Instead this is a fun and inspirational story. I'm delighted to have had this opportunity to read this first Ultra Squad graphic novel and am intrigued to see what the girls will face in its sequel.