Book Review: Sardine in Outer Space

Sardine in Outer Space
by Emmanuel Guibert
Illustrated by Joann Sfar
First Second (an imprint of Roaring Brook Press)
ISBN 9781596431263
$12.95
Ages 7-12
In stores

As many librarians will tell you, “give a man a fish, and he will eat for a day. Give a child an age-appropriate graphic novel and it will circulate until the pages disintegrate”. Kind of an odd saying, I know, but a true one. This title was originally published in France and has now been translated for the American audience. Less graphic novel than serial, this collection of short comics tell the story of a little girl (Sardine), her uncle Captain Yellow Shoulder, and cousin Louie. Together they fight against the evil combo of Supermuscleman, chief executive dictator of the universe, and his large headed sidekick Doc Krok.

The adventures are fast paced and goofy, occasionally straying into the absurd. In one tale, our heros travel to planet Discoball to take part in a dance contest with The Empress Laser Diskette. Providing the music? Diskette’s son Prince BeeJeez. Yes, like the band.

Kids will enjoy the action and silly situations, but this reviewer was left wanting just a little bit more.

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