nitoy.reads.comics

reading & reviewing comics, children's books and everything in between. my other blog: https://delightinggrace.wordpress.com/

[nitoyreadscomics]

The Best Bath Ever! How God Washes Away Our Sin and Makes Us Brand New by (Paul Tautges and Ingrid Sawubona, P & R Publishing) -You might know author Paul Tautges for his solid counseling books and his work as a sought-after conference speaker equipping others in biblical counseling. It’s refreshing to see him writing for children as well. This time, it’s not about counseling (though I hope he tackles that for kids someday), but about the gospel—and he does it excellently.

Children’s books rarely focus on the story of Naaman’s healing, much less draw the connection to salvation. Yet, as we know, Naaman’s cleansing points to the cleansing power of Jesus’ blood over our sin. Paul Tautges saturates this book with the gospel in a way that helps children grasp the importance of being washed by God. He doesn’t simply retell Naaman’s story and tack on a gospel presentation—he thoroughly explains salvation, making it clear, compelling, and Christ-centered. As a parent, I’m thrilled to read and to share this book to my daughter as it points her to Christ.

My verdict:

5 out of 5

More reviews here.

Check my IG.

[nitoyreadscomics]

Everywhere & All the Time: The Reign of King Jesus (Jake and Bekah Bull; Remesh Ram Kingdom Come Press ) The Great Commission is not about who we are or what we can do but who Jesus is and what He can do. He is in control. He is sovereign. He is king. That’s topic of this book and it’s the ultimate encouragement not just for The Great Commission but all of the Christian life.

The book underscores Christ being king and enumerates (with illustrations) places, circumstances, time, things and people who are under His throne. The authors shows that the extraordinary or the mundane doesn’t escape the full scope of Jesus authority. Knowing that truth, it strengthen the reader’s faith as he step to obey Christ command to share the gospel and help others follow Jesus. The text in this book are few but enough for the reader to grasp and understand what the authors are trying to convey. Complimenting to this is the beautiful artwork that is not complicated and gives you that clean and vibrant vibe of the book.

My verdict:

5 out of 5

More reviews here.

Check my IG.

[nitoyreadscomics]

Abigail and the Waterfall:  Loving God’s Good Earth (Sandra L. Richter, Michael Corsini, IVP Kids ) – A simple Saturday hike and picnic turns into a beautiful opportunity to explore and care for God’s creation—and dive into His Word. I love the way the story flows, with Scripture and the names of plants, animals, and places woven seamlessly throughout. At first, you might miss them, but as you turn each page, they quietly reveal themselves. The Bible verses stand out, as expected for a Christian children’s book, but they feel naturally placed within the story. The kids’ mini-adventures are a joy to read, each moment connecting back to God in a heartwarming way. The artwork is wonderfully done, pulling you right into the hike alongside the family.

My verdict:

5 out of 5

More reviews here.

Check my IG.

[nitoyreadscomics]

This is the sequel to the book, Wow God, Thank You, Sorry, Please: A Kid’s Guide to Prayer.If you think this book is more complex than the previous one by Camilleri and On, think again! It strikes the perfect balance of being encouraging, instructional, and accessible. This is truly a kid-friendly guide to help children dive into reading the Bible. My only concern is the amount of text—but the engaging rhymes and vibrant color combinations more than make up for it. The artwork is absolutely stunning. It blends seamlessly with the message of the text, enhancing it and adding so much depth. Every page is a visual treat that leaves you floored. Here, both the writing and the illustrations are a solid win.

My verdict:

5 out of 5

For more information, sample pages and to purchase, click here.

[thunderbuk1off]

KARERICONS TOYCARDS

For important context, I made these guys back in 2020 since they are a part of a big project in my team called the Foldabots Reawaken. So right now, I am releasing these to the public for Foldafans to enjoy.

Bios and instructions are on previous post

[nitoyreadscomics]

CREATIVE PROCESS + WATCH OUR WORDS + MINIMALIST ART = A TIDAL WAVE OF A STORY

Probably one of my favorite children’s book reads of 2025 — and it’s not even new! The twist? Its message isn’t just for kids; it hits grown-ups right in the feels. In the creative process, we don’t always have to be perfect… sometimes “ish” is more than enough. Other times, can’t bottle “ish,” but we can savor it.

Lesson #2. Be careful of our words. It really makes an impact to someone.

This story stuck with me — especially in how it tackles the weight of other people’s expectations. I wish this book existed when I was a kid; it would’ve completely changed how I saw my creative journey.

Simple story. Simple illustrations (think Liza Donnelly meets Charles M. Schulz). But a Godzilla-sized heart.

For addition detail, see sample pages and to order, follow this link.

I thank Edelwiess+ and  Candlewick Press for the ARC.

Read more reviews on my IG here.

[nitoyreadscomics]

ANIMAL PLANET VIBES + VISUAL ARTIST + NO INFORMATION OVERLOAD TEXT = CREATURES OF THE NIGHT REVEALED

All things dark and mysterious. God made them all!

Do you have to take it literally that a bedtime or dreamy book like this should be dark? Well, in this case, it works—and it totally gets away with it. The artwork and interior design are excellent. I love how the author/illustrator blends her art with real photographs, creating a beautiful collage effect. I’m glad to be getting artwork from someone who’s not only a visual artist but also an advocate for wildlife—and she really knows how to weave that passion into this book. For a first-time author, this is very promising. I hope she has more of this kind of magic in store.

There are plenty of animals featured here that you’ll enjoy discovering. I’m really satisfied with the rhymes—they’re spot on and not just thrown in for the sake of rhyming. There aren’t a ton of details about each animal, but there’s enough to spark your curiosity and keep you reading. My only complaint is the last page, which feels a bit creepy. Still, this book is a winner for me!

For addition detail, see sample pages and to pre-order, follow this link.

I thank Edelwiess+ and  Pownal Street Press for the ARC.

Read more reviews on my IG here.

[nitoyreadscomics]

TWO BFF EX-ACTORS + TRYING CLOUT CHASING + MAD CRIME BOSS = BUDDY COMEDY (WITH ACTION) SUPREME

Who are the Power Pals?

They’re Derek and Alex—and this is their hilarious adventure! This buddy comedy feels like it jumped straight out of a movie or TV series, tropes and all. Two has-been best friends will do whatever it takes to get back into the limelight. They’re chasing a second chance at their careers—but going up against a crime boss who plans to blow up the city might be more than they can handle.

I love the flow of the story and the chemistry of the characters are superbly good. Think of Three Stooges (without the slap stick) meets Kick Ass (without too much violence and gore). You can easily relate with these two losers as they fight the villains while keeping up with their friendships that took some mishaps but eventually got resolved. The story might be "inspired" from a buddy comedy but how they presented this graphic novel has some special The introductory page, the montage and the gallery at the end all played well making this a stand out. The artwork works well with the story. The story ends with something to look forward to. I hope this is not the end of this series because I want more of the Power Pills er Power Poles..I mean the Power Pals!

To know more information, read sample pages and to pre-order, click here.

I thank Edelweiss+ and Dark Horse Books for the ARC of this amazing graphic novel.

Check my IG here.

[nitoyreadscomics]

LITTLE BOY + SCARY MONSTER + SADNESS = A SIMPLE CURE

This book is charm.

Too bad this is slotted to be released in 2026. That's whole lot of waiting for this simple but heartwarming story involving a boy and a monster. You'll treasure it's simplicity. So how can a little boy comfort this humongous monster? How can a helpless kid face even the monster's "monster"? What can he really do? What will you do when words or actions is not the answer for those having a bad day? Obviously you have to get the book to know.

As for the illustration, I really dig the idea of a big monster that it can't fit the page of the book. That mystery add a page turning spree for children who will read this one. The cover is a bit scary and doesnt give away the story. It's a good lure for readers to jump in and enjoy the story. I like also that there just two characters having a interactions. The cliffhanger at the end added some more emotions and wonder of what happens next.

For addition detail, see sample pages and to pre-order, follow this link.

I thank Edelwiess+ and  Orca Book Publishers for the ARC.

Read more reviews on my IG here.

[nitoyreadscomics]

LABELS + COLORFUL ART + ENCOURAGING WORDS = UNIQUE ABC BOOK

I love ABC books. I want to be surprise to what each letter represents (specially letter "X" which is a tricky one). Probably, These ABCs Belong to Me! could be included in my "best ABC books list". An ABC books sometimes are an excuse just to produce a book for kids without giving some love and substance it deserves. Of course, you'll learn the alphabet but that's not a valid reason. Alicia McKenzie, with heart and soul, poured it here. Love how the author flips the script of what words or labels others say to us, which sometimes are mean, to a more positive and encouraging trait kids should have. Words are powerful. It can make or break a kid. Help them see through those words as a badge of honor and don't let it steal the best that is already in them.

I'm also anticipating the illustration would camouflage or blend the letters to the characters or scene it's trying to present. So far Demonteverde has hits and misses, but that not included in my criteria on what is superbly good artwork. Demonteverde's art is busting with colors andvibrancy that will brighten your day and outshines those not so good "labels".

It's a rhyming book but the texts are a bit long, so this is for older kids or you can adjust it on your own if you have a younger kid. Overall, These ABCs Belong to Me! brings the sunshine in for your children.

To read more details, check sample pages or to pre-order, click this link.

I thank NetGalley and The Collective Book Studio for providing ARC in exchange of a honest review.

Follow me on IG: nitoy.reads.comics

[nitoyreadscomics]

POPULAR CARD GAME + FRIENDSHIP + ZANY ADVENTURE = EPIC READ

The popular card game comes to life in this graphic novel for kids. I would expect some exaggerated artwork and cheesy humor just to ride it's popularity and get some extra buck from fans of the card game. However, I'm surprised how this good this book and it made me laugh. I like how the author's timing on delivering the silliness and funny moments so you wont get overwhelmed with all the punchlines and puns. Jenna and Yamerpro is bring a big bag of the good stuff here. For you parents who wants to get your kids into comics, this one is "bait, hook and sinker". Oh by the way, you don't have to buy the card game to enjoy this book or vise versa, but this graphic novel will nudge you to consider getting the game.

The artwork works hand in glove with the authors word all the way. I like the westernized chibi-manga style rending to the characters, which you can find in Cartoon Network . Inevitably, this make the characters adorably cute. OK, this kind of cuteness overload is tolerable for me and not an overkill. Yamerpro is a great choice as an artist for this comic. As for the flow of this silly detective story, Jenna Schroeder introduces the characters each on the early chapters before they come together on later part of the story. This way, Jenna Schroeder have those character have their shining moments and acts like a piece of the puzzle that made up the story. No over crowding or messing up the story because of having too much characters involved. Clever delivery there, Jenna. Kudos to you. I'm looking for more of it.

To read more details, check sample pages and to buy, click this link.

I thank Edelweiss + and Dolphin Hat Games for providing DRC in exchange of a honest review.

Follow me on IG: nitoy.reads.comics

[nitoyreadscomics]

THE HORSE+ THE FOX + ANIMALS FRIENDS = WACKIEST RACE

It's not everyday you read a comic about a horse! I think it's not appealing (with the exception of a unicorn) for kids. Well Steve is here to change your mind. This is my second time to read Kelly Collier"s "Steve" and it keeps on getting better and better...or should I say wackier and wackier. This is all age humor graphic novel that adults will also surely love. If you're looking for something funny, don't get turned off of this just because it's audience is kids. Go ahead a pick it up and you'll never regret it.

Anyways, it's that time of the year that Steve will compete in the Spring Race-A-Thon which he consistently wins. As a horse, has all the advantages being victorious this year. However, this year is different. As Bob (the sarcastic fox friend) points out, the rules have change. The Spring Race-A-Thon will be a relay (which Steve doesn't know at first). Our exceptional horse is still in his jolly mood, till Bob dropped the bomb who will be his team. Who are in Steve's team? What will Steve do in this sticky predicament? That's when the hilarity and mayhem starts!

I like the artwork, color and character designs reminds me of "Regular Show" cartoon. The dialogue between Steve and Bob (the pessimistic and sarcastic fox) is as always hilarious. Then I like how Steve, despite of the impending predicament, smiles, finds something positive and goes to action (even if it's so silly). The other animals that are involved specially those in the Steve's team got their moments. The ending is satisfyingly funny (and it's not what you think it is). This is a sure fire hit to everyone who wants to laugh out loud at a silly and comedic horse.

To read more details, check sample pages and to buy, click this link.

I thank NetGalley and Kid Can Press for providing ARC in exchange of a honest review.

Follow me on IG: nitoy.reads.comics

[nitoyreadscomics]

MUTANT TEAM+LIGHT HUMOR+FAN SERVICE= X-CELLENT PARODY

I'm an X-Men fan (well the 90's comics and animation that is) and I want my X-Men done well, even if it's a parody. Jeffrey Brown, which had the same treatment like these on Star Wars, has handled the X-Men on this book superbly good. He didn't just poke fun at the X-Men but he delivers a good fan service as well that is accessible for all. If you're feeling nostalgic of the good old X-Men or just to lighten up your day, you'll get a load of that here.

The title itself, cover art and the character design is a nod to the 70's & 80's X-Men (which I think is the Golden Age of the mutant team comic run). Adding to that are the tropes, small details, places, appearance of villains (Arcade, Brood, Toad etc.,), and an X team cameo related to the mutant team, are a havoc (pun intended) of fun. Even the mere mentioned of other X-team or a certain Marvel superhero makes this book a delightful read (and amused smirk) for fans. For non-fans you'll still love this too because Brown provided a profile of each mutants at the start of the book if you don't know the characters. In terms of humor, this is a all ages, smile-funny one than a laugh out loud book, so you don't have to be deep in the X-Men lore to understand it. There are some good moments but for fans like me, I don't mind it because it's X-Men and from Jeffrey Brown.

As for the artwork, try imagining this is how Fred Hembeck will draw the X-Babies.

If you want light, clean humor and cute drawings this is an X-cellent choice (there, I said it). The Uncanny X-Men: Days of Future Fun is an enjoyable and fun read for fans and non fans alike.

To read more details, check sample pages and to buy, click this link.

I thank Edelweiss and Chronicle Books for providing DRC in exchange of a honest review.

Follow me on IG: nitoy.reads.comics

[nitoyreadscomics]

TWO NINJA TEAM+DREAM CROSSOVER+GREAT ARTWORK= NOT SO GOOD BANGER

Ok the positive first. This is a enjoyable read. Enjoyable meaning the smooth flow of the story. No rough or dragging parts. I dig the simplicity of the story, not too complex or messy. I love the origin stories of both TMNT and Naruto mentioned in the book. The interactions between the two team is good. I gave this a 3 star on Goodreads is because the artwork, specially the action scenes are solid. Hands down they are great! Lets include also cover arts and the extra gallery which are the best in this collected edition. Base on the artwork itself, you'll buy this one for sure.

Now the however part…However, this is a graphic novel so words and pictures are involved. So don't expect an epic crossover story with these two hot ninja team. If you're a big fan of both team, and you're looking for something extravagant, this book is not it! Pretty decent writing considering you thought this crossover unique and many might considered this match made in heaven. Again, you'll be underwhelmed. The story is very predictable, their is no chemistry between the two team (pizza didn't help), didn't moved emotions and nothing new to offer for fans. The ending is rushed. Casual readers will also feel that "not so great" vibe. This is not how you handle two iconic ninja team.

I hope they could come up with something more solid that will make this series shine.

To read more details, check sample pages and to pre-order, click this link.

I thank Netgalley, IDW Publishing and Viz Media for providing ARC in exchange of a honest review.

Follow me on IG: nitoy.reads.comics

[nitoyreadscomics]

DYNAMIC DUO+MONSTERS+MINIMAL COLOR PALETTE= OUT OF THIS WORLD ADVENTURE

I'm not updated with any indie comics stuff much less from the UK but if this is considered a hit, then Dan White's "Cindy and Biscuit" is indeed a hit. I have no idea of what will I read (I rarely read the blurb or description). The few opening pages of this graphic novel gives me that "Calvin and Hobbes" (with monsters and aliens) vibe because it was presented as a comic strip. So I'm on my "one gag per day" mode. I never thought those were appetizers for a great graphic novel buffet! So there are long stories, one page ( "slice of life" stories) with panels and a whole page only artwork with just one speech bubble or caption. Those variations of how the stories and artworks are presented doesn't deter how good and enjoyable reading this comic is. Such versatility is indeed commendable. It's not hard for anyone to "get it" from what the author is intended to get across to the readers. I also like that the dog "Biscuit" had few solo adventures. The artwork's minimalist color pallette which has two pastel colors is a stroke of brilliance. The pastel colors changes in every narratives and it really fits the comic.

Overall, this graphic novel is a must read and you'll enjoy every bit of it.

To pre-order, check the full description and see sample pages go here.

I thank Netgalley and Oni Press for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[nitoyreadscomics]

PIRATES+LITTLE GUY+BIG HEART= THAT MATTERS

Oh man this book made my day! We know pirates are adventurous. They are also rough and brave. Small Saul is not one of them. The story is so good and everyone can relate (not just short folks). Everyone are unique and has something to contribute no matter insignificant it can be to others. Also I love how Small Saul perseveres even though no one wants him. I love the flow of the story and the artwork is so good. This book will tug your heart (or leaves you teary eyed). Pirates are known for finding treasures but this time they found it not in a chest but a person. Kids will get a dose of encouragement reading this one. I would love to go on and on with my review but I'll end up spoiling it for you. Honestly, the cover is the one that lured me to read this book. Ashley Spires works are new to me and I recently finished one of her books included in her The Most Magnificent series which is on fire. This book is on fire too! So go ahead and grab a copy.

To read the description, purchase the book and see sample pages, click here.

I thank NetGalley and Kids Can Press for the review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[nitoyreadscomics]

nothing + nothing + nothing = everything

This is a cleverly written and interactive book for kids. This book will talk to you (and to your kids). Yes, Rio is doing the Deadpool thing, fourth walling talking about NOTHING which is funny. The minimal art is good (except the end part were suddenly it was filled with colors and artworks). I like how those almost blank pages will push you to flip the page to find content (who wants to buy a book that has few text and art). The character designs are so cool. I have read books with the same treatment (plenty of that fourth walling stuff), and this one probably has, so far the simplest plot that I read. You might say that I shouldn't expect much (because the author is just kid). However, it will be cool if the author injects more stuff into it so it wont feel wanting or a cliffhanger (I bet Marco, the 14 year old author, can give that, right Marco?). Nevertheless this is a good book that your little ones will love.

Pre-order the book, get to know more about the book and see sample pages here.

I thank NetGalley and Moon + Bird for the review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.