Review Detail

BEAKY BARNES: EGG ON THE LOOSE is a silly graphic novel that begins with the inspector dropping his egg. In quest of a replacement, he heads into town and demands an egg, but they are all out! At the threat of an inspection, the cafe owner goes in search of an egg. However, the market is out - but Beaky Barnes, a chicken, is dining at the cafe, and the owner sees a solution. Things continue to go off the rails with plenty of shenanigans and fake advertisements throughout.

What I loved: This is definitely a graphic novel that will make children giggle as they read with an outlandish comic style that appeals to young readers. The colors and cartoonish imagery is great for this age group, and the pages will turn quickly as readers make their way through the panels. The characters remaining consistent throughout the story and smaller ones reappearing in key places as well as the simplicity of the spiraling story is great for the intended age range.

As a graphic novel, it is easy to follow along with the dialogue and overhead text, not getting too bogged down with wordiness in any places. The advertisements included in key places through the story add to the silliness, as well as the end reveals that make this appear like a cartoon.

What left me wanting more: The graphic novel includes some tricky topics that are not really challenged, such as the inspector limiting food intake as he is on a diet, the use of physical force when upset (fish slaps a woman who ordered fish at a restaurant), stealing by multiple characters (clothes and bike, as well as purse), and lying/trickery (using the stolen clothes to pretend to be inspector boss). Further conversation may be warranted for some children to reinforce why this is present in a funny book but would not be funny in real life.

Final verdict: BEAKY BARNES: EGG ON THE LOOSE is a silly graphic novel that will work for older elementary school aged readers who enjoy some giggles.