Sfé R. Monster

Recommended by two young library patrons - big fans of the series! I promised I would read the first one at least.

Tyler (Black, glasses) has just had to move cross-country with his family. After his first day at a new school, he just wants to hang out with his old friends - playing Minecraft. They're thrilled he's there, surprising him with a cake, and they continue their adventures and explorations. Grace and Candace found the final skull in the Nether, which means they can summon a Wither show more - but the Wither seems to take on a life of its own and come after them.

Probably SOME background knowledge of Minecraft is helpful, but what comes through most from this first short installment is the friendship between the players. show less

I love the concept. I love that by buying a copy this past week, my money went to Trans Lifeline. I want LGBTQ characters and issues to have more and better representation in comics. I think this comic is a fantastic step in that direction.

But I did not love it. I found the quality of the stories themselves extremely hit-or-miss. There were a few gems, but there were enough that I just felt like I was scrolling through. I am also looking cautiously at the quasi-Native comic "Twin Souled" show more that seems like it's got a bit of appropriation going on. My faves were "The Monster Queen" and "The Dragon Slayer's Son." show less

Some standouts, in order of appearance (now with illustrations!):

"Luminosity" (****)
It took me a reread to understand what the characters are talking about, which I don't think was intentional, but once I did I was really into it.


"A Royal Affair" (*****)
Possibly my favorite! Pirates, royalty, adventure, and outrageous flirting.


"Duty and Honor" (*****)
I didn't immediately warm to either the art or the subject, but it won me over and made me cry.

"O Type Hypergiant" (****.5)
I love the melding show more of classic gay erotic art styles and sci fi. The last panel gives me chills.


"The Next Day" (**)
Too distracted by wondering how anyone survives to do anything for more than a month if the sun has gone out? Eating meat is only going to take you so far. Are the rabbits cannibalistic now?

Some other favorites, which don't have a lot else to say about: "Mourning Tea", "They Simply Pass", "Barricade". show less

No rating because it wouldn't be fair. I wasn't very interested in their journey, and I thought Tyler was being a bit unreasonable (but thankfully not a brat). There are some fun cartoony moments, but I think if I had played Minecraft, I would have enjoyed this more.