It Was a Dark and Stormy Night: Snoopy as a Surrogate Child in the World of 'Peanuts'

By Galen Buttitta

Yesterday was National Puppy Day, which is pretty much the best holiday because dogs. What better time to commemorate one of the--if not the absolute most--famous dogs in history?

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Charles Schulz's Peanuts comic strip ran for just under half a century. Arguably, Snoopy's popularity eclipsed even that of the ostensible star of the strip, Charlie Brown. (This likely wasn't helped by the decision foisted upon Schulz by the powers-that-be to call the strip "Peanuts" as opposed to "Good Ol' Charlie Brown," but that's a topic for another day). Snoopy, the perennially precocious beagle, retains his popularity even to this day. He has inspired a dedicated locale at Cedar Point, several singles by the Royal Guardsmen, the psychedelic-rock band Sopwith Camel, and even a spacecraft that flew to the Moon.

Even though he beat everyone there with just A DOGHOUSE! AND A BOX OF SCRAPS! (Source)

Most people are surely familiar with Snoopy's wisecracks, concealed as they were in-universe from the children around him. It wasn't always this way, believe it or not--Snoopy was originally mute, someone who made himself known by his actions as opposed to his thoughts. One of his first gags came from a strip with no dialogue whatsoever: he had a flower in his collar, and an errant spray from a watering can weighted it down and made it droop. His first words were nonetheless soon to appear, even within the strip's first decade: an incredulous "Can this be true?" when being offered some food. Schulz still took a bit of time before settling on the stereotypical thought-bubble format, but that really didn't matter. Like the rescue dog brought home for the first time, Snoopy had found where he belonged.

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Snoopy is, in some ways, a walking paradox with paws. The strip shows him being both selfish and selfless, spiteful yet sensitive at alternating times. A recurrent gag was written around him not remembering Charlie Brown's name, and his love of supper, if represented in physical form, would give the Burj Khalifa a run for its money in terms of size. Snoopy, though, was not always so self-centered: on at least one occasion, he forewent his dinner because Sally Brown, then a baby, was sleeping on him; his friendship with Woodstock the Unintelligible is well-documented, and the former helped the latter try to find his mother more than once.

Snoopy adopted many personas: Joe Cool, Joe Lawyer, the World War I Flying Ace, the world's worst vulture, the local shortstop, the tortured wordsmith. He had a penchant for fine art (even if writing it wasn't his forte), once having owned a Van Gogh, and replacing it with an Andrew Wyeth when the former was lost in a blaze. He also appears to have been an accomplished dancer, not only giving performances in the actual strip itself but also going through mental recitations of routines represented as footprints and arrows. He could sleep on performed sheet music and physically cross out barks he had uttered--Schulz was no stranger to meta gags.

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All this goes to show that, ironically, Snoopy may be the most fleshed-out character in the strip. This is not a dig at Schulz or the characterization of his players. While it would be oversimplifying things to pin down the children of Peanuts in one line, there were repeatedly-punctuated notes in their melodies: Charlie Brown was a perennially unlucky everyman; Linus, a pint-sized Socrates; Lucy, the benchwarming fussbudget; Schroeder, High Priest of the Church of Beethoven; Sally, everyone's younger sister; Peppermint Patty and Marcie, the red-oni-blue-oni set of best friends. But while Snoopy was a dog, he wasn't *just* a dog. In a world where children faced the cold reality of life like adults, Snoopy had unfettered, childlike wonder and imagination. He was anything he wanted to be.

Even if he wasn't the best at it. (Source)

What do you think? Was I on target or was this post a dark and stormy night? Let me know in the comments!

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Take a Trip to Bitch Planet with Triple Features

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Sometimes even the most avid of comic book readers or those who pick up favorites along the way need a break from mainstream comics. This often means setting aside Marvel and DC’s world-shattering events and sometimes even superheroes in general. This isn’t to say there’s not a time or place for the stories told within these narratives—there's a reason they’re popular and have resonated with hundreds of thousands of people—but when it’s easy to be overwhelmed with the subjective ‘canon’ and a variety of Batman movies available to watch for any palate, many turn to indie comics. Here, people can find any number of genres ranging from hilarious and fun stories about a cabin at an all girls camp (Boom Studio’s Lumberjanes) to heavy, dark, and extremely relevant stories about life (Image Comics’s Bitch Planet). Here, a summer read can be found no matter what you’re looking for, and it doesn’t have to be all fun in the sun either.

If you find yourself looking for something a little different for your summer comics reading, Bitch Planet is the way to go. It's an exploitation-film-inspired satire series published by Image Comics that takes place in a dystopian future. Women are deemed “non-compliant” by society for not following the rules of what a woman should be like—quiet, feminine, and making less money than her male counterparts. The women who deviate are sent to an all women’s prison planet that is colloquially known as “Bitch Planet.” Written by all-star author Kelly Sue DeConnick and drawn by the talented Valentine DeLandro, the comic has been coming out since December of 2014. But don’t let the longevity fool you—irregular publishing schedules and busy creators have allowed only 10 issues to be published thus far.

Still, 10 issues at $3.99 each can get pricey, especially since the earlier issues are extremely hard to find in store. The good news is that ComiXology and Image both sell digital versions if you want to read on your phone, tablet, or computer. The first five issues can easily be found in a bound volume for $9.99 at pretty much any store that sells graphic novels, but the volume is missing one of the things that make the comics so fantastic: the back matter. Each issue contains author’s notes, essays by guest writers, art, cosplay, and other relevant information. For those looking to give the comic a try, it’s most definitely daunting and might take a while to gather the pieces. But don't despair! Bitch Planet: Triple Feature is the best place to start for new readers.

This summer, the creative team decided to let others take the reins for a bit and commissioned a diverse group of writers and authors to create short comics. Image is releasing the triple features every month, giving DeConnick and DeLandro some time to catch up and get the main comic back on track. These five issues span from June to October, and each contains three comics set within the universe of the main comic. While the main comic focuses heavily on the activity on the planet, these shorter ones present more of what’s happening on Earth during the revolution in the prison. The glimpses into the world remind the audience of the bigger picture, and serve much like an appetizer. No need to feel like you’re leaving the story incomplete by only reading the first few issues because these tell complete stories on their own.

Each of the mini-comics contains new characters with their own lives, which makes it the best place for new readers to be acquainted with the universe and the storytelling. They deal with former employees of Bitch Planet, women in courtrooms, and women just hoping for a promotion but not getting it because they’re not well-endowed or blonde. It’s satire, but it hits close to home for many readers, even without the warnings some of the main story comics have contained. The triple features still contain the amazing back matter essays, so new readers will still get the full experience. If you enjoy them, be sure to check out the main story!


Release schedule:

• Issue #1 was released on June 14 
• Issue #2 was released on July 19
• Issue #3 will be released on August 16
• Issue #4 will be released on September 20
• Issue #5 will be released on October 18

Digital versions of the Triple Features can be found here.

Have you read Bitch Planet?

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Here’s Why You Should Read Monstress

Take a war-torn, matriarchal version of 1900s Asia. Add a dash of steampunk, a pinch of magic, and a whole lot of horror. This is the world that Maika Halfwolf, the protagonist of Marjorie Liu’s ongoing comic series Monstress, must travel through in order to avenge her dead mother. After growing up as a prisoner of war, Maika is full of hatred and anger--and, even worse, an ancient, bloodthirsty god who lives just beneath her skin. This creature, otherwise known as a Monstrum, is both unimaginably powerful and uncontrollably hungry, and Maika’s struggle to harness its powers for good (or as close to good as it can get) is at the core of the series. Need more prompting? Here are four reasons to give Monstress a try.

Note: Monstress is aimed at mature readers. 

1. It’s Diverse

(Edit by warlordsregiment on Tumblr. Source)

During her journey, Maika meets people and creatures from all walks of life: half-animal, half-human demigods known as Arcanics, witch-nuns, talking cats, soldiers, scholars, slaves. The cast is far from whitewashed, and also diverse when it comes to age, including a centuries-old monster, a very young girl, and a teenager. (Maika is seventeen.)

2. It’s Beautiful

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Sure, they’re tons of gorgeous comics out there. It would be hard, though, to find another one this elaborate. When it comes to worldbuilding, the art does as much heavy-lifting as the text, drawing you into Maika’s frightening yet enchanting world. No detail is too small, and the Monstra are especially well-done. Sana Takeda’s illustrations show them to be both terrifying and weirdly beautiful. It’s easy to see why some Arcanics worship them. 

3. It’s Dark

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Like creepiness and gore mixed in with your fantasy? Then Monstress is the comic for you: the fact that Maika shares her body with a ravenous Lovecraftian god makes for plenty of both. Going deeper, Monstress deals with themes—war, slavery, and genocide, to name a few—that are just as horrifying but more realistic. But despite all the blood and guts, this is not a world without hope. Even Maika, who considers herself damaged beyond saving, is capable of pity, mercy, and love. 

4. It’s Empowering

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With a mostly female cast that flips the traditional guys-to-girls ratio in fantasy, Monstress gives its characters room to grow beyond typical stereotypes, showing that women can be kind, cruel, powerful, brutal, intelligent, damaged, spiteful, innocent, moral, immoral, or somewhere in-between. Maika isn’t particularly feminine, or, at times, even particularly likable. She is, however, a complex, fully-formed character whose limitations aren’t defined by traditional gender roles. And what’s more empowering than that?

Have you read Monstress? What are some of your favorite comics?

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A Review of Legendary Star-Lord, Vol. 1: Face It, I Rule

It's been a while since I read a comic. So when I found myself in the comic aisle of my library, it felt a little bit like coming home. It also felt extremely exciting. I'd only ever gotten comics on hold, so being there in a whole aisle filled with them felt a bit like finding heaven or the holy grail.

So it was that I ended up walking out with an armful of comic books, way more books than I had ever intended. (But isn't that the way it always goes?) I thought I had picked out all the comics I wanted, but as I was walking out of the aisle, one title snagged my eye.

Legendary Star-Lord, Vol. 1: Face It, I Rule.

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This comic, written by Sam Humphries and illustrated by Paco Medina and Freddie Williams II, was appealing. Was it the word "Legendary" that caught my eye? Was it the iconic name "Star-Lord"? Was it the subtitle, "Face it, I rule"? Was it my extreme love for Peter Quill and his fellow guardians? Was it a unique, explosive combination of all four? Whatever it was, I immediately stopped, took a few steps backward, and picked this book up off the shelf. I did a cursory glance, then immediately added it to my (large and heavy) collection of books to take home. It's the Legendary Star-Lord. Of course I had to. Of course.

When I arrived home, this comic was the first I picked up because I was just so excited to dig in. From the first page, I was drawn into Peter's story. I didn't really think it was possible for me to love him more, but this comic made that happen. While this Peter isn't completely identical to the Peter from the films, it's obvious that they're the same person, mirror images of each other. The first Legendary Star-Lord released in July 2014, and Guardians of the Galaxy was released a month later in August 2014, so the two Peters coexist and draw off of each other. It's clear from the design of the characters and some of the references the comics that the comic doesn't precede the movie; rather, it's almost a tie-in to the movie.

Hey, does that mask look familiar?--(source)

The film version of Peter is a little less rough around the edges. The comic version is straightforward and brash, yet still a cinnamon roll at the core. And of course, the film version of Peter is still the iconic a-hole we've come to know and love. The comic version just sharpens that aspect of him and brings it even more to the forefront, something I can't even complain about--I love it.  In fact, I'm extremely glad I got to see this additional side of him.

Both versions of Peter are hands-on and get things done, preferring to address a problem head on instead of dancing around it. We also get to see even more of how young Peter struggled in this comic, something that, of course, broke my heart. We get to see how this space boy became a space man and what influenced him along the way. If he's a little unrefined, you can't really blame him for it.

When it comes down to it, Peter Quill is the same no matter where he is. The comic version of Peter only enriches the film version, and vice versa.

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Speaking of the film, the Guardians don't feature heavily into this comic, sadly--though they do make a few appearances here and there. This is mostly Peter's story, as evidenced by the title. However, this isn't only his story. We get several exciting new characters, but there are also appearances by familiar faces--Kitty Pryde, for example, whom Peter has to write an apology to on the side of the mountain.

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(It gave me serious Princess Diaries vibes.)

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One addition I was especially excited about was Peter's half-sister, Victoria of Spartax, related to him by his awful father. Though film fans will know Peter's father to be Ego, in the comics his father is the space emperor J'son, and trust me, they're very similar. Though it isn't easy, Peter and his half-sister get to know each other, and it's really kind of touching. Plus, she's a badass.

Please, oh please, bring her into the MCU.--(source)

The arc of this comic is mostly setup as it establishes the lead-in to the Slaughter Squad, "the toughest crew in the galaxy"--besides the Guardians, of course. They're the mercenaries for an even worse bad guy, Mister Knife. These guys make the Ravagers look a little more tame, and they're people you wouldn't want to meet in a dark alley. (I thought one of them was Yondu at first, though...)

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Overall, the comic's arc is a bit messy, bringing in a bunch of different elements, characters, and people. Yet at the heart of it all, uniting all of the story lines and elements, there's Peter Quill. Ultimately, this comic is all about his escapades and (mis)adventures as he gets into all sorts of trouble, landing in jail several times and facing some of the galaxy's baddest supervillains (one of whom is currently one of the MCU's baddest supervillains...). Throughout it all, Peter and all his antics bring a sense of coherency to the storylines.

Okay, Baby Boo.--(source)

Though the story was mostly setup and was a bit disjointed at times, I still really enjoyed this comic. The colors were fun, the artwork bold, and the dialogue golden. It made me laugh out loud several times, something that often doesn't happen when I'm reading. I also loved the way Peter was drawn--handsome and debonair, this outlaw is definitely one you'll want to keep your eye on, for more reasons than one.

While usually comics seem like different, enlightening versions of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, this simply seemed like an extension of Peter Quill and the Guardians that I know and love. As someone who walked out of the theater after Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 immediately clamoring for more, this comic was like a gift sent from the heavens. You can bet I'll be back for more.

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While I'm not as much of a comic newbie as I once was, I think I'm still fairly new to the world of ink-and-paper-superheroes. That being said, if you're new to comics, I think this is a fantastic entry point because of its similarities to the Guardians of the Galaxy films. However, this comic has so much to offer for everyone. If you're looking for a fun, lighthearted comic with the atmosphere and fun of the Guardians movies--or if you love Peter Quill even just a little bit--definitely pick up Legendary Star-Lord Vol. 1. It's legendary. And it rules.

Bonus comic variant by Skottie Young that I absolutely adore:

Baby Peter Quill. *heart eyes*--(source)

Have you read this one? What comic should I read next?

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April Showers: Best Fictional Weather Wielders

April is the time of year when rain and thunder mount attacks on all your planned outdoor expeditions. Though at first it can be kind of annoying, I've come to appreciate April's bright white lightning and listening to the accompanying boom of thunder. Lately, I've seen quite a few impressive rainstorms, so it would be most appropriate to speak about my favorite fictional characters who control the weather. Whether these fictional characters control the might of worldwide super-storms or simply the power of floods, each one should be acknowledged. Thus, I present to you the best weather wielders: 

Divine Beast Vah Ruta
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

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Throughout Breath of the Wild, Link must travel the world and free all the divine beasts from Calamity Ganon’s clutches by solving insanely fun puzzles and fighting angry, chaotic spirits. When Link enters the land of the Zora (a race of fish people), he is told that Vah Ruta (one of the divine beasts) is spouting an endless supply of water that could potentially flood all of Hyrule if it isn't stopped.

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Of course, Link saves the day by going inside Vah Ruta (he's mechanical, don't worry) and stopping the beast's magical flow of water. Once saved, Vah Ruta and the other legendary warrior beasts are tasked with the mission to help Champion Link defeat Calamity Ganon once and for all. Since Vah Ruta is one of the few who can truly make a dent in Ganon's might, weakening him just enough so Link has a fighting chance, I had to add him.

Storm
X-Men

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X-Men are mutants with amazing abilities, which include the powers to phase through walls and move objects with their minds. Professor Xavier gathers these mutants and trains them to one day become superheroes tasked with making the world a better place. Most of the X-Men, when pushed to their limits, can do insanely powerful things, and with enough control, their powers make it possible for the mutants to save the world.

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Having harnessed her power, Storm can let loose flashes of lighting, unleash a torrent of rain, and bring forth loud claps of thunder. If she wanted to, she could even hinder the weather from storming at all, giving her the power to not only control thunder and lightning, but also sunny skies. It's probably the reason why she’s worshiped as a rain god in Africa (so of course she makes this list)!

Thor
Thor and The Avengers

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Marvel has a whole slew of people with unbelievable abilities, including a billionaire genius and a used-to-be cryogenically frozen war hero. But Thor isn't exactly a human being... he's a god! One of the first Avengers, Thor hails from another world known as Asgard, and after stumbling onto the planet Earth, he agrees to help the Avengers save the planet (all while wielding his mighty hammer). 

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Only worthy heroes are able to wield the Hammer of Odin, a weapon with the ability to summon extraordinary blasts of electric energy, so it comes as no surprise that Thor is included on my weather wielder list. He's able to summon the power of a mighty storm and can even produce anti-force energy blasts that can annihilate an entire world. Besides, in the Avenger movies, he's pretty nice to look at and has some amazing one-liners (YAY Chris Hemsworth).

Vortex
Danny Phantom

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Anyone remember Danny Phantom? If not, it's a Nickelodeon show about a boy who accidentally is transformed into a human-ghost hybrid and uses his powers to save the world from spirits escaping from the Ghost Zone. This show was a good part of my childhood, and there were many amazing villains throughout the series.

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One such villain was a ghost named Vortex, who not only has normal ghost powers but also has the ability to control the weather, including droughts, hurricanes, whirlpools, etc. He sees his control of weather as a form of art, and is very much full of himself. Because of this, he is completely offended when Vlad and Danny try to stop him from creating "beautiful" rainstorms. Beyond this, he has the ability to control storms on an earth-wide scale, like creating blizzards in the dessert or a mass lightning storm that results in the Eiffel Tower collapsing.

Thunderella Happily Ever After

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Ever wondered what happened to Snow White after she received her happy ending? That question is answered in the movie Happily Ever After. Snow White's ending starts off happy enough, that is until the Evil Queen’s brother, Lord Maliss, finds out what Snow White has done to his sister. He hatches a plan for revenge and captures Snow White's prince, so she must flee in order to survive. She eventually finds the Dwarves' cousins, the Dwarfelles, who are appointed to protect her.

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Each Dwarfelle has a power that was given to them by Mother Nature. One Dwarfelle named Thunderella has the ability to (you guessed it) control storms. At first, she has a problem with using her ability, but when she’s needed most, she doesn't let Snow White down and creates a mighty thundercloud that rivals Lord Maliss's magic, ultimately saving Snow White from Maliss's evil intentions. Thunderella's courage and stormy abilities make her a perfect addiction to this list.

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If you have to be cooped up inside, make sure to check out these fandoms. They may help cure some of your rainy day blues as you await those promised May flowers.

Do you have a favorite weather wielder I didn't mention?

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16 Books You Should've Read in 2016

A new year means opportunities for new goals and new fangirl moments. Many of my goals include reading books. I've set a new reading goal on Goodreads, and I'm now looking through lists of books that will be published this year to decide what I want to read. But there were also a lot of books published last year that I didn't get to read. If you're in the same bookworm pickle, trying to figure out what to read and not read, here are sixteen books that were published last year that you might want to add to your TBR pile for 2017.

Pax by Sara Pennypacker

Published February 2, 2016

I've heard good things about Pax. It's been on several lists for middle grade books, and it's gotten a lot of great reviews. While I haven't read it myself, I think it'll be worth checking out. Plus, it's about a fox!

Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys

Published February 2, 2016

I've seen Salt to the Sea on a lot of 2016 book lists. Several authors I adore said it's amazing. I haven't read it myself, but I've heard only good things. Plus, it's inspired by a historical event that isn't that well known, so that's pretty cool.

A Gathering of Shadows by V.E. Schwab

Published February 23, 2016

A Gathering of Shadows is book two in the Shades of Magic trilogy by V.E. Schwab. This adult fantasy series involves four Londons, awesome magic, cross-dressing pirates, and a whole lot of crazy. I guarantee you'll fall in love with at least one character (if not all the characters) and you'll be dying to read A Conjuring of Light, which releases in February. If you haven't read this series yet, add it immediately.

Hamilton: The Revolution by Lin-Manuel Miranda

Published April 12, 2016

Do I really need a reason for you to read this?

The Raven King by Maggie Stiefvater

Published April 26, 2016

The Raven King is the final installment in the Raven Cycle by Maggie Stiefvater, and I've only heard good things about the conclusion. If you're looking for interesting characters, a little bit of magic, and a whole lot of strange, Stiefvater is your author. (Plus, isn't that cover just gorgeous?)

The Hidden Oracle by Rick Riordan

Published May 3, 2016

The god Apollo is cast down from Olympus and becomes a mortal teenage boy, pimples and all, as punishment from Zeus. With no idea how to regain his god status, Apollo heads to Camp Half-blood for help. This new series by Rick Riordan takes place after the Heroes of Olympus books and continues stories of several beloved demi-gods. If you don't want to say goodbye to Percy Jackson and Co., read this book. New concepts and characters are introduced as well to further the Half-blood legacy. 

The Cursed Child by John Tiffany, Jack Thorne, and J.K. Rowling

Published July 31, 2016

For Harry Potter fans, reading this new installment in the franchise is a no-brainer. While it's a play adaptation of Rowling's original story, I've been told it's still worth looking into if you consider yourself a Potterhead.

A Torch Against the Night by Sabaa Tahir

Published August 30, 2016

Another unique fantasy series, A Torch Against the Night continues the story of Elias and Laia in their violent, dystopian world. This book left me in ruins with an aching heart. So much happens to these characters, and new ideas and concepts are introduced to the world. It was fantastic, and I can't believe I have to wait until 2018 for the next book. Take your time to savor this book. 

Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo

Published September 27, 2016

If you enjoyed Six of Crows, you don't want to miss the conclusion to the story about criminals trying to be heroes. Crooked Kingdom was a wild ride from start to finish, bringing in more heists, more magic, and more gut-wrenching moments. I'd consider this one of the best books I read in 2016. Plus, it includes lots of waffles.

Some Writer!: The Story of E.B. White by Melissa Sweet

Published October 4, 2016

Some Writer! was a book that took me by surprise. It's a biography of E.B White, the author of classic children's books like Charlotte's Web and Stuart Little. But the format of the book is different than normal biographies. Each page is formatted in a scrapbook/smashbook style with notes, pictures, and scrawled handwriting to tell White's story. It's magical. There are small details woven throughout that bring his well-known stories and characters to life in a new way. If you're a writer or you love White's work, I highly recommend reading this. It was inspiring.

The Sun is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon

Published November 1, 2016

If you're a fan of cute romance, diversity, and just overall adorableness, read The Sun Is Also a Star. This book follows two characters of different backgrounds and ethnicities that fall in love over the course of a day. It's utterly adorable, and it just might make you think about life, culture, and fate. 

Graphic Novels

Ghosts: I haven't read this book, but I've heard great things about it. It's been on several "best books" lists and is highly recommended. If you give it a try, let me know what you think!

Lumberjanes: This series is amazing for several reasons. It's diverse--all five of the Lumberjanes are different, unique, and wonderful. They're allowed to be themselves with no judgment or awkwardness. It's uplifting and fun. Despite being at summer camp, the Lumberjanes learn about friendship, trust, and bravery among other qualities. It's also completely ridiculous and fun with magical caves, raptors, and an old lady that shapeshifts into a bear. It's great.

Spider-Gwen: This comic is part of the Spider-verse and takes place in a universe where Gwen Stacey is bitten by a radioactive spider and gains spider powers. Not only is Gwen hilarious, but she gets the job done. Honestly, we just need a Spider-Gwen movie (or TV show) at this point. She's so much better than Peter.

Wonder Woman (Rebirth): I haven't had a chance to read this one yet, but I've heard it's amazing. For Wonder Woman's 75th anniversary last year, DC revamped her story line as part of the Rebirth series. Basically: it's epic, and you should read it. We all should read it.

Groot: This comic surprised me the most. It's adorable, set in outer space, and all about friendship. Honestly, it's my favorite comic from 2016. Groot is utterly adorable as he gets sidetracked helping people as he goes to save his friends. He's also a tree in outer space, and he only says one sentence over and over, yet the story is touching and says a lot. The artwork is brilliant. I love it so much.

What are your favorite books from 2016?

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10 Books to Add to Your Fall Reading List

Autumn is just around the corner, and I can't think of a better time to snuggle up with a good book. (Okay, I can. Every single day is a good time to snuggle up with a book.) Which is perfect, since there are tons of fun new books arriving in bookshelves and libraries this fall! Here are some of the books I'm most looking forward to reading in the next coming months. So grab your favorite hot drink, maybe a blanket or a hoodie, and dive deep into one of these fantastic reads!

(All images link back to Goodreads so you can add them to your bookshelf, read early reviews, or find the full synopses. Don't forget The Fangirl Initiative has our own Goodreads group! Join us to discuss upcoming reads, ultimate classics, and more!)

A Torch Against the Night by Sabaa Tahir

Release date: August 30, 2016

Okay, I confess I've already read this book. And it swept me away. It's the second book in An Ember in the Ashes series, and it definitely lived up to my expectations. It's a bloody dystopian, high-fantasy series that will draw you in with a fantastic plot and breathtaking writing. If you haven't read An Ember in the Ashes, pick it up (Seriously! Go get it right now!) and let yourself melt into a world full of danger, darkness, and a little bit of hope. These books do contain a lot of violence and dark themes, but the author captures the characters and setting that leaves me breathless. I'm excited that there will be two more books coming in the future!

The Thousandth Floor by Katharine McGee

Release date: August 30, 2016

I've heard good and bad about this book, but mainly good. The story is set 100 years in the future where anything and everything is possible, but you have to want it enough. It follows a few characters that each have something they want and also something to lose in this futuristic world. It sounds interesting to say the least, and I'm curious about the world-building, so I'm adding it to my TBR pile.

Tales of the Peculiar by Ransom Riggs

Release date: September 3, 2016

If you haven't read Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children, you should. Right now. Go. Especially before the movie release later this month. If you have, then you don't want to miss out on this newest collection of stories related to the peculiar world. It matches up with some of the tales mentioned in the Peculiar trilogy, so if you liked those books, this one will definitely be worth your time.

Pottermore Presents by J.K. Rowling

Release date: September 6, 2016

Pottermore Presents is a collection of short stories about various characters and events from the Harry Potter books. They're basically an extension of the Hogwarts stories, giving more depth and details to the wizarding world. If you like Harry Potter at all, add these to your list. (Wait, you mean you haven't already bought them?)

Crooked Kingdom by Leigh Bardugo

Release date: September 27, 2016

Ever since I finished Six of Crows, I've been biting my nails in agony for the sequel to be released. Finally, finally, the book-release month has arrived, and we're only a week away from being able to find out what happens next! Six of Crows and Crooked Kingdom are set in a Slavic-inspired fantasy world and follow the story of six unlikely heroes (aka criminals) as they try to complete impossible heists full of danger and secrets.

The Hammer of Thor by Rick Riordan

Release date: October 4, 2016

I've been a long-time fan of Rick Riordan, so it comes as no surprise that I'm anticipating his newest novel: The Hammer of Thor. Another second book, this one continues the story of Magnus Chase, who is the son of a Norse god. If you can't tell by the title, Thor's Hammer plays a part in this tale, and I'm pretty sure Magnus is going to try stop Ragnarok from happening. That sounds exciting!

Gemina by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff

Release date: October 18, 2016

I'll admit that Illuminae wasn't my favorite book ever, but it still swept me away into outer space. I am definitely looking forward to the second book in the trilogy, Gemina. It'll follow the same layout as Illuminae with a modge-podge conglomeration of transcripts, files, emails, and chat messages to tell the story. I think this kind of story-telling is unique, and I hope the story is even better in the next installment!

The Sun Is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon

Release date: November 1, 2016

I'm not one for contemporaries or romance-esque novels, but this one caught my eye. (The cover is just gorgeous and the behind-the-scenes of how it was made is awesome.) The story is about two people from two very different places in the world (culturally, socially, etc.) that happen to meet and fall for each other. The main idea behind it seems to discuss destiny and all the moments in life coming to a specific time and place for a reason. I think I'll give this a shot!

Heartless by Marissa Meyer

Release date: November 8, 2016

After finishing The Lunar Chronicles, I vowed I would read anything Marissa Meyer publishes. So far, I've kept that vow because she hasn't released anything yet! But in November, she'll publish a new book, Heartless, that is a prequel novel to Alice in Wonderland and explores the back story of the Queen of Hearts. Shut up and take my money!

International Iron Man Vol. 1 by Brian Michael Bendis

Release date: November 8, 2016

International Iron Man is a new comic book series that follows Tony Stark after he learns he was adopted as a baby. While some of the single issues have already released, this volume collects the first seven together in one book. It's a story of discovery as Tony journeys across the world to try to figure out who he is and uncover secrets of the Marvel universe. As a fan of comics and a fan of Marvel, I think this is one comic series that is a must-read!

What books are on your autumn to-read list?

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