THE BRAINSTORMERZ

A tween and his friends use their initiative to solve problems—with mixed results.

Electric “Lex” James is surrounded by words. His parents own a bookstore called the Lazy Bacon that’s also their home, and his dad expects him to read the dictionary. They even have a family word jar for sharing new vocabulary. Lex is looking forward to his 10th birthday because his parents have promised he can finally have a phone. Unfortunately, it won’t be the expensive model he’s dreaming of but something cheaper. He and his friends DJ and Cass brainstorm ways to raise money for the Apollo XL, but the hot chocolate stand they start goes horribly awry, and their dog-walking service ends in disaster. Lex also notices unusual tension between his parents, and he learns they’re facing more important issues. Suddenly those fundraising efforts take on a new urgency—and the trio eventually discovers that they can combine their talents to execute a successful project. Award winners Alexander and Doucet team up with debut author Dyce to create this engaging graphic novel that celebrates young people’s problem-solving abilities and the importance of friendship and family. Lex and his friends are unusual yet relatable characters. The digital art, executed in bright, vibrant colors, is expressive and reflects and enhances the humor and action of the text. Lex’s advanced vocabulary words are effectively woven into the story. Lex and Cass appear Black, and DJ presents white.

A lively and entertaining series opener.