Garlic and the Vampire
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4.7 • 3 Ratings
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- $11.99
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- $11.99
Publisher Description
An enchanting, farm-fresh debut graphic novel starring an unusual heroine who is braver than she realizes, for middle grade readers looking for a cozy, adventuresome read in the vein of Witch Boy or Be Prepared.
Garlic feels as though she’s always doing something wrong. At least with her friend Carrot by her side and the kindly Witch Agnes encouraging her, Garlic is happy to just tend her garden, where it’s nice and safe.
But when her village of vegetable folk learns that a bloodthirsty vampire has moved into the nearby castle, they all agree that, in spite of her fear and self-doubt, Garlic is the obvious choice to confront him. And with everyone counting on her, Garlic reluctantly agrees to face the mysterious vampire, hoping she has what it takes.
After all, garlic drives away vampires…right?
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Enchanted to help Witch Agnes in her garden, anxious garlic bulb Garlic and her best friend Carrot live in a fruit- and vegetable-populated hamlet at the edge of a forest. When Agnes, who appears white, discovers that a gray-skinned vampire has taken up residence in a nearby castle, mean-spirited Celery nominates vampire-repellent Garlic to deal with the menace and "protect the folks in town." Garlic sets off with encouragement from Agnes, who insists that Celery accompany her. Debut graphic novelist Paulsen lingers visually on dew-covered cabbages, wonderfully squat produce homes, and other horticultural and domestic delights. Her warm, autumnal palette and attention to shape and contour add to the appeal of the pastoral setting, and comic overreaction brings a cartoon sensibility to the characters' plight. Garlic's love of gardening provides ample metaphors for inner growth, the dedication to "all the anxious bulbs" makes clear Paulsen's sympathy with worried Garlic's struggles (mostly fear of judgment and of others' perceptions), and Garlic's bravery under duress serves to remind readers of their own strength. Ages 8–12. ■
