What You Need to Know: This Eisner-nominated collection of webcomics features nerd-humor, literature jokes and a talking duck that would appeal to the geek minded.
Summary: Sheldon, a 10 year old software millionaire, lives with his grandfather, a talking duck, a pet lizard, and a dog. This group, along with Sheldon's dim best friend, discuss various aspects of culture and literature, including Lord of the Rings, Shakespeare and Robert Frost.
What worked: This is a book for English weenies. If a 10 year old genius recreating the moon landing as Emily Dickinson sounds funny to you, you will adore this book. Kellett's artwork is simple but fun, with cartoony expressions and a loose feel that makes up for the lack of detail.
What didn't: Not an English weenie? This book isn't that funny. And, as a web-comic, this is more similar to a collection of newspaper strips than a narrative; most of the gags are done in 3 panels. As such, this technically isn't a graphic novel.
Interesting side note: I became aware of this collection when it was nominated for an Eisner award for Best Humor Publication. However, I didn't realize it till Kellett made it available for download as a free PDF. I don't know if that was a good strategy vis-à-vis Eisner voters, but I do know that www.sheldoncomics.com is part of my daily webcomics check now.
Who would I give this book to: Fellow librarians, kids with a strong background in classic lit and geeky interests. Of course, my English weenie of a husband loves it too.
