Travis Daventhorpe Powers Up!

Starred review from January 15, 2024
This second graphic adventure installment finds an uncertain young hero a step closer to fulfilling his prophecy. Jumping in where Travis Daventhorpe for the Win! (2023) leaves off, Travis and BFF Juniper Reyes continue their training with Belazar, a mage from another dimension, who's here to help Travis overthrow evil king Nol Invictus from the throne of Solusterra. Travis struggles with the long hours of instruction, seeming to trust in technology over believing he can develop the necessary skills. When a blizzard is forecasted to hit Travis' and Juniper's town of Hopeton, Ohio, Nol sees this as an opportunity to strike. He sends out his warrior Rogue and an army of Velociborgs, or weaponized dinosaurs. Can Travis save not only Hopeton but the multiverse at large before it's too late? Molebash's sophomore offering is utterly delightful, skillfully blending an array of themes from middle school friend drama to questioning one's faith, giving this work surprising depth and accessibility. Cleverly plotted nuances aside, the story never takes itself so seriously that it risks tipping into didacticism. As with its predecessor, an edge-of-your-seat cliffhanger ending promises more action--and answers--in later volumes. Some giggle-worthy bonus material helps lessen the sting. Travis is white and has a large birthmark; Juniper is Mexican American, and Belazar has brown skin. The secondary characters represent a diverse spectrum of skin tones and gender identities. Brimming with action, fun, and breathless intrigue. (map, player guide, side quest) (Graphic science fiction. 7-12)

COPYRIGHT(2024) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

April 1, 2024

Gr 3-6-Travis Daventhorpe is back after a science fair to remember in this second volume. Belazar, a mage and multiversal mentor, steadfastly believes that Travis is the Hero of Solusterra, but it's a hard sell for a kid who gets knocked from his clothes during gym. Joined by his friend Juniper Reyes and his robot Travbot, Travis must tap into his potential before time runs out and the evil ruler Nol Invictus can carry out his Rogue plan to invade Travis's town and take the Sword of Legends. Molebash takes on weighty topics, including conflicts between science and faith. The writing is fun, with fast-paced dialogue and gaming tropes that will delight. Bright, colorful illustrations will keep readers hooked, with pop culture winks sprinkled throughout. Molebash makes his story accessible to all with likable characters that grow with each story and exciting adventure plots. This second entry can stand on its own but is better enjoyed by those who have read the first book. VERDICT A power-up that keeps the action going while holding just enough back to whet appetites for the next book.-Rosemary Kiladitis

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.