Adventures in Cartooning: Christmas Special

This book came out in 2012. I have literally waited 6 years to read this book by James Sturm (The Golem's Mighty Swing). Every year I try to get my hands on my library's copy. Yet it's always checked out and on backlog. By the time it's finally up for grabs, it's the middle of January and I have to wait another holiday season for my chance! Well, 2018 was the year I got lucky. 

I really enjoy the Adventures in Cartooning series. This all-ages read entertains while teaching about the ins and outs of the cartooning and comic book industry. The series is hosted by the Magic Cartooning Elf. Naturally, when you have an elf host, you have to team him up with Santa Claus and do a holiday special. Joining the adventure is Elf's buddy, The Knight. 

In this special, which takes place at the North Pole, everyone is compelled to rhyme. That drives The Knight crazy. But as she and the Magic Cartooning Elf helps Santa create a special comic book to give to all the girls and boys of the world (Not just the good ones!), Knight just can't help but to break out in verse as well. 

Oh, and of course, if you have a Knight, you've got to have a dragon! 

One of my favorite things about the Adventures in Cartooning series is that it has activities that invite readers to create their own comic books. Usually, the volumes are jammed pack with activities. The Christmas edition only has one mission for aspiring cartoonists and comic book writers to do. 

The other books in the series seem a little more educational. Maybe it's because it's Christmas that this book is more 'for fun' that the rest of the Adventures. It's not very surprising if that is the case as other educational franchises tend to entertain instead of educate. Sesame Street is a prime example of this, as it seems every one of their Christmas specials is 'dumbed down' for the holidays.

Despite not following the formula of it's predecessors, The Adventures in Cartooning: Christmas Special was a treat. The lone activity seemed lots of fun to do. The characters were true to themselves. Plus, there were ample amounts of humor peppered throughout. 

Was it was worth the wait? You betcha! Though I would recommend the other books in the series first to a parent with a child expressing interest in getting into the art and comics industries.

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 8 out of 10 stars.