Monday, May 7, 2018

Runaways (#1-3) by Rainbow Rowell

Runaways (#1-3) by Rainbow Rowell, Kris Anka (Illustrator)
Synopsis (via Goodreads): GET READY TO RUN! The "IT" book of the early 2000s with the original cast is back – Nico! Karolina! Molly! Chase! Old Lace! And, could it be? GERT?! The heart of the Runaways died years ago, but you won't believe how she returns! Superstar author Rainbow Rowell (Eleanor & Park, Carry On) makes her Marvel debut with fan-favorite artist Kris Anka (ALL-NEW X-MEN, CAPTAIN MARVEL) in the series that will shock you and break your heart!
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I didn't know much about Runaways before starting this, and I'm still fairly new since I've only read the first three issues. I know there have been other arcs with various writers, but I was intrigued when I discovered Rainbow Rowell was the newest voice behind these characters.

I've enjoyed a lot of Rainbow Rowell's books, which is what initially promoted my interest in this current series. I was not disappointed! I already adore these characters and feel very invested in their lives. It's all new to me, too, so I don't have any expectations when I read (like I would with a Spider-Man or Hulk).

I've only encountered a few of the main characters, but the last issue makes me think they will all be reunited soon (and it looks like trouble will be there, too). I'm curious who the first villain/baddie will be, but I do think it's going to be personal to them somehow (just a feeling!).

The group got their name after running away from home when they witnessed their parents doing some sort of ritual sacrifice on a young girl. They took magical items belonging to their parents, and also discovered new things about themselves.

I feel like there is a lot of history behind these characters, and I cannot wait to dive back in and discover more about them (I think the series is up to 8-9 issues now). Nico has magic, but she can only use a spell once. That makes things really challenging as time passes, because her words and phrasing have to be unique but also applicable. Her maybe relationship (I'm thinking there was one in the past) with Karolina appears to be complicated but like those feelings could still be there.

I love how this group seems to be female-focused, and I really like Chase--he has heart. I think he leads with that most days and just deals with the consequences later. Whatever he does, his friends are there for him regardless, and I feel like that would be true for any one of them.

If you've enjoyed Rainbow Rowell's books, I'm pretty positive you'd like her version of Runaways. You don't need to know their history or have read any of the previous arcs. I know there are things that I'm unaware of, but Rowell doesn't make me feel blindsided by the information. Everything is being revealed in time, and I'm enjoying getting to know these characters along the way. They've each been given a unique voice, and their story is only made better by Kris Anka and his beautiful illustrations.

34 comments:

  1. It's one I would be curious to try

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    1. I hope you do! It's been wonderful so far.

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  2. Oh interesting, I didn't know about these. Glad you are enjoying them so much!

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    1. Thank you! Have you read a lot of Rainbow Rowell?

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  3. I don't read comics much, but I always enjoy reading your thoughts on them! I need to find time to start reading some xD

    Keep on Reading

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    1. Thanks! It can be overwhelming to walk into a comic shop and see what they have, but it's also exciting! There are so many things to choose from, and you're likely going to find more than one that you like. If you do decide to try one, let me know what you think! <3

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  4. I read half of the original run of Runaways (never finished it though) and I really want to check out Rowell's reboot! I recommend that you watch the show too, it's great!

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    1. I highly recommend this arc! It's been lovely so far. SHOW?! What show?? I didn't know there was show! I'm definitely going to check it out. Thanks! <3

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  5. Intersting that Rainbow Rowell is behind this. I loved a couple of her books and I have been wondering when she was going to release her next book. Perhaps this is her new direction.

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    1. Maybe? I haven't heard anything about a new book either, but this series has been ongoing for nearly a year now! If you love her books, I'm sure you'd enjoy this comic, too. :)

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  6. I need to catch up on the show, I don't think I finished it lol I had no clue they had comics

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    1. Amber just mentioned there was a show! I didn't know until now, haha. I'm so out of the loop when it comes to movies and TV shows. Have you enjoyed the show so far? The comics have been great. <3

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  7. Huh, I didn't realise Rainbow Rowell was writing comics. Glad you're enjoying them!

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    1. I've discovered quite a few comics that are written by some of my favorite authors! It's always so surprising when I see their names on an issue and then have to Google it to make sure it's the same person, lol. I wish authors promoted their comic books as much as their other books. I feel like I'm missing out. :)

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  8. I’ve only liked one Rowell book so I’m nervous to try these but I might give in someday.

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    1. Which book did you like? When you're at old/used bookstores, they usually have a comic book section. A lot of places will buy them back just like books, so you can purchase them for a lot less. I've found a lot of mine for $.25!

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    2. If you're ever hesitant to try something, you can always start with a used copy!

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  9. Sounds good! And always fun to read and not know what to expect!

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    1. I agree! I actually love saving books for later, because then I usually forget what the blub said. I usually enjoy it more since I don't know what's going to happen.

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  10. Ooh Runaways- I'm still on the older versions so I need to catch up! Although I did read Rainbow's first issue on ComiXology. I feel like she has a good grasp of the characters, from what I can see, and I really look forward to seeing where she takes 'em! Nice review.

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    1. How are the older versions? I haven't read any of them, and I'm wondering if they fill in some of the history/background I'm missing. It's not super relevant to the current story, but I'm curious. Let me know when you get to the current series!

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    2. I think the older versions are pretty good. Vaughan wrote the first few series and he was the creator so they were his baby, and I'd say they're good. Not earth shattering, but not bad. My fave characters are probably Nico and Karolina, and I love Gert's raptor! There are some neat revelations about certain characters as it goes, and a few characters I didn't like (Victor), but by and large it's fun!

      I watched the show too on Hulu and man was it different! From the comics I mean, but it was good in its own way.

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    3. Right! I forgot Vaughan was the creator. I would love to read his series to view his perspective on everything. You're always more invested when it's your baby! I adore Nico and Karolina (they're at odds in this one right now, but you can tell they share a past). Nico's magic is badass and complicated. Gert's raptor, Lace (I think), hasn't really said/done much. Can it speak? Just telepathically? How does that work exactly?

      Ohhh! I forgot about Victor! He's... uhm... indisposed at the moment... That makes the group total 7 and not 6? It also means Chase isn't the only guy, haha.

      Hmm, I think I'll try the show! :)

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  11. That's so cool that Rainbow Rowell is involved with this series. I had no idea and will have to check them out since I usually love her books. The covers of these are so cool!

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    1. If you love her books, I think you'll enjoy this comic! I've been surprised by how many authors also write comics. There are a lot more than you think!

      The artwork is outstanding! I linger on the pages longer than necessary just to take everything in. Let me know what you think if you try this one! <3

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  12. These sound fun and I love the premise and magic. Great review!

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    1. These have been so much fun! I'm trying to find a few of the issues I'm missing so I can continue the series. My LCS has been pulling the new releases every month, but I like to read things in order.

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  13. I've recently gotten into comics so when I heard that Rainbow Rowell was doing Runaways, I was keen. But I was also a little worried that I wouldn't understand the story, since I know this is not a new comic with new characters. Though you've said that you were fine not having read the precious arcs so that gives me hope! I really do want to try it out cause I like the art style, and I do like teen-focused comics :D I hope you continue to enjoy the series, Lindsi! And thank you for the review!!

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    1. Whenever a new writer takes over a comic, it usually starts a new arc. They should be able to stand on their own without too much background information. A lot of comics will also give a brief summary at the start of the issue to make sure you're aware of any relevant information! If a series/arc starts with #1, you should be okay to start there without too much trouble.

      You can look for older comics at used bookstores or online! Midtown Comics is pretty popular. <3

      What comics have you been reading? If you like Rainbow Rowell, you'll probably enjoy her take on Runaways!

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  14. I so want to read these. I watched the runaways show online and that is what introduced me to these characters. Great show. I am glad to see you liked these.

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    1. People keep mentioning the show! I'm going to try and watch some of it this weekend. I'm glad it's enjoyable, and I cannot wait to see how it relates to the actual comic.

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  15. I've read a few Rainbow Rowell titles and must admit, I've always bern split down the middle. Loving it madly or loathing it. I love that this is female focused, I find I prefer that in books in general really. What grabs me most ate those illustrations, absolutely gorgeous. I'll have to track down issue one and try my luck. Beautiful review Linds, absolutely loved it! <3 <3

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    1. I've really enjoyed some of Rowell's books and disliked others. Like you, I'm pretty split down the middle! This one definitely seems to be female-focused and they're still trying to determine the team leader. At the start of this one, a lot of time has passed since they were together, so obviously things have changed.

      I really like that they are the children of evil parents, yet they're all determined to do good and be better people. The illustrations are fantastic! Let me know what you think if you decide to read this. <3

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  16. Oh I really do want to read these. I've heard of The Runaways, but never actually read any of the comics. I'm glad that Rowell doesn't make you feel lost or anything though.

    -Lauren
    www.shootingstarsmag.net

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