Maximum Ride Manga: Books 1-4

James Patterson's popular YA series about genetically altered bird-children has been adapted to graphic novel format, giving wings to high-flying adventure as "The Flock" search for their parents and try to evade other malevolent mutants known as the "Erasers." With three volumes out and a fourth scheduled for April 2011, the action is led by peregrine-sharp teens Maximum "Max" Ride, cool Fang, blind Izzy, chatty Nudge and precocious little Gazzy. The Flock's search takes them to the secret research facility in California, and cross country to New York and Washington where the larger plot takes in an FBI attempt to protect them from those who created and would direct and control their talents as part of a large, sinister plot. NaRae Lee's graphic style is a well drawn adaptation of manga's wide-eyed, hip-fashion style with its North American setting. Described as a teen read in SLJ, the series' hip strong female characters and not-too-graphic bad guy violence recommend it for strong action-seeking graphic novel fans in upper primary and middle school as well. Recommended by Craig Seasholes, Librarian