Review Detail

A middle-grade graphic novel, FIRST KISS WITH FANGS, follows Ivan as he starts the eighth grade with a secret tucked under his belt. As more changes occur, Ivan’s life begins to spiral out of control, but he still tries to cling to his lies and remaining normalcy. Will he be able to keep everything under wraps or does destiny have something more in store for him?

What I Loved:
This graphic novel is a coming-of-age story about being true to yourself in a couple of ways and they blend together fantastically. Ivan’s fear of himself and his powers is a struggle that a lot of people have probably dealt with before even if not in this exact context. People are worried about hurting the ones they love and at times will do desperate things to keep them safe.

The way this graphic novel shows Ivan’s first crush was cute. There was a connection between the two characters that was given time to grow. It was also endearing to watch Ivan figure out his feelings. Especially when combined with his complicated emotions around having his new vampire fangs and the urges that come with them. It’s always refreshing to see a crush be treated so normally.

The art in this graphic novel is simple, but that can work to its benefit. It will allow readers to be able to easily place characters, each of them drawn distinctively but not with too many details that may distract readers. It also allows for the focus to primarily be on the storytelling. There are some background details that can be noticed, but the main focus of this book is Ivan’s journey.

Ivan’s growth throughout this graphic novel was handled very well. He made mistakes, but he also had to own up to those mistakes and address them. The supporting cast of characters helped to round out Ivan and force him towards some truths that he didn’t seem comfortable accepting before.

What Left Me Wanting More:
The ending of the book was a bit lackluster. Readers have followed Ivan through his struggles to this climax, to this point where he eventually has to accept his destiny. And it’s a good destiny, excitingly written and told, but there is no explanation for it at all. It just happens. Readers are given no explanation as to what Ivan did, just that he did something incredible.

Final Verdict:
FIRST KISS WITH FANGS was a cute graphic novel with a simple but effective art style. The story managed to combine two firsts, a first many people have and one that they don’t, in a charming story about discovering yourself even amongst changes. The way this novel talked about Ivan’s first crush was handled really sweetly, truly capturing the innocent charm of a new teenager’s first crush. Even with a mildly disappointing finish, this was still a charming graphic novel that I would happily read again or recommend to vampire lovers.

A charming graphic novel about first crushes and being true to oneself, FIRST KISS WITH FANGS is sure to suck readers in.