Graphic Novel

Lunch Lady and the Cyborg Substitute

by Jarret J. Krosoczka

Krosoczka, J. (2012). LUNCH LADY AND THE CYBORG SUBSTITUTE. Scholastic: New York, NY. ISBN 9780545453424

This book is for anyone who enjoys humor and/or super heroes.  Unknown to the students at school, Lunch Lady is actually a super hero crime fighter when she isn't serving meals to the students.  Lunch Lady becomes suspicious of the substitute teacher and begins to investigate.  With much action and adventure, she gets to the bottom of the odd substitute.  

The black, white, and yellow visuals draw the reader into the images which are supported by humorous text.  Although the plot is simplistic, it is engaging and allows readers to make connections to the fantasy world and real life.  Although much skill is needed to read the book, it is not at all intimidating to young readers.  The use of visuals supports the reader in gaining meaning from the text. The story could be understood completely without engaging in the text, which would be a draw for a reluctant or struggling reader.  The entire book is light and fun which encourages an interaction with the book.  

Although graphic novels are not my personal favorite--I don't like the fact that they break the rules--this was a pleasurable read.  It wasn't so long as to bore or frustrate me, but it was long enough to tell an interesting story.  Just the idea that the lunch ladies at my school might be crime fighters is enough to draw me in. The plot has me seeing my school in a new way!  The graphics also increased the level of engagement by incorporating visually stimulating panes layered with humor.

IRA Children's Choice Winner
Kids Indie Next List Winner
Cooperative Children's Book Center Choice
Kirkus Review-"Filled with goofy puns and grayscale art with cheery yellow accents, this is a delightfully fun escapist read."

*Read other LUNCH LADY books:
Krosoczka, J. (2012). LUNCH LADY AND THE LEAGUE OF LIBRARIANS. Knopf Books: New York, NY. ISBN 97800375846847
Krosoczka, J. (2012). LUNCH LADY AND THE AUTHOR VISIT VENDETTA. Knopt Books: New York, NY. ISBN 9780375860942

*Visit the publishers website for a book trailer and teacher guide:
 http://www.randomhouse.com/book/95917/lunch-lady-and-the-cyborg-substitute-by-jarrett-j-krosoczka#abouttheauthor