Malice by Chris Wooding

Reviewed by Lori

MaliceChrisWoodingBook1cover.jpg

Title: Malice

Series: Malice

Author: Chris Wooding

Perma-Bound Catalogue #: 48546

Description: Fans Luke, Seth, and Kady have read all about the sinister world in which the villainous Tall Jake resides, but they learn more about it than they ever wanted when they are suddenly pulled into the pages of their comic book.

Rubric Rating: Level 4: Love It

Why I Read It: I liked how this novel interspersed chapter reading with graphic novel elements.  I also like stories about urban legends and Tall Jake on the cover drew me in!


Lori's Notes: When Luke disappears, Seth and Kady discover it has everything to do with the strange Comic Malice.  By calling on "Tall Jake" kids are being abducted into the comic book world and their harrowing adventures are found in the next issue.  An extremely exciting adventure read, the kids are smart, wily, daring (if not a little reckless), and brave. Meeting Justin in the world of Malice the three decide they must take on Jake and stop any more children from being abducted...because if you die in Malice, you die for real.  A great combination of chapter reading and comic book panels.

Recommended Readers: Ideal for students Grade 7 and up.  A good book for boys who will like the elements of danger and adventure.

 Themes: Mystery, Friendship, Disappearances, Comic Book, Other Worlds, Adventure, Danger, Graphic Novel, Supernatural,

Cross-Genre Links:
Movie: Candyman (1992)
Music Video: Take on Me by A-ha
Urban Legend: Bloody Mary
Google Search: Mysterious Disappearances

Possible Discussion or Essay Topics: 
  • Would you want to visit Malice?
  • Do you know any Urban Legends?  How do you think Urban Legends are started?  What makes a good Urban Legend?
  • What do you think of Tall Jake?
  • Why is everyone's story in Malice different?  Why do you think they've ended up in the comic?
  • Do you read comic books?  If you could meet a character from a comic or book who would you choose and why?

 Other Titles in the Malice Series:
Book 2: Havoc



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