Thunderboom

Graphic novels are doing the hard work of filling in reading gaps for those whom are still emerging readers. They are an amazing entry into reading for so many readers. It’s amazing to see all of the diverse voices contributing to the boom in graphic novels and another one to add to the list is ThunderBoom by Jack Briglio and Claudia Dávila.

Logan, aka ThunderBoom, is so excited to go to the Santa Clause Parade. He wants to go so badly and lets his parents know through sign language. Logan is non verbal but really has a lot to say. Readers follow Logan and his family as they go from the train station to the parade downtown where he turns into ThunderBoom a super hero who can stomp away any danger. As ThunderBoom he makes a new friend and helps her reunite with her family.

Jack Briglio writes about Logan’s parade adventure in five chapters so the book is on the longer side of a middle grade graphic novel but still very accessible. Using the device of the superhero for readers to see that Logan is just as capable as any other child even as he moves through the world differently from others, communicating through sign language was a perfect choice. 

I really loved Logan’s sibling, Izzy, in this story. They are a voice of reason to offset the high anxiety that Logan’s parents have as they travel down to the parade. They’re a teenager who is seemingly preoccupied with their own business but really sees Logan and is vocal about his capabilities. It’s their asides and their voice that help build empathy for readers and help readers to understand how people with disabilities may move through the world. I found that the parents didn’t really seem to understand Logan’s capabilities. It’s Izzy’s voice that really stands out, first letting readers know that Logan is independent and can find his way.1st

I love the device of the incorporated into the story. Logan uses his imagination to make himself feel strong and powerful and to help his new friend out of trouble. Readers will understand travelling through ones imagination during scary moments.

Jack Briglio wrote this book in honour of his son who has Angleman’s Syndrome and I would imagine the parents in the story are very reflective of the way that he has felt navigating and understanding his son.

Claudia Dávila’s art is fantastic in this graphic novel. She captures the power of the superhero genre but also the innocence of the characters. I love the colour pallet of blue greens punctuated by reds, oranges and yellows.