Rise of the Cat

Hilo #10

by Judd Winick

Get ready for another epic Hilo adventure in the laugh-out-loud funny New York Times Bestselling graphic novel series— this time Hilo's favorite magical warrior cat, is going to boarding school!

"An action-packed page-turner with heart!" --Dav Pilkey, author of DOG MAN

Welcome to the Wombatton Academy of Better Magic!

Hilo's favorite warrior-cat-friend, Polly's adventures with Hilo have landed her in trouble! So when Polly breaks one too many rules, she gets sent to Wombatton--the magical boarding school for bad kids. But something strange is going on at Wombatton--why does everyone pick on Polly's roommate? And why have students started disappearing? Can Polly get to the bottom of this magical mystery and reunite with Hilo and her friends on Earth?!

Full of action, humor, and lots of heart—the New York Times calls Hilo, "A story that can be enjoyed by the entire family." Don't miss out on the latest installment of this beloved series that kids and grownups love!

Genres: Graphic Novels, Fantasy, Science Fiction, Comics, Childrens, Adventure, Mystery

240 pages, Hardcover

Published February 27, 2024

About the author

Judd Winick is an American cartoonist, comic book writer, screenwriter, and former reality television personality known for his diverse contributions to storytelling across multiple media. He first entered the public eye in 1994 as a cast member on The Real World: San Francisco, where he formed a close friendship with AIDS educator Pedro Zamora, an experience that deeply influenced his later work. Winick memorialized their bond in Pedro and Me, a critically acclaimed autobiographical graphic novel that earned several literary awards and became a staple in school curricula.

Winick's career in comics took off with The Adventures of Barry Ween, Boy Genius and continued with major runs at DC Comics, including Green Lantern, Green Arrow, and Batman. His stories often explored socially relevant themes, such as HIV, homophobia, and identity. He was recognized for introducing gay characters and tackling difficult subjects with empathy and clarity. His work on Batman notably included resurrecting the character Jason Todd as the Red Hood, a storyline later adapted into the animated film Batman: Under the Red Hood, for which Winick wrote the screenplay.

Beyond comics, he created The Life and Times of Juniper Lee for Cartoon Network and served as head writer for Hulu's The Awesomes. In 2015, he launched the Hilo series, an all-ages sci-fi adventure inspired by his own children. The bestselling series has been widely praised and is expected to reach its eleventh volume in 2025.

Winick lives in San Francisco with his wife, Pam Ling, also a Real World alum, and their two children. He continues to create heartfelt and imaginative stories for audiences of all ages.

Reviews

[Raven Black · Rating 4 out of 5]

We focus on Polly and Pip, with a hint at our buds Hilo, Gina and DJ. Maybe my favorite of the bunch (after the first of course).

[Boopsie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s mostly exciting, but I didn’t think treating Noria like that was fair.

[Dylan Roy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like the book, its illustrations are beautifully done and really bring the story to life. The story is captivating, yet easy to understand. The book's plot is fairly simple, but everyone picking on Polly's roommate adds some depth to the story. Overall it is a very nice book and is in no way a waste of money

[寿理 宮本 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked this up ENTIRELY for the title, haha. I didn't know a thing about Hilo or any backstory, only CAT. :D

Then I noticed the creator is Judd Winick, who I only know was Judd from The Real World from a casual name drop in A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius. Huh! I hadn't paid enough attention to the show to realise he was a cartoonist and had meant to remedy that by looking up his work, only to find it on accident... nice!

(That said, Dav Pilkey seems to regularly show up in my books more than I expected... maybe just as a cover quote this time, but still!)

Anyway, this is amazing stuff, and I'm surprised Judd ever struggled! Mind you, he's had time to cook since this is like thirty years after the show (yikes, dating myself), but it's fantastic work! I mentioned that I don't know thing #1 about Hilo, but this book can be read quite easily without any prior knowledge! The pacing is great, the characters are amazingly expressive, and yet there are a few heartwarming moments slipped in to remind you that, beneath the wise cracks (Polly) and shenanigans (Pip), the characters still are good at heart.

Recommended for everyone! I think EVERYONE should read this book, absolutely! (WILL they, who knows, but hope springs eternal)

[Barbara · Rating 3 out of 5]

This tenth title [3.5 for me!] in the popular Hilo graphic novel series is a strong addition to the collection. Hilo and the gang don't feature much in this installment, which focuses on Polly Korimako, Hilo's warrior cat friend, who is sent to boarding school as punishment for breaking certain rules on her planet. Pip decides to accompany Polly, providing all sorts of humorous moments as the two find it hard to follow the restrictions in their new home. The arrival of Noria, a robot with magical powers, allows for the story to become more complicated as the other students and several teachers shun and /or harass Noria because she's not like them and they dislike anything unfamiliar. As is often the case with this series, there is quite a lot of truth about human behavior in today's world embedded in these pages, including suggestions for how to deal with bullies and examples of individuals standing up for each other and the right causes even at some cost to themselves. The artwork is colorful, full of action, and interesting even while showing off portals and strange monsters and disoriented youngsters. While it helps to have read the previous books, readers will still be able to catch up with what's happening here with a little effort. The book has as much appeal for older readers, even adults, as for younger ones.

[Karissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Series Info/Source: This is the 10th book in the HiLo series. I bought this book in hardcover to read.

Thoughts: I started reading this series many, many (nearly 10) years ago with my son. He is seventeen now and has stopped reading the series, I however continue to absolutely love it. This time around we get to spend the story with Polly the magical cat warrior!

Polly is in trouble with her home world and, even though her parents are supportive of her actions, she gets sent to a magical boarding school for troubled kids. However, when mysterious monsters start attacking the school and students start disappearing it is up to Polly, her brother, and her new robot friend to save the day.

I absolutely loved this. It is hilarious, heartfelt, action-packed, and just so much fun. The illustration is very cartoony in style and very well done. I had an awesome time with Polly and her family and enjoyed getting to spend time in Polly's home world. I also really enjoyed the new little robot character that is introduced. The plot ties in well with previous books too.

My Summary (5/5): Overall I enjoyed this immensely and would highly recommend this series. This is such a fun read full of magic, adventure, family, and friendship. I am eager to see what the next book in the series brings!

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the tenth book in the popular Hilo series, but it is the first one I have read and it definitely can stand alone. It features a plucky sorcerer cat nicknamed Polly and her brilliant, but impulsive and free-spirited little brother Pip. Polly is sentenced to attend a reform boarding school because she is filled with curiosity and exercised her magic powers beyond what she was allowed to do. Pip sneaks along behind to go with her and wreaks havoc at the school with his mischief. The two of them befriend an alien robot who is very interested in learning, but who mistrusted and unwelcome at the school (think first generation immigrant). The graphic novel is filled with humor, action, monsters, bullies, good guys and suspense. The cartoon illustrations are masterfully drawn and colored on high quality paper. This will be a welcome addition to the series for fans and newcomers alike.

Recommended for ages 8-12 by the SEPA Book Reviewers

[Matt Glaviano · Rating 4 out of 5]

A mild reset for a series that continues to entertain. I still like Winick's art and paneling. The humor is, as usual, on point.

If Winick has an endgame in mind here - honestly, if there's even an overarching story arc to the Hilo series - it remains pretty obscure after this volume.

Fun - for real - but I'd like to feel like invested in a graphic novel with a destination and not a comic book that just. keeps. going.

[D.T. · Rating 4 out of 5]

“My mom told me that when you’re the first one to break through a wall… you’re going to get dented up. But whoever has to go through the wall after me… they will have it a little bit easier.”

This series is still wonderfully dumb and charming, but it’s charming too. There seem to be some allusions to refugees, illegal immigration, and (US) school integration, but it’s done in a digestible way for kids.

I’ll keep rocking with this series as long as new ones come out!

[Qamar · Rating 4 out of 5]

We're so proud of you for reading "Rise of the Cat" by Judd Winick! This exciting story shows us how bravery and friendship can help overcome any challenge. Remember, just like the cat in the book, being brave and helping others makes you a superhero in real life too. Keep using your courage and kindness every day, at school and at home. We love seeing you grow into such a caring and brave person!

Love,
Mom and Da

[Read Ribbet · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Rise of the Cat, the cats take center stage in the tenth graphic novel in the Hilo series by Judd Winick. Pip and Polly head to a special boarding school where they often get into trouble as they go through typica school activities. The human characters do make an appearance at the end by it is the cats that are the focus of this novel. Winick has engaging art especially in drawing action pack scenes and introducing new monsters. Fans of the series will enjoy this new volume.

[John Shaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

I probably should not say this
about a kids book.
It is fucking brilliant.

This is book 10 in the series
about the little robot who fell to Earth.

Made friends
Saved 3 worlds
And became Human.

This volume focuses
on Hilo's friend Polly.
The talking cat Mage.

Equal parts exciting, funny and a surprising amount of heart.

[The Loco Librarian · Rating 4 out of 5]

I LOVE LOVE the illustrations. They had me cracking up! I love how these characters are seen as trouble makers for trying to save others or even make others feel like they are accepted. This happens in the real world, and I think the authors did such a great job of portraying this in a kid-friendly way. Funny name-calling and epic battles with monsters! Loved it!

[Zac · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. This one was only ‘OK’ for me. It’s starting another story arc that’s focusing on Polly, so the rest of the gang only show up at the end (I feel like the cover sets up a false expectation that all of the characters will be in the story). I’m curious to know where the story will go next though so I’ll be reading the next book.

[Ellon · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars (I really liked it)

Polly is one of my favorite characters in the Hilo universe (magic cat... duh) and this book focuses on her. There are some interesting themes incorporated like bullying, othering, prejudice, etc. But it's done in a way that doesn't come off as preachy. It's kind of disappointing that the book ends on a cliffhanger and then next one doesn't come out until 2025.

[Sarah Alamer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet Sarah, we are so proud of you for reading "The Rise of the Cat"! You learned that true friends stick together even when things get scary. Just like Hilo and his friends help each other, you can be a brave friend too. When someone needs help at school or feels sad, you can be there for them. Being a good friend makes everyone stronger. You did an amazing job reading this book, sweetheart!

[Earl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn't really looking forward to this installment because a new arc was focused on a character I didn't like but I really ended up liking this one. I think younger readers will definitely enjoy this one. Very funny.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

So marvelous! This series constantly exceeds expectations. Funny AF & with a core of moral fortitude. The note-perfect magic school story parallels fraught Civil Rights era school integrations in a lovely humane way, while never getting preachy or sacrificing the humor.

[Aubrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, I was disappointed to see less of Hilo and the gang, but I like the fact that this series is still funny even though it gets more and more confusing 😂 unlike SOME series (looking at you, Mr Wolf and Snake).

[Shari]

Funny, cute, action-packed - and for those who are new to the series, this could really be a stand-alone! Hilo fans will enjoy seeing Polly shine in her own story, which actually has an awesome subplot and message!

[Jgramley · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25. I found that I have missed three books in the series but have to say they are still very entertaining to read. I am intrigued to see if Noria will ever be accepted and more about this Legend of Tamir.

[Brian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 10 is one of the best Hilo novels in a while. Good humor, new characters, mystery, everything that makes the early books great!

[Jaymie · Rating 5 out of 5]

An OUTSTANDING addition to this fantastic series/world. Loved this - and can't wait for the next book!

[Emma · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

[Traynor · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kind of a weird reboot to the series, but okay.

[Josh Newhouse · Rating 5 out of 5]

This went from an aside to an integral part of the saga! Nice twist ending! I didn’t see that coming believe it or not! And I love Nouria!

[Dqk436sbcglobal.Net · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked it. I'm sure that are into reading graphic novels would like it too. 😃

[Katie Carter · Rating 3 out of 5]

Truly loved all 9 of the Hilo / Gina books in the series, but this one started out slow and never really recovered. Polly is such a dynamic character and I wish her story was a bit more compelling.

[Elisabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

[Paige · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m cracking up within the first 5 pages; the clever dialogue has me chuckling. I definitely want to backtrack to the beginning & discover book by book what this author has in store.