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Ali Cross: The Graphic Novel

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Don’t miss a minute of this action-packed thrill ride#1 New York Times bestseller Ali Cross in full color!   Ali Cross has always dreamed of following in the footsteps of his father, famous detective Alex Cross, who never gives up on a case. Ali’s chance to prove himself arrives sooner than he might think when his best friend, Gabe, goes missing. But the more Ali digs, the more he realizes maybe he didn’t know his friend as well as he thought. At the same time, his house is hit in a string of burglaries. With his father on trial for a crime he didn’t commit, Ali is on his own to piece together the clues. Will Ali be able to trust his instincts and find his friend—or is he in over his head?   This action-packed, page-turning, full-color graphic novel is a blockbuster addition to any shelf.

208 pages, Hardcover

Published July 29, 2024

73 people are currently reading
57 people want to read

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Adam Rau

3 books14 followers

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
Profile Image for Thacher.
58 reviews6 followers
May 20, 2024
I Received the E-Arc version of this graphic novel thanks to NetGalley.

The story was satisfying for the most part. Some of the dialogue was….. questionable or maybe a bit strange. It was a quick and easy read. The illustrations were alright. Some things were a little harder to read, such as when the characters were texting each other. But I doubt that will be a problem for the physical release.

It was a nice break after reading other much longer books.

This graphic novel is set to release July 29, 2024
Profile Image for Haley.
107 reviews7 followers
April 14, 2025
3.5

Overall, I thought the story was very compelling. I haven't read any Alex Cross novels, so this was my first look into the Alex Cross universe. The story did a great job dealing with social issues and making very relatable family and friendship dynamics. I love the relationship between Ali and his father. Not to mention, the artwork was incredible.

I only had two problems with this graphic novel. My first issue is the biggest. At one point, one of Ali's friends claims that "if this were some rich white boy", Gabe would've been found by now. Maybe it's because the friends are just concerned that Gabe is missing and they don't have all the details, but I just felt that assumption wasn't true. Granted, people with money and power will have more sway as they can apply more pressure to get what they want. I'm not denying that. However, considering the fact that Gabe was reported missing by his friends - not his own parents - and his , I don't think that accusation is a fair assessment. Again, I feel like this was a judgmental statement due to their frustration over not being able find Gabe or get any leads as to where he could be, but it was really broad, and considering everything, unfair. Ali did a better job expressing similar sentiments with his dad .

My second issue is that Ali showed several times that he used his dad and step-mom's positions as cops to help his investigation. While beneficial to the story, not all of these assists were given willingly. Yes, Alex Cross put Ali in touch with a Youth Service Detective to help get a missing person's report out, and Bree left Ali view surveille cameras that showed Gabe's last location, but other times he went behind their back. Obviously Bree would've have know Ali used her laptop, but given how invested Ali was in finding Gabe (as his father put it, Ali was "all in"), Alex and Bree Cross should've been more careful. They didn't keep an eye on Ali, and he went to Gabe's house on two occasions without them knowing. Ali eavesdropped on Alex's phone call, only to follow him to a crime scene. Granted that was not the first time he was caught eavesdropping, but he had established a pattern that it was something he was willing to do. I just feel like knowing their son, and given the circumstances, Alex and Bree should've been more careful around how much information got into Ali's hands, as well as kept a closer eye on him. If they couldn't keep a closer eye on his physical location - such as when he was handing flyers out after school with his friends - then they should've taken measures to ensure his safety. The scene with Alex and Ali after Ali's interrogation is a really touching moment between father and son, and while I understand Alex wanted his son to have room and be independent, I don't think that worked out too well.

Despite that, this was a very intriguing story. The graphic novel is labeled as Volume 1, so I'm curious to see what comes next for our young detective.
Profile Image for Sophy.
609 reviews6 followers
June 21, 2024
If you like crime or mystery stories this would be a great book for you! It's about a boy whose father is a detective and while his friend has gone missing he is trying to figure out what happened to him while his father is being put on trial for something he didn't do. We get to see how this kid struggles with the pressure of people talking bad about his father and trying to figure out where his friend has gone.
Profile Image for Jerry.
5 reviews
January 22, 2025
The book left out a lot of details from the original one, but it was still nice to see the original book as a comic by bringing the words to life through pictures
Profile Image for J Kromrie.
2,498 reviews48 followers
August 4, 2024
Thanks to the publisher, James Patterson and Netgalley for this eARC.

Ali Cross: The Graphic Novel” by James Patterson

In this electrifying graphic novel adaptation of James Patterson’s #1 New York Times bestseller, “Ali Cross: The Graphic Novel,” readers are thrust into a high-octane mystery that keeps the adrenaline pumping from start to finish.

Ali Cross, the determined young detective-in-training, faces his most challenging case yet. When his friend goes missing, Ali embarks on a relentless quest to unravel the truth. The streets of Washington, D.C., come alive as Ali races against time, navigating danger, deception, and unexpected twists. With every turn of the page, readers are drawn deeper into the heart-pounding mystery.

The full-color illustrations bring Ali’s world to life, capturing the gritty urban landscape and the urgency of his mission. The artwork adds a layer of excitement that words alone can’t convey.

Ali Cross is more than just a detective; he’s a relatable teenager juggling family, friendships, and the weight of responsibility. His determination and vulnerability make him a compelling protagonist.

James Patterson’s knack for propulsive storytelling shines through. Short, punchy chapters keep readers hooked, urging them to turn page after page.

Just when you think you’ve figured it out, Patterson throws in a curveball. The mystery deepens, and the stakes escalate, leaving readers guessing until the final revelation.

Ali Cross: The Graphic Novel is a roller-coaster ride of suspense, friendship, and courage. Whether you’re a seasoned Patterson fan .or new to his work, this adaptation delivers heart-pounding entertainment. Buckle up and dive into Ali’s world—you won’t want to put it down! 🚀🔍
Profile Image for TheDiversePhDReads.
164 reviews9 followers
June 20, 2024
Those familiar with James Patterson's Alex Cross are in for a treat with the best-selling author's new series staring famed detective Alex Cross's son Ali. 

Ali Cross brings a whole new generation into Patterson's thriller and suspense world with this graphic novel. Ali navigates his own mystery as his tries to solve the case of his missing friend. We see his youthful determination boosted by skills inherited from his father. Although the plot is predictable, Patterson's storytelling makes Ali's character relatable and inspiring for a younger audience, embodying the themes of friendship, bravery, loyalty, and perseverance.

The artwork by Phillip Tajalle is fantastic and vivid, bringing to life the tension and excitement of Ali's journey as he uncovers and solves clues, adding to the fast-paced story making it a visually captivating read.
Did Ali find his friend? Find out by picking up a copy of this graphic novel when it comes out. 

Thank you to #NetGalley, the author James Patterson and Little, Brown Books for Young Readers for a digital copy of #AliCrossTheGraphicNovel in exchange for my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Paige V.
304 reviews1 follower
July 25, 2024
Will Ali find his best friend, Gabe?

Ali Cross, a teenage boy, dreams of becoming a detective like his father. Three days before winter break, his best friend Gabe goes missing. Coincidentally, a series of robberies takes place around the same time. Ali must determine if the two cases are connected and locate Gabe.

I recently delved into a James Patterson book after a long time, and the mystery aspect of the story really drew me in. I have yet to have the chance to read the actual book, but I'm curious to see how it compares to the graphic novel.

Ali is a determined and passionate character, and I greatly appreciated his relentless pursuit of his friend. His father served as a powerful inspiration and role model, and his impressive track record with cases added depth to the story. Additionally, Gabe's quirky and kind nature added a nice touch to the narrative.

I highly recommend this graphic novel adaptation to fans of James Patterson's work. They will thoroughly enjoy it.

Happy Reading, Paige ❤️ 📚
Thank you, @netgalley , for the complimentary ARC, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Sesana.
6,268 reviews329 followers
August 25, 2024
There are things to like here. Ali is a likable protagonist. Smart, curious, devoted to his friend, and a generally good kid but willing to break rules on occasion. The plot is engaging enough, about Ali trying to find a missing friend. Not sure if the target audience would be able to figure it out as they go with the clues on the page, but that might be easier in the prose novel this is adapted from. Not a fan of the subplot about Ali's dad, Alex Cross. It genuinely adds nothing to this story that he's on trial for police brutality. It's a weird distraction from the actual story, especially because it doesn't seem to impede his life in any way other than reporters sometimes asking him questions outside his church. Will the target audience like this? I'm not sure. I think some will, especially with the James Patterson name on the cover, but I don't know how widely successful this will be.
6 reviews
August 15, 2024
Ali Cross is the young African American hero we all needed.

This graphic novel is a beautiful adaptation of James Patterson’s best-selling novel. Phillip Tajalle has done an amazing job bringing to life the world of Ali Cross. This makes the original novel, an action-packed graphic masterpiece. Throughout the book, you follow Ali as he tries to find his missing friend Gabe. The scenes are so well-detailed that no information is missed. This graphic novel is an amazing book to add to your Alex Cross collection and a great way to get your children involved in reading.

Profile Image for Amy.
2,128 reviews6 followers
December 1, 2024
The graphic novel version of Ali Cross, son of detective Alex Cross (another series by Patterson) is a quick read. Ali’s friend Gabe goes missing and Ali, with the help of his friends, try to solve the mystery of where Gabe is. There are some underlying themes of family unity, kindness, and determination. Police brutality is a very small part of the story but the author makes some good points and shows the legal process of a trial with Ali’s father. Some violence mild elements of danger, including a knife pulled on a kid. 6th grade and up.
Profile Image for Chad.
10.3k reviews1,060 followers
December 30, 2024
A faithful adaptation of the James Patterson book for younger readers. It follows Alex Cross's son, Ali, as he searches for a friend who has gone missing. Yes, it's lower stakes but it's still entertaining. My only complaints are minor in that some of the character designs don't match the characters from the books. Cross's partner, Sampson, is supposed to be a huge behemoth of a man who is 6' 9" and Nana just looked like a normal character with gray hair instead of actually looking much older.
Profile Image for Becky.
1,371 reviews10 followers
January 27, 2025
This is a solid graphic novel geared toward middle grade readers. Ali Cross is the son of famed detective Alex Cross, star of many police thrillers penned by James Patterson. Alex plays a prominent role in this novel with his own storyline, but Ali’s relentless pursuit of his missing friend Gabe. This reads like a comic and is infused with gaming elements. I appreciated a lot about this book but found it somewhat easy to put down so it took me a while to read. I started off reading an ARC digital copy from NetGalley and finished reading a physical copy of the book from my local library.
1,580 reviews14 followers
May 22, 2024
This is a 202 page graphic novel about Ali Cross, Alex Cross' younger son. Ali's friend has gone missing, and Ali is trying his best to find him. At the same time, Alex is under a shadow for something that happened in the line of duty. Ali is very concerned but he's doing everything he can do.

Interestingly, the Cross household is robbed on Christmas. And this gives Ali a clue.

Great graphics and story telling. It's easy to follow the story.
Profile Image for Ms. Yingling.
3,925 reviews605 followers
July 31, 2024
E ARC provided by Netgalley

I liked the graphic novel better than the regular novel, but there may be a reason that there aren't many mystery graphic novels. It's hard to get as much information into a graphic novel as there needs to be to fully discuss a mystery.

Still thinking about this one. Unsure if I will buy it. Patterson is certainly very popular, but I'm not sure how many readers I would have for this at my school. I would buy this for a public library.

916 reviews7 followers
July 4, 2024
Thank you Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, jimmy patterson, and NetGalley for the advanced electronic review copy of this wonderful book. Great graphics, awesome storytelling, and fast, action-packed plot would be an excellent addition to any shelf. Can’t wait to share this book with my students!
Profile Image for Samantha.
30 reviews7 followers
July 28, 2024
Ali Cross The Graphic Novel…releasing to the public tomorrow, July 29th. Ali’s dad is on trial for a crime he didn’t commit, and Ali’s friend Gabe is missing. Friendships are tested, and Ali is trying to prove to his dad that he has it in him to be an investigator. Thank you to James Patterson, NetGalley, and Little, Brown and Company for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Emily.
374 reviews19 followers
May 29, 2024
Ali Cross: the graphic novel is a great way to introduce readers to the mysterious and adventurous side of James Patterson's writing. The full color images were fantastic and will definitely keep readers hooked. A great addition to the middle grade graphic novel genre!
Profile Image for Autumn.
222 reviews9 followers
June 21, 2024
This was a fun and quick read! The art in the graphic novel is amazing. And I loved the plot and how much depth the characters had.
Profile Image for D.T..
Author 5 books80 followers
October 16, 2024
Some of the dialogue felt stilted and the artwork was stiff, but the mystery was good.
341 reviews
December 6, 2024
Kind of weird to actually see the characters that I've known and loved for so long. Not quite like I had pictured them in my head. But still a great story.
Profile Image for Endrit Nikqi.
65 reviews5 followers
June 22, 2024
Ali Cross: The Graphic Novel:
Note: I was given a digital ARC through NetGalley in exchange for a review.
This is a graphic novel adaptation of the book “Ali Cross” by James Patterson. I really loved the original book, and I also loved the graphic novel adaptation as well.
The book translates into a graphic novel well, and I really love the illustrations for this book.
Overall, I think this is an amazing book and a great graphic novel adaptation of the original, and I would recommend this to anyone who loves James Patterson books and to readers who love graphic novels.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews

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