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Last of the Sandwalkers
MEET LUCY. She's a fearless explorer, a brilliant scientist, and a tireless leader.
She's also a half inch tall.
THERE IS AN ENTIRE CIVILIZATION under the big palm tree by the edge of the desert—a society of beetle. In this bug's paradise, beetles write books, raise families, and some of them, like Lucy, even do scientific research.
But as Lucy is about to discover, the world outside Coleopolis is hiding an astonishing—and dangerous—secret...
Insects are not the only living creatures in the world.
She's also a half inch tall.
THERE IS AN ENTIRE CIVILIZATION under the big palm tree by the edge of the desert—a society of beetle. In this bug's paradise, beetles write books, raise families, and some of them, like Lucy, even do scientific research.
But as Lucy is about to discover, the world outside Coleopolis is hiding an astonishing—and dangerous—secret...
Insects are not the only living creatures in the world.
312 pages, Paperback
First published April 7, 2015
13 people are currently reading
764 people want to read
About the author
Jay Hosler
27 books82 followersDr. Jay Hosler is an Associate Professor of Biology at Juniata College and an award-winning cartoonist who writes and draws comic books about biology and natural history. His work has been called "ingenious" (The London Times), "goofily inventive" (The New York Times), and "entertaining and slyly educational" (The Comics Journal). His works include Active Synapse classics such as Clan Apis, The Sandwalk Adventures, and Optical Allusions. You can visit Jay's website for a more in-depth introduction to this multi-talented cartoonist-biologist-professor-daddy.
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first-second-publications
April 9, 2015We got this amazing trade review for Jay Hosler's LAST OF THE SANDWALKERS that was like, 'this book has so much back matter, it's like Tolkien!' and we were delighted and Jay was delighted, too.
This book has so much back matter because it's full of science -- it's an adventure conducted by a scientist (Lucy, our beetle protagonist) and the author, Jay Hosler, is a scientist himself -- a biologist who studies beetles.
We're delighted to be publishing a graphic novel filled with so many cool science facts, told in such an interesting way!
This book has so much back matter because it's full of science -- it's an adventure conducted by a scientist (Lucy, our beetle protagonist) and the author, Jay Hosler, is a scientist himself -- a biologist who studies beetles.
We're delighted to be publishing a graphic novel filled with so many cool science facts, told in such an interesting way!
March 31, 2015
Stuff I Read - Last of the Sandwalkers by Jay Hosler Review
I did not really know what to expect when I opened this book. A graphic novel about insects. And science. But what exactly does that mean? It means awesome. I think I was expecting something like those Disney/Pixar movies from a while ago. But boy would that be putting this book in too small a box. This book is about science. It is about understanding science and using science to increase our understanding of the world. It is about not letting religion or anything else limit the truths that we discover, even when they conflict with commonly held beliefs. Because many commonly held beliefs have no basis in truth, but rather in the desire to have power and to hold it and to keep people ignorant. That this book manages to succeed at that by using bugs is a testament to how good it is. Because it is good.
The main story is about an expedition of bugs that are venturing out into the desert. They are from an oasis, and inside that oasis people believe that there is no life outside. They believe, because of their religion, that life was created at a specific point in the past and that nothing predated that. But the leader of the expedition thinks otherwise. She believes that there is life outside the oasis and is determined to find it. But one of the other members of the expedition, the one funding it, wants to see the mission fail. More than that, he wants everyone on the expedition except for him to not return so that he can claim they were punished by the insect god he worships. Or course, as things go it turns out that he has a very interesting relationship with his religion. One where anything he discovers is a sign of how he is favored by god but that anyone else's discovers are a threat to god and must be exterminated.
But there's more to the story than that, though the whole age of the world debate that the book engages in is delightful and amazing and had me smiling throughout. It's also about family. Because the rest of the expedition turns out to be a family, albeit an adopted one. And together they find themselves lost in a strange place full of life. As scientists, it's the discovery of a lifetime. As people, it's dangerous and deadly and they have to be careful, balancing their curiosity with caution. The leader of the expedition is the daughter, and she is with her older adopted brother and adopted mother. The father is a strange case, because he's now a robot, and is dealing with that particular challenge. The book reveals all of this kind of slowly, and at first everyone seems like they're just colleagues. But the mystery of their connects are revealed a bit at a time and I think that works, though I don't know why some of it was kept from the reader for as long as it was. Probably to increase tension, but I'm not sure it was necessary.
To go along with all the rather heavy themes in this book, is also a great amount of humor and ever a trove of interesting information about insects. As this book is about science, it makes sense that it shines a light on the scientific study of insects in a way that gives them personality and charm. The dynamic of the family is solid and the secondary character are all interesting and fun. There's also enough action and danger to keep everything moving right along and keep the reader glued to the page. Really it is a solid book, and manages to build a world where humanity is only at the periphery. It's about scale, which is a very effective thing to look at with bugs. Because to the bugs' religion, the world is only one, small oasis. There first civilization was destroyed by three coconuts. And yet there's an entire world they don't know about. Just as for us, on this planet, our scale is equally small, because you pull back enough and it's us who are the insects, are small. And we have to remember that, have to keep going to find our place.
And in the end the book succeeds at setting a scale and living up the fun and adventure of a family out on a journey of personal and scientific discovery. The character work is solid and the action is gripping and the message, to remember scale and to always question and strive, is important in an age where some people want to argue the age of the Earth is only a few thousand years. Because really. And it's fun and informative and has some good heard. And for all that I'm giving it an 8.25/10.
I did not really know what to expect when I opened this book. A graphic novel about insects. And science. But what exactly does that mean? It means awesome. I think I was expecting something like those Disney/Pixar movies from a while ago. But boy would that be putting this book in too small a box. This book is about science. It is about understanding science and using science to increase our understanding of the world. It is about not letting religion or anything else limit the truths that we discover, even when they conflict with commonly held beliefs. Because many commonly held beliefs have no basis in truth, but rather in the desire to have power and to hold it and to keep people ignorant. That this book manages to succeed at that by using bugs is a testament to how good it is. Because it is good.
The main story is about an expedition of bugs that are venturing out into the desert. They are from an oasis, and inside that oasis people believe that there is no life outside. They believe, because of their religion, that life was created at a specific point in the past and that nothing predated that. But the leader of the expedition thinks otherwise. She believes that there is life outside the oasis and is determined to find it. But one of the other members of the expedition, the one funding it, wants to see the mission fail. More than that, he wants everyone on the expedition except for him to not return so that he can claim they were punished by the insect god he worships. Or course, as things go it turns out that he has a very interesting relationship with his religion. One where anything he discovers is a sign of how he is favored by god but that anyone else's discovers are a threat to god and must be exterminated.
But there's more to the story than that, though the whole age of the world debate that the book engages in is delightful and amazing and had me smiling throughout. It's also about family. Because the rest of the expedition turns out to be a family, albeit an adopted one. And together they find themselves lost in a strange place full of life. As scientists, it's the discovery of a lifetime. As people, it's dangerous and deadly and they have to be careful, balancing their curiosity with caution. The leader of the expedition is the daughter, and she is with her older adopted brother and adopted mother. The father is a strange case, because he's now a robot, and is dealing with that particular challenge. The book reveals all of this kind of slowly, and at first everyone seems like they're just colleagues. But the mystery of their connects are revealed a bit at a time and I think that works, though I don't know why some of it was kept from the reader for as long as it was. Probably to increase tension, but I'm not sure it was necessary.
To go along with all the rather heavy themes in this book, is also a great amount of humor and ever a trove of interesting information about insects. As this book is about science, it makes sense that it shines a light on the scientific study of insects in a way that gives them personality and charm. The dynamic of the family is solid and the secondary character are all interesting and fun. There's also enough action and danger to keep everything moving right along and keep the reader glued to the page. Really it is a solid book, and manages to build a world where humanity is only at the periphery. It's about scale, which is a very effective thing to look at with bugs. Because to the bugs' religion, the world is only one, small oasis. There first civilization was destroyed by three coconuts. And yet there's an entire world they don't know about. Just as for us, on this planet, our scale is equally small, because you pull back enough and it's us who are the insects, are small. And we have to remember that, have to keep going to find our place.
And in the end the book succeeds at setting a scale and living up the fun and adventure of a family out on a journey of personal and scientific discovery. The character work is solid and the action is gripping and the message, to remember scale and to always question and strive, is important in an age where some people want to argue the age of the Earth is only a few thousand years. Because really. And it's fun and informative and has some good heard. And for all that I'm giving it an 8.25/10.
January 8, 2017
Last of the Sandwalkers was a very interesting graphic novel. It had philosophy rooted into the storyline. I'm giving it 4 stars. It was definitely a fun read, but not groundbreaking.
In the beginning of this graphic novel we meet a handful of bugs. Lucy is our leader and navigator. She is also our historian and writes down all that she sees. The expedition crew set out from their oasis in the desert called Coleopolis. While trekking through the sand dunes they discover a hue-mon. The bugs do not know what they have come across, but are intrigued and excited about their new discovery. However, the funder of this expedition Professor Owen, can't have the pesky bugs messing up his ideal world.
You see, Professor Owen is apart of a secret society that wants to keep the population of Coleopolis in the dark. If they all knew the truth about how their great city was demolished 1,000 years ago (pre-coconut), they might start asking questions. And asking questions is dangerous. If you keep a society passive and ignorant then the ones in charge, remain in charge. Power is maintained.
I loved all the characters. Lucy the main character was stubborn and sassy. Mossy the big beetle was gentle and lovable. Professor Bombardier is such a sweet lady. Then there is Raef the best bug I have ever read about <3
If you like reading about adventure and you like self discovery, philosophy and evil corrupted characters read this graphic novel. It was so much fun reading from the point of view of a bug.
In the beginning of this graphic novel we meet a handful of bugs. Lucy is our leader and navigator. She is also our historian and writes down all that she sees. The expedition crew set out from their oasis in the desert called Coleopolis. While trekking through the sand dunes they discover a hue-mon. The bugs do not know what they have come across, but are intrigued and excited about their new discovery. However, the funder of this expedition Professor Owen, can't have the pesky bugs messing up his ideal world.
You see, Professor Owen is apart of a secret society that wants to keep the population of Coleopolis in the dark. If they all knew the truth about how their great city was demolished 1,000 years ago (pre-coconut), they might start asking questions. And asking questions is dangerous. If you keep a society passive and ignorant then the ones in charge, remain in charge. Power is maintained.
I loved all the characters. Lucy the main character was stubborn and sassy. Mossy the big beetle was gentle and lovable. Professor Bombardier is such a sweet lady. Then there is Raef the best bug I have ever read about <3
If you like reading about adventure and you like self discovery, philosophy and evil corrupted characters read this graphic novel. It was so much fun reading from the point of view of a bug.
July 16, 2014
What hath Jay Hosler wrought with his graphic novel, Last of the Sandwalkers (2015, First Second Books)? How about 300+ pages of phenomenal storytelling, a thoroughly developed plot (with a few fleshed-out subplots for good measure), a superbly sublime protagonist, and a few supporting characters that bolster the story without detracting from the power of the protagonist! This is a solid work of literature, regardless of its graphic or prose setting.
It has become increasingly rare that a graphic novel fully lives up to the second word of that phrase – “novel.” Many seem to be picture books that leave the story-line lacking or disjointed. Two dimensional characters populate the pages, without the full development of the subtlety and nuance found within an Atticus Finch. The plot is oft left at the middle of the mind-blowing panels, forgotten in the madness and grandeur of the graphic artistry.
Instead, Mr. Hosler has created an academically and biologically correct, post-apocalyptic world of the insect variety, replete with full-fledged villains, unwitting accomplices, a crafty antagonist, and some wily supporting cast members. One of the cross-curricular tie-ins that Mr. Hosler creates is the natural science behind the animals chosen for the characters. He includes a detailed academic reference section, for further discussion and learning. The level of detail that Mr. Hosler has put into this work reminds this reviewer of the storied Disney animation staff, who would bring live animals into the drawing rooms so that they could best capture Bambi’s jaunty gait through the meadow.
Due to this reviewer’s educational perspective (full disclosure – this review is written for the consideration of adopting future resources for the Baltimore City Schools, specifically which works of graphic literature to include in current and future curricula.), the preferred focus of any work is the full development of three things: Graphic Structure, Plot, and Character. The reasoning for this is completely pragmatic; Should this text be adopted for use as a part of a curriculum, an ample foundation of character development, plot design, and literary structure/schema must exist within the covers of the novel in order to best teach students. Should a work be deficient in one of those areas, it is that much more difficult to use as a teaching text for students to model their own writing upon.
Graphic Structure – Last of the Sandwalkers is drawn in the traditional Western style of left to right, top to bottom. The vast majority of the story is contained within the confines of each of the panels. Very few of the pages incorporate panels or speech bubbles that spill over into their neighbors. From an educational perspective, this simplifies reading the graphic novel for the students and also makes the process of teaching citation far simpler than if the art was drawn in a more abstract, free-flowing manner. The fact that Mr. Hosler has constrained his art allows it to be far more useful in teaching the structure of literature, showing which panel is the rising action, the climax, or the denouement. That structure allows the teacher to use this text on a more concrete level with students, bringing them to a greater understanding of the conceptual structure. Additionally, by choosing a monochromatic color scheme, those students who have visual processing issues are better able to absorb and comprehend the material, simply due to the lack of color distractions. For those teachers who will be using document cameras to project the pages for analysis, the black and white makes for the clearest image possible, no matter the technological limits of the particular classroom. The monochromatic, color scheme also allows the teacher to create worksheets that can be easily duplicated, without losing the graphic quality that oft happens when making copies of full color art. It should not be an issue for students to read the detail of whatever panel is selected as a resource, due to a translation into multiple shades of grey.
Plot – One of the most important elements of each novel is the plot. Where is the author taking the reader? Is the main plot moving forward? Were the backstory details folded into the main storyline in a manner that made them additive instead of distractors? Mr. Hosler has done a fine job creating the framework of a good story. From the opening page, there is a clear purpose to the story. The progression of the story, centered in a personified animal world, and rooted in the mythological background of the culture created, makes complete sense, and flows seamlessly from scene to scene. Mr. Hosler keeps the story on track, and bolsters the current with a few well-placed historical vignettes that put a few more facets on this gem of a story.
Character – Is there a reader who does not enjoy a nobly flawed protagonist, battling with a narcissistic antagonist, in a classic struggle of the individual versus society? Mr. Hosler has created a wonderful heroine in his protagonist, Lucy, who is always trying to do the right thing, while simultaneously managing to do something wrong. Initially presented as a rather straightforward character, Mr. Hosler develops Lucy incrementally throughout the novel. He strategically builds upon her character flaw with every vignette. Within that progression, she becomes a complex character, working to make right what is wrong, and learning along the way that things are not always what they seem. Mr Hosler has also created an excellent foil to Lucy in his antagonist, Professor Owen. This beautifully Machiavellan character is unapologetic in his drive to maintain his control over his society. His desire to centralize that power, and the means he employs to do so, give any teacher of the language arts ample resources to teach literary structure.
In the final evaluation of Last of the Sandwalkers, the salient question for this reviewer is whether a school should commit the financial resources to obtain this book for their students. Resoundingly and emphatically, Jay Hosler has created a literary work that resonates on multiple pedagogical levels. Not only is the book a thoroughly delightful read, it is a professionally refreshing resource to teach many of the concepts that students need to learn.
Buy this book. Read it. Buy a copy for a friend. This one is a keeper.
It has become increasingly rare that a graphic novel fully lives up to the second word of that phrase – “novel.” Many seem to be picture books that leave the story-line lacking or disjointed. Two dimensional characters populate the pages, without the full development of the subtlety and nuance found within an Atticus Finch. The plot is oft left at the middle of the mind-blowing panels, forgotten in the madness and grandeur of the graphic artistry.
Instead, Mr. Hosler has created an academically and biologically correct, post-apocalyptic world of the insect variety, replete with full-fledged villains, unwitting accomplices, a crafty antagonist, and some wily supporting cast members. One of the cross-curricular tie-ins that Mr. Hosler creates is the natural science behind the animals chosen for the characters. He includes a detailed academic reference section, for further discussion and learning. The level of detail that Mr. Hosler has put into this work reminds this reviewer of the storied Disney animation staff, who would bring live animals into the drawing rooms so that they could best capture Bambi’s jaunty gait through the meadow.
Due to this reviewer’s educational perspective (full disclosure – this review is written for the consideration of adopting future resources for the Baltimore City Schools, specifically which works of graphic literature to include in current and future curricula.), the preferred focus of any work is the full development of three things: Graphic Structure, Plot, and Character. The reasoning for this is completely pragmatic; Should this text be adopted for use as a part of a curriculum, an ample foundation of character development, plot design, and literary structure/schema must exist within the covers of the novel in order to best teach students. Should a work be deficient in one of those areas, it is that much more difficult to use as a teaching text for students to model their own writing upon.
Graphic Structure – Last of the Sandwalkers is drawn in the traditional Western style of left to right, top to bottom. The vast majority of the story is contained within the confines of each of the panels. Very few of the pages incorporate panels or speech bubbles that spill over into their neighbors. From an educational perspective, this simplifies reading the graphic novel for the students and also makes the process of teaching citation far simpler than if the art was drawn in a more abstract, free-flowing manner. The fact that Mr. Hosler has constrained his art allows it to be far more useful in teaching the structure of literature, showing which panel is the rising action, the climax, or the denouement. That structure allows the teacher to use this text on a more concrete level with students, bringing them to a greater understanding of the conceptual structure. Additionally, by choosing a monochromatic color scheme, those students who have visual processing issues are better able to absorb and comprehend the material, simply due to the lack of color distractions. For those teachers who will be using document cameras to project the pages for analysis, the black and white makes for the clearest image possible, no matter the technological limits of the particular classroom. The monochromatic, color scheme also allows the teacher to create worksheets that can be easily duplicated, without losing the graphic quality that oft happens when making copies of full color art. It should not be an issue for students to read the detail of whatever panel is selected as a resource, due to a translation into multiple shades of grey.
Plot – One of the most important elements of each novel is the plot. Where is the author taking the reader? Is the main plot moving forward? Were the backstory details folded into the main storyline in a manner that made them additive instead of distractors? Mr. Hosler has done a fine job creating the framework of a good story. From the opening page, there is a clear purpose to the story. The progression of the story, centered in a personified animal world, and rooted in the mythological background of the culture created, makes complete sense, and flows seamlessly from scene to scene. Mr. Hosler keeps the story on track, and bolsters the current with a few well-placed historical vignettes that put a few more facets on this gem of a story.
Character – Is there a reader who does not enjoy a nobly flawed protagonist, battling with a narcissistic antagonist, in a classic struggle of the individual versus society? Mr. Hosler has created a wonderful heroine in his protagonist, Lucy, who is always trying to do the right thing, while simultaneously managing to do something wrong. Initially presented as a rather straightforward character, Mr. Hosler develops Lucy incrementally throughout the novel. He strategically builds upon her character flaw with every vignette. Within that progression, she becomes a complex character, working to make right what is wrong, and learning along the way that things are not always what they seem. Mr Hosler has also created an excellent foil to Lucy in his antagonist, Professor Owen. This beautifully Machiavellan character is unapologetic in his drive to maintain his control over his society. His desire to centralize that power, and the means he employs to do so, give any teacher of the language arts ample resources to teach literary structure.
In the final evaluation of Last of the Sandwalkers, the salient question for this reviewer is whether a school should commit the financial resources to obtain this book for their students. Resoundingly and emphatically, Jay Hosler has created a literary work that resonates on multiple pedagogical levels. Not only is the book a thoroughly delightful read, it is a professionally refreshing resource to teach many of the concepts that students need to learn.
Buy this book. Read it. Buy a copy for a friend. This one is a keeper.
July 16, 2014
I was given this title to review by NetGalley and the publishers First Second in exchange for my honest review.
When Lucy and her ragtag team of fellow scientists and family members travel into the desert to find life after making a hasty bet with a disbeliever in life past their borders, they discover more than they bargained for. First, the insidious Dr. Owen turns on them and leaves them for dead in the desert, then they get carried further away from their home of Coleopolis, meeting danger and making friends along the way. Riddled with fun scientific facts, silly puns, and occasional jokes that will go above most children's heads, this book offers as many fun facets of the adventure as there are legs on all the insects featured within it. Although the facts sometimes read as forced into the story and the illustrations can get distractingly busy, the characters are all likeable and it features amazing back matter: fact-filled notes broken down chapter by chapter and book, article, and video additional resources for those just dying to know more about the various types of beetles of the world. It is my hope that when the final edition is published, it will be in color. Recommended for 4th-6th grade.
When Lucy and her ragtag team of fellow scientists and family members travel into the desert to find life after making a hasty bet with a disbeliever in life past their borders, they discover more than they bargained for. First, the insidious Dr. Owen turns on them and leaves them for dead in the desert, then they get carried further away from their home of Coleopolis, meeting danger and making friends along the way. Riddled with fun scientific facts, silly puns, and occasional jokes that will go above most children's heads, this book offers as many fun facets of the adventure as there are legs on all the insects featured within it. Although the facts sometimes read as forced into the story and the illustrations can get distractingly busy, the characters are all likeable and it features amazing back matter: fact-filled notes broken down chapter by chapter and book, article, and video additional resources for those just dying to know more about the various types of beetles of the world. It is my hope that when the final edition is published, it will be in color. Recommended for 4th-6th grade.
March 18, 2021
This was a really cool graphic novel! I love how the author combined science and adventure. This is such a fun way to learn about animals (you don’t even realize that you are learning). I absolutely loved the idea that there are beetle scientists! The plot was fun and made you think from a different perspective. Most of the characters were likable and were relatively well created (although there were some side characters that were one dimensional).
I would suggest this book to anyone who wants to learn more about beetles or anyone who enjoys a good adventure story.
I would suggest this book to anyone who wants to learn more about beetles or anyone who enjoys a good adventure story.
August 30, 2015
Last of the Sandwalkers surprised me as a graphic novel. I’m not overly fond of bugs, but this story really brought them into the light. Lucy is a scientist at heart and sets off on journey to find if there are more beetles in the world around them. Her community is not fond of scientists though and she finds that the overseer of their journey tries to sabotage them from finding their way home, while stealing their discovery of large bones in the sand. They end up on their own and must find their way back. Luckily, the journal their overseer stole wasn’t Lucy’s but a phony, leaving him only with the bones to display.
I loved that this community took on a stance very much like one we see now. The separation of science from religion. Coming across others, Lucy finds that her community has let go of beetles they found that didn’t think their way, telling stories they didn’t like. This is similar to her own scientific drive and she finds a kindred spirit in the abandoned beetle she finds in the desert. There are dangers out there and she must help her friends and family travel safely home. She tries to use her inventions, but sometime they backfire and she seems a bit caught up in the devices at times as to those around her.
I found myself rather intrigued by the story, as Lucy struggles and prevails over the terrain and gets the assistance of others on her journey. She is a spirited heroine and one I admire as she is not perfect but always tries her best. I almost wish it was a bit shorter or simple because I think it’s a story my students would enjoy but it’s probably over the heads of most of my students. I’m considering putting it in my school library and seeing what happens.
Verdict:
A wonderful graphic novel about being ones self and finding the truth about the world and ones self.
I loved that this community took on a stance very much like one we see now. The separation of science from religion. Coming across others, Lucy finds that her community has let go of beetles they found that didn’t think their way, telling stories they didn’t like. This is similar to her own scientific drive and she finds a kindred spirit in the abandoned beetle she finds in the desert. There are dangers out there and she must help her friends and family travel safely home. She tries to use her inventions, but sometime they backfire and she seems a bit caught up in the devices at times as to those around her.
I found myself rather intrigued by the story, as Lucy struggles and prevails over the terrain and gets the assistance of others on her journey. She is a spirited heroine and one I admire as she is not perfect but always tries her best. I almost wish it was a bit shorter or simple because I think it’s a story my students would enjoy but it’s probably over the heads of most of my students. I’m considering putting it in my school library and seeing what happens.
Verdict:
A wonderful graphic novel about being ones self and finding the truth about the world and ones self.
January 28, 2018
Loved this book! I teaches you about bugs, but also ties in a great plot about adventure and family. Recommend to anyone who loves a good twist on a classic adventure. It was an unexpected find for me, but I give it the trophy of being one of my new favorite books!
April 23, 2020
Another amazing graphic novel from Hosler that perfectly displays his unique ability to create incredibly endearing characters that readers will fall in love with while simultaneously absorbing tons of scientific knowledge without even realizing it. The perfect crime!
July 6, 2019
A band of beetle explorers leave the confines of their community and go beyond the edges of their known universe and they come upon a whole unexplored world. This book tells the story of Lucy, scientist and explorer who seeks to find answers to knowledge that has been hidden from her and others for centuries. What she finds is eye opening, and at times dangerous.
April 3, 2015
A Heroine Like No Other!
(Full disclosure: I received a free copy of this book for review from the publisher.)
I find myself thinking about this hue-mon all of the time. I wonder if it ever thought about us?
Was there room in here for thoughts about beetles?
Did it ever wonder how some glow?
Or spray liquid fire?
Or dance on water?
Or drink fog?
Maybe someday, if a hue-mon reads this journal, it will help them appreciate all of the amazing little aliens living underfoot.
Lucy may "just" be a junior faculty member at Colepolis University - and a beetle, to boot - but she's about to change the way her people view the world. Reluctantly granted funding by the scientific ministry, Lucy's leading a team of five scientist-explorers out into the great unknown - the vast desert that lies beyond the oasis where their coconut tree grows. Colepolis is home, and all its beetle citizens know of the world - all its elite ruling class allows them to know - is contained within its borders. That is, until Lucy breaks with years of tradition and superstition, and insists on proving that the world is more complex and wonderful than they can possibly imagine.
At her side are the senior professors, the kindly Beatrice Bombardier and the scheming and reactionary Professor Owen, secret member of the Order of the Scarabi; the pun-loving Raef, who may or may not be part robot; large and lumbering Mossy, the group's protector; and, last but certainly not least, Ma'Dog, a storyteller long since exiled from Colepolis, who begrudgingly trades his expertise for safe passage back to his homeland. Together they must brave all sorts of threats - snakes, sandstorms, spiders, birds, bats, velvet worms, tree resin, and worst of all, backstabbing colleagues and religious fundamentalists - in order to return to Colepolis with news of all the strange and unusual creatures they found.
Jay Hosler's Last of the Sandwalkers might be the first graphic novel I've read that ends with both footnotes and a reference list - which speaks volumes about the book. Not only is it witty, wonderfully imaginative, and highly entertaining, but Hosler - a biology professor at Juniata College - educates as well. The story is populated by all manner of grotesque yet adorable insects; the drawings are both lovely and highly informative. There's even a field guide to the main characters! If Gil Grissom were a real person (and I was lucky enough to count him a friend), he'd totally find this stuffed in his stocking come Christmas.
(True story: before I realized that Professor Bombardier was a lady, I imagined her speaking in William Petersen's voice. Then I switched to William Petersen speaking in falsetto.)
Lucy is the sort of hero you want to root for: smart but not infallible, she's a clever girl who wants nothing more than see the world and suck down its knowledge like so much nectar. She's also kind and compassionate; some of my favorite scenes involve Lucy fretting over the amber beetle's well-being, or interacting with the emotionally fragile Raef. There's an especially refreshing plot line about consent, which I don't think was necessarily intended in a sexual way, but could certainly be used to teach kids about the importance of bodily consent as well.
While Last of the Sandwalkers is a great tool for getting kids interested in entomology (and teaching the importance of scientific inquiry in general), adults are sure to get a kick out of it as well. There are quite a few unexpected twists and turns that had me at the edge of my seat, and I stayed up well past my bedtime to finish. Secret societies, family drama, robots big and small, action and adventure, even a touch of romance - Last of the Sandwalkers has got it all. I won't lie; I even got a little teary-eyed at the end. (Page 292 - that's the spot.)
Buy it for: Little nerdlings; kids who like playing in the dirt; adults who carry spiders outside instead of squashing them outright - or are happy to just let them be.
http://www.easyvegan.info/2015/04/10/...
(Full disclosure: I received a free copy of this book for review from the publisher.)
I find myself thinking about this hue-mon all of the time. I wonder if it ever thought about us?
Was there room in here for thoughts about beetles?
Did it ever wonder how some glow?
Or spray liquid fire?
Or dance on water?
Or drink fog?
Maybe someday, if a hue-mon reads this journal, it will help them appreciate all of the amazing little aliens living underfoot.
Lucy may "just" be a junior faculty member at Colepolis University - and a beetle, to boot - but she's about to change the way her people view the world. Reluctantly granted funding by the scientific ministry, Lucy's leading a team of five scientist-explorers out into the great unknown - the vast desert that lies beyond the oasis where their coconut tree grows. Colepolis is home, and all its beetle citizens know of the world - all its elite ruling class allows them to know - is contained within its borders. That is, until Lucy breaks with years of tradition and superstition, and insists on proving that the world is more complex and wonderful than they can possibly imagine.
At her side are the senior professors, the kindly Beatrice Bombardier and the scheming and reactionary Professor Owen, secret member of the Order of the Scarabi; the pun-loving Raef, who may or may not be part robot; large and lumbering Mossy, the group's protector; and, last but certainly not least, Ma'Dog, a storyteller long since exiled from Colepolis, who begrudgingly trades his expertise for safe passage back to his homeland. Together they must brave all sorts of threats - snakes, sandstorms, spiders, birds, bats, velvet worms, tree resin, and worst of all, backstabbing colleagues and religious fundamentalists - in order to return to Colepolis with news of all the strange and unusual creatures they found.
Jay Hosler's Last of the Sandwalkers might be the first graphic novel I've read that ends with both footnotes and a reference list - which speaks volumes about the book. Not only is it witty, wonderfully imaginative, and highly entertaining, but Hosler - a biology professor at Juniata College - educates as well. The story is populated by all manner of grotesque yet adorable insects; the drawings are both lovely and highly informative. There's even a field guide to the main characters! If Gil Grissom were a real person (and I was lucky enough to count him a friend), he'd totally find this stuffed in his stocking come Christmas.
(True story: before I realized that Professor Bombardier was a lady, I imagined her speaking in William Petersen's voice. Then I switched to William Petersen speaking in falsetto.)
Lucy is the sort of hero you want to root for: smart but not infallible, she's a clever girl who wants nothing more than see the world and suck down its knowledge like so much nectar. She's also kind and compassionate; some of my favorite scenes involve Lucy fretting over the amber beetle's well-being, or interacting with the emotionally fragile Raef. There's an especially refreshing plot line about consent, which I don't think was necessarily intended in a sexual way, but could certainly be used to teach kids about the importance of bodily consent as well.
While Last of the Sandwalkers is a great tool for getting kids interested in entomology (and teaching the importance of scientific inquiry in general), adults are sure to get a kick out of it as well. There are quite a few unexpected twists and turns that had me at the edge of my seat, and I stayed up well past my bedtime to finish. Secret societies, family drama, robots big and small, action and adventure, even a touch of romance - Last of the Sandwalkers has got it all. I won't lie; I even got a little teary-eyed at the end. (Page 292 - that's the spot.)
Buy it for: Little nerdlings; kids who like playing in the dirt; adults who carry spiders outside instead of squashing them outright - or are happy to just let them be.
http://www.easyvegan.info/2015/04/10/...
April 6, 2015
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Scott
Last of the Sandwalkers is a graphic novel that even non-comic readers can pick up and enjoy. It’s an joyous story of insects and their trials and tribulations in a world hither unknown to them. It speaks to tweenies and to the oldest of us all, with the story well paced and exciting, yet keeping all factors of insect life firmly rooted in science.
It follows the exploits of the duplicious Dr. Owen, Lucy the single minded scientist and her quest to find life outside the ants “Oasis,” the only life they’ve ever known – a city on the edge of nowhere. It also recounts the tales of her friends and compatriots in her quest, Raef the “robot,” (one of my favorite characters) Mosey, her brute friend and the other members of her motley family and new found friends. Their encounters surviving the desert against “new life” that would threaten beetles is harrowing indeed.
I found this delightfully educational. Notes on beetles, spiders, etc., in the endnotes harken to years ago when I picked up Rick Geary’s and Jerry Prosser’s Cyberantics, a similar graphic tale of insect life, except it dealt with ants in a fictionalized pubication of the future. I looked back on it with fond memories and found new ones in Last of the Sandwalkers.
The story is written and drawn by Professor of Entomology Jay Holster so you know you’re given the facts, and the endnotes add more color, flavor, and the fact you’re reading about a book based on academic principles, not just a fictionalized story (well except for the miniature jet packs – but in the future of insects, who knows what will happen). The graphic novel also contains a bibliography that entices further academic and non-academic readings into darwinism, entomology, anime and more.
It also sparked my interest in not so futuristic science – insect science: rocket packs, solor heated sleeping bags (so bugs don’t go into a deep coma and die in the freezing desert temperatures), solor water collectors to collect dew, and other devices taken from my and the authors expressed love of Astro Boy and what is available with technology today (Astro Boy doesn’t seem too far off).
I found myself rooting for the protagonists as the story considers the benefits and perils of keeping secrets from the public and maintaining the status quo – much as Darwinism was played out in Victorian England. Dr. Owen is the prime mover in this respect trained to keep the secrets of toutside the Oasis, outside the Oasis hiding it from the general populace. The text can be read, however, either as ecological or social Darwinism. It can go that deep.
As Lucy says to Dr. Owen:
“Pfft. You’re protecting your world. Our world is so much bigger and full of wonders including the most amazing beetles I’ve exer seen.”
The art is airy, sometimes cartoony, and sometimes full of detail. It reminded me of Peter Kuper’s (Heavy Metal) or Rick Geary’s (Heavy Metal, New Yorker) style; bold work where it is needed, for example, in “discoveries,” or items of import but anthropomorphic and cartoony in the playful interactions between characters. It evokes wonders with the words and images in an eye pleasing manner. In comics terms, the synergy of drawing words and writing pictures is quite appropriate.
Fans of Rick Geary’s Cyberantics, Jeff Smith’s Bone, or those who feel like being small and want to quest after big ideas, this is for you. As it is said:
“Mabye someday, if a hue-mon [sic] reads this journal, it will help them appreciate all of the amazing aliens living underfoot.”
This still, however, has not changed my aversion to insects in any sort of description; not one bit.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Last of the Sandwalkers is a graphic novel that even non-comic readers can pick up and enjoy. It’s an joyous story of insects and their trials and tribulations in a world hither unknown to them. It speaks to tweenies and to the oldest of us all, with the story well paced and exciting, yet keeping all factors of insect life firmly rooted in science.
It follows the exploits of the duplicious Dr. Owen, Lucy the single minded scientist and her quest to find life outside the ants “Oasis,” the only life they’ve ever known – a city on the edge of nowhere. It also recounts the tales of her friends and compatriots in her quest, Raef the “robot,” (one of my favorite characters) Mosey, her brute friend and the other members of her motley family and new found friends. Their encounters surviving the desert against “new life” that would threaten beetles is harrowing indeed.
I found this delightfully educational. Notes on beetles, spiders, etc., in the endnotes harken to years ago when I picked up Rick Geary’s and Jerry Prosser’s Cyberantics, a similar graphic tale of insect life, except it dealt with ants in a fictionalized pubication of the future. I looked back on it with fond memories and found new ones in Last of the Sandwalkers.
The story is written and drawn by Professor of Entomology Jay Holster so you know you’re given the facts, and the endnotes add more color, flavor, and the fact you’re reading about a book based on academic principles, not just a fictionalized story (well except for the miniature jet packs – but in the future of insects, who knows what will happen). The graphic novel also contains a bibliography that entices further academic and non-academic readings into darwinism, entomology, anime and more.
It also sparked my interest in not so futuristic science – insect science: rocket packs, solor heated sleeping bags (so bugs don’t go into a deep coma and die in the freezing desert temperatures), solor water collectors to collect dew, and other devices taken from my and the authors expressed love of Astro Boy and what is available with technology today (Astro Boy doesn’t seem too far off).
I found myself rooting for the protagonists as the story considers the benefits and perils of keeping secrets from the public and maintaining the status quo – much as Darwinism was played out in Victorian England. Dr. Owen is the prime mover in this respect trained to keep the secrets of toutside the Oasis, outside the Oasis hiding it from the general populace. The text can be read, however, either as ecological or social Darwinism. It can go that deep.
As Lucy says to Dr. Owen:
“Pfft. You’re protecting your world. Our world is so much bigger and full of wonders including the most amazing beetles I’ve exer seen.”
The art is airy, sometimes cartoony, and sometimes full of detail. It reminded me of Peter Kuper’s (Heavy Metal) or Rick Geary’s (Heavy Metal, New Yorker) style; bold work where it is needed, for example, in “discoveries,” or items of import but anthropomorphic and cartoony in the playful interactions between characters. It evokes wonders with the words and images in an eye pleasing manner. In comics terms, the synergy of drawing words and writing pictures is quite appropriate.
Fans of Rick Geary’s Cyberantics, Jeff Smith’s Bone, or those who feel like being small and want to quest after big ideas, this is for you. As it is said:
“Mabye someday, if a hue-mon [sic] reads this journal, it will help them appreciate all of the amazing aliens living underfoot.”
This still, however, has not changed my aversion to insects in any sort of description; not one bit.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
March 11, 2015
At the edge of a desert, lies an oasis paradise. The civilization that inhabits this paradise is a complex, smart one full of scientists, writers, and every other kind of citizen you can imagine...except, they’re all beetles! Lucy, a clever scientist beetle, and her trusty companions, set out to explore beyond the desert and search for other life. But nasty Professor Owen ruins Lucy’s plans and sets her and group on a surprising voyage full of discoveries.
Part graphic novel, part adventure story, Jay Hosler’s Last of the Sandwalkers is an exciting, entertaining, and enlightening book! Hosler effortlessly combines fun storytelling, scientific fact, and engaging illustrations to create a story that is both captivating to read and visually enjoyable to look at it. With Coleopolis (the oasis paradise), the harsh desert at its border, and the fascinating world Lucy and her companions find, Hosler offers up lushly built settings, rich in colors; smells; sights; and sounds, that young readers will be eager to explore. While the adventure story Hosler spins is full of thrills, chills, and fast-paced action.
And of course, this world and story are told from a bug’s perspective, creating both a unique and compelling narration. As a biologist and college professor, this buggy world is one Hosler clearly knows much about, and he cleverly brings that expertise to Last of the Sandwalkers, organically sprinkling science facts and knowledge throughout the story. Young readers will learn a great deal, but in a completely fun and natural way. And while Lucy, her companions, and the many creatures they meet along the way, look and act like their very real counterparts in nature, they are first and foremost engaging, likable characters full of charisma, charm, spirit, and endearing personalities.
Hosler’s black and white illustrations are eye-catching, amusing, and awesomely bring the story to life.
my final thoughts: I’m definitely not a bug person, but Jay Hosler makes bugs fascinating, likable, and fun. With its graphic novel format, exciting story, and cool characters, young readers will go wild for Last of the Sandwalkers!
Part graphic novel, part adventure story, Jay Hosler’s Last of the Sandwalkers is an exciting, entertaining, and enlightening book! Hosler effortlessly combines fun storytelling, scientific fact, and engaging illustrations to create a story that is both captivating to read and visually enjoyable to look at it. With Coleopolis (the oasis paradise), the harsh desert at its border, and the fascinating world Lucy and her companions find, Hosler offers up lushly built settings, rich in colors; smells; sights; and sounds, that young readers will be eager to explore. While the adventure story Hosler spins is full of thrills, chills, and fast-paced action.
And of course, this world and story are told from a bug’s perspective, creating both a unique and compelling narration. As a biologist and college professor, this buggy world is one Hosler clearly knows much about, and he cleverly brings that expertise to Last of the Sandwalkers, organically sprinkling science facts and knowledge throughout the story. Young readers will learn a great deal, but in a completely fun and natural way. And while Lucy, her companions, and the many creatures they meet along the way, look and act like their very real counterparts in nature, they are first and foremost engaging, likable characters full of charisma, charm, spirit, and endearing personalities.
Hosler’s black and white illustrations are eye-catching, amusing, and awesomely bring the story to life.
my final thoughts: I’m definitely not a bug person, but Jay Hosler makes bugs fascinating, likable, and fun. With its graphic novel format, exciting story, and cool characters, young readers will go wild for Last of the Sandwalkers!
June 14, 2018
Jay Hosler is a college biology professor AND a gifted cartoonist AND a fabulous storyteller. Combine all of that and you get Last of the Sandwalkers, an adventure mixed with political conspiracy populated by bugs. Bugs that live in New Coleopolis, a beetle city with a theocratic government and institutions of higher learning. Beyond New Coleopolis is a wasteland... or at least, so they've been taught. Lucy, a scientist in New Coleopolis, isn't so sure. Overcoming the skepticism of her colleagues, she mounts an expedition to explore the world beyond the city. She soon discovers that both the world and the loyalties of her teammates aren't always what she's been led to believe.
I didn't know I could care about bugs so much. The personalities, backstories, and relationships of this group of explorers captivated me. Hosler draws them with distinct facial expressions and body language. (My guess is that is took 7,000 years to draw this incredibly detailed book.) Lucy and her friends are fighting for reason over superstition and greed, fueled by a passionate curiosity about the world. They're a great team. I'm looking forward to reading more of Hosler's work!
I didn't know I could care about bugs so much. The personalities, backstories, and relationships of this group of explorers captivated me. Hosler draws them with distinct facial expressions and body language. (My guess is that is took 7,000 years to draw this incredibly detailed book.) Lucy and her friends are fighting for reason over superstition and greed, fueled by a passionate curiosity about the world. They're a great team. I'm looking forward to reading more of Hosler's work!
Want to read
November 6, 2015Student Review by Lydia J
Grade Range: 6th grade and up
Genre: Graphic Novel
Literary Merit: Very Good
Characterization: Excellent
Last of the Sandwalkers by Jay Hosler recounts the epic journey of Lucy, a beetle on a mission to make her big break in the science community. Lucy wants to be a part of something bigger than her small world inside a coconut. Lucy, with a host of friends (and one angry Professor from the University), journey outside of their familiar home to explore the wonders of the world around them. This fun filled graphic novel embodies the spirit of overcoming adversity.
I thought this novel was so entertaining to read. Although Last of the Sandwalkers is fiction, there is so much to learn! I didn’t expect to pick up so many fun facts about insects; they really kept the book interesting. Personally, I loved that each character had their own personality, and no traits were repeated. Holsler did an amazing job of using personification to give life to his characters.
Recommendation: I would recommend this book to anyone that loves a good adventure, or enjoys the field of science.
Grade Range: 6th grade and up
Genre: Graphic Novel
Literary Merit: Very Good
Characterization: Excellent
Last of the Sandwalkers by Jay Hosler recounts the epic journey of Lucy, a beetle on a mission to make her big break in the science community. Lucy wants to be a part of something bigger than her small world inside a coconut. Lucy, with a host of friends (and one angry Professor from the University), journey outside of their familiar home to explore the wonders of the world around them. This fun filled graphic novel embodies the spirit of overcoming adversity.
I thought this novel was so entertaining to read. Although Last of the Sandwalkers is fiction, there is so much to learn! I didn’t expect to pick up so many fun facts about insects; they really kept the book interesting. Personally, I loved that each character had their own personality, and no traits were repeated. Holsler did an amazing job of using personification to give life to his characters.
Recommendation: I would recommend this book to anyone that loves a good adventure, or enjoys the field of science.
April 10, 2022
2015 review: This book was amazing, and is easily one of my favorite books. I found myself entirely wrapped up in the world and characters that Jay Hosler had created. The storytelling was superb, and the story excellent. Hosler's art displayed great compositions and page layouts throughout the entire book, and is overall inspiring. As an aspiring cartoonist, this book resonated with me on a whole new level. I will most definitely try to absorb Hosler's many techniques into my own art. This book should be required reading for anyone trying to become a cartoonist. Overall, I loved it.
2022 review: Yeah this book is still pretty great. The writing is super fun and charming, and the art is pitch perfect. Some clever and entertaining page designs here, Hosler makes his Tezuka influence well known. Think I'll check out his other stuff because if they're as entertaining as this I definitely won't regret it!
2022 review: Yeah this book is still pretty great. The writing is super fun and charming, and the art is pitch perfect. Some clever and entertaining page designs here, Hosler makes his Tezuka influence well known. Think I'll check out his other stuff because if they're as entertaining as this I definitely won't regret it!
October 19, 2015
It was hard for me to stay focused and read this book but I am not sure why because it was actually really really good! It is a midgrade to teen graphic novel about an odd family of beetles who live in this wierd cult like society in the desert. The family, who are mostly scientists, go out into the desert in search of outside life forms. The main character is a smart and quirky beetle wearing a baseball hat. The family runs into a lot of problems within the natural world and their wierd cult homeland. I loved this book because it had a lot of scientific accuracy when it came to the bugs in the book and it made you want to learn more about them. It also had a lot of humor and lessons about family, friendship, and life.
February 22, 2018
I have a few mixed feelings about this book. First off, it's stunningly illustrated, and the storytelling is quite enjoyable. The only thing stopping me from loving this book is the combination of the incredibly dense word bubbles with lovingly done lettering that unfortunately gets difficult to read for long stretches. What otherwise is a wonderful graphic novel for a younger audience is hindered by its densely lettered bubbles, which is unfortunate because the dialogue contained within is incredibly well thought out otherwise. I know this makes me sound like someone's grandparent - I'm not, I'm only 25 - but this is the only book I can think of where the lettering was what made it difficult to read. Worth a shot if you can get past (what seems like) hand lettering.
April 20, 2015
Let's see, this book is about a group of varied beetles who set out on a scientific expedition to search for signs of life outside their oasis, affirm the importance of inquiry-based science, and survive to tell the tale. Hmmmm - I would have never thought such a concept could be turned into a book much less such a fabulous, funny, smart and fascinating book. Jay Hosler pulls it off and this is a triumph of a match combining real science, terrific comic illustrations and intelligent reading fun. Genius!
And then there are the Annotations! Do NOT miss these - they are as much fun as the book!
And then there are the Annotations! Do NOT miss these - they are as much fun as the book!
July 12, 2016
How a full-time biology professor managed to write and illustrate a 300 page comic book in his spare time is beyond me, but we've certainly benefited from his professional expertise; Last of the Sandwalkers is a graphic adventure story that is also a fascinating introductions to lesser known beetles, worms, spiders, and other insects. Well-researched footnotes and scientific nomenclature make this a great educational read for any age, and Hosler strikes the perfect balance between the two worlds of science and entertainment without leaning too heavily in either field. I'm astounded that such a talented artist can be such a thorough biologist, and vice versa!
June 12, 2015
Exploration, adventure, danger, betrayal…what more could you want in a comic? You will also learn a great deal about beetles! Much like he did in Clan Apis, about honeybees, author/illustrator Hosler combines a fascinating, engaging story with a lot of scientific facts. I love the incredibly detail in the drawings, and how Lucy and her fellow adventurers try to understand the wider world (they have never encountered mammals, for example). There are some very good points about the power of knowledge, and how new facts can change an entire worldview.
November 27, 2017
I am obviously not the target audience, but since I work with middle school students, and it is a nominee for the Volunteer State Book Award, I had to read it. I am not a big fan of graphic novels, and I found this one hard to follow, especially with the black and white illustrations. I am waiting for my students to explain it to me! And I wonder after reading part of the annotations, why the author doesn't believe that science and creation can go together. I love pop culture references, but even the "Lucy in the sky with diamonds" reference didn't help.
August 31, 2015
This graphic novel about insects is an allegorical animal fantasy similar to Animal Farm. A group of beetle scientists leave their oasis for a quest to find life outside of their colony. They have a variety of dangerous encounters that challenge their beliefs about their history. Filled with lots of entomological details, this is a carefully crafted insect story that poses thoughtful questions about science and religion.
September 1, 2015
a science adventure! Lucy is a beetle & a scientist, and she leads her team on an expedition away from the only home they know to try to discover stuff about the wide world. this book is cute & hilarious & surprising, and loads of fun. plus you will learn a lot about insect biology, i bet.
April 26, 2016
READING THIS BOOK IS LIKE COMPLETING A LOVE CIRCUIT. Hopefully I'll get a chance to write more later.
April 23, 2015
This might be my favorite graphic novel. I loved it.
December 2, 2020
I read this at my elementary aged kids' behest because they LOVE it, and I enjoyed it more than I expected to! There's plenty of real science, so I was not surprised to learn that the author is a biology professor, but the story is what fascinated my kids and keeps them revisiting it. There were more plot twists than I expected, and the way the plot fits together with interwoven science makes the whole book lend itself really well to re-reads. We borrowed it from our public library but I'm going to buy a copy for our home library, and it's going on my potential gift-giving list as well.
As an adult with intermediate graphic-novel-reading skills, I sometimes found I had to work at differentiating between a couple of the characters because they are all beetles and the illustrations are entirely black and white (so no color cues). My kids had no trouble, but they are "native readers" of graphic novels in a way that I am not, because I only started reading them about five years ago. That Last of the Sandwalkers was slightly challenging for me is not a criticism of it, rather an observation/guidepost for others who come late to the graphic novel party: I still really enjoyed this book, but I might have given up in frustration if it had been the first graphic novel I tried to read. I don't think it would be a good entry point into the medium.* And I want readers to have a good experience with graphic novels; despite my relative inexperience, I am definitely a fan of the medium! If you're at least somewhat comfortable with the format and interested in an adventure story (with philosophical and scientific underpinnings) about exploring beetles, I think you would really enjoy Last of the Sandwalkers.
* Unless you are super familiar with beetles already, because then you would probably have an easy time telling them apart even if you haven't read a graphic novel before...?
As an adult with intermediate graphic-novel-reading skills, I sometimes found I had to work at differentiating between a couple of the characters because they are all beetles and the illustrations are entirely black and white (so no color cues). My kids had no trouble, but they are "native readers" of graphic novels in a way that I am not, because I only started reading them about five years ago. That Last of the Sandwalkers was slightly challenging for me is not a criticism of it, rather an observation/guidepost for others who come late to the graphic novel party: I still really enjoyed this book, but I might have given up in frustration if it had been the first graphic novel I tried to read. I don't think it would be a good entry point into the medium.* And I want readers to have a good experience with graphic novels; despite my relative inexperience, I am definitely a fan of the medium! If you're at least somewhat comfortable with the format and interested in an adventure story (with philosophical and scientific underpinnings) about exploring beetles, I think you would really enjoy Last of the Sandwalkers.
* Unless you are super familiar with beetles already, because then you would probably have an easy time telling them apart even if you haven't read a graphic novel before...?
May 23, 2019
Hello I am a 15 year old guy reading the book known as "Last of the Sandwalkers". My personal experience was mildly good because although the graphics were too distracting and it was hard for me to concentrate on the book, I really enjoyed it. The overall theme I got when reading this is book is to not underestimate others when it comes to size or adaptability Since the book is about Brave bugs going on a trepid adventure, through a barren wasteland. -Cough Cough- A desert. it is hard to differentiate the characters when reading since some literally look the same as the others. This wasn't always the case but it was hard to tell in black and white. On Another note, it was hard to tell who was speaking at each given point. Some positives include average slice of life humor in it (mostly from 1 character that I almost immediately related to) and I felt some sort of thriller when reading because of the intense parts of the book, like the scene with the bat. The characters in the book such as Lucy, one of the main characters show leadership which is important because it shows that leaders aren't always perfect and they can make mistakes. Another main character showed development through responsibility which is also important because the character helped Lucy fix her mistakes when everyone had turned away. Overall, I would recommend this book if you don't get distracted by the illustrations, but if you DO get distracted easily due to any illustration, then this book isn't really a good fit for you. It's not bad in any way but it was just hard to follow slightly due to a lack of color. The Style is cartoony which is another plus if you're thinking about reading this and are into that kind of thing.
May 10, 2019
The graphic novel Last of the Sandwalkers by Jay Hosler is an unusual, rare tale. The point of view is from a beetle named Lucy who goes around exploring a desert with her beetle friends in search of a new home, after their old home was squashed by coconuts. The story has a deep plot that describes how and why some things in the happen. Each beetle in the group have distinctive features that make them very different from each other, yet them being all beetles. This graphic novel has periods of adventuring along with the beetles being scientifically intelligent. This aspect of the beetles being intelligent make the story develop to the point where the beetles discover new artifacts, and it also moves along to where trust is challenged and the group of beetles are threatened by outside sources.
Last of the Sandwalkers speaks out to me in the sense that it brings something new to the table. The fact that it is from a perspective other than a human makes me like it even more, as it gives an analysis to real-life things other than what humans see. Although I was disappointed that the pictures weren’t in color, I can still appreciate the smooth flowing of the pictures and the design of them. The plot is also something you don’t see often, especially with the science aspect that can almost make it seem sci-fi. With this being said, I like how multiple genres were combined to make the story even deeper, thus better. Overall, a solid book for any reader into adventures or maybe even science fiction. The various different characters are relatable and unique, and the story’s events are exciting to read about.
Last of the Sandwalkers speaks out to me in the sense that it brings something new to the table. The fact that it is from a perspective other than a human makes me like it even more, as it gives an analysis to real-life things other than what humans see. Although I was disappointed that the pictures weren’t in color, I can still appreciate the smooth flowing of the pictures and the design of them. The plot is also something you don’t see often, especially with the science aspect that can almost make it seem sci-fi. With this being said, I like how multiple genres were combined to make the story even deeper, thus better. Overall, a solid book for any reader into adventures or maybe even science fiction. The various different characters are relatable and unique, and the story’s events are exciting to read about.
November 29, 2017
4.5 stars.
I checked this book out from the library but was not sure what to expect. Thought it might be a bit text heavy. I ended up really loving it and didn't find it tedious at all.
The art was quite enjoyable though I must admit that it was a bit too busy at times and I had to stare a while to make sense of certain pages. I thought the composition of many of the panels and pages were just wonderful though.
The story was okay. Enjoyable but not amazing. I really liked the characters though. I felt they were very vibrant.
And I learned so much! It honestly piqued an interest in bugs that was never there before.
My only real complaint was getting hit over the head with the anti-religion theme. It's not the theme I'm complaining against, but the complete and utter lack of nuance or subtlety. It started as just a broad "this guy obviously follows tradition more than innovation" to "he's a religious nut who is completely against science and learning" to then pushing even a bit further with comments that made sure the reader is aware that it's not just a literary enemy but a specific group of people in the real world (paraphrasing) 'of course it [the evil guy's inventory] was a dud, it was made in his own image.' Hm, wonder who that was directed towards?
Other than the overly preachy tone in some parts, I thought it was excellent.
I checked this book out from the library but was not sure what to expect. Thought it might be a bit text heavy. I ended up really loving it and didn't find it tedious at all.
The art was quite enjoyable though I must admit that it was a bit too busy at times and I had to stare a while to make sense of certain pages. I thought the composition of many of the panels and pages were just wonderful though.
The story was okay. Enjoyable but not amazing. I really liked the characters though. I felt they were very vibrant.
And I learned so much! It honestly piqued an interest in bugs that was never there before.
My only real complaint was getting hit over the head with the anti-religion theme. It's not the theme I'm complaining against, but the complete and utter lack of nuance or subtlety. It started as just a broad "this guy obviously follows tradition more than innovation" to "he's a religious nut who is completely against science and learning" to then pushing even a bit further with comments that made sure the reader is aware that it's not just a literary enemy but a specific group of people in the real world (paraphrasing) 'of course it [the evil guy's inventory] was a dud, it was made in his own image.' Hm, wonder who that was directed towards?
Other than the overly preachy tone in some parts, I thought it was excellent.
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