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Hilo #4
Waking the Monsters
Dog Man meets Big Nate in HILO-the hilarious New York Times bestselling graphic novel series that kids (and robots!) love! “A Total BLAST,” says the Miami Herald! Chock full of MORE MONSTERS! MORE ACTION! MORE LAUGHS! MORE FUN!
DJ and Gina are TOTALLY ordinary kids. But Hilo isn’t! ALERT! ALERT! ALERT! Has our favorite space boy finally met his match? Not if D.J. and Gina can help it! Mega Robot Monsters are suddenly waking up all over and they’re TOO BIG and TOO STRONG for Hilo to fight on his own! Luckily, he doesn’t have to! He has GINA and some brand new SUPER POWERS on his side! Being heroes can be super fun-but it can also be SUPER dangerous! And the closer Hilo and Gina get to saving their world from the monsters–the closer Hilo gets to the dark secret of his past. Does he really want to know? Do WE?!
DJ and Gina are TOTALLY ordinary kids. But Hilo isn’t! ALERT! ALERT! ALERT! Has our favorite space boy finally met his match? Not if D.J. and Gina can help it! Mega Robot Monsters are suddenly waking up all over and they’re TOO BIG and TOO STRONG for Hilo to fight on his own! Luckily, he doesn’t have to! He has GINA and some brand new SUPER POWERS on his side! Being heroes can be super fun-but it can also be SUPER dangerous! And the closer Hilo and Gina get to saving their world from the monsters–the closer Hilo gets to the dark secret of his past. Does he really want to know? Do WE?!
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 16, 2018
223 people are currently reading
532 people want to read
About the author
Judd Winick
786 books393 followersJudd 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.
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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
October 23, 2018
More good feels in #4, and at this point I'm solidly glad that I trusted Winick when I picked this series up for my boys.
There's a lot about friendship in here. What it means to be a friend. A lot of discussion about how it's okay to be afraid, and about how *everyone* is scared sometimes, no matter how powerful they are.
The story talks about how important it is to be brave, too. And, miraculously, it happens in a good way, not in that bullshitty machismo a-real-man-doesn't-fear-pain sort of way. Bravery is doing things that you need to, even if you don't want to, even if you're afraid.
And there's legitimately funny parts. And good action. And mysteries to solve. And a discussion of how important it is to help other people. And, most importantly, how there are so many different way to help. (Not just by flying around and shooting lasers out of your hands.)
Everything said, I'm loving this series, and I'm delighted that my boys like it, too. I've already reached out to the local comic store to order #5 in the series that comes out in a couple months.
There's a lot about friendship in here. What it means to be a friend. A lot of discussion about how it's okay to be afraid, and about how *everyone* is scared sometimes, no matter how powerful they are.
The story talks about how important it is to be brave, too. And, miraculously, it happens in a good way, not in that bullshitty machismo a-real-man-doesn't-fear-pain sort of way. Bravery is doing things that you need to, even if you don't want to, even if you're afraid.
And there's legitimately funny parts. And good action. And mysteries to solve. And a discussion of how important it is to help other people. And, most importantly, how there are so many different way to help. (Not just by flying around and shooting lasers out of your hands.)
Everything said, I'm loving this series, and I'm delighted that my boys like it, too. I've already reached out to the local comic store to order #5 in the series that comes out in a couple months.
April 3, 2022
Still great! My kid is hooked and loves each new aspect and character.
May 22, 2018
A cliffhanger ending??? NOOOOOOOOO!!!
February 1, 2018
I enjoy this graphic series. This latest book was as enjoyable as the first three. I liked the story and the artwork. My only complaint is that the next installment doesn't come out until 2019!
June 18, 2018
Another great installation in the Hilo series! My son and I really loved getting to know Izzy.
we can't wait for book # 5!
we can't wait for book # 5!
January 18, 2018
AHHHH!!!
OUTSTANDING!!!!
Especially the part where Gina finally...oh, I can't tell you that, you have to find out for yourself.
Or the part where Razorwark...oh, I can't tell you that, you have to find out for yourself.
But especially the deep thinking kids might do about the responsibility humans have in creating robots to do the things that we used to do for ourselves. And the responsibility of scientists, the responsibility of the armed forces, and our individual responsibility to be true to ourselves.
OUTSTANDING!!!!
Especially the part where Gina finally...oh, I can't tell you that, you have to find out for yourself.
Or the part where Razorwark...oh, I can't tell you that, you have to find out for yourself.
But especially the deep thinking kids might do about the responsibility humans have in creating robots to do the things that we used to do for ourselves. And the responsibility of scientists, the responsibility of the armed forces, and our individual responsibility to be true to ourselves.
January 24, 2018
The line for this one at my library formed behind me. I always enjoy this series and it has built a big following with its humour and action filled sci-fi plot. It will be a long wait for book five.
February 9, 2018
Love this series...can’t wait for more!
February 21, 2021
This was the first time that I felt the narrative was being stretched rather than powering along as usual but that's not to say I didn't enjoy it: of course I did! The series manages absurdity and silliness alongside genuinely human feelings and emotions. I feel bad that D.J. is side-lined so much but I suspect great things await him. There is a nice touch with Gina confessing to her mother how much she does not want to pursue 'her' dreams but instead wants to just be who she wants to be. I stand by the fact that the series will be enjoy by most readers and whilst it's sure to make many reluctant readers pick up a book, it's far more than that too.
December 24, 2019
Hilo's sister enters the picture, Izzy. She's hesitant having Hilo remember his entire past because it might too much for him to bear. More robots attack throughout the world and Hilo and the gang need to find out how to stop all of them.
The wit continues and on track. The importance of family and friendship and trust. So good!
The wit continues and on track. The importance of family and friendship and trust. So good!
February 26, 2018
LOVE this Hilo series! This one I think I enjoyed more than the previous three. The students have been eager for this next installment to come out and they are lined up for it now. Keep 'em coming, Judd Winick!
April 29, 2025
There's just one word for it: Outstanding!
...look, this series is really good, and I recommend it wholeheartedly. It's not rocking my world, but each issue has been very enjoyable to read, and combines silly gags, fun action and some very heartfelt moments.
...look, this series is really good, and I recommend it wholeheartedly. It's not rocking my world, but each issue has been very enjoyable to read, and combines silly gags, fun action and some very heartfelt moments.
February 11, 2018
High energy, fun-filled, and stuffed with juvenile fart and butt jokes that appeal to the eternal 12-year-old in me.
April 6, 2018
Really interesting juvenile series about what it means to love and what human is.
October 6, 2019
I really didn’t get the plot like in the other books where I did.
January 18, 2020
My favorite part was when the medics say he has no injuries at all and Hilo just wears body armor, very strong body armor.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2020
Best book so far in what is overall a fantastic series. The kiddo and I are loving it!
March 23, 2018
Winick astounds
with this incredible series.
Aimed at a younger audience
it is easily read by older fans.
Winnick wrote two of my favorite
books
the comic strip FRUMPY THE CLOWN
and BARRY WEEN BOY GENIUS
both filled with Winick's
brilliantly unique artwork.
and his wonderful smartass writing.
With HILO Winick is trying something new.
Being G rated.
He delivers astoundingly.
Hilo is an android from
another world.
Created to fight humans
in the war between
robot (slaves) and humans
he decided to rebel and not fight anymore.
Fleeing from his master
he ends up on Earth.
Meeting DJ who becomes his best friend.
They have all sorts of adventures.
Across worlds.
Fighting monsters.
All with the looming presence
of his Master Razorwark
and the treat he presents to Earth.
This is a clever series.
Filled with big ideas
presented in way that they
are easily absorbed by the young
audience this book is meant for.
Winick is a gifted writer
and a genius artist.
This series is nothing less than flawless.
with this incredible series.
Aimed at a younger audience
it is easily read by older fans.
Winnick wrote two of my favorite
books
the comic strip FRUMPY THE CLOWN
and BARRY WEEN BOY GENIUS
both filled with Winick's
brilliantly unique artwork.
and his wonderful smartass writing.
With HILO Winick is trying something new.
Being G rated.
He delivers astoundingly.
Hilo is an android from
another world.
Created to fight humans
in the war between
robot (slaves) and humans
he decided to rebel and not fight anymore.
Fleeing from his master
he ends up on Earth.
Meeting DJ who becomes his best friend.
They have all sorts of adventures.
Across worlds.
Fighting monsters.
All with the looming presence
of his Master Razorwark
and the treat he presents to Earth.
This is a clever series.
Filled with big ideas
presented in way that they
are easily absorbed by the young
audience this book is meant for.
Winick is a gifted writer
and a genius artist.
This series is nothing less than flawless.
March 4, 2018
I LOVED this! Superb artwork, especially the giant robot monsters that are intent on squashing towns. Very funny, especially Izzy's madcap inventions - a tiny, floating rhino that sneezes and keeps bugs away without hurting them; a skunk that makes popcorn; a parrot made from a microwave oven that sings in Italian! Yet it doesn't shy away from some more emotional story lines - the backstory about why Razorwark is fighting humans was very poignant.
March 19, 2018
Judd Winick's series continues with book 4 titled Waking the Monsters and we find ourselves back with HiLo and his friends as they continue to fight off the monsters that are being unleashed on earth by Razorwark. Two heroes are born: Comet and Star Burst. This is the book where we finally discover just exactly why Razorwark wants to destroy humanity and where all of the robots are coming from. If you've been following the series from the beginning, you'll be happy to learn that Gina finally expresses her true feelings about being a cheerleader to her mom. Eagle-eyed readers should pay special attention to the background of the illustrations for an especially funny jab at the U.S. government (unless you're a Trump supporter in which case you probably won't think it's that funny). It continues to be an action packed, humorous book about friendship and doing the right thing. Winick knows how to capture his audience's attention and keep it even when books are spread out (the next is sadly not due out until 2019). You're not even ready for the ending of this one, guys! I think the best part about reading the HiLo series is that I have quite a few kids here at the branch that are reading it right along with me. Since I'm always here I have the benefit of reading it first so when they come and check out the shelves and see it I can gush about how much they're going to like it. (Maybe I crow over reading it before them a bit but that's neither here nor there.) 10/10 for readability and 'inside' jokes + making a connection with my kids.
September 23, 2025
I remember having picked up this series at random (because... Cat), then finding to my immense delight that it's not only a fun, wholesome comedy adventure with a heavy focus on friendship, it's ALSO emotionally powerful—every book has had an amazingly OUTSTANDING! ending with a lot of heart.
Well, except 10, because I read out of order and didn't understand the ending at the time (though it was still a great read!). Still, who'd have thought a goofy fun-loving (superpowered) robot boy and his inventively absurd "sister" would be so heartwarming?
The books have also been very good about summarising the prior books, other than Gina has latent magic skills from having been whisked away to another planet (of cats!) and they taught her while she was there (it sort of explains but it feels not as clear to newcomers as it could be). Gina is also the focus of a much-needed coming clean to her mother, for . That did feel a bit forced to begin with (when exactly did Gina give the impression she wanted to be a clone of her sisters?), but the payoff is nice. So's the big twist with ! WHAT!
Absolutely recommended for EVERYONE! (though preferably whoever has read the prior books, for maximum impact)
Well, except 10, because I read out of order and didn't understand the ending at the time (though it was still a great read!). Still, who'd have thought a goofy fun-loving (superpowered) robot boy and his inventively absurd "sister" would be so heartwarming?
The books have also been very good about summarising the prior books, other than Gina has latent magic skills from having been whisked away to another planet (of cats!) and they taught her while she was there (it sort of explains but it feels not as clear to newcomers as it could be). Gina is also the focus of a much-needed coming clean to her mother, for . That did feel a bit forced to begin with (when exactly did Gina give the impression she wanted to be a clone of her sisters?), but the payoff is nice. So's the big twist with ! WHAT!
Absolutely recommended for EVERYONE! (though preferably whoever has read the prior books, for maximum impact)
May 24, 2018
This is the 4th volume in the HiLO series and was another excellent installment in that series. This is a book that I think kids and adults alike will enjoy.
HiLo’s sister has joined the team and she is super smart (and super distracted). She is helping them to track giant robot monsters that are emerging from the Earth. HiLo can’t fight all of this on his own, so HiLo’s sister builds a supersuit for Gina. Now Gina and HiLo are our kicking some monster butt, but when things get too tough HiLo awakens into new and uncontrollable power.
I loved that Gina finally confronted her mother about cheerleading and that her mother was supportive about it. It was a good look at how parents can get a bit blind to what their kids actually want sometimes. I also continue to enjoy the friendship between our characters and the uniqueness of the characters.
The illustration continues to be bright and colorful, easy to follow, and just generally well done. The whole story has been fantastic fun and I am really loving it. There are a number of parts in here that are laugh-out-loud hilarious.
Overall an amazing continuation of this middle grade science fiction graphic novel series. I would highly recommend for all ages but especially for fans of graphic novel series like Cleopatra in Space, Mighty Jack, and Amulet.
HiLo’s sister has joined the team and she is super smart (and super distracted). She is helping them to track giant robot monsters that are emerging from the Earth. HiLo can’t fight all of this on his own, so HiLo’s sister builds a supersuit for Gina. Now Gina and HiLo are our kicking some monster butt, but when things get too tough HiLo awakens into new and uncontrollable power.
I loved that Gina finally confronted her mother about cheerleading and that her mother was supportive about it. It was a good look at how parents can get a bit blind to what their kids actually want sometimes. I also continue to enjoy the friendship between our characters and the uniqueness of the characters.
The illustration continues to be bright and colorful, easy to follow, and just generally well done. The whole story has been fantastic fun and I am really loving it. There are a number of parts in here that are laugh-out-loud hilarious.
Overall an amazing continuation of this middle grade science fiction graphic novel series. I would highly recommend for all ages but especially for fans of graphic novel series like Cleopatra in Space, Mighty Jack, and Amulet.
February 22, 2018
Another delightful entry in the HiLo series by Judd Winick. I found myself laughing a number of times throughout the book. HiLo, his sister Izzy, D.J., and Gina make a fabulous group of characters who are set on thwarting Razorwark's plan to destroy humankind. But HiLo still doesn't remember everything from his past and Izzy is worried that if he remembers everything too soon it will hurt him and be too difficult to accept. But when large animal robots start erupting from the earth, it's up to HiLo, Izzy, D.J., and Gina to stop the robots from destroying nearby cities. With an awesome set of armor (created by the amazing Izzy who can make almost anything), HiLo sets out to stop these mega robots. But it soon becomes clear that HiLo may not be able to handle it all himself (with the others as backup at the house). Gina continues to practice her magical skills in an effort to help. Unfortunately, the army's efforts to figure out the robots doesn't help matters any and before long, HiLo is left having to make a difficult choice. I love this series, the graphics are great, the characters are great, and there's lots of humor to lighten things up.
May 4, 2020
The book starts with Hilo starting to throw Izzy in the air a bunch of times, Then They go inside and Izzy starts to craft a bunch of stuff. Then they went to Gina's house. Her mom asked about Izzy Daniel said" She was at her uncles house." Then they went back home, Izzy started dancing. Daniel ask what do you call this dance. Izzy said nothing. The next day robots started attacking Hilo was responsible to take out the crimes. Then one day Hilo needed help so Gina Helped him, After that fight they found out that the military's bunker was filled with robots. Hilo went in disguise as a worker. So he can some ho tell the military to destroy them. That didn't work because the robots woke up
Hilo put on his super hero suit and the lasered them. After, he fell on the and went in a coma. Then Gina was sent to help add then Razerwok came and made Hilo remember all the past after all that they went back and Izzy brought Dr.Hrizon Their father..
Hilo put on his super hero suit and the lasered them. After, he fell on the and went in a coma. Then Gina was sent to help add then Razerwok came and made Hilo remember all the past after all that they went back and Izzy brought Dr.Hrizon Their father..
June 18, 2018
The art and writing and general character development continues to be strong. There were a couple of times I thought Winick might fall into the trap of making the message more important than the story, which always flattens the impact of the story itself. But, he successfully navigated around that, and Izzy developed into a sympathetic, individualized character who is recognizably on the spectrum, instead of becoming a stock autistic "type." Acceptance and celebration of difference is a major theme throughout this story, but it never overwhelms the narrative. I'm also impressed by the sophistication and yet the accessibility of HiLo's commitment to recognizing the "humanity" of his fellow robots. He refuses to render black and white something that is clearly gray, and has an inspiring ethical clarity. But the story is also a ton of fun! And that, really, is the most important thing.
November 6, 2018
The HiLo series is one of the best I have read in this age range. The stories have a complexity and unexpectedness that keeps them fresh, interesting, and, well ... unexpected. They're funny. The art is great! And the characters are not your typical comic book heroes. For those parents concerned about young readers' too early exposure to cartoon violence, consider the HiLo series. There's enough cartoon violence to keep kids interested, but it's different. More sophisticated. And with a heart. Many times, "New York Times bestseller" is a backhanded compliment. In this case, it's just comforting to know that lots of people recognize how good the series is. Can't wait for book #5!
January 18, 2018
Outstanding!
Really. I can't say much more than that. If you really must know, then you can check out my reviews for the first three books, where I talk about my love for Judd Winick and the characters he creates. Or you can just take my word for it and start reading the series.
(Though you should really start with the first book if you're new to the series.)
Really. I can't say much more than that. If you really must know, then you can check out my reviews for the first three books, where I talk about my love for Judd Winick and the characters he creates. Or you can just take my word for it and start reading the series.
(Though you should really start with the first book if you're new to the series.)
April 13, 2024
We are so proud of you for reading "Waking the Monsters" by Judd Winick! This exciting story teaches us about bravery and facing our fears. Just like the heroes in the book who find courage to face the monsters, you too can be brave when you face challenges or fears. Remember, it's okay to feel scared, but just like the characters, you have the strength inside you to overcome any obstacles. Keep being brave, sweetheart, and always believe in yourself!
Love,
Mom and Dad
Love,
Mom and Dad
December 25, 2025
We're so proud of you for reading "Waking the Monsters"! You learned something wonderful – that when things feel too big and scary to handle alone, your friends can help you be brave. Just like Hilo needed Gina and DJ to fight the monsters together, you can always ask your friends, teachers, or us for help when something feels hard. Working together makes everyone stronger! You're becoming such a great reader, sweetheart. Keep going!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 22, 2018
While I have some quibbles with the series (some of the plot devices are awfully convenient), I love reading these with my son. Both the humor and the emotion in these books really resonate with him. If your kids liked the first three, book 4 will not disappoint. And now my son is learning the hard part of falling for a series in progress: book 5 won’t be out until 2019!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews