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Hilo #5
Then Everything Went Wrong
Take off on a new adventure and find out more about what really happened on Hilo’s world with HILO–the hilarious, action-packed New York Times BESTSELLING GRAPHIC NOVEL SERIES that kids love!
MORE ACTION! MORE FUN! MORE LAUGHS! MORE ROBOTS! What REALLY happened in Hilo’s world before he came to Earth? D.J. and our favorite space boy, Hilo, take a DANGEROUS trip to Hilo’s home planet to find out! But everything Hilo thinks he knows about his past is about to be turned inside out and UPSIDE DOWN! Hilo was supposed to save everyone…but what happens if it’s Hilo that needs saving?! Is ANYONE who we think they are? Can Hilo and his friends figure out how all the pieces fit…before it’s too late?!
MORE ACTION! MORE FUN! MORE LAUGHS! MORE ROBOTS! What REALLY happened in Hilo’s world before he came to Earth? D.J. and our favorite space boy, Hilo, take a DANGEROUS trip to Hilo’s home planet to find out! But everything Hilo thinks he knows about his past is about to be turned inside out and UPSIDE DOWN! Hilo was supposed to save everyone…but what happens if it’s Hilo that needs saving?! Is ANYONE who we think they are? Can Hilo and his friends figure out how all the pieces fit…before it’s too late?!
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 29, 2019
240 people are currently reading
443 people want to read
About the author
Judd Winick
787 books392 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 110 reviews
February 11, 2019
Another great book in the series. The ending makes me wish I had waited to read it because now I can't wait for Book 6!
November 2, 2023
The ending was crazy for this one!
Hilo is a children's book but damn if it ain't entertaining. Giving you real stakes for the children to decide who's bad and good. The world inside Hilo isn't so black and white and it's hard for kids to decide who really is bad or good. I love the art, the characters, and the emotion here. Great stuff!
Hilo is a children's book but damn if it ain't entertaining. Giving you real stakes for the children to decide who's bad and good. The world inside Hilo isn't so black and white and it's hard for kids to decide who really is bad or good. I love the art, the characters, and the emotion here. Great stuff!
February 6, 2019
This is the fifth book in the HiLo series. My son and I both read these and really love them, we buy them immediately when they release. This latest installment was very fun and we both loved it.
In this book we get to journey back to HiLo’s home world and finally learn what really happened there. Meanwhile back on earth, a robot D.J. and HiLo are causing all sorts of trouble at school, while the government continues their efforts to track down “comet-boy”.
This story was a little more spread out than previous books. We jump between Earth and HiLo’s home world. I love the quirkiness and humor in these books, they always make me laugh. I also enjoy the creativity, brightly colored illustrations, the characters, and the story.
Overall this was a fantastic addition to the HiLo series and I can’t wait to see where the story goes from here. I would recommend to those who enjoy funny, action packed science fiction graphic novels.
In this book we get to journey back to HiLo’s home world and finally learn what really happened there. Meanwhile back on earth, a robot D.J. and HiLo are causing all sorts of trouble at school, while the government continues their efforts to track down “comet-boy”.
This story was a little more spread out than previous books. We jump between Earth and HiLo’s home world. I love the quirkiness and humor in these books, they always make me laugh. I also enjoy the creativity, brightly colored illustrations, the characters, and the story.
Overall this was a fantastic addition to the HiLo series and I can’t wait to see where the story goes from here. I would recommend to those who enjoy funny, action packed science fiction graphic novels.
February 28, 2021
The fifth in the series sees the three different worlds connected in this story finally reveal some of their secrets. Hilo's homeworld, Jannus, Earth and Polly's (the monk-like anthropomorphic cat) Oshun all show that they are connected in some way and that the plot is building up to some revelation that we have not expected. In addition, Razorwark's story is finally revealed as is more of Hilo's past. Although this leads to some 'sadder' moments in the text, the carnivalesque relationship between adults and children really come together in this and so much humour and chaos abounds. Both my boys are still loving this series as am I.
April 13, 2019
This is overloaded with the kind of stuff that can make penultimate chapters boring: the main character group split up in separate storylines, loads of exposition, characters from earlier volumes shoehorned in, generic government agencies closing in, etc.
The characters are still fun, with all their energy, enthusiasm and exclamation points, but I'm ready for this first story arc to wrap up, hopefully in the next volume according to the last-page teaser.
The characters are still fun, with all their energy, enthusiasm and exclamation points, but I'm ready for this first story arc to wrap up, hopefully in the next volume according to the last-page teaser.
September 11, 2021
This book is very funny and I think it's realistic.
December 15, 2024
A good read
May 25, 2021
Outstanding! This book explains so much but doesn’t rely too heavily on exposition.
April 6, 2019
HiLo: Then Everything Went Wrong is the 5th book in the continuing series by Judd Winick about the boy who fell to earth and turned out to be a superhero robot. [A/N: If you've been around for a while then you might recall that I reviewed the other books in 2 separate posts (1-3 and 4) so if you need to catch up then go read those posts first.] Winick is notorious for his cliffhangers in this series and the end of book 4 was no exception but fear not because MANY questions are answered in this book (although several more are posed). The true history of Razorwark and his creator are revealed. It's actually quite believable based on real life events (I'm talking Robopocalypse of course). Additionally, HiLo uncovers more about his past and how exactly Izzy and Dr. Horizon fit in (you're going to be shocked so prepare yourselves). This continues to fit the bill of 'excellent middle grade graphic novel for sci-fi nerds' so no complaints from me on that point but the gaps between books are lengthening. The next book doesn't hit the stands until January 2020!
P.S. The government finally figures out who the Comet is.
P.S. The government finally figures out who the Comet is.
November 19, 2019
Then Everything Went Wrong (Hilo, #5) by Judd Winick, 192 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL Random House, 2019. $14.
Content: Language: G; Mature Content: G; Violence: PG.
BUYING ADVISORY: EL – ESSENTIAL
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
A kid robot named Hilo, fights other robots using a super suit. The government thinks he’s dangerous and they put him in custody. Hilo escapes from the government and then Hilo and D.J. go to another world called Janice to get Hilo’s memory back. At Janice, they meet Dr. Bloodmoon and she tells Hilo everything that he had forgotten from before he went to earth. Now that Hilo knows about his life from before, he remembers an important secret.
I liked this book because it has awesome drawings which make the story easy to understand. I liked the personality of all the characters and some of the characters are funny. People who like graphic novels, adventure and humor will love this book for sure. The violence is fighting robots
Student Reviewer, Logan, 4th grade.
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
Content: Language: G; Mature Content: G; Violence: PG.
BUYING ADVISORY: EL – ESSENTIAL
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
A kid robot named Hilo, fights other robots using a super suit. The government thinks he’s dangerous and they put him in custody. Hilo escapes from the government and then Hilo and D.J. go to another world called Janice to get Hilo’s memory back. At Janice, they meet Dr. Bloodmoon and she tells Hilo everything that he had forgotten from before he went to earth. Now that Hilo knows about his life from before, he remembers an important secret.
I liked this book because it has awesome drawings which make the story easy to understand. I liked the personality of all the characters and some of the characters are funny. People who like graphic novels, adventure and humor will love this book for sure. The violence is fighting robots
Student Reviewer, Logan, 4th grade.
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
August 5, 2019
HiLo: Then Everything Went Wrong is a quirky read that is at times humorous, at times serious, but always remembers to have fun with itself. As the title suggests, everything that can go wrong does go wrong, including the kids’ efforts to come up with solutions to their problems.
While adults are present in the story, they don’t play an active role in saving (read: attempting to save) the day. Some know what’s going on but remain in the background; all they provide is vital information to unlock the truth, or they rely on HiLo to solve all their problems. Others are completely in the dark, such as DJ’s parents. Still others, like government workers, create the problem.
Through HiLo’s story, this book raises the question on the ethics associated with artificial intelligence and android rights. Visuals-wise, it features full-color illustrations, open layouts, and minimal text. This is perfect for young readers and reluctant readers. I enjoyed this creative, light-hearted read and recommend it for fans of space adventures like the Akiko series, superheroes, humor, and aliens and robots with a touch of magic.
Note: I jumped into this one without having read #1-4. While I was able to figure out key plot elements as I went, I recommend reading this series in sequential order. I am definitely interested in reading the first four books and then book 6 when it comes out!
INITIAL THOUGHTS
A fun, creative book that younger readers and reluctant readeres will enjoy.
While adults are present in the story, they don’t play an active role in saving (read: attempting to save) the day. Some know what’s going on but remain in the background; all they provide is vital information to unlock the truth, or they rely on HiLo to solve all their problems. Others are completely in the dark, such as DJ’s parents. Still others, like government workers, create the problem.
Through HiLo’s story, this book raises the question on the ethics associated with artificial intelligence and android rights. Visuals-wise, it features full-color illustrations, open layouts, and minimal text. This is perfect for young readers and reluctant readers. I enjoyed this creative, light-hearted read and recommend it for fans of space adventures like the Akiko series, superheroes, humor, and aliens and robots with a touch of magic.
Note: I jumped into this one without having read #1-4. While I was able to figure out key plot elements as I went, I recommend reading this series in sequential order. I am definitely interested in reading the first four books and then book 6 when it comes out!
INITIAL THOUGHTS
A fun, creative book that younger readers and reluctant readeres will enjoy.
July 19, 2020
I have been A Winick fans
simply for ages.
Ever since his brilliant
comic strip
"Frumpy the Clown"
Over the years he has written
and drawn many incredible works.
"Barry Ween Boy Genius"
springs to mind.
But I believe HILO
is is masterpiece.
The story of an alien
robot who falls from the sky
with no memory in front of some
ordinary Earth kids
who take him in and
shelter him until his memory returns.
Along the way giant robot monsters
begin appear and threaten the populace.
Hilo may not know who he is
but he knows he has to protect people.
As this delightful series unfolds
over 6 glorious volumes
Hilo and his friends discover new friends
new wonders and that they each
have the strength to be a hero.
It is written for Primary Schoolers
but is great exciting fun for those of who
are not
(that means OLD)
Equal parts
Thrilling
Funny
And Touching
This series is the work of a master.
simply for ages.
Ever since his brilliant
comic strip
"Frumpy the Clown"
Over the years he has written
and drawn many incredible works.
"Barry Ween Boy Genius"
springs to mind.
But I believe HILO
is is masterpiece.
The story of an alien
robot who falls from the sky
with no memory in front of some
ordinary Earth kids
who take him in and
shelter him until his memory returns.
Along the way giant robot monsters
begin appear and threaten the populace.
Hilo may not know who he is
but he knows he has to protect people.
As this delightful series unfolds
over 6 glorious volumes
Hilo and his friends discover new friends
new wonders and that they each
have the strength to be a hero.
It is written for Primary Schoolers
but is great exciting fun for those of who
are not
(that means OLD)
Equal parts
Thrilling
Funny
And Touching
This series is the work of a master.
April 11, 2019
Another exciting book in an appealing, standout graphic novel series for middle grade readers. In this 5th of 6 books, the tension builds to a crescendo as HiLo and D.J. set out to discover the remaining missing pieces of HiLo's memory. While they visit HiLo's world and discover that things have changed drastically since HiLo was there last, Gina, Izzy, Lisa, and Polly are left to cover for their absence. Izzy create a couple of robots to fill their shoes, but it's immediately clear to Gina that both robots behavior are raising suspicions. And the military is getting ever closer to discovering The Comet's identity. The characters are delightful, even the villain is sympathetic at one point, and provide plenty of humor to balance out the intense fight sequences. The colors are bright and eye-catching. And the twist at the end is jaw-dropping in it's implications for the final book. I very much look forward to reading the final chapter of HiLo's story and finding out what happens to all of the different characters.
February 16, 2019
When Dr. Horizon arrives on the scene, he informs Hilo that Razorwark made him forget many important things that happened back on his home planet. Hilo and his trusty friend D.J. travel to Hilo's planet of origin to get to the bottom of this mystery and to find out the truth. Amid all the dangers to both of them, Hilo is in for several shocks as it quickly becomes apparent that nothing he believes to be true is true and that he might not be able to trust some of his allies. Youngsters who love science fiction and robots with a heavy heaping of humor will enjoy this, the fifth book in the graphic comic series. There's also plenty of action and great coloring used in the panels.
March 24, 2019
This is the fifth in this series of graphic novels featuring a robot Hilo who acts like a boy on earth and his main earthing friend DJ. This time they travel to Hilo's home planet while substitutes are left behind on earth. They encounter a series of adventures, whle their replacements cause some interesting moments back on earth. Winick creates a narrative story with humor that will appeal to the right readers. Accessible in graphic form and now with five in the series, it might be a good series to introduce to the right reluctant reader.
April 13, 2024
We're so proud of you for reading "Then Everything Went Wrong" by Judd Winick! This story teaches us that sometimes things don't go as planned, but that's okay. Just like the characters learn to adapt and find solutions, you too can remember that when things get tough, your creativity and resilience can help you find a way through. Keep using your clever ideas to solve problems and always believe in yourself, even when things seem difficult. You're doing wonderfully, and we love your strong spirit!
Love,
Mom and Dad
Love,
Mom and Dad
June 12, 2019
*I received a free review copy of this book from the publisher through my district library services*
I can see why these graphic novels are so appealing. Fun characters, a lot of humor, adventure, and a bit of depth. Unfortunately, this is my first Hilo book, and I think I missed some connections. It would seem this is a series that is best to read in order. It ends with quite a cliffhanger, so I will probably try to read the next installment when I get a chance.
I can see why these graphic novels are so appealing. Fun characters, a lot of humor, adventure, and a bit of depth. Unfortunately, this is my first Hilo book, and I think I missed some connections. It would seem this is a series that is best to read in order. It ends with quite a cliffhanger, so I will probably try to read the next installment when I get a chance.
February 29, 2020
If you have made it this far in the series, you will not stop now. The pros: great for students, humor for kids (appropriate), and the characters act as real kids might. Cons: the artwork has dropped in my opinion, the emotional tragedy is hard to relate too.
The story is wholesome and decent and I recommend libraries to have this set on hand.
The story is wholesome and decent and I recommend libraries to have this set on hand.
July 12, 2020
Mixed Opinions
My 4th grade reading buddy did not like the look of this book and was reluctant to begin, then refused to go past the first chapter. Not wanting to give up, I read the whole book, hoping to reinterest him (unsuccessfully). In retrospect would have been better to start with #1 in the series instead of jumping in to #5.
My 4th grade reading buddy did not like the look of this book and was reluctant to begin, then refused to go past the first chapter. Not wanting to give up, I read the whole book, hoping to reinterest him (unsuccessfully). In retrospect would have been better to start with #1 in the series instead of jumping in to #5.
April 19, 2025
"Razorwark tampered with your mind. He made you forgot."
"He's coming to earth. "
"Yes. That's why it's so important that you remember everything now. Razorwark will rain down on us all."
Anyways,
In this book, you will find out who Razorwark is, his sad backstory, and a mysterious figure from Hilo's past!
"He's coming to earth. "
"Yes. That's why it's so important that you remember everything now. Razorwark will rain down on us all."
Anyways,
In this book, you will find out who Razorwark is, his sad backstory, and a mysterious figure from Hilo's past!
December 25, 2025
We're so proud of you for reading this wonderful book! You learned something really important - sometimes things go wrong and that's okay. Even Hilo, who's supposed to save everyone, needed help from his friends. This teaches you that when things don't go as planned, you can ask Mama, Baba, or your friends for help. You don't have to fix everything by yourself. Keep reading, sweetheart!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2019
This is the 5th book in the GN series about a boy robot from outer space who has fallen to earth & found a best friend. Its the 1st one I have read. It was light & enjoyable. I would read the others.
June 3, 2019
I really love the cliffhanger this time. Some things you can expect, like mangoes, but some things you cannot expect, like the fact that there was a giant parrot or that Dr.Horizon was actually Razorwark, and that Hilo figured out that all in his home planet.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 14, 2019
Something I appreciate about the HiLo series is how many layers it has embedded inside. This particular book delves into both Razorwark and HiLo’s histories. The twist ending was one I didn’t see coming, and I am very curious to see where the story goes.
March 18, 2020
That title isn't wrong, as there's a massive reveal on the very last page that throws everything into question. Exciting action! Twanging heartstrings! Bold heroism and unexpected betrayal! Lots of backstory unveiled!
Triffic stuff.
Triffic stuff.
March 26, 2022
Oh great. Now I have no idea who to believe. This book threw me some twists that I kinda saw coming but some I didn't. I can't wait to start the next one and see what the heck is correct in all this reveal.
April 16, 2024
i have yet to read any other of these in this series. my first here. i am new to Judd's writing. what fun. else characters will be so curious to you. they made me smile. fun times. great and so colorful. fun times. very creative and fun!! check this series out! for sure. bye. gotta read.
February 10, 2025
Hilo reminds me of Zatch Bell! Boy from another world, be friends w/ humans, the boy has powers and battles someone or something and a dramatic sting that leads into the series for more. He also kinda looks my friend, Donnie, when I was in Middle School.
January 29, 2019
I have had a list of students waiting to read this for a long time, and I know they will love it as much as the others in this series.
January 30, 2019
It was amazing! I definitely recommend it to other people to read. EXCEPT FOR THE END! IZZY WAS MY FAVORITE CHARACTER!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews