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Unplugged and Unpopular
After Erin Song's parents ban her from using her phone, TV, Internet, and all her screens, she soon discovers mysterious, strange creatures and must foil their plot to take over Earth in this sci-fi graphic novel for tweens.
Erin Song lives in a digital world. Everyone has a phone, a tablet, a computer—more screens than you can count. Even with a world of information at her fingertips, Erin can’t figure out the secret to popularity at her clique-y junior high school. So when uber-popular Wendy asks for help cheating on a test, Erin jumps at the opportunity. This could be her big break! Unfortunately, she gets caught, and her parents ban her from all her devices. Suddenly, Erin Song is the only girl in the world who’s not allowed to look at a screen.
And that’s when Erin notices something funny: small, furry aliens making humans disappear with a weird device Erin’s never seen before. No one else notices them, though—except Erin’s grandmother and two old men who run the local library. They’ve discovered that the aliens are using screens to control the human race, tricking them into thinking they aren’t really there—and that anyone who’s been abducted never existed.
Now it’s up to Erin and her grandmother to save the day! But without technology on their side, do they stand a chance?
Erin Song lives in a digital world. Everyone has a phone, a tablet, a computer—more screens than you can count. Even with a world of information at her fingertips, Erin can’t figure out the secret to popularity at her clique-y junior high school. So when uber-popular Wendy asks for help cheating on a test, Erin jumps at the opportunity. This could be her big break! Unfortunately, she gets caught, and her parents ban her from all her devices. Suddenly, Erin Song is the only girl in the world who’s not allowed to look at a screen.
And that’s when Erin notices something funny: small, furry aliens making humans disappear with a weird device Erin’s never seen before. No one else notices them, though—except Erin’s grandmother and two old men who run the local library. They’ve discovered that the aliens are using screens to control the human race, tricking them into thinking they aren’t really there—and that anyone who’s been abducted never existed.
Now it’s up to Erin and her grandmother to save the day! But without technology on their side, do they stand a chance?
144 pages, Paperback
First published October 15, 2019
10 people are currently reading
327 people want to read
About the author
Mat Heagerty
12 books35 followersMat Heagerty lives in Vermont with his best buds/family. He’s dyslexic, and struggled a bunch in school, but now he writes rad comics like Martian Ghost Centaur, Unplugged and Unpopular, and Lumberjackula!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
July 5, 2019
Cute, colourful, entertaining.
August 17, 2019
❥ 3 / 5 stars
[ e-ARC received from NetGalley ]
Unplugged and Unpopular is a graphic novel with underlying messages about technology and adorable illustrations. The story is about Erin Song who got punished from her parents by not allowing her to use mobile phone or any devices for one month. And when she went to the public library, she found that something was strange and unusual. She could see the monster but no one except two elderly twins who were in the library and her grandmother could see it too. So, their mission to solve this situation began... ❤️
I must admit that I really like the concept of this book but when I read it, I thought something was still lacking in the book and I also felt the rush in telling stories. And that’s why I didn’t enjoy it and feel connected with the main characters as much as I should.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this e-ARC to me in exchange for an honest review.
[ e-ARC received from NetGalley ]
Unplugged and Unpopular is a graphic novel with underlying messages about technology and adorable illustrations. The story is about Erin Song who got punished from her parents by not allowing her to use mobile phone or any devices for one month. And when she went to the public library, she found that something was strange and unusual. She could see the monster but no one except two elderly twins who were in the library and her grandmother could see it too. So, their mission to solve this situation began... ❤️
I must admit that I really like the concept of this book but when I read it, I thought something was still lacking in the book and I also felt the rush in telling stories. And that’s why I didn’t enjoy it and feel connected with the main characters as much as I should.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this e-ARC to me in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2019
A digital graphic comic.
It’s aimed at Tweens but it does seem a bit on the daft side at times.
However the concept is acceptable because we have this girl who so much wants to be liked and accepted. But, she gets herself into trouble at school.
The results of that is for her parents to remove all her devices.
That surely in this day and age would peeve any child off.
But she discovers a whole bunch of things since not being able to use her technology devices!
Fun, entertaining and I can see Tweens enjoying this.
It’s aimed at Tweens but it does seem a bit on the daft side at times.
However the concept is acceptable because we have this girl who so much wants to be liked and accepted. But, she gets herself into trouble at school.
The results of that is for her parents to remove all her devices.
That surely in this day and age would peeve any child off.
But she discovers a whole bunch of things since not being able to use her technology devices!
Fun, entertaining and I can see Tweens enjoying this.
August 17, 2019
Erin Song lives in Culver City, California, with her parents. She hasn’t managed to crack the popularity code yet.
When she’s no longer attached to her phone Erin begins to notice things she never has before, like aliens!
I enjoyed the illustrations and use of colour in this graphic novel. I particularly liked it when a noise was mentioned and words to describe it lined up with what was happening, for example, “breaking glass” was spelled with shards of broken glass.
I don’t think librarians will particularly like the comment about how the internet has resulted in libraries no longer being used. This is certainly not my experience as a frequent library user. All of the librarians I know are very tech savvy and I see people of all ages in my local library.
There are clues early on in the story about what’s really happening if you pay attention to what’s being said and details in the pictures. I loved that the president in this near future version of America is female and I had fun picking up on the background details, like the movie poster advertising Jaws 26. This naturally reminded me of when Doc’s Delorean arrived in 2015 and Marty McFly encountered the hologram shark from Jaws 19.
I really liked the points this story makes about popularity and how invaluable grandparents are in kids’ lives. This graphic novel also includes not so subtle commentary about the overuse of technology, with people so focused on the screen in front of them that they miss out on the reality that’s happening all around them. Considering that this story’s target audience are growing up surrounded by the glow of screens, it makes a good point.
My childhood would have been vastly different if I’d had access to the technology kids have on hand today and while I know I would have loved the internet as a kid I’m consistently grateful that social media didn’t exist back in the Dark Ages of my childhood.
While the majority of the story flowed well for me, I couldn’t figure out how I reread this story to try to make sense of this but I’m still not clear about it.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Oni Press for the opportunity to read this graphic novel.
While her best friend Cody doesn’t care about popularity, Erin does. This results in her going against her better judgement and helping the most popular girl in school cheat off her during an exam. When they get caught Erin’s parents ground her. Her punishment? No access to anything with a screen, so basically her entire existence.
When she’s no longer attached to her phone Erin begins to notice things she never has before, like aliens!
It quickly becomes clear that the aliens haven’t come in peace and it’s up to Erin, her grandmother and twin librarians, Joe and Charlie, to save the world.
I enjoyed the illustrations and use of colour in this graphic novel. I particularly liked it when a noise was mentioned and words to describe it lined up with what was happening, for example, “breaking glass” was spelled with shards of broken glass.
This story takes place in the near future; Erin’s grandmother is pictured as a young woman in the 1980’s and her parents grew up sans internet. While I love that the majority of the heroes live in retirement homes, this story also perpetuates the myth that older people and technology don’t mix. Besides Erin, who’s not using technology because she’s grounded, the only other people in the story who aren’t glued to their devices are elderly.
I don’t think librarians will particularly like the comment about how the internet has resulted in libraries no longer being used. This is certainly not my experience as a frequent library user. All of the librarians I know are very tech savvy and I see people of all ages in my local library.
There are clues early on in the story about what’s really happening if you pay attention to what’s being said and details in the pictures. I loved that the president in this near future version of America is female and I had fun picking up on the background details, like the movie poster advertising Jaws 26. This naturally reminded me of when Doc’s Delorean arrived in 2015 and Marty McFly encountered the hologram shark from Jaws 19.
I really liked the points this story makes about popularity and how invaluable grandparents are in kids’ lives. This graphic novel also includes not so subtle commentary about the overuse of technology, with people so focused on the screen in front of them that they miss out on the reality that’s happening all around them. Considering that this story’s target audience are growing up surrounded by the glow of screens, it makes a good point.
My childhood would have been vastly different if I’d had access to the technology kids have on hand today and while I know I would have loved the internet as a kid I’m consistently grateful that social media didn’t exist back in the Dark Ages of my childhood.
While the majority of the story flowed well for me, I couldn’t figure out how I reread this story to try to make sense of this but I’m still not clear about it.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Oni Press for the opportunity to read this graphic novel.
June 21, 2019
I was on the fence to begin with, but I stopped reading when the main character went into an empty library with librarians that claimed "we've been a bit slow the last couple decades. The internet hasn't been too kind to out kind." WTF - when was the last time the author went into a library? The internet has helped us thrive. It doesn't set itself up to be dystopian either, so that excuse is out.
And no, I don't care if the librarians come back later and super help out- it's an inaccurate depiction of a stereotype/misinformation and I am calling that sh*t out. Huge turn off.
And no, I don't care if the librarians come back later and super help out- it's an inaccurate depiction of a stereotype/misinformation and I am calling that sh*t out. Huge turn off.
September 13, 2019
Sigh. This just wasn't for me.
Erin Song is grounded from using electronic devices after cheating on a test in a wild attempt at becoming popular in school, and while that's pretty nope, turns out aliens are kidnapping people by using electronic mind-control. Cue Erin having to save the world.
The idea is great, but the execution was lacking a bit.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Erin Song is grounded from using electronic devices after cheating on a test in a wild attempt at becoming popular in school, and while that's pretty nope, turns out aliens are kidnapping people by using electronic mind-control. Cue Erin having to save the world.
The idea is great, but the execution was lacking a bit.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
January 6, 2020
I'm not the audience for this. Don't get me wrong: I like middle-grade books. But they have to be done well. This is insulting to the reader's intelligence... especially if the reader is over five years old.
Erin is a typical tween. She's fixated on her phone all day, every day. When a popular girl asks her to help her cheat, they get caught. Erin's parents take away her phone privileges. Unplugged from the world, she discovers a plot involving aliens who are trying to take over the world using mind-control technology broadcast through people's devices.
Now, that doesn't sound so bad in theory... but in practice, it's all wrong. The aliens look like purple terriers, speak perfect English, and are kind of stupid (even though they claim to be super smart). Apparently, humans are the strongest beings in the universe (oh, really?) as well as the least intelligent (uh huh...) so the aliens want to create a human-alien hybrid that's both super strong and super smart so they can take over everything. That's literally their only goal: conquest. (But if they think humans are the strongest and dumbest beings in existence, then I'd question their own intelligence.)
The copy I read was really rough, but I still got the gist. Young people are misguided, technology is evil, and old-people are overlooked gems who are going to save the world. In fact, the world was literally saved by one of the old people (and not the main character) in the most laughably convenient way possible (she literally walked into a room and found the villain and the means for defeating it sitting out in the open; I mean, who needs an epic struggle?). To make matters worse, the character actually comments, "Well, this is convenient." Uh... you think?
I think what I find the most disturbing is that the ridiculous plot seems like it would appeal to kids who are around 5 or 6. But they're not the ones who need to hear the message to put their phones down (I hope). What kid wants to read about their grandparents saving the world? Erin does little in that respect; she's more of a foil than a main character. And yet, she takes all the credit in the end.
This just didn't work for me. I'm not sure it would work even if the plot weren't so ridiculous. The message is too heavy-handed and the tone is a bit preachy. I don't think tech-obsessed kids are going to love this... no matter how much their tech-weary parents (and grandparents) might want them to.
Thank you to NetGalley and Oni Press for providing a digital ARC.
Erin is a typical tween. She's fixated on her phone all day, every day. When a popular girl asks her to help her cheat, they get caught. Erin's parents take away her phone privileges. Unplugged from the world, she discovers a plot involving aliens who are trying to take over the world using mind-control technology broadcast through people's devices.
Now, that doesn't sound so bad in theory... but in practice, it's all wrong. The aliens look like purple terriers, speak perfect English, and are kind of stupid (even though they claim to be super smart). Apparently, humans are the strongest beings in the universe (oh, really?) as well as the least intelligent (uh huh...) so the aliens want to create a human-alien hybrid that's both super strong and super smart so they can take over everything. That's literally their only goal: conquest. (But if they think humans are the strongest and dumbest beings in existence, then I'd question their own intelligence.)
The copy I read was really rough, but I still got the gist. Young people are misguided, technology is evil, and old-people are overlooked gems who are going to save the world. In fact, the world was literally saved by one of the old people (and not the main character) in the most laughably convenient way possible (she literally walked into a room and found the villain and the means for defeating it sitting out in the open; I mean, who needs an epic struggle?). To make matters worse, the character actually comments, "Well, this is convenient." Uh... you think?
I think what I find the most disturbing is that the ridiculous plot seems like it would appeal to kids who are around 5 or 6. But they're not the ones who need to hear the message to put their phones down (I hope). What kid wants to read about their grandparents saving the world? Erin does little in that respect; she's more of a foil than a main character. And yet, she takes all the credit in the end.
This just didn't work for me. I'm not sure it would work even if the plot weren't so ridiculous. The message is too heavy-handed and the tone is a bit preachy. I don't think tech-obsessed kids are going to love this... no matter how much their tech-weary parents (and grandparents) might want them to.
Thank you to NetGalley and Oni Press for providing a digital ARC.
September 11, 2020
I received this graphic novel from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
I have had this one on my Netgalley list for a while and decided that today, while I am still sick and having a high fever, is the right day. Meet Erin, a girl who lives in a world full of technology but gets unplugged when she does something stupid. From that moment on she sees aliens and discovers that people (including her brother and grandma) are missing and no one remembers them. The aliens are planning to take over, domination over everything is their goal.
This was a delightful and fun book, though I wasn’t always happy with Erin’s decisions. For instance just grabbing a giant rock and breaking the window/door of the library. Or going along with what Wendy wants.
But besides that I still liked her and how strong she was, how when she found out what happened and got to terms with it she decided to kick some ass and try to save the world. Along with her grandma and other old people who aren’t plugged into the net (as that is one of the important things if you want to see the aliens).
We find out more about the aliens and what their plans are. I have to say it was a dastardly plan and perfectly executed. If Erin hadn’t lost the privileges to her phone they may have gotten away with it. But I do think that Erin’s grandma would have done something to make her grandchild see the light, that grandma was so kickass I can’t imagine she will let her granddaughter be blind to what is going on.
I did think it was funny no one saw the aliens or people who have gone missing but returned (for instance grandma). It did look funny to see people fighting air while we know they are fighting aliens.
I was a bit sad to see the library in such disrepair and sadness. I wonder why the brothers didn’t at least try to keep it neat and clean, given their inventions they shouldn’t have problems with keeping up with repairs for the library.
The ending was terrific and very exciting, though there was one thing that I found a tad too magical and easily solved. Something involving tea and an eye.
The art was pretty colourful and fun, though at times I wasn’t a fan of it (perspectives wonky, characters a bit weirdly drawn).
All in all though, I did have fun reading this one and I am glad Netgalley/publisher gave me a chance to try it out.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
I have had this one on my Netgalley list for a while and decided that today, while I am still sick and having a high fever, is the right day. Meet Erin, a girl who lives in a world full of technology but gets unplugged when she does something stupid. From that moment on she sees aliens and discovers that people (including her brother and grandma) are missing and no one remembers them. The aliens are planning to take over, domination over everything is their goal.
This was a delightful and fun book, though I wasn’t always happy with Erin’s decisions. For instance just grabbing a giant rock and breaking the window/door of the library. Or going along with what Wendy wants.
But besides that I still liked her and how strong she was, how when she found out what happened and got to terms with it she decided to kick some ass and try to save the world. Along with her grandma and other old people who aren’t plugged into the net (as that is one of the important things if you want to see the aliens).
We find out more about the aliens and what their plans are. I have to say it was a dastardly plan and perfectly executed. If Erin hadn’t lost the privileges to her phone they may have gotten away with it. But I do think that Erin’s grandma would have done something to make her grandchild see the light, that grandma was so kickass I can’t imagine she will let her granddaughter be blind to what is going on.
I did think it was funny no one saw the aliens or people who have gone missing but returned (for instance grandma). It did look funny to see people fighting air while we know they are fighting aliens.
I was a bit sad to see the library in such disrepair and sadness. I wonder why the brothers didn’t at least try to keep it neat and clean, given their inventions they shouldn’t have problems with keeping up with repairs for the library.
The ending was terrific and very exciting, though there was one thing that I found a tad too magical and easily solved. Something involving tea and an eye.
The art was pretty colourful and fun, though at times I wasn’t a fan of it (perspectives wonky, characters a bit weirdly drawn).
All in all though, I did have fun reading this one and I am glad Netgalley/publisher gave me a chance to try it out.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
September 13, 2019
*thank you to Netgalley, Oni Press, Mike Amante and Mat Heagerty for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review*
4 stars.
I really enjoyed this! I thought it sounded like a really good idea for a story and I was right. It's about a girl named Erin who ends up getting banned of using her technology such as her Phone, Tablet and Laptop. Now, I grew up as one of those where these items weren't as they are now, until I was a teenager. (I'm 34) And even then it was a big deal for an older teen to have her own phone. Now, I'm seeing toddlers with devices! It's nuts. Anyway, Erin didn't grow up like me, she probably had Instagram the day she was born. (Ok, so a slight exaggeration....but only slight) For Erin, this would have felt like losing a body part. But really what it did was open her eyes to what's really going on in her hometown (and apparently the rest of the world).
There were a couple of surprises along the way and I really liked how they showed that technology is like a drug. Now I'm not anti-technology but I do think people spend more than needed time on their devices.
I think Middle Grade readers will enjoy this the most but it's really for any age group. It's was fun, witty and I really liked the illustrations. The book has an overall good feel to it and I would definitely recommend it.
4 stars.
I really enjoyed this! I thought it sounded like a really good idea for a story and I was right. It's about a girl named Erin who ends up getting banned of using her technology such as her Phone, Tablet and Laptop. Now, I grew up as one of those where these items weren't as they are now, until I was a teenager. (I'm 34) And even then it was a big deal for an older teen to have her own phone. Now, I'm seeing toddlers with devices! It's nuts. Anyway, Erin didn't grow up like me, she probably had Instagram the day she was born. (Ok, so a slight exaggeration....but only slight) For Erin, this would have felt like losing a body part. But really what it did was open her eyes to what's really going on in her hometown (and apparently the rest of the world).
There were a couple of surprises along the way and I really liked how they showed that technology is like a drug. Now I'm not anti-technology but I do think people spend more than needed time on their devices.
I think Middle Grade readers will enjoy this the most but it's really for any age group. It's was fun, witty and I really liked the illustrations. The book has an overall good feel to it and I would definitely recommend it.
October 5, 2019
Despite the first page, where books were disparaged (part of the plot, I know, but it still irked), this book ended up being quite cute and had a rather powerful, if sometimes subtle, message. The obvious message, look up from your screen devices once in a while to see the reality of the world around you. The subtle one? Older people ROCK and shouldn't be ignored just because they are old. Old doesn't mean useless or stupid. Honestly, I think that message is just as important, if not more so, than the don't become dependent on your screens.
I really enjoyed the bright colors and the artwork and the storyline was important, but gotten across in a fun and not so serious it bores way. This is the first in what appears to be a series and I would definitely like to read the next one when it comes out. It has a middle/young high school vibe, with popularity being so important to the main character and the violence is somewhat silly, so I would say appropriate for younger readers on up.
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4, because it grew on me and was cute, silly and serious all at the same time. Ironically, I'm posting my review into the interwebs, where it will be read on screened devices, but the book is available in book form, so there is that!
My thanks to NetGalley and Oni Press for an eARC copy of this book to read and review.
I really enjoyed the bright colors and the artwork and the storyline was important, but gotten across in a fun and not so serious it bores way. This is the first in what appears to be a series and I would definitely like to read the next one when it comes out. It has a middle/young high school vibe, with popularity being so important to the main character and the violence is somewhat silly, so I would say appropriate for younger readers on up.
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4, because it grew on me and was cute, silly and serious all at the same time. Ironically, I'm posting my review into the interwebs, where it will be read on screened devices, but the book is available in book form, so there is that!
My thanks to NetGalley and Oni Press for an eARC copy of this book to read and review.
June 30, 2019
This was a fun little story about technology brainwashing humanity while aliens kidnapped humans right before their eyes. Our main character goes on a journey to rescue the abducted, along with some other unlikely heroes. It was a nice adventure story. I really enjoyed the colorful cartoon-like artwork. I feel like this would make a great live action cartoon! It was a little more juvenile than I expected, although it makes sense with the main character being young herself. It had a great message behind it as well that is really good for children to hear.
August 22, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley for a free review copy.
This book is about Erin Song and the technology dependent world that she lives in. After she gets in trouble at school, Erin's parents take away all of her technology! She must travel to the local library in order to do research for a school paper. Outside of the library she sees a weird pink creature capture a human and make him disappear. She goes inside and is stunned to learn that the librarians know what's going on! It's an alien invasion! Now Erin and some new friends will have to try and thwart the alien invasion before it's to late.
This was an adorable book. I think this will fit into the juvenile graphic novel section of any library. The story moved along nicely and I liked the message that the book is sending. The artwork is really cute too.
This book is about Erin Song and the technology dependent world that she lives in. After she gets in trouble at school, Erin's parents take away all of her technology! She must travel to the local library in order to do research for a school paper. Outside of the library she sees a weird pink creature capture a human and make him disappear. She goes inside and is stunned to learn that the librarians know what's going on! It's an alien invasion! Now Erin and some new friends will have to try and thwart the alien invasion before it's to late.
This was an adorable book. I think this will fit into the juvenile graphic novel section of any library. The story moved along nicely and I liked the message that the book is sending. The artwork is really cute too.
July 6, 2019
The main characters are a spunky teen and her grandmother. It's a kid friendly take on The Matrix with unplugging standing in for the red pill. The art is fun and engaging.
However, libraries are not dusty places filled with technophobic old people. Programs like Girls Who Code are taught in libraries. It's also the place where most people without home computers get access to the internet. My library is filled with kids and teens who only have access to the internet outside of school because we exist.
People in their 60's and 70's are able to use smartphones, tablets, and computers. The idea that everyone below a certain age is addicted to their screens and everyone above a certain age is afraid of technology is not the best one to put forward.
However, libraries are not dusty places filled with technophobic old people. Programs like Girls Who Code are taught in libraries. It's also the place where most people without home computers get access to the internet. My library is filled with kids and teens who only have access to the internet outside of school because we exist.
People in their 60's and 70's are able to use smartphones, tablets, and computers. The idea that everyone below a certain age is addicted to their screens and everyone above a certain age is afraid of technology is not the best one to put forward.
June 27, 2019
I loved this comic.
We follow Erin, a young girl who’s only dream is to be popular. After trying her hardest to impress the most popular girl in school, she ends up getting sent to detention and a phone call home. To punish her for her bad behaviour, Erin’s parents confiscate her phone/computer/Tv for a whole month. Not knowing what to do with herself now she doesn’t have ‘instagram’ to entertain her, Erin wonders down to the library only to discover there is an alien invasion going on. But, only those who don’t use technology can see it. Can Erin save the day?
I loved this short and sweet comic. It was colourful, funny and had a deep message behind the story. Everyone uses mobile phones now and it makes you realise how much we could be missing out on.
I also enjoyed the fact that Erin tries hard to fit in but at the end of the book realises she doesn’t need to fit in to be cool. She is who she is.
A beautifully written comic for young-middle aged children
We follow Erin, a young girl who’s only dream is to be popular. After trying her hardest to impress the most popular girl in school, she ends up getting sent to detention and a phone call home. To punish her for her bad behaviour, Erin’s parents confiscate her phone/computer/Tv for a whole month. Not knowing what to do with herself now she doesn’t have ‘instagram’ to entertain her, Erin wonders down to the library only to discover there is an alien invasion going on. But, only those who don’t use technology can see it. Can Erin save the day?
I loved this short and sweet comic. It was colourful, funny and had a deep message behind the story. Everyone uses mobile phones now and it makes you realise how much we could be missing out on.
I also enjoyed the fact that Erin tries hard to fit in but at the end of the book realises she doesn’t need to fit in to be cool. She is who she is.
A beautifully written comic for young-middle aged children
June 25, 2019
This is a charming book with a heartfelt message and delightful art. Mat’s characters are lovable, and Tintin’s artwork really pops off the page. This is a totally accessible book for young kids who aren’t huge readers yet!
August 2, 2019
The style of this graphic novel was fantastic, I really enjoyed how it was colored, it seemed bright and fun. I liked the story too, it was intriguing, and it was executed really well.
It was enjoyable and entertaining, an afternoon well spent. If you're interested in picking it up, definitely do it.
*Copy receive through NetGalley in exchange for a fair review
*Rating: 4/5 stars
It was enjoyable and entertaining, an afternoon well spent. If you're interested in picking it up, definitely do it.
*Copy receive through NetGalley in exchange for a fair review
*Rating: 4/5 stars
August 11, 2019
4.5 stars. I really enjoyed this graphic novel. Erin Song isn't exactly unpopular, but she'd not in the popular group at school either. She has the chance to level up when popular girl Wendy asks her to help her cheat on an exam. However, they get caught and Erin's parents ban her from all electronic devices for a month - no smart phone, no lap top, no internet. This is Erin's worst nightmare until she makes a startling discovery. In her now 'unplugged' world she can see that aliens are abducting humans in a plan to take over the world. They're controlling everyone through their devices. No one believes her except for some similarly 'unplugged' seniors. Can Erin and the oldies save the human race?
This was a great story. Most teenagers would share Erin's angst at being separated from social media and the internet, but the sci-fi element gives it an interesting twist. The writing and illustrations are engaging and there's a lot of humour in addition to deeper themes (e.g. the advantage of turning off the devices every now and then and actually talking to people and noticing what's around you; and also the fact that seniors still have a lot to offer and shouldn't be written off because of their age). The message isn't heavy-handed, but comes across in an interesting way.
I got a little confused at one point as to why Erin and her parents had different views about what had happened to Grandma even before Erin was 'unplugged'. That didn't make sense to me, though I may have missed something. However, apart from a couple of slightly confusing bits, the overall story was good.
It would probably best suit age groups of around 10-14, though there's also a lot for older teens and adults to enjoy. If you're looking for something fun, but with some depth, this graphic novel fits the bill.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
This was a great story. Most teenagers would share Erin's angst at being separated from social media and the internet, but the sci-fi element gives it an interesting twist. The writing and illustrations are engaging and there's a lot of humour in addition to deeper themes (e.g. the advantage of turning off the devices every now and then and actually talking to people and noticing what's around you; and also the fact that seniors still have a lot to offer and shouldn't be written off because of their age). The message isn't heavy-handed, but comes across in an interesting way.
I got a little confused at one point as to why Erin and her parents had different views about what had happened to Grandma even before Erin was 'unplugged'. That didn't make sense to me, though I may have missed something. However, apart from a couple of slightly confusing bits, the overall story was good.
It would probably best suit age groups of around 10-14, though there's also a lot for older teens and adults to enjoy. If you're looking for something fun, but with some depth, this graphic novel fits the bill.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 9, 2019
*Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the review copy.*
Aw, how cute was this? I loved the plot and the underlying messages. The artwork was super cute and the writing was just funny enough. Solid read.
Aw, how cute was this? I loved the plot and the underlying messages. The artwork was super cute and the writing was just funny enough. Solid read.
June 28, 2019
Pretty Basic
Our heroine is banished by her parents from using electronic devices, and when that happens she breaks free from an alien brainwashing plot, recognizes the aliens for what they are, and coordinates a rebellion with others who have avoided electronics and escaped the aliens' clutches.
We touch a lot of the expected bases. Our heroine, Erin, is not very popular. She's obsessed with cell phones and social media. She thinks old people are smelly and creepy. Erin ends up learning that popular isn't everything, she learns to be less reliant on media, and finds out that "geezers" are really cool, especially when it is they who repel the aliens.
So, the book is not exactly subtle. That's O.K., because you have to start your reading adventure somewhere. For me, though, the whole alien invasion angle never really registered. And, apart from a few amusing lines from Erin's Grandma and her elderly pals, there isn't much that's funny or surprising going on.
But that's just me, and, as I say, this is a tween starter sort of book. The drawing is crisp and bright, there's a lot of energy, and it has ambitions beyond being just silly. That may be enough.
(Please note that I received a free advance will-self-destruct-in-x-days Adobe Digital copy of this book without a review requirement, or any influence regarding review content should I choose to post a review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)
Our heroine is banished by her parents from using electronic devices, and when that happens she breaks free from an alien brainwashing plot, recognizes the aliens for what they are, and coordinates a rebellion with others who have avoided electronics and escaped the aliens' clutches.
We touch a lot of the expected bases. Our heroine, Erin, is not very popular. She's obsessed with cell phones and social media. She thinks old people are smelly and creepy. Erin ends up learning that popular isn't everything, she learns to be less reliant on media, and finds out that "geezers" are really cool, especially when it is they who repel the aliens.
So, the book is not exactly subtle. That's O.K., because you have to start your reading adventure somewhere. For me, though, the whole alien invasion angle never really registered. And, apart from a few amusing lines from Erin's Grandma and her elderly pals, there isn't much that's funny or surprising going on.
But that's just me, and, as I say, this is a tween starter sort of book. The drawing is crisp and bright, there's a lot of energy, and it has ambitions beyond being just silly. That may be enough.
(Please note that I received a free advance will-self-destruct-in-x-days Adobe Digital copy of this book without a review requirement, or any influence regarding review content should I choose to post a review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.)
July 31, 2019
1.5/5
Unplugged and Unpopular is about Erin Song, who doesn't understand why she's so unpopular. She would do anything to become more popular, including helping the most popular girl in class cheat on a test. When she was caught, her parents grounded her and banned all technology. Without the distraction of technology, Erin starts noticing strange things happening around her (like aliens running amok, and people going missing). It's up to Erin to get to the bottom of this mystery and possibly save the world!
I read the uncorrected proof so the dialogue and other aspects in the book might change a bit.
Overall though, I wasn't too impressed with this book. The graphics were cute but the story moved at a choppy pace and the dialogue and transitions between different scenes didn't flow very well. I also found Erin to be extremely rude and unlikeable (it's no wonder she's unpopular!).
This is a middle-grade book but the characters were so two-dimensional and the dialogue was so simple and childish, it's probably more suitable being marketed as a children's book.
eARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Unplugged and Unpopular is about Erin Song, who doesn't understand why she's so unpopular. She would do anything to become more popular, including helping the most popular girl in class cheat on a test. When she was caught, her parents grounded her and banned all technology. Without the distraction of technology, Erin starts noticing strange things happening around her (like aliens running amok, and people going missing). It's up to Erin to get to the bottom of this mystery and possibly save the world!
I read the uncorrected proof so the dialogue and other aspects in the book might change a bit.
Overall though, I wasn't too impressed with this book. The graphics were cute but the story moved at a choppy pace and the dialogue and transitions between different scenes didn't flow very well. I also found Erin to be extremely rude and unlikeable (it's no wonder she's unpopular!).
This is a middle-grade book but the characters were so two-dimensional and the dialogue was so simple and childish, it's probably more suitable being marketed as a children's book.
eARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 5, 2020
Bland story with annoying characters. Also, as a librarian I hate plot points that are "librarians hate technology and are boring and old."
July 4, 2019
Yes, yes, yes, we know, if you onlky have your face in your phone all the time you miss stuff.
In this slightly heavy handed story, Erin, and all her friends are always in front of some sort of electronic device, as are her parents.
But there are clues that there is something odd going on, while everyone is staring at their screens. For one thing, there is a photo of the family, with a young man in it, and yet her parents say she is an only child.
And then, Erin has her electronic privileges taken away for a month, and she learns there is something odd going on in the non-digital world.
Aliens. Aliens are kidnapping people, and no one is noticing, until Erin does, because she is no longer watching a screen, and getting hypnotized by the aliens.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
In this slightly heavy handed story, Erin, and all her friends are always in front of some sort of electronic device, as are her parents.
But there are clues that there is something odd going on, while everyone is staring at their screens. For one thing, there is a photo of the family, with a young man in it, and yet her parents say she is an only child.
And then, Erin has her electronic privileges taken away for a month, and she learns there is something odd going on in the non-digital world.
Aliens. Aliens are kidnapping people, and no one is noticing, until Erin does, because she is no longer watching a screen, and getting hypnotized by the aliens.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
September 25, 2019
I received a copy of this comic at NetGalley.
In this comic we follow Erin who isn't a popular girl.
She and the rest of the population are addicted to their phones.
When Erin has been punished and her mobile devices are taken away, she is forced to do her homework in the library. When she wants to enter the library she sees an alien.
I found that the story was sometimes a little confusing and that it went too quickly, but I really recommend this comic to everyone who is addicted to their phones. This comic has a really important message and actually everyone needs to get this message.
This comic is perfect for kids who don't like to read long story's, because the comic is really short and the comic is approachable for kids.
In this comic we follow Erin who isn't a popular girl.
She and the rest of the population are addicted to their phones.
When Erin has been punished and her mobile devices are taken away, she is forced to do her homework in the library. When she wants to enter the library she sees an alien.
I found that the story was sometimes a little confusing and that it went too quickly, but I really recommend this comic to everyone who is addicted to their phones. This comic has a really important message and actually everyone needs to get this message.
This comic is perfect for kids who don't like to read long story's, because the comic is really short and the comic is approachable for kids.
February 3, 2020
Erin Song is totally bummed to be grounded from all technology after trying to help a friend cheat. Soon after, she sees a strange monster that no one else can see except for two elderly librarian inventors who also don't use technology. Together, they will uncover an alien invasion that has been abducting people and erasing them from memories all over LA.
Such a fun sci-fi story with some great reasons to unplug found in the back. I loved the elder army! Looking forward to part two.
Such a fun sci-fi story with some great reasons to unplug found in the back. I loved the elder army! Looking forward to part two.
September 5, 2025
This was such a great commentary on society! I loved the way the author subtly yet clearly showed the impact screens have on our minds. I’m using this book with my junior high students in a unit on unplugging. It’s so good!
July 3, 2019
Even though this book skews toward a younger audience, I quite enjoyed it. It's got a great central premise, a compelling protagonist, snappy dialogue, and wonderful art. Would definitely recommend this to parents of younger children looking to get them started on comics.
July 22, 2019
Really entertaining read! Cool illustrations, fun dialogue and lovable characters while also addressing themes such as the role of technology, equality and ageism in society.
July 26, 2020
Don't spend too much time on your screens or you might miss the alien invasion! Oh, and listen to your elders!
September 10, 2019
Colorful, vivid — a wonderful text to share with young readers (or just enjoy). The art is eye-catching, for sure. Yet another strong graphic novel offering from this publisher.
August 19, 2019
Digital Arc copy provided by netgalley.
Unplugged and unpopular is a cute hilarious graphic novel with a deep underlying message. It tells a story from a preteens p.o.v where technology literally took over the world, thanks to aliens. Everyone around her is so stuck on their phones/tv screens to actually notice the real world around them. The world that's now infested with little purple aliens trying to splice their genes together and create one giant super army. Luckily enough the preteen Erin gets in trouble which gives her time away from the screens in time breaking their hold on her and giving her a chance to really see what's going on around her. Essential she has to team up with the most unlikely and underappreciated group, the elders. Because in a world full of technology no one wants to listen to elders speak anymore and elders want nothing to do with this fast pace technological world this gives Erin a chance a glimpse of hope at making things right. Erin ends up saving the world with a group of retired senior citizens and a handful of everyday objects transformed by the genius minds of her grandma's boyfriend and his twin. In the end Erin realizes how much cooler her life really was before she became obsessed with the technology & others opinions. She finds the happiness in her life she thought she was missing. However it ended a bit open and I would love to see where else it would go with a spliced human/alien army.
4.5 stars Great read for middle schoolers! Beautiful color scheme and I loved the style very entertaining read.
Unplugged and unpopular is a cute hilarious graphic novel with a deep underlying message. It tells a story from a preteens p.o.v where technology literally took over the world, thanks to aliens. Everyone around her is so stuck on their phones/tv screens to actually notice the real world around them. The world that's now infested with little purple aliens trying to splice their genes together and create one giant super army. Luckily enough the preteen Erin gets in trouble which gives her time away from the screens in time breaking their hold on her and giving her a chance to really see what's going on around her. Essential she has to team up with the most unlikely and underappreciated group, the elders. Because in a world full of technology no one wants to listen to elders speak anymore and elders want nothing to do with this fast pace technological world this gives Erin a chance a glimpse of hope at making things right. Erin ends up saving the world with a group of retired senior citizens and a handful of everyday objects transformed by the genius minds of her grandma's boyfriend and his twin. In the end Erin realizes how much cooler her life really was before she became obsessed with the technology & others opinions. She finds the happiness in her life she thought she was missing. However it ended a bit open and I would love to see where else it would go with a spliced human/alien army.
4.5 stars Great read for middle schoolers! Beautiful color scheme and I loved the style very entertaining read.
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