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Hilo #7
Gina: The Girl Who Broke the World
Hilo's back! Introducing an exciting, BRAND NEW epic story arc starring GINA in the New York Times BESTSELLING GRAPHIC NOVEL SERIES that kids and critics love!
Hundreds of years ago, MAGIC disappeared from Earth. At least...UNTIL NOW. Because suddenly, giant magical beings are appearing and only GINA can see them. Not to mention, Gina can somehow do magic herself. Magic is powerful. But it can also be DANGEROUS. With DJ and HILO's help, can Gina figure out how to protect the magical beings from the creatures who are after them? AND how to use her magic to become who she was always meant to be? And can she do it WITHOUT putting the entire PLANET in JEOPARDY?! Find out in Hilo 7--a laugh-out-loud, action packed adventure filled with epic battles! friendship! annoying older brothers! annoying older sisters! good guys! bad guys! inappropriate jokes! mangoes! magic! and much, much more!
Hundreds of years ago, MAGIC disappeared from Earth. At least...UNTIL NOW. Because suddenly, giant magical beings are appearing and only GINA can see them. Not to mention, Gina can somehow do magic herself. Magic is powerful. But it can also be DANGEROUS. With DJ and HILO's help, can Gina figure out how to protect the magical beings from the creatures who are after them? AND how to use her magic to become who she was always meant to be? And can she do it WITHOUT putting the entire PLANET in JEOPARDY?! Find out in Hilo 7--a laugh-out-loud, action packed adventure filled with epic battles! friendship! annoying older brothers! annoying older sisters! good guys! bad guys! inappropriate jokes! mangoes! magic! and much, much more!
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 2, 2021
236 people are currently reading
300 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 82 reviews
July 5, 2022
A fun new direction! It felt really fresh to be done with Razorwark and all that. The new focused on magic is outstanding. My kid was riveted.
November 14, 2020
Winnick does it again in Hilo 7. After losing a character in book six I want sure how they would carry on. Gina and Hilo carrying on bits of Izzy's personality was perfect. As the team tried to rescue the nestor they learned how to lean on one another and use each other's skills. The book ends in a true cliffhanger!
February 22, 2021
Judd Winick’s Hilo series is my favourite kid’s graphic novel series. I love it because it’s entertaining, action-packed, and laugh-out-loud-funny, but it also has real emotional depth. His characters are saving the world and putting themselves in danger while doing so, and Judd shows how this affects his characters, especially the grief they feel at losing friends. In the first six books in the series, D.J., Gina and Hilo have been through a lot together, and they’ve come out the other side as different kids. The latest book in the series, Gina – the Girl Who Broke the World, starts a new chapter for our heroes, but it still has everything I love about the Hilo series.
Gina, D.J. and Hilo are still coming to terms with the events in All the Pieces Fit. Things are different for everyone. Hilo is now human and living with D.J. and his family, and Gina can do more magic than ever before. She could use her magic to help others, but she knows that sometimes magic isn’t enough to save the ones you love. When strange beings start appearing around their town, it seems that only Gina can see and hear them. They appear to be hunting the Nestor, but they won’t reveal what or who the Nestor is. D.J. and Hilo want to help Gina, so she helps them to see the creatures. When they finally meet the Nestor, the creatures explain that they just want to get home, and Gina offers to help them. Gina must use all of her magic to help the Nestor return home, but in doing so, will put the entire earth in jeopardy.
Gina – the Girl Who Broke the World is an awesome start to a new chapter of Hilo. This book is a real emotional rollercoaster, as I was cracking up at Hilo’s antics one moment and my heart was breaking the next. Gina, D.J. and Hilo are grieving for their friends so are all finding it hard to adjust to their new lives. They are such good friends though, as they take note of how they are each feeling and try to help in their own way. You can tell, by their actions and from the illustrations, that they care deeply for each other. I love the way that Judd can show us this using just a look between the characters.
Hilo has always made me laugh but he made me chuckle so many times in this book. He keeps forgetting that he’s human now and doesn’t have any powers. He tries to fly like he used to and ends up flat on his face, or tries to shoots beams from his hands but remembers he can’t do that either. Now that he’s human he can eat real food and he becomes totally obsessed with mango. He wants to join Gina to fight the monsters so he makes special tights for him and D.J. so that they’ll look the part. My favourite Hilo moment is when he is distracting the babysitter with the face he’s drawn on his belly. There are some things that he can do though that suggests that he is not completely human.
Judd’s art is fantastic as always. The thing I love the most about Judd’s storytelling is that so much of it is visual. There are chunks of the story, when the kids are fighting monsters, where there is very little text. That is what makes the Hilo series so great for struggling or reluctant readers, as the stories are light on text and heavy on visual storytelling. Judd’s characters are also very expressive, so it is clear to see their emotions on their face and in their body language.
I can’t recommend the Hilo series highly enough. If you haven’t discovered them yet, go and find the first volume, Hilo: The Boy Who Crashed to Earth. If you’ve read all of the others in the series you must get your hands on this volume immediately. I will be eagerly awaiting Hilo book 8, coming in 2022.
Gina, D.J. and Hilo are still coming to terms with the events in All the Pieces Fit. Things are different for everyone. Hilo is now human and living with D.J. and his family, and Gina can do more magic than ever before. She could use her magic to help others, but she knows that sometimes magic isn’t enough to save the ones you love. When strange beings start appearing around their town, it seems that only Gina can see and hear them. They appear to be hunting the Nestor, but they won’t reveal what or who the Nestor is. D.J. and Hilo want to help Gina, so she helps them to see the creatures. When they finally meet the Nestor, the creatures explain that they just want to get home, and Gina offers to help them. Gina must use all of her magic to help the Nestor return home, but in doing so, will put the entire earth in jeopardy.
Gina – the Girl Who Broke the World is an awesome start to a new chapter of Hilo. This book is a real emotional rollercoaster, as I was cracking up at Hilo’s antics one moment and my heart was breaking the next. Gina, D.J. and Hilo are grieving for their friends so are all finding it hard to adjust to their new lives. They are such good friends though, as they take note of how they are each feeling and try to help in their own way. You can tell, by their actions and from the illustrations, that they care deeply for each other. I love the way that Judd can show us this using just a look between the characters.
Hilo has always made me laugh but he made me chuckle so many times in this book. He keeps forgetting that he’s human now and doesn’t have any powers. He tries to fly like he used to and ends up flat on his face, or tries to shoots beams from his hands but remembers he can’t do that either. Now that he’s human he can eat real food and he becomes totally obsessed with mango. He wants to join Gina to fight the monsters so he makes special tights for him and D.J. so that they’ll look the part. My favourite Hilo moment is when he is distracting the babysitter with the face he’s drawn on his belly. There are some things that he can do though that suggests that he is not completely human.
Judd’s art is fantastic as always. The thing I love the most about Judd’s storytelling is that so much of it is visual. There are chunks of the story, when the kids are fighting monsters, where there is very little text. That is what makes the Hilo series so great for struggling or reluctant readers, as the stories are light on text and heavy on visual storytelling. Judd’s characters are also very expressive, so it is clear to see their emotions on their face and in their body language.
I can’t recommend the Hilo series highly enough. If you haven’t discovered them yet, go and find the first volume, Hilo: The Boy Who Crashed to Earth. If you’ve read all of the others in the series you must get your hands on this volume immediately. I will be eagerly awaiting Hilo book 8, coming in 2022.
February 17, 2021
I was hoping for a stand-alone adventure after the six-part epic that kicked off the series, but no, this is the first part of a new adventure and ends on a cliffhanger.
Hilo does a pretty good job of providing comic relief throughout, but the overall tone is pretty downbeat as Gina is mired in grief and regret and starting to withdraw from the craziness that has derailed her life.
I'm just tired of this series now, I guess.
The nail in the coffin for me may well be Hilo and other characters repeatedly and mistakenly calling leotards "tights." They're not the same thing, and it doesn't seem to be a comedic misunderstanding so much as a desire to use the word tights over and over because it is often associated with superheroes. I resent giving bad information to children, even if it is something as trivial as clothing terminology.
Hilo does a pretty good job of providing comic relief throughout, but the overall tone is pretty downbeat as Gina is mired in grief and regret and starting to withdraw from the craziness that has derailed her life.
I'm just tired of this series now, I guess.
The nail in the coffin for me may well be Hilo and other characters repeatedly and mistakenly calling leotards "tights." They're not the same thing, and it doesn't seem to be a comedic misunderstanding so much as a desire to use the word tights over and over because it is often associated with superheroes. I resent giving bad information to children, even if it is something as trivial as clothing terminology.
January 16, 2021
Wow, The Hilo series’s are so good!
November 18, 2020
Gina: The Girl Who Broke The World by Judd Winick
I have to admit, I started this book knowing that I was going to love it. Having devoured the first story arc in Judd Winnick’s HiLo series with as much enthusiasm as my seven year old son, I had BIG expectations for this new story. I am so happy to say that all of my expectations were met, even exceeded. I’m going to do my best to write this full review without spoilers, so if things seem vague here and there, that’s why!
The story starts some time after the events of the previous story arc. Izzy, HiLo’s “sister” has sacrificed herself for the world and everyone is having a difficult time dealing with this loss. Gina is especially conflicted. Her abilities give her power, and as Spiderman fans everywhere know, that comes with some heavy responsibility. She isn’t sure she wants to be responsible for what she may bring about, even if that means that some of the bad guys get away. When situations arise, Gina is reluctant. She’s more willing to let others do the risk taking so that she can preserve her circle and keep things the way they are.
The way Winick writes and draws this internal conflict is marvelous. You can see the flat affect on her face, the resignation in her posture, and the depression in her words. Anyone who has felt like this or loved someone through such a time can recognize what is happening. It’s a detail that won’t even escape the youngest readers. My now 8 year old tenderly touched the pictures at one point saying, “She says it’s fine but it doesn’t look like she’s fine.”
A succession of mysterious visitors to Earth break this cycle and when faced with a “do or die” situation Gina really doesn’t want to do what she knows she must do. Ultimately her bravery, the support of her friends, and her own sense of what is right lead her to make tough choices in the face of uncertainty. She doesn’t always make the right choices, but she does SOMETHING, which is really all any of us can do. I think you could make a connection to the work we are all doing now to combat Covid-19. We don’t always know what to do but we have to try things to know if they’re right or not.
So much of this book is done right, from the way grief and depression are shown, the way the three friends uplift and support each other, the way the boys aren’t threatened by or trying to upstage the female lead, but my favorite part of this book by far was its humor. This is a really funny book. You and your kids will be doubled over laughing at some of the gags and jokes sprinkled throughout. HiLo’s unbridled enthusiasm for everything isn’t dimmed at all by his experiences in the first story arc. He remains the joy of humanity personified. HiLo notices everything wonderful in the world, even in the most mundane experiences (mangoes, anyone!?! )
To really enjoy this book you’ll probably want to read the first seven books first, though you could jump in here and get the gist of the story if you really must. I encourage you to read this story with the young readers in your life. It’s sure to become a family favorite for young and old.
It's OUTSTANDING!
I recommend this book for readers of all ages but particularly for those who are young at heart.
*I received a free digital copy of this soon to be published work from the publisher via Netgalley.com in exchange for my honest review. This review reflects my true opinion.
I have to admit, I started this book knowing that I was going to love it. Having devoured the first story arc in Judd Winnick’s HiLo series with as much enthusiasm as my seven year old son, I had BIG expectations for this new story. I am so happy to say that all of my expectations were met, even exceeded. I’m going to do my best to write this full review without spoilers, so if things seem vague here and there, that’s why!
The story starts some time after the events of the previous story arc. Izzy, HiLo’s “sister” has sacrificed herself for the world and everyone is having a difficult time dealing with this loss. Gina is especially conflicted. Her abilities give her power, and as Spiderman fans everywhere know, that comes with some heavy responsibility. She isn’t sure she wants to be responsible for what she may bring about, even if that means that some of the bad guys get away. When situations arise, Gina is reluctant. She’s more willing to let others do the risk taking so that she can preserve her circle and keep things the way they are.
The way Winick writes and draws this internal conflict is marvelous. You can see the flat affect on her face, the resignation in her posture, and the depression in her words. Anyone who has felt like this or loved someone through such a time can recognize what is happening. It’s a detail that won’t even escape the youngest readers. My now 8 year old tenderly touched the pictures at one point saying, “She says it’s fine but it doesn’t look like she’s fine.”
A succession of mysterious visitors to Earth break this cycle and when faced with a “do or die” situation Gina really doesn’t want to do what she knows she must do. Ultimately her bravery, the support of her friends, and her own sense of what is right lead her to make tough choices in the face of uncertainty. She doesn’t always make the right choices, but she does SOMETHING, which is really all any of us can do. I think you could make a connection to the work we are all doing now to combat Covid-19. We don’t always know what to do but we have to try things to know if they’re right or not.
So much of this book is done right, from the way grief and depression are shown, the way the three friends uplift and support each other, the way the boys aren’t threatened by or trying to upstage the female lead, but my favorite part of this book by far was its humor. This is a really funny book. You and your kids will be doubled over laughing at some of the gags and jokes sprinkled throughout. HiLo’s unbridled enthusiasm for everything isn’t dimmed at all by his experiences in the first story arc. He remains the joy of humanity personified. HiLo notices everything wonderful in the world, even in the most mundane experiences (mangoes, anyone!?! )
To really enjoy this book you’ll probably want to read the first seven books first, though you could jump in here and get the gist of the story if you really must. I encourage you to read this story with the young readers in your life. It’s sure to become a family favorite for young and old.
It's OUTSTANDING!
I recommend this book for readers of all ages but particularly for those who are young at heart.
*I received a free digital copy of this soon to be published work from the publisher via Netgalley.com in exchange for my honest review. This review reflects my true opinion.
March 4, 2021
Another good installment in the Hilo series. This story picks up where the last one ended. Izzy is gone and the group is still trying to get over losing her. Hilo is a human and adjusting to his new human body. He is adorably funny and exuberant. He loves trying new things - the stranger the better!
Gina is the one with all the powers now. When she learns that various aliens are hunting down and trying to kill the Nestor, that are adorable bunny-like creatures, she steps in to rescue them. The group succeeds in hiding them, but she learns too late, that even though they are not bad, they want to change Earth back to a time when there was magic on the planet - 100,000 years ago!
I enjoyed the story. I love the characters. While we all miss Izzy, I keep hoping that she will somehow make a return in future books.
Gina is the one with all the powers now. When she learns that various aliens are hunting down and trying to kill the Nestor, that are adorable bunny-like creatures, she steps in to rescue them. The group succeeds in hiding them, but she learns too late, that even though they are not bad, they want to change Earth back to a time when there was magic on the planet - 100,000 years ago!
I enjoyed the story. I love the characters. While we all miss Izzy, I keep hoping that she will somehow make a return in future books.
August 8, 2022
It's great that we have finished Hilo's story, and now focusing on Gina, but this book felt slow and was not as strong as the others before it. If you just enjoy it as is, it is good, but I was trying to find the "deeper" in it and that tossed me off the flow a bit. Yet, kids will love this and buy all eight books as your child will want to fly through the series.
September 29, 2022
I like the new direction, with Gina in the lead!
March 17, 2021
Winick hits it out of the ballpark again: great story, big important themes.
November 24, 2021
Book #6 was a really great endpoint, and continuing the story here feels a little forced, though it is nice to see Gina get the spotlight. Unfortunately, I was reading these to my kid and now that we are out of published books, we're probably done with the series.
December 31, 2020
Why is this series so consistently good? Now with Gina moving into the spotlight, even more girl-powers on top of magic/alien/superhero adventure. As Hilo himself would say AAAAAAAAHHHH.
August 24, 2024
A shift in the main character. Gina takes over, but it's still really charming. I feel this is the first book to add a lot more dialogue and explanation, which might be a bit much for certain kids. But either way we get deeper into the magic system which is cool but most of all we travel through Gina's grief over what happened and who they lost, which I loved. Overall very solid still but not as good as the last few volumes.
February 26, 2021
Series Info/Source: This is the seventh book in the HiLo series and the first one featuring Gina as the main character. I bought this book.
Story (4/5): With HiLo turned human, Gina is the only one of the original gang who can still do amazing and magical things. Now Gina is seeing things that only she can see and only she can stop. She is wondering just exactly what really happened when she brought magic back to Earth for the first time in hundreds of years.
Characters (4/5): I continue to find this cast of characters highly entertaining. It was fun to read about things from Gina’s perspective. I also really enjoyed watching HiLo’s excitement and fascination with everything about being human (from pooping to awful ice cream flavors).
Setting (4/5): This wasn’t the most exciting setting. It takes place mostly at Gina’s house on Earth. However, it was in keeping with a lot of the other volumes in the series and well done.
Writing/Drawing Style (4/5): The drawing is done in keeping with the rest of the series; very bright and cartoony...it fits the tone of the story perfectly. Both the drawing and writing are fun and easy to follow. I continue to enjoy Winick’s graphic novels a lot.
My Summary (4/5): Overall this was an entertaining continuation to the HiLo series and I enjoyed it. This is aimed at a middle grade audience and I have noticed my 14 yr old son doesn’t seem to find these as entertaining as he used to. I, however, still get a good laugh out of them. They are fun and well done. I love the interactions between friends and family and the crazy monsters/aliens that pop in and out of these books.
Story (4/5): With HiLo turned human, Gina is the only one of the original gang who can still do amazing and magical things. Now Gina is seeing things that only she can see and only she can stop. She is wondering just exactly what really happened when she brought magic back to Earth for the first time in hundreds of years.
Characters (4/5): I continue to find this cast of characters highly entertaining. It was fun to read about things from Gina’s perspective. I also really enjoyed watching HiLo’s excitement and fascination with everything about being human (from pooping to awful ice cream flavors).
Setting (4/5): This wasn’t the most exciting setting. It takes place mostly at Gina’s house on Earth. However, it was in keeping with a lot of the other volumes in the series and well done.
Writing/Drawing Style (4/5): The drawing is done in keeping with the rest of the series; very bright and cartoony...it fits the tone of the story perfectly. Both the drawing and writing are fun and easy to follow. I continue to enjoy Winick’s graphic novels a lot.
My Summary (4/5): Overall this was an entertaining continuation to the HiLo series and I enjoyed it. This is aimed at a middle grade audience and I have noticed my 14 yr old son doesn’t seem to find these as entertaining as he used to. I, however, still get a good laugh out of them. They are fun and well done. I love the interactions between friends and family and the crazy monsters/aliens that pop in and out of these books.
February 21, 2021
In this, the seventh book in the popular graphic novel series, Gina Cooper and her friends are still mourning the loss of Izzy. Gina is also keenly aware that there are drawbacks and dangers associated with the use of magic, and she has become hesitant to use hers because of its possible costs. But when strange creatures with magical powers appear on Earth, Gina realizes that she has to act. After all, no one else can see them. As she and her DJ and Hilo struggle with what to do, they face down robots and fuzzy creatures in pursuit of two creatures called the Nestor. There's a nifty twist at the end as Gina realizes that maybe she and her friends have intervened when they shouldn't. As the Nestor travel back in time to their home, Earth becomes a haven for magic. The colors in this comic are vibrant and filled with action, and despite the serious battles in which the friends are engaged, there is plenty of bathroom humor from Hilo, who is fascinated by the color of his poop, and lots of drama from Gina's sisters Bonnie and Connie who are obsessed with cheerleading. The girls' parents are patient if also overwhelmed, and Gina's father is careful to reassure her of her own strengths and the need to be true to herself, whatever that might mean. This title and series are good choices for students who say they hate to read. The nifty flying creatures and robots add visual appeal to the stories, with their modern setting, and unique touches to the plot. Parents, caregivers, and teachers can't miss with these, and many fourth or fifth graders will see themselves in their pages.
January 29, 2024
Hey amazing readers! I just read the newest Hilo book, "Gina - The Girl Who Broke the World," and it's like the coolest magical adventure ever! Let me share all the exciting details.
First things first, Hilo is back, and this time he's sharing the spotlight with Gina! The story starts with a big mystery – magic disappeared from Earth hundreds of years ago, but guess what? It's back, and Gina is the one who can see giant magical beings! How awesome is that?
But here's the catch – magic can be super powerful, but also really dangerous. With DJ and Hilo helping her out, Gina has to figure out how to protect the magical beings from creepy creatures who are after them. And get this – Gina can do magic herself! It's like a double dose of magic fun.
The book is a graphic novel, so you get to see all the amazing pictures that bring the story to life. The action scenes are epic, and the characters look super cool. Plus, there are laughs galore!
Dav Pilkey, the author of DOGMAN, says it's an action-packed page-turner with heart. And you know what? He's totally right! The book has everything – epic battles, annoying older brothers and sisters, good guys, bad guys, inappropriate jokes (shh, don't tell your parents), mangoes, and of course, magic!
If you love stories with magic, laughter, and a bit of danger, "Hilo Book 7: Gina - The Girl Who Broke the World" is the book for you. It's like going on a magical rollercoaster with your coolest friends. So, grab the book, dive into the adventure, and get ready for laughs and thrills! 🚀✨📖
First things first, Hilo is back, and this time he's sharing the spotlight with Gina! The story starts with a big mystery – magic disappeared from Earth hundreds of years ago, but guess what? It's back, and Gina is the one who can see giant magical beings! How awesome is that?
But here's the catch – magic can be super powerful, but also really dangerous. With DJ and Hilo helping her out, Gina has to figure out how to protect the magical beings from creepy creatures who are after them. And get this – Gina can do magic herself! It's like a double dose of magic fun.
The book is a graphic novel, so you get to see all the amazing pictures that bring the story to life. The action scenes are epic, and the characters look super cool. Plus, there are laughs galore!
Dav Pilkey, the author of DOGMAN, says it's an action-packed page-turner with heart. And you know what? He's totally right! The book has everything – epic battles, annoying older brothers and sisters, good guys, bad guys, inappropriate jokes (shh, don't tell your parents), mangoes, and of course, magic!
If you love stories with magic, laughter, and a bit of danger, "Hilo Book 7: Gina - The Girl Who Broke the World" is the book for you. It's like going on a magical rollercoaster with your coolest friends. So, grab the book, dive into the adventure, and get ready for laughs and thrills! 🚀✨📖
December 6, 2020
I admit I am new to Judd Winick’s Hilo series, but my 12-year-old daughter has been a big fan since the beginning and convinced me to try this out.
And I’m glad I did. Although this is book7 in the series, my daughter quickly got me up to date and the book easily lets the reader dive right in.
This story is about Gina – someone who reluctantly has magic powers and wants nothing more than to grieve for her lost friend. Unfortunately, life doesn’t care what one wants, and the situation she finds herself in needs her (along with her friends) to save the planet.
Hilo and the rest of the gang provide moral support as well as comic relief, but it’s Gina who needs to step up and take control.
The story, the dilemma, the interactions between the characters – all make for an interesting, fun and breezy read. But Mr. Winnick really excels at injecting humor – both in the situations and the non sequiturs from Hilo himself. My only complaint is that the next book isn’t due until spring, 2022, which is especially annoying since this story ends on a bit of a cliffhanger. But I’ve already downloaded the rest of the series from my library.
I requested and received a free advanced electronic copy from Random House Children's via NetGalley. Thank you!
And I’m glad I did. Although this is book7 in the series, my daughter quickly got me up to date and the book easily lets the reader dive right in.
This story is about Gina – someone who reluctantly has magic powers and wants nothing more than to grieve for her lost friend. Unfortunately, life doesn’t care what one wants, and the situation she finds herself in needs her (along with her friends) to save the planet.
Hilo and the rest of the gang provide moral support as well as comic relief, but it’s Gina who needs to step up and take control.
The story, the dilemma, the interactions between the characters – all make for an interesting, fun and breezy read. But Mr. Winnick really excels at injecting humor – both in the situations and the non sequiturs from Hilo himself. My only complaint is that the next book isn’t due until spring, 2022, which is especially annoying since this story ends on a bit of a cliffhanger. But I’ve already downloaded the rest of the series from my library.
I requested and received a free advanced electronic copy from Random House Children's via NetGalley. Thank you!
February 7, 2021
There are a lot of things to like about this volume in the HiLo series. To wit:
1. The story shifts from HiLo to Gina. This makes sense, because HiLo's story arc appeared to wrap up in volume six, and Gina was the likeliest choice for the next central character.
2.
3.
Since HiLo's story arc took up six volumes, I would expect Gina's arc to take that many volumes, as well. I hope so, because I don't see myself tiring of this series any time soon.
Outstanding!
1. The story shifts from HiLo to Gina. This makes sense, because HiLo's story arc appeared to wrap up in volume six, and Gina was the likeliest choice for the next central character.
2.
3.
Since HiLo's story arc took up six volumes, I would expect Gina's arc to take that many volumes, as well. I hope so, because I don't see myself tiring of this series any time soon.
Outstanding!
November 27, 2020
This book was received as an ARC from Random House Children's - Random House Books for Young Readers in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
Hilo is definitely one of our most popular graphic novel series and one of the main reasons I started getting into it was the fact it was written by Judd Winnick in that I am a fan of his graphic novels and remember him from MTV's The Real World. His brilliance shines through again with HILO Book 7 and this time it's Gina's turn to fight the magical beasts. I know because of this fact, a lot of our young readers will gravitate towards this book compared to the rest in the series because it is a female protagonist. Also, the personality of Gina everyone can relate to but most importantly, the artwork as always is pure brilliance! I can't wait to announce the release of this book and I know our young readers will be beyond excited!
We will consider adding this title to our JGraphic Novel collection at our library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.
Hilo is definitely one of our most popular graphic novel series and one of the main reasons I started getting into it was the fact it was written by Judd Winnick in that I am a fan of his graphic novels and remember him from MTV's The Real World. His brilliance shines through again with HILO Book 7 and this time it's Gina's turn to fight the magical beasts. I know because of this fact, a lot of our young readers will gravitate towards this book compared to the rest in the series because it is a female protagonist. Also, the personality of Gina everyone can relate to but most importantly, the artwork as always is pure brilliance! I can't wait to announce the release of this book and I know our young readers will be beyond excited!
We will consider adding this title to our JGraphic Novel collection at our library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.
December 14, 2020
This is the seventh book in the Hilo series, and I have not read any of the previous books. It included a great "previously on..." section, so I understood who the characters were and what the major plot points of previous books were. I loved all of these characters. I was laughing so much while reading this. This book focused on Gina instead of Hilo, though he was included in the book. Gina is upset over the death of their friend Izzy from the previous book, and is now hesitant to use her magic at all because she doesn't want to lose anymore of her friends. The problem is, magical creatures are showing up looking for The Nestors, and Gina is the only one that can see them. Trying to do the right thing and protect her friends, Gina ends up changing the world completely, and we won't know what happens until Book 8 comes out in 2022.
Copy provided by Random House Children's Books and NetGalley
Copy provided by Random House Children's Books and NetGalley
January 7, 2021
Since defeating, Razorwark Hilo and DJ are trying to adjust to life without Izzy as well as helping HiLo to adjust to living with DJ’s family. Gina is trying to come to terms with the loss if Izzy while learning to master her magical powers. When a large group of violent creatures start to show up, Gina worries they might be after the Nestors, a group of tiny creatures waiting to go back home through a portal. Will the trio be able to protect the Nestors and defeat the new creatures? Will they ever come to terms with the loss of their friend? Will Gina learn to master her powers? The characters are likable, engaging, and true to the other novels in the series. The addition of Hilo trying to be human adds a fun, humorous element to the story. The illustrations are vivid, delightful, and colorful. Fans of the other books in the HILo series will want to pick this one up. Recommended for libraries were HiLo books are popular.
November 30, 2020
The Hilo Books are in demand at home and in the library. The art works well with the stories and kids who love Dog Man, Captain Underpants, and Diary of a Wimpy Kid often love these graphic novels.
Gina doesn't like how her life changed after Izzy died. Hilo is different and Gina doesn't want magic anymore. When Earth is invaded by magical beings looking for The Nestor, she is forced to confront her fears and use magic to save her friends, family, and world.
I love the diversity of the characters and how human they are. Huge emphasis on social-emotional themes along with a fantastic story. Gina and her gang solve one problem and end up causing an even bigger one which won't be solved until the next installment. The only problem is it will be another year before we have that book in our hands.
A great addition to a graphic novel collection in school and public libraries.
Gina doesn't like how her life changed after Izzy died. Hilo is different and Gina doesn't want magic anymore. When Earth is invaded by magical beings looking for The Nestor, she is forced to confront her fears and use magic to save her friends, family, and world.
I love the diversity of the characters and how human they are. Huge emphasis on social-emotional themes along with a fantastic story. Gina and her gang solve one problem and end up causing an even bigger one which won't be solved until the next installment. The only problem is it will be another year before we have that book in our hands.
A great addition to a graphic novel collection in school and public libraries.
November 30, 2020
Please note I received an advanced copy of this book thanks to Netgalley. All thoughts are my own.
I adored this! I haven't read read a Hilo book since book 2, but Winick does a good job of catching the reader up so it didn't feel like I was missing things.
I got the first book as an ARC at bookcon and was excited when I learned that one of the main characters name was Gina! So of course I had to request this one knowing she became the main character!
These books are filled with magic and adventure and I love them! Planning to go back and read the books I've missed and I can't wait for book 8!
I adored this! I haven't read read a Hilo book since book 2, but Winick does a good job of catching the reader up so it didn't feel like I was missing things.
I got the first book as an ARC at bookcon and was excited when I learned that one of the main characters name was Gina! So of course I had to request this one knowing she became the main character!
These books are filled with magic and adventure and I love them! Planning to go back and read the books I've missed and I can't wait for book 8!
February 5, 2021
In this seventh installment (for which I preordered and picked it up from our indie bookstore the minute we got the call), the book focuses on Gina who has just lost her friend but who has powers that she needs to believe in especially now that Hilo seems to not have any of his. He's still eating his mangoes and being a goofball, but Gina needs to take charge and figure out what the nestor is and what needs to happen with it.
The group of friends are delightful, the humor is again spot-on, the home situations of each of the family groups is lovely, the creatures are genius, and the action is entertaining. The books are always a highlight to read.
The group of friends are delightful, the humor is again spot-on, the home situations of each of the family groups is lovely, the creatures are genius, and the action is entertaining. The books are always a highlight to read.
February 2, 2021
This series remains my favorite graphic novel series because of the heart in the stories. I love how this group of friends cares for each other and supports each other. And it’s always laugh out loud funny!
This story turns its attention on Gina, who is trying to figure out her magical abilities, and whether or not she really wants them. The group of friends also explores their grief over losing their friend, Izzy. I like that it talks about grief and allowed the characters to go through their grief together.
This continues to be a must read series!
This story turns its attention on Gina, who is trying to figure out her magical abilities, and whether or not she really wants them. The group of friends also explores their grief over losing their friend, Izzy. I like that it talks about grief and allowed the characters to go through their grief together.
This continues to be a must read series!
March 31, 2021
Miss 6 loves Hilo and was so excited that there was a new book out! I love that this feels like the start of a new story arc for the series and the promise of more books to come. I also like that the book doesn't shy away from engaging with grief (for Izzy) and helps make it an approachable topic for kids.
Miss 6 and I like to explore different books and authors at the library, sometimes around particular topics or themes. We try to get different ones out every week or so; it's fun for both of us to have the variety and to look at a mix of new & favourite authors.
Miss 6 and I like to explore different books and authors at the library, sometimes around particular topics or themes. We try to get different ones out every week or so; it's fun for both of us to have the variety and to look at a mix of new & favourite authors.
September 20, 2021
I love this series. I read the first 6 books with my boys and they devoured them. The previous six books place Hilo as the main character. In this book, one of the supporting characters, Gina, gets to be the hero. She struggles with her identity in this book and her gift of magic. The themes include self-love, friendship, and believing in yourself. Sweet themes wrapped in humor.
I like to find books that feature girls as main characters. It's hard to find a story that appeals to my boys and features girl main characters. This is one of them! They beg me to read more chapters.
I like to find books that feature girls as main characters. It's hard to find a story that appeals to my boys and features girl main characters. This is one of them! They beg me to read more chapters.
February 19, 2022
I liked this new installment in the series. I had forgotten some about the last book but there is a little catch up for readers like me ;)
This seems a bit older as the characters are dealing with grief from loosing Izzy in the last book. That hit a little close to home for me. I think it's important to have grief depicted in books for children as they will inevitably have to deal with it.
I kind of wish this wasn't setting up a new story arc and was instead a stand alone story but oh well. It definitely made me want to keep reading though.
This seems a bit older as the characters are dealing with grief from loosing Izzy in the last book. That hit a little close to home for me. I think it's important to have grief depicted in books for children as they will inevitably have to deal with it.
I kind of wish this wasn't setting up a new story arc and was instead a stand alone story but oh well. It definitely made me want to keep reading though.
March 4, 2024
Hilo the little robot who had to save both his world
and ours is now a real boy (because magic)
trying to live as normal a life as a former flying
robot with laser hands can.
BTW he can still fly and zap things ( Magic again ).
Spending time with his best friends D.J. and Gina.
Now the trouble no longer comes Hilo's Evil Robot Dad
causing shenanigans with giant robots.
It comes from magical BS being drawn to Gina
who apparently deeply bad assed in magic.
I have been a fan of Winick for years and
I always find my self drawn to his books.
Even those written for kids.
and ours is now a real boy (because magic)
trying to live as normal a life as a former flying
robot with laser hands can.
BTW he can still fly and zap things ( Magic again ).
Spending time with his best friends D.J. and Gina.
Now the trouble no longer comes Hilo's Evil Robot Dad
causing shenanigans with giant robots.
It comes from magical BS being drawn to Gina
who apparently deeply bad assed in magic.
I have been a fan of Winick for years and
I always find my self drawn to his books.
Even those written for kids.
November 20, 2020
My daughter (12 years old) has read and loved all of the previous Hilo books. She couldn’t wait to get her hands on this one. She sat down to read it and couldn’t stop till she had finished it. Here is her review: It was AMAZING! It was very funny and I love the art work. It had a crazy twist at the end that I liked. It left me wanting more so now I can’t wait for the next book. This is a really good series and I think everyone should give it a try. You will love it!
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