Missing the Boat

by Justin Shady, Dwellephant

You've probably never heard of the Churamane, have you? They were a particularly lazy and not terribly bright species that lived a long time ago and vanished without a trace. They were invited by God to be the chosen two to continue their race after the great flood. The story follows them from the time they get invited aboard Noah's Ark, all the way up to the moment they finally arrive at the boat... only to realize that they're late and have been locked out! When it starts to rain, they are left to realize that they've literally missed the boat on survival, and have doomed their entire species to extinction! Engagingly written with wonderfully vibrant art, this story will delight readers of all ages and, if you're not looking, may even teach a lesson about procrastination and slothfulness.

Genres: Graphic Novels, Humor, Comics

96 pages, Hardcover

First published January 29, 2009

Reviews

[Sumit Singla · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought this was a cute tale about the 'churamane' - a species too lazy to make it in time to Noah's ark. The illustrations aren't out of this world, neither is the storyline, but 'Missing the Boat' still has some 'Awwwwwww' moments in there.

There are people who've called this book 'sexist' because the troubles for the churamane couple begin with what seems to be clearly the wife's fault. But I'd disagree with that, and focus on the overall story that carries the broad message - If life gives you lemons, make lemonade!

I wouldn't go out of my way to pick this one, but if you happen to chance upon it, I wouldn't suggest scurrying away either.

[Ben Vogel · Rating 1 out of 5]

Wow. I did not have lofty expectations, but this really is poor. There is nothing cute about the story, nothing wonderful about lessons or insights offered, and nothing great about the illustrations or dialogue. This is a completely unnecessary work, with no redeeming qualities for adults or children.

[Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book about a pair of lazy (unknown) animals who didn't quite make it in time to Noah's ark. However, I think a lot of the humor will definitely get lost on juvenile readers, the target audience.

[Jennifer Burke · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really funny graphic novel! It tells the fictional story of the Churamane, a species that lived long ago and are now extinct. It focuses on a husband and wife, George and Gladys, who find out they've won a free 40-day and 40-night cruise trip on Noah's Ark. Obviously, while they are on board, the entire earth will be under water and when the flood is over, they will have to repopulate the planet with their species. The only problem is, George and Gladys like to nap (A LOT - they are a very lazy bunch of animals) and they slept through the date they were supposed to be on board. They eventually get to the ark, but are locked out! And Noah won't let them get on!

This story is hysterical, I absolutely loved it! George and Gladys are perfectly suited to each other in their laziness and love of napping. Noah is a hoot, as well! The humor and silliness is matched in the illustrations. This graphic novel is perfect for children and adults. Prepare yourself for lots of laughter!

[Matt Shaqfan · Rating 4 out of 5]

a cute story of how the Churamane (think a more cartoony 'where the wild things are') couple selected to be on Noah's boat, slept in too late and wasn't able to get on. they like taking naps a lot. pretty funny. written by justin shady, and with art by dwellephant-- this book also rules cause both dudes are from milwaukee. represent! good book for kids too.

[wittierninja · Rating 4 out of 5]

I picked this up because I liked the cover, and who doesn't like a cool-looking graphic novel? I loved this story! It's about the demise of the churamane and why they no longer exist. The writing is funny (I love that the churamane love to nap) and underlying the humor is a sweet story of love and living your life without regrets. Great book!

[Karla · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'd have to read this to a kid or two to see if they think it's funny. As it stands, I'm not sure that children would appreciate some of the humor of this tale about the creatures who missed their chance to avoid extermination by getting on Noah's ark. Less than thrilled about how everything starts out as the wife's fault.

[David Koblos · Rating 3 out of 5]

An entertaining first person yarn about how Hutchinson returned to his former passion of sailing, which he had given up as a teenager. It is a skillful blend of dreams, personal stories, anecdotes of other sailors, and a detailed account of the races he participated in the year he decided to take it up again. Good read, good laughs.

[Drew · Rating 3 out of 5]

a story about two animals who were meant to go on the ark, but slept in, forgot to get the mail, and were subsequently left behind.

[Jacob · Rating 4 out of 5]

Public library copy.

[Twan · Rating 1 out of 5]

Dull story, dull dialogue with poor illustrations and pacing.

[Kathy Ellen Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was hilarious!
Great art,
funny story,
and a quick read.

Check it out!

[Extreme · Rating 2 out of 5]

Cute relatable story, but Noah could've been less of a jerk.

[Shelli · Rating 3 out of 5]

Missing the Boat is a nicely drawn graphic novel that educates its readers about the Churamane, a species that was rendered extinct due to its procrastinating and affinity for naps.