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Travis Daventhorpe for the Win! #1
Travis Daventhorpe for the Win!
For fans of Hilo and The Last Kids on Earth comes Travis Daventhorpe for the Win! , the first volume of a hilarious fantasy/sci-fi graphic novel series!
Travis Daventhorpe may be a genius, but he’s always struggled to make friends. After his attempt to befriend new kid Juniper Reyes results in an epic fail, Travis takes his sentient flying robot, Travbot, out for a ride. But when Travbot malfunctions, the two take a nosedive into the woods. There, they discover a legendary sword, a wizard from another dimension, and a mysterious Travis Daventhorpe is destined to save the multiverse!
From debut author Wes Molebash comes this video-game-inspired sci-fi adventure series. Join Travis as he dodges bullies, forges friendships, and perfects his science fair project...all while trying to fulfill his magical destiny!
Travis Daventhorpe may be a genius, but he’s always struggled to make friends. After his attempt to befriend new kid Juniper Reyes results in an epic fail, Travis takes his sentient flying robot, Travbot, out for a ride. But when Travbot malfunctions, the two take a nosedive into the woods. There, they discover a legendary sword, a wizard from another dimension, and a mysterious Travis Daventhorpe is destined to save the multiverse!
From debut author Wes Molebash comes this video-game-inspired sci-fi adventure series. Join Travis as he dodges bullies, forges friendships, and perfects his science fair project...all while trying to fulfill his magical destiny!
288 pages, Hardcover
Published March 21, 2023
3 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
About the author
Wes Molebash
11 books32 followersWhen I was 10, my mom bought an instructional video cassette (That's right! VHS, baby!) that taught me how to draw newspaper comic strips. I watched that video until the tape wore out! Thanks to that video, I started drawing my own comics and sharing them with my friends and teachers at school. Later, in high school, my cartoons were published in the school newspaper. When the managing editor of the local newspaper came to speak to the journalism class, he noticed my comics and invited me to publish a daily comic strip in the Chillicothe Gazette. I felt like I had hit the BIG TIME!
Time passed, and in the mid 2000s I started pitching comics to comic book publishers. I landed a gig drawing a semi-daily webcomic for a small press comics publisher, and we published a couple book collections of my strip. As a result, my books were reviewed by magazines and I was interviewed on radio shows and podcasts! I even went to comic book conventions and comic book stores all across the country to meet readers and sign books! I REALLY felt like I had hit the BIG TIME!
In the 2010s, I struck out on my own and began freelancing and self-publishing my work. I've had the opportunity to work with some amazing organizations like Target, THE Ohio State University, and PBS Kids! I don't know about you, but that seems like the BIG TIME to me!
When I'm not drawing comics, I'm spending time with my family at our palatial estate in Paris, France. And by "palatial estate in Paris, France" I mean "modest two-story home in Southern Ohio."
I am repped by Jennifer Azantian at Azantian Literary Agency.
Time passed, and in the mid 2000s I started pitching comics to comic book publishers. I landed a gig drawing a semi-daily webcomic for a small press comics publisher, and we published a couple book collections of my strip. As a result, my books were reviewed by magazines and I was interviewed on radio shows and podcasts! I even went to comic book conventions and comic book stores all across the country to meet readers and sign books! I REALLY felt like I had hit the BIG TIME!
In the 2010s, I struck out on my own and began freelancing and self-publishing my work. I've had the opportunity to work with some amazing organizations like Target, THE Ohio State University, and PBS Kids! I don't know about you, but that seems like the BIG TIME to me!
When I'm not drawing comics, I'm spending time with my family at our palatial estate in Paris, France. And by "palatial estate in Paris, France" I mean "modest two-story home in Southern Ohio."
I am repped by Jennifer Azantian at Azantian Literary Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
October 10, 2022
Travis Daventhorpe for the Win! is actually a pretty incredible and fun graphic novel for middlegrade readers. I, admittedly, kind of started off this book thinking it was a little silly, what with the way we first began the book on a set of farmers who initially don't seem to play much of a role in the story as a whole. But, as we get to know young Travis and slowly immerse ourselves into his world, a lot of the goofy events really begin to grow on you.
As I've noticed with a number of graphic novels for young readers recently, there's a really adorable video-game, RPG-esque format to many events throughout the story. As each character is introduced, we get insight into their "stats" and random pop ups appear at various points in the story, such as a weapon being equipped or another character joining the questing party. This, while certainly cheesy, was just so much fun and I loved every second of it.
The farmers pop up from time to time, existing as the people who just live there but are still impacted by the events going on around them. They react very quickly to the changes around them in a fun and amusing way, meanwhile we're privy to some of the more in-depth information related to our hero, Travis, his friends and teachers, and the villain set on destroying Travis so he can one day destroy the multi-verse.
This was an extremely fun read and one I certainly anticipate being added to my ever-growing list of book recommendations for students. I can't wait to share it with the kiddos I know are going to have a blast reading this one!
As I've noticed with a number of graphic novels for young readers recently, there's a really adorable video-game, RPG-esque format to many events throughout the story. As each character is introduced, we get insight into their "stats" and random pop ups appear at various points in the story, such as a weapon being equipped or another character joining the questing party. This, while certainly cheesy, was just so much fun and I loved every second of it.
The farmers pop up from time to time, existing as the people who just live there but are still impacted by the events going on around them. They react very quickly to the changes around them in a fun and amusing way, meanwhile we're privy to some of the more in-depth information related to our hero, Travis, his friends and teachers, and the villain set on destroying Travis so he can one day destroy the multi-verse.
This was an extremely fun read and one I certainly anticipate being added to my ever-growing list of book recommendations for students. I can't wait to share it with the kiddos I know are going to have a blast reading this one!
December 13, 2022
I received eARC access to this title in exchange for my opinions.
Every school library should go ahead and sign up to get this in March and the second in the series, whenever that drops. Reading is reading, whether it is in audio format or a graphic novel. Reluctant readers don't need tried and true classics that have been studied; they just need books that they enjoy. I refuse to believe that our world is full of so many nonreaders. Hook them with fun books like TD:FTW and others that they enjoy and occasionally sprinkle in something a little more academia-friendly and then eventually hit them with TKaM and they will be hooked for sure.
There are so many good things to say about this book. So where to start... start, art, the art! Being from southern Ohio myself, the setting feels extremely home-y, like I've been there, minus some sci-fi and fantasy modifications. And the setting is only the beginning because it is really the characters that shine.
If this seems as though I am trying to sound as unhip as possible, I don't have to try it just comes out that way. I'm a 40 year old librarian and dad (kids could enjoy this at their age but would appreciate it even more in a couple years). I like the overall vibe of this book. Things are big, like how a kid sees things. Emotions? Big. Adults? Big. Stories? Big. Lots of bigness and the pace moves quickly.
Videogame and pop culture references! Dads out there who maybe don't like reading kids books, or at least not the same one over and over and ... ah, I nodded off there. This book will be fun to enjoy together with your kids or separately and then have a little book club. Chances are, there are some grown up easter eggs that you can explain to them or just enjoy knowing that they are flying right over their head. Read to your kids and read with your kids.
I saw in the author's most recent newsletter that he is already thinking about what Kirkus and PW will say and if they will say anything at all about TD:FTW. Well, I read both of those, and others, and I will definitely have a better sense of whether their starred reviews line up with me and my family's reading vibe as any reviews come out.
This was my first pre-pub review and I found it challenging. I really hope I kept it vague enough to avoid spoilers.
Every school library should go ahead and sign up to get this in March and the second in the series, whenever that drops. Reading is reading, whether it is in audio format or a graphic novel. Reluctant readers don't need tried and true classics that have been studied; they just need books that they enjoy. I refuse to believe that our world is full of so many nonreaders. Hook them with fun books like TD:FTW and others that they enjoy and occasionally sprinkle in something a little more academia-friendly and then eventually hit them with TKaM and they will be hooked for sure.
There are so many good things to say about this book. So where to start... start, art, the art! Being from southern Ohio myself, the setting feels extremely home-y, like I've been there, minus some sci-fi and fantasy modifications. And the setting is only the beginning because it is really the characters that shine.
If this seems as though I am trying to sound as unhip as possible, I don't have to try it just comes out that way. I'm a 40 year old librarian and dad (kids could enjoy this at their age but would appreciate it even more in a couple years). I like the overall vibe of this book. Things are big, like how a kid sees things. Emotions? Big. Adults? Big. Stories? Big. Lots of bigness and the pace moves quickly.
Videogame and pop culture references! Dads out there who maybe don't like reading kids books, or at least not the same one over and over and ... ah, I nodded off there. This book will be fun to enjoy together with your kids or separately and then have a little book club. Chances are, there are some grown up easter eggs that you can explain to them or just enjoy knowing that they are flying right over their head. Read to your kids and read with your kids.
I saw in the author's most recent newsletter that he is already thinking about what Kirkus and PW will say and if they will say anything at all about TD:FTW. Well, I read both of those, and others, and I will definitely have a better sense of whether their starred reviews line up with me and my family's reading vibe as any reviews come out.
This was my first pre-pub review and I found it challenging. I really hope I kept it vague enough to avoid spoilers.
August 28, 2023
My 7 year old son read this book (mostly) and loved it!!!
April 11, 2023
Felt like I was reading an engaging, colorful video game! This author knows what middle grade readers are looking for in a book! Love the Player Guide and the player pages that intro each character. Sooo creative!
June 13, 2023
Very imaginative and neat illustration style. I can see middle school, and younger, kids loving this!
February 26, 2023
Graphic Novel
I received an electronic ARC from First Second Books through NetGalley.
Delightful first novel in this series. Travis does not fit in well at school and is bullied by his nemesis. He tries to make a friend and overdoes it a bit, but Juniper sees beyond the attempt. Travis is focused on robotics and has created several robots for his home - including Travbot who goes on adventures with him. One of these adventures leads to them ending up in a different world and meeting Bela, a high level wizard. As expected, Travis now has a quest to fulfill to save the multiverse. With help from Travbot, Juniper and Bela, he begins learning about sword fighting and standing up for himself.
I also appreciate the side story with Carl and Bobby as the portal is open near Carl's farm. True comedic relief element. Readers see plenty of humor in the overall story arc as well. They also meet the various characters in "cards" that show their strengths and weaknesses as they would in a video game.
Some readers will pick up on the surprise reveal before the end of the story but others will be surprised to learn who the Rogue really is. Molebash sets up the next book well. Looking forward to reading that one too.
I received an electronic ARC from First Second Books through NetGalley.
Delightful first novel in this series. Travis does not fit in well at school and is bullied by his nemesis. He tries to make a friend and overdoes it a bit, but Juniper sees beyond the attempt. Travis is focused on robotics and has created several robots for his home - including Travbot who goes on adventures with him. One of these adventures leads to them ending up in a different world and meeting Bela, a high level wizard. As expected, Travis now has a quest to fulfill to save the multiverse. With help from Travbot, Juniper and Bela, he begins learning about sword fighting and standing up for himself.
I also appreciate the side story with Carl and Bobby as the portal is open near Carl's farm. True comedic relief element. Readers see plenty of humor in the overall story arc as well. They also meet the various characters in "cards" that show their strengths and weaknesses as they would in a video game.
Some readers will pick up on the surprise reveal before the end of the story but others will be surprised to learn who the Rogue really is. Molebash sets up the next book well. Looking forward to reading that one too.
February 16, 2023
Disclaimer: I received this e-arc from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Travis Daventhorpe for the Win!
Author: Wes Molebash
Book Series: Travis Daventhorpe Book 1
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: POC characters, Hispanic character
Recommended For...: middle grade readers, sci-fi, graphic novel
Publication Date: March 21, 2023
Genre: MG Sci-Fi Graphic Novel
Age Relevance: 10+ (bullying, sexism, violence, death)
Explanation of Above: There are some scenes with violence and bullying in them. There is a scene where there is a slight sexist comment. Death is vaguely mentioned.
Publisher: First Second
Pages: 288
Synopsis: Travis Daventhorpe may be a genius, but he’s always struggled to make friends. After his attempt to befriend new kid Juniper Reyes results in an epic fail, Travis takes his sentient flying robot, Travbot, out for a ride. But when Travbot malfunctions, the two take a nosedive into the woods. There, they discover a legendary sword, a wizard from another dimension, and a mysterious prophecy: Travis Daventhorpe is destined to save the multiverse!
From debut author Wes Molebash comes this video-game-inspired sci-fi adventure series. Join Travis as he dodges bullies, forges friendships, and perfects his science fair project...all while trying to fulfill his magical destiny!
Review: This was such a great book! The book revolves around this kid named Travis who is not popular and is kinda a loner at school. We meet him as he’s trying to get friendly with a new kid named Juniper and making a robot for the science fair. Travis’ world is turned upside down though when he meets a wizard, pulls a sword from the stone, and embarks on a mission to save the universe. The book is so amazingly illustrated and written! I loved the D&D-like overlays of the characters and I loved that it was told in graphic novel format. The book had great world building and character development as well.
The only issue I had with the book is that some of the pacing was a bit fast, but it was a great read overall.
Verdict: I love it! Highly recommend!
Book: Travis Daventhorpe for the Win!
Author: Wes Molebash
Book Series: Travis Daventhorpe Book 1
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: POC characters, Hispanic character
Recommended For...: middle grade readers, sci-fi, graphic novel
Publication Date: March 21, 2023
Genre: MG Sci-Fi Graphic Novel
Age Relevance: 10+ (bullying, sexism, violence, death)
Explanation of Above: There are some scenes with violence and bullying in them. There is a scene where there is a slight sexist comment. Death is vaguely mentioned.
Publisher: First Second
Pages: 288
Synopsis: Travis Daventhorpe may be a genius, but he’s always struggled to make friends. After his attempt to befriend new kid Juniper Reyes results in an epic fail, Travis takes his sentient flying robot, Travbot, out for a ride. But when Travbot malfunctions, the two take a nosedive into the woods. There, they discover a legendary sword, a wizard from another dimension, and a mysterious prophecy: Travis Daventhorpe is destined to save the multiverse!
From debut author Wes Molebash comes this video-game-inspired sci-fi adventure series. Join Travis as he dodges bullies, forges friendships, and perfects his science fair project...all while trying to fulfill his magical destiny!
Review: This was such a great book! The book revolves around this kid named Travis who is not popular and is kinda a loner at school. We meet him as he’s trying to get friendly with a new kid named Juniper and making a robot for the science fair. Travis’ world is turned upside down though when he meets a wizard, pulls a sword from the stone, and embarks on a mission to save the universe. The book is so amazingly illustrated and written! I loved the D&D-like overlays of the characters and I loved that it was told in graphic novel format. The book had great world building and character development as well.
The only issue I had with the book is that some of the pacing was a bit fast, but it was a great read overall.
Verdict: I love it! Highly recommend!
February 5, 2023
I was fortunate to be able to read a digital advance review copy. I am glad that I did and that I have already pre-ordered a physical copy. “Travis Daventhorpe for the Win!” Is a fresh, fun debut and the beginning of what will be a very exciting and enjoyable series. As an 80’s kid, I felt that the tone and pacing were very much like the movies of my childhood where a kid or kids finds themselves wrapped up in an extraordinary adventure. Remember movies like “The Goonies,” “Explorers,” or “Flight of the Navigator?” That same sense of fun and adventure is found here, but with a modern sensibility that gives it a fresh spin. The humor is clever and snappy, the characters are relatable and unforced, and the story opens up into a blend of both science fiction and fantasy elements without straying too far into one of those genres or the other. The video game references are not so specific or obscure that non-gamers are left out (an issue I sometimes feel with gaming humor or references.) At over 200 pages, it may seem daunting in size, but the pace of the story uses those pages well enough to make you think it couldn’t have possibly been that many. It’s an enjoyable ride that never feels rushed. The younger readers who enjoy book series like “Hilo” and “Amulet” will feel right at home with Travis and the unfolding adventure in which he finds himself. Older, “young at heart” readers will find a lot of fun as well. The influence of “Calvin and Hobbes” is seen in both art and humor (and the name of Travis’ school.) I am looking forward to the rest of the planned four book series. My only disappointment is that it will be such a long wait to get to the next installment. Fans of fun, exciting and fantastic adventure won’t want to miss this book or the rest of the series to follow!
March 16, 2023
I received this book from the author in exchange of an honest review.
A big thank you to the author for allowing me to read the book! I had a lot of fun~
😍 Travis was such a fun character! A lot of people know from my other reviews + Goodreads updates that I am often not a fan of geniuses. Because they are annoying, frustrating, act like they know everything better. But here is Travis. He is pretty dang smart (I mean, I dare you to make a fully working robot that can talk to you, lie, and sword fight like the best), but he doesn’t spread it around. He just comes across as a normal kid. An awkward kid even. Haha. I just had such a laugh at him trying to make friends with the new girl and it was just so awkward. But he tried! I also loved that he tried to do the sword-fighting, but hey, I don’t blame him for his alternative idea. I would have chosen the same!
😍 Juniper! I loved her purple hair and loved that she likes pink, but not in a girly way, but in the kick-ass way. If that makes sense. I love that she is very good at engineering and that she kicks some major butt.
😍 Bobby and Carl and the Compsognathus! At the farm there is a big black hole and I just loved that we got to see the peeps who lived there and see them adopt that dinosaur. Bobby named him Walter. 😆
😍 That Travis his birthmark is apparently not just a birthmark but instead is the mark of a chosen one! Yep. Apparently a lot happened and a sword (and one of the protectors) went to Earth to find the chosen one.
😍 Bela! He was an interesting character, a bit too stoic at times and I just laughed how he tried to make sense of Earth, but just wasn’t always able to.
😍 The big bad guy and the Rogue who helps him. I had a sus about the Rogue when the Science Fair happened.
😍 The big dinosaur at the Science Fair. SOOO COOL! I mean, I love dinosaurs, so not only did I get a pretty cool compsy, but we also got a big Cyborg T-rex and I was totally sold. I need one of my own, well, one with blue eyes preferably.
😍 The stats we get with each new character (and dinosaur). I loved the little details, and I laughed so hard when the special attack of the T-rex was: “Don’t Wanna Find Out!” Oh snap!
😍 The illustrations are just a delight! They really make the story come to life, and I just love the style and how well it fits with it all.
😍 The parents, oh boy, I can imagine they are stressing out, I would do the same if my kid likes robotics a bit too much and then oh yes, also picks up “fencing”.
😍 Oh, how could I almost forget, Travbot!! Travbot was such a fun character, not like a lot of the robots one sees in books. Travbot was sweet and so cool! I loved how friendly they were with Travis and how they felt very human.
😍 Butlerbot! I definitely need to know when and how that one was created!
😍 The ending, OOHHHH EXCITING!
😕 The bullying. That was truly the only thing I was just NOT a fan of in the entire book.
But all in all, I need more! I want to know more about the bad guy, if Travis (and Juniper) can save the world (+ other worlds), if Travis will be able to do sword fighting or if he will find a creative way again. This was fab, and I would recommend it.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
A big thank you to the author for allowing me to read the book! I had a lot of fun~
😍 Travis was such a fun character! A lot of people know from my other reviews + Goodreads updates that I am often not a fan of geniuses. Because they are annoying, frustrating, act like they know everything better. But here is Travis. He is pretty dang smart (I mean, I dare you to make a fully working robot that can talk to you, lie, and sword fight like the best), but he doesn’t spread it around. He just comes across as a normal kid. An awkward kid even. Haha. I just had such a laugh at him trying to make friends with the new girl and it was just so awkward. But he tried! I also loved that he tried to do the sword-fighting, but hey, I don’t blame him for his alternative idea. I would have chosen the same!
😍 Juniper! I loved her purple hair and loved that she likes pink, but not in a girly way, but in the kick-ass way. If that makes sense. I love that she is very good at engineering and that she kicks some major butt.
😍 Bobby and Carl and the Compsognathus! At the farm there is a big black hole and I just loved that we got to see the peeps who lived there and see them adopt that dinosaur. Bobby named him Walter. 😆
😍 That Travis his birthmark is apparently not just a birthmark but instead is the mark of a chosen one! Yep. Apparently a lot happened and a sword (and one of the protectors) went to Earth to find the chosen one.
😍 Bela! He was an interesting character, a bit too stoic at times and I just laughed how he tried to make sense of Earth, but just wasn’t always able to.
😍 The big bad guy and the Rogue who helps him. I had a sus about the Rogue when the Science Fair happened.
😍 The big dinosaur at the Science Fair. SOOO COOL! I mean, I love dinosaurs, so not only did I get a pretty cool compsy, but we also got a big Cyborg T-rex and I was totally sold. I need one of my own, well, one with blue eyes preferably.
😍 The stats we get with each new character (and dinosaur). I loved the little details, and I laughed so hard when the special attack of the T-rex was: “Don’t Wanna Find Out!” Oh snap!
😍 The illustrations are just a delight! They really make the story come to life, and I just love the style and how well it fits with it all.
😍 The parents, oh boy, I can imagine they are stressing out, I would do the same if my kid likes robotics a bit too much and then oh yes, also picks up “fencing”.
😍 Oh, how could I almost forget, Travbot!! Travbot was such a fun character, not like a lot of the robots one sees in books. Travbot was sweet and so cool! I loved how friendly they were with Travis and how they felt very human.
😍 Butlerbot! I definitely need to know when and how that one was created!
😍 The ending, OOHHHH EXCITING!
😕 The bullying. That was truly the only thing I was just NOT a fan of in the entire book.
But all in all, I need more! I want to know more about the bad guy, if Travis (and Juniper) can save the world (+ other worlds), if Travis will be able to do sword fighting or if he will find a creative way again. This was fab, and I would recommend it.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
March 20, 2023
Travis Daventhorpe is your average, nerdy middle school science/tech genius minding his own business, trying to make friends and get his robot to fly, when he finds out that he’s the prophesied Hero of Solusterra. A mage of the Creatrix named Balezar shows up as soon as he pulls the Legendary Sword of Legends from a stone and informs him of his status, and also tries to get Travis ready to face the minions of Nol Invictus. Nol Invictus is the big, bad ruler of Solusterra who wants the sword so he can destroy the multiverse. But is Travis Daventhorpe really up to saving the multiverse?
This was a lot of fun, from battles between cyborg dinosaurs from other dimensions and robots, to Travis’ quirky humor and likability, to Balezar’s disbelief that anyone could be so hard to train, to the way Travis goes about trying to befriend the new girl, Juniper, to the background tidbits of enjoyability (like Travis’ middle school being named after the creator of Calvin & Hobbes or the farmer down the road who likes having a black hole on his property because…well, you just need to read it to find out). This was utterly delightful and I know the students at my school will think the same. Hand this to readers who love graphic novels, scifi adventures, underdog heroes, and chuckles all along the way.
Notes on content [based on the ARC]: No language issues. No sexual content. There’s a bloody nose from dodgeball. A bully has it out for Travis, but Travis keeps a calm head and seems nonplussed even when he gets wedgied. (You get the feeling the bully has a lesson coming in a future book.) There’s a sword fight, but it is between a cyborg dinosaur and a robot, and both end up impacted but fine.
I received an ARC of this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was a lot of fun, from battles between cyborg dinosaurs from other dimensions and robots, to Travis’ quirky humor and likability, to Balezar’s disbelief that anyone could be so hard to train, to the way Travis goes about trying to befriend the new girl, Juniper, to the background tidbits of enjoyability (like Travis’ middle school being named after the creator of Calvin & Hobbes or the farmer down the road who likes having a black hole on his property because…well, you just need to read it to find out). This was utterly delightful and I know the students at my school will think the same. Hand this to readers who love graphic novels, scifi adventures, underdog heroes, and chuckles all along the way.
Notes on content [based on the ARC]: No language issues. No sexual content. There’s a bloody nose from dodgeball. A bully has it out for Travis, but Travis keeps a calm head and seems nonplussed even when he gets wedgied. (You get the feeling the bully has a lesson coming in a future book.) There’s a sword fight, but it is between a cyborg dinosaur and a robot, and both end up impacted but fine.
I received an ARC of this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 29, 2022
Travis is a UFH; Unidentified Flying Hero (when Travbot is working properly). Otherwise, he attends an obscure middle school in Hopeton, intends to be best friends with the new girl, and to win the science fair.
He doesn't know anything about being a hero (thus unidentified) until he and Travbot land (crash) in a clearing in a forest and discover a statue guarding a sword in a stone (I kid you not!).
Meanwhile a portal (originally called a blackhole by Bobby; an honest mistake), has opened on a farm nearby, and a malevolent ruler wants the *Sword enough to kill anyone in the way!
Things don't always (often) go Travis' way, but he is spunky and a little bit relentless. Readers will enjoy the book's take on life, and willingness to look at things from a different point of view (with humor).
[*"Legendary Sword of Legend" prophesied to be wielded by Travis Daventhorpe, specifically.]
5/5 Stars
I loved the player introductions, the wry comments, and general silliness mixed in with the gripping adventure! I hope to see the next book soon!
Next Adventure:
Travis Daventhorpe Powers Up!
Thanks to First Second Books, First Second Graphic Novels, Manga | Middle Grade | Sci Fi & Fantasy, and NetGalley for the temporary digital preview; any review is voluntary and my own opinion.
#TravisDaventhorpefortheWin
#WesMolebash #WesMolebashAuth
#MiddleGradeHumorousRobotsTRexPortal
#MiddleGradeHumorousComicsandGraphicNovels
#MiddleGradeScienceFictionComicsandGraphicNovels
#MiddleGradeFantasyComicsandGraphicNovels
#MiddleGradeHumerousScienceAdventure
#ChildrensScienceFictionComicsandGraphicNovels
#ChildrensFantasyComicsandGraphicNovels
#ChildrensHumorousComicsandGraphicNovels
#ChildrensHumorousRobotsTRexPortal
He doesn't know anything about being a hero (thus unidentified) until he and Travbot land (crash) in a clearing in a forest and discover a statue guarding a sword in a stone (I kid you not!).
Meanwhile a portal (originally called a blackhole by Bobby; an honest mistake), has opened on a farm nearby, and a malevolent ruler wants the *Sword enough to kill anyone in the way!
Things don't always (often) go Travis' way, but he is spunky and a little bit relentless. Readers will enjoy the book's take on life, and willingness to look at things from a different point of view (with humor).
[*"Legendary Sword of Legend" prophesied to be wielded by Travis Daventhorpe, specifically.]
5/5 Stars
I loved the player introductions, the wry comments, and general silliness mixed in with the gripping adventure! I hope to see the next book soon!
Next Adventure:
Travis Daventhorpe Powers Up!
Thanks to First Second Books, First Second Graphic Novels, Manga | Middle Grade | Sci Fi & Fantasy, and NetGalley for the temporary digital preview; any review is voluntary and my own opinion.
#TravisDaventhorpefortheWin
#WesMolebash #WesMolebashAuth
#MiddleGradeHumorousRobotsTRexPortal
#MiddleGradeHumorousComicsandGraphicNovels
#MiddleGradeScienceFictionComicsandGraphicNovels
#MiddleGradeFantasyComicsandGraphicNovels
#MiddleGradeHumerousScienceAdventure
#ChildrensScienceFictionComicsandGraphicNovels
#ChildrensFantasyComicsandGraphicNovels
#ChildrensHumorousComicsandGraphicNovels
#ChildrensHumorousRobotsTRexPortal
December 26, 2023
Travis just tried to talk to the new girl at school in hopes of becoming best friends, but his lack of social skills really blew his chances. After school that day, he's testing out his science fair project robot, Travbot's flying abilities when they land in the middle of a forest in front of a statue holding a sword. And Travis does what many would do--he grabs the sword. It turns out he's the chosen one to destroy a villain set on eliminating the multiverse. He has to train in sword combat to be able to stop this villain. A lot more enjoyable than other superhero, action graphic novels. The action panels are fun, but some of the talking panels are a bit boring in comparison. I like the trading card introductions to major characters, really caters to fans of video games, superheroes, Pokémon, and even D&D. Also for fans of Hilo and Zita the Spacegirl.
September 10, 2022
Travis Daventhorpe is a boy genius who was supposed to be in sixth grade, but was bumped up because he is that smart. However he is a little lonely, and his closest companion seems to be Travbot, a robot he created and programed. Along the way he stumbles upon a magical sword sought after by the evil forces who need it to destroy the multiverse. So while the fate of the world lies on his shoulders he also attempts to befriend new kid Juniper Reyes, and avoid the class bully who hates him, Derek Denvers.
It's a fun geeky story designed with role playing games in mind as each character has her own scale of traits. Derek for instance has zero empathy.
Thanks NetGalley and the publisher for giving me an advance arc in exchange for an honest review.
It's a fun geeky story designed with role playing games in mind as each character has her own scale of traits. Derek for instance has zero empathy.
Thanks NetGalley and the publisher for giving me an advance arc in exchange for an honest review.
March 29, 2023
If y'all are in need of a quick Hi-Lo-esque fix, this might do the trick.
Super smart Travis has enough trouble making friends - how can he possibly be chosen to save the world?
Molebash thanks Bill Watterson and Jeff Smith (fellow Ohioans) in his Acknowledgments - his storytelling is clearly indebted to and inspired by them. It's a confident enjoyable first book. I've read a whole bunch of graphic novels in the last few days, and this one stands out as my favorite (so far).
Shout out to First Second Publishing, too. They publish good work consistently enough that their name alone is enough for me to check out a book; that was the whole reason I picked this one up (Cover art might be the thing I liked least on this title - First Second pulled me in).
Super smart Travis has enough trouble making friends - how can he possibly be chosen to save the world?
Molebash thanks Bill Watterson and Jeff Smith (fellow Ohioans) in his Acknowledgments - his storytelling is clearly indebted to and inspired by them. It's a confident enjoyable first book. I've read a whole bunch of graphic novels in the last few days, and this one stands out as my favorite (so far).
Shout out to First Second Publishing, too. They publish good work consistently enough that their name alone is enough for me to check out a book; that was the whole reason I picked this one up (Cover art might be the thing I liked least on this title - First Second pulled me in).
February 6, 2023
Full disclosure: I received a preview copy of Travis Daventhorpe FTW to review, but the following is my own opinion. As an avid reader of graphic novels across genres, a middle-school teacher, and father, I appreciate a good story with good art and one that I can share with my students and own kids. This book was a fun read! The characters are interesting, the plot keeps a good pace, and drawings are fantastic. There are plenty of nods and easter eggs to Wes Molebash's creative inspiration which were fun to spot along the way. I strongly recommend this book for young and old readers alike looking for a fun adventure. I look forward to the next books in the series!
March 24, 2023
for a debut graphic novel, quite impressive
the combination of middle school drama/fantasy/sci-fi is really satisfying, reminiscent of HiLo but if it moved a little slower (which I wouldn't have minded, because duh, more HiLo is a good thing - anyway)
I do hope the plot picks up in the next installment or else it'll start to lose interest for me
love the thick-line style and the characters seem fleshed-out. oh boy the awkwardness between the nerds is realistically painful xD
yeah, give this one a read, i recommend for ages 10-15, so a pretty wide range will enjoy it
the combination of middle school drama/fantasy/sci-fi is really satisfying, reminiscent of HiLo but if it moved a little slower (which I wouldn't have minded, because duh, more HiLo is a good thing - anyway)
I do hope the plot picks up in the next installment or else it'll start to lose interest for me
love the thick-line style and the characters seem fleshed-out. oh boy the awkwardness between the nerds is realistically painful xD
yeah, give this one a read, i recommend for ages 10-15, so a pretty wide range will enjoy it
May 17, 2023
Travis Daventhorpe is more than your average nerdy kid looking for a friend. He is a designated hero, assigned with ridding the multiverse of evil. And, of course, he takes the challenge on head-first. Join Travis, Juniper and Travbot as they battle their way across town and universe in the pursuit of justice. A great graphic for younger middle school readers that will have them rooting for the underdog the whole way. The epilogues were fabulous (one left me gasping) and I can't wait for the second instalment of the saga.
September 25, 2023
Travis is worried about middle school – he already has no friends and now he’s skipping a grade. He hopes he’ll hit it off with the new girl while also avoiding his bully. Well, Travis does have one friend – a robot named Travbot that he built. While testing Travbot’s flying skills, Travis and Travbot accidentally crash into a forest and discover an enchanted sword that chooses Travis as the one chosen to save the multiverse. Gamers will enjoy the game-like storyline complete with character card summaries for all the major characters. A fun series starter for elementary-age readers.
October 5, 2023
Travis Daventhorpe is a classic kid-genius who makes robots and gets bullied. And after failing to befriend the new girl, who happens to be a engineering whiz as well, his Travbot seems to be the only friend around. None of this matters, though, when Travis stumbles upon a "sword in the stone;" which, naturally, he pulls out and thus becomes the chosen one of a land in a different universe. With the clichés aside, the cyborg dinosaurs, gamification of the hero quest, and witty dialogue, this graphic novel will be flying off the shelf!
April 15, 2023
I loved this book! Great story, artwork, and life lessons here in Travis Daventhorpe for the Win! Congrats to my friend Wes on your hard work and dedication to this project. I am so happy for you and the next chapter of this project and the many more to come. I highly recommend this book to you, my friend; get this book and add it to your library! Keep chasing down those dreams, Wes. Thanks for your friendship.
August 16, 2023
A fun video-game inspired fantasy/sci-fi middle grade graphic novel series. I thought it was just ok, but I think the kids really liked it (and their opinion matters more here anyhow).
There's some good diversity in all the supporting characters, yet the MC (and the main bully) are your typical overconfident white boys. Travis was seriously getting on my nerves. But all the science/robot stuff is pretty darn fun.
There's some good diversity in all the supporting characters, yet the MC (and the main bully) are your typical overconfident white boys. Travis was seriously getting on my nerves. But all the science/robot stuff is pretty darn fun.
January 27, 2023
Wizards, robots, and a cyborg T-Rex. I really shouldn’t have to say more. This book is awesome.
If you took Calvin and Hobbes and Zelda and shoved them into a particle collider then Travis Daventhorpe for the Win! would come out the other end. It’s funny, has top notch storytelling and warrants multiple readings. My inner ten year old loved every minute of this book.
If you took Calvin and Hobbes and Zelda and shoved them into a particle collider then Travis Daventhorpe for the Win! would come out the other end. It’s funny, has top notch storytelling and warrants multiple readings. My inner ten year old loved every minute of this book.
April 22, 2023
Charming! I can see some symbolism at play, and I’m sure I figured out the big twist. But like most RPGs, the journey to getting there is fun! The art style is cute and expressive. Kind-hearted but terribly socially-awkward Travis and Travbot are wholesome, and the parents have a presence here.
I look forward to book two!
I look forward to book two!
August 14, 2023
Super-smart, science nerd Travis finds himself smack in the middle of a real-life video game. He is apparently the chosen one, destined to wield a legendary sword and save the multiverse. With a wizard as his mentor, he prepares for an epic battle--and for his school's science fair. A super fun series opener, filled with humor and adventure.
January 23, 2024
Read this for a group I am, working on understanding and seeing what young reader are in to and what they might enjoy.
I enjoyed this for the entertainment factor. I actually want to go back and really look at the artwork. I saw lots of details, like trash on top of the lockers as we saw the view from above . Nice.
I can see younger people enjoying the fast fun graphic novel.
I enjoyed this for the entertainment factor. I actually want to go back and really look at the artwork. I saw lots of details, like trash on top of the lockers as we saw the view from above . Nice.
I can see younger people enjoying the fast fun graphic novel.
February 15, 2024
Very good first book in the series, though it's not self-contained (it doesn't wrap up the story at the end, at all). The art is excellent and the author's heavy Bill Watterson influence is clear. Good characters and a fun story, although they do the 'chosen one' trope again. Completely politics and agenda-free. Will definitely be buying the 2nd book.
October 19, 2024
Travis Daventhrope, boy genius who has no friends, and only his robots, and a mysterious birthmark discovers that he is the chosen one to save the multiverse. With the powerful Sword of the Legends and his new friend Juniper Reyes, they.set out to stop Nol Invictus from destroying the mulitiverse.
December 5, 2022
I received an eARC courtesy of First Second via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
This was surprisingly entertaining. Has a gaming/sci-fi vibe that young readers will enjoy-at least I think it will be a big hit at my library.
For Libraries: Perfect for fans of Hilo!
This was surprisingly entertaining. Has a gaming/sci-fi vibe that young readers will enjoy-at least I think it will be a big hit at my library.
For Libraries: Perfect for fans of Hilo!
April 15, 2023
Such a great, fun read! Travis takes us on an adventure through the highs, lows, and challenges of middle school, as well as an epic multiverse battle! I love the character's personalities as well as the AMAZING artwork! I can't wait to see what Travis is up to next!
April 21, 2023
Wes Molebash is an Ohio author / illustrator and has created an incredibly fun graphic novel for middle grade readers, pulling inspiration from video games to create a fun adventure following Travis and his robot, TravBot.
We are very excited to be hosting Wes at the bookstore this summer.
We are very excited to be hosting Wes at the bookstore this summer.
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