The Fix-Its

Starred review from December 1, 2023
Hammer needs assistance from the toolbox community in this graphic novel for the younger set. "Once upon a time a nail was stuck," a narrative text box informs readers. While the wood board in which the nail is embedded ("stuck. Like this. Forever") seems quite put out, the inhabitants of a nearby toolbox hear the calls for help. Hammer's plan to perform a heroic rescue hits the nail on the head--literally, unfortunately. "You're only a centimeter tall now," the tape measure informs Nail, now stuck more than ever. "That's less than half an inch," clarifies a ruler. The colorful tools have earnest, animated faces and are recognizable for what they are: a hammer, a tape measure, a set of pliers, a saw, Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, and even the grumpy wood plank. When Nail finally suggests that Hammer use its "bunny ears" to help, Hammer agrees--and clarifies that those "bunny ears" are its claw. But it takes a toolbox of helpers to get Hammer turned over. Well-defined panels, generous gutters, and clear spacing of dialogue balloons make Reul's lively, easy-to-read, and brief comic adventure a delight. The series' simple tutorial on how to read comics is empowering both for beginning readers and budding artists. Disarmingly funny and quite compelling--here's hoping for more from this handy crew. (quick explanation of hammers and nails) (Graphic early reader. 4-8)

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March 1, 2024

PreS-Gr 3-Nail finds themself stuck in a wooden board and would prefer to have a bit more freedom of movement. Fellow denizens of the workshop toolbox circle round, ready to help. Hammer leads the charge, using their flat, heavy head to push the nail further into the board. Nail realizes this is going against the goal and is about to propose another option when Hammer angrily clomps off, frustrated by failure. The other tools proffer their own talents to support Nail's quest for freedom, but to no avail. Gifted as they might be in their own the ways, a plier can only ply, squeezing the nail far beyond its comfort, and a saw can only saw, maiming the grouchy, bothered wooden board in which Nail is lodged. Thankfully, the team stops short of total destruction for either Nail or Board, and Hammer half-heartedly returns to listen to and take heed of Nail's possible solution. In an amiable lesson in teamwork, compromise, and flexible thinking, the tools get the job done. Bright, functional illustrations sketch easily identifiable toolbox staples. The panel structure is used flexibly and effortlessly, an inviting treat for early readers new to the genre. VERDICT A problem, a drama, and a satisfying solution-this is an entertaining, giggle-getting introduction to comics for early readers.-Emilia Packard

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 1, 2024
Grades K-2 Once upon a time, Nail was stuck in a piece of Wood. He called for help to get him unstuck, but Hammer wouldn't listen and only pounded him further in, and the other Fix-Its (Screwdrivers, Pliers, Saw, Tape Measure, etc.) were no help either. Finally, Hammer comes back, ready to listen, and they all work together to pry Nail out of Wood to freedom! As with other easy readers in the I Can Read Comics! line, the front matter of cartooning basics explains thoroughly and expertly how an emerging reader can successfully read a graphic novel. The cute and simple story packs in a surprising amount of educational content, from the various purposes of construction kit tools and active problem-solving skills to the value of listening before taking action and the success that can be achieved through teamwork. The artwork is clear, simple, and charming--who knew that a hammer could be made to look so adorable or a nail so frustrated?--and supports the story and its happy ending well.

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