GRAPHIC NOVEL REVIEW: Binky Takes Charge by Ashley Spires

BINKY TAKES CHARGE
by Ashley Spires
Kids Can Press, 2012
ISBN: 9781554537686
Graphic Novel
Grades 2-5
Digital copy provided by publisher through NetGalley.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Binky the space cat has been promoted to lieutenant. He's now in charge of training the next generation of space cadets. But then he meets the new space kitten -- who isn't a kitten at all! Is someone trying to pull the fur over his eyes? Binky and Captain Gracie need to figure out the new cadet before the next alien attack.

REVIEW

Binky, the Space Cat, has a new assignment.  He is in charge of training a new recruit to the F.U.R.S.T. (Felines of the Universe Ready for Space Travel) organization.  And he thinks he is prepared, until the new recruit shows up and he discovers that F.U.R.S.T has become P.U.R.S.T. (Pets of the Universe Ready for Space Travel) and the recruit is a dog! What's Binky to do? How can he train a DOG!  He doesn't know but he gives it a try, but the dog is terrible at everything Binky tries to teach him.  He might even be a spy for the aliens! Binky and Captain Gracie need to find out just who and what the new recruit is before the alien's invade.  Full of humorous illustrations and just enough potty humor, children are bound to relate to Binky and his dilemma.  Spires' dry sense of humor is very evident throughout the book and I found myself snickering more than once.  I confess I did not see the twist at the end coming, all the evidence seemed to point at something else.  Overall, a nice addition to a fun series and perfect for kids who love pets and graphic novels.