Reviews

Punk Rock Karaoke by Bianca Xunise

lattelibrarian's review

funny lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

This was such a great book and one I'll be featuring during Punk Rock Week at my library! The characters are so fun and flawed in such a realistic way--from tardiness to ignorance about a significant other--and this makes for such an empowering, friendship-forward graphic novel. Also, fuck that dude lead singer--he had what was coming to him!

lukewhenderson's review

emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

bombegranate's review

adventurous emotional funny inspiring fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

readingrobin's review

emotional funny lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

 Thank you so much to Penguin and NetGalley for this free ARC in exchange for an honest review.
 
So what you want about the art style, but it definitely celebrates the throw everything at the wall, maximalist vibe of punk. It immediately struck me as a polished zine, with cartoony, energetic designs that felt so familiar and engaging.
 
The plot seems to bounce along from one point to the next, which makes it a bit difficult to keep up with at times, but the representation of queer black punk artists will definitely be appreciated. 
 
The inclusion of a "soundtrack" throughout the story was an incredible touch. It gives newcomers to the punk scene a look into what it has to offer, as well as celebrates the artists within it. I know I'm definitely creating a playlist the moment I finish this review. 

anneessdee's review

lighthearted

• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

2.75

violetfox's review

adventurous funny inspiring fast-paced

• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.5

yearning4clementines's review

emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted fast-paced

4.0

frogsinthesummer's review

emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

jazjoyner91's review

emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

I love this book Bianca Xiunse's comics are always a source of comfort for me. I was so excited when this book was announced and it didn't disappoint. The art, colors, and wonderful coming of age story was perfect. Highly recommend.  

tydymac's review

emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

I love Bianca’s illustration style. This story is really cute and also has some fun facts about Chicago’s punk scene. I hope they write/illustrate more books in the future.