Cover image of Goldie Vance Vol. 1 (1)
Goldie Vance Vol. 1 (1)
Hope Larson
Quick Take
GOLDIE VANCE IS ON THE CASESixteen-year-old Marigold "Goldie" Vance has an insatiable curiosity. She lives at a Florida resort with her dad, who manages the place, and it's her dream to one day be the hotel's in-house detective. When Walter, the current detective, encounters a case he can't crack, together they utilize her smarts, skills, and connections to solve the mystery...even if it means getting into a drag race, solving puzzles, or chasing a helicopter to do it!
Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Goldie Vance Vol. 1 (1)

Introduction

Goldie Vance Vol. 1 (1) is a graphic novel written by Hope Larson and illustrated by Brittney Williams. The story follows the adventures of Marigold "Goldie" Vance, a 16-year-old girl who dreams of becoming a detective at her family's Florida resort. With her quick wit, skills, and connections, Goldie and her father, Walter, work together to solve mysteries that take them on exciting journeys. From street racing to hotel shenanigans, Goldie's determination and resourcefulness shine through in this captivating tale.

About Hope Larson

Hope Larson is an accomplished author and illustrator known for her work in the comics industry. She has won a 2007 Eisner Award and is the creator of several popular graphic novels, including Salamander Dream, Gray Horses, Chiggers, and Mercury. Larson's writing style is characterized by its humor, heart, and ability to engage readers of all ages. Her work often explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and the power of imagination. With her talent for storytelling and artistic prowess, Larson brings Goldie Vance to life in a delightful and entertaining way.

Analysis of Views

  1. A Winning Combination: Readers rave about the book's combination of retro charm, queer representation, and a compelling mystery. They appreciate the bright and fun art style, which adds to the overall enjoyment of the story.
  2. Spunky and Fun: Many readers find Goldie Vance to be a spunky and relatable protagonist. They appreciate her determination, resourcefulness, and her ability to kick ass while solving mysteries. The supporting characters, including Diane, add depth and charm to the story.
  3. Retro-Inspired: The book's setting in the 1950s and its retro-inspired elements resonate with readers who enjoy nostalgic stories. The colorful illustrations and vibrant palette transport readers back to a different era while keeping the narrative fresh and engaging.
  4. Mystery and Adventure: The book's mysteries are praised for their complexity and enjoyability. Readers enjoy following Goldie and her team as they unravel clues, outsmart adversaries, and overcome obstacles to solve the cases. The fast-paced nature of the story keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
  5. Inclusive and Open: Readers appreciate the book's inclusivity and openness, particularly in terms of representation. The queer characters and relationships are portrayed in a positive and authentic manner, making the book accessible to a diverse audience. The book's themes of friendship, self-discovery, and personal growth resonate with readers of all backgrounds.

Reasons for Recommendation

  1. Engaging Storytelling: The book's combination of mystery, adventure, and relatable characters makes it an engaging read for both young readers and adults alike. The fast-paced narrative keeps readers hooked from start to finish.
  2. Artistic Appeal: The bright and colorful artwork by Brittney Williams adds to the book's visual appeal. The illustrations are expressive and well-integrated into the storytelling, enhancing the overall reading experience.
  3. Inclusive Representation: The book's representation of queer characters and relationships is a significant factor in its recommendation. Readers appreciate the positive portrayal of these characters and feel seen and represented in the story. This inclusivity makes the book accessible to a broader audience.
  4. Retro-Inspired Setting: The retro-inspired setting of the 1950s adds an extra layer of charm to the book. Readers who enjoy nostalgic stories or are interested in exploring different time periods find this aspect appealing.
  5. Positive Themes: The book's themes of friendship, self-discovery, and personal growth resonate with readers of all ages. These themes add depth and meaning to the story, making it more than just a simple mystery-solving adventure.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

  1. Far-Fetched Plot: Some readers find the plot of Goldie Vance to be far-fetched or overly complicated. They feel that certain elements of the story stretch credulity or are not fully developed enough to be believable. This aspect may not appeal to readers who prefer more grounded or realistic narratives.
  2. Negative Reactions to Certain Elements: A few readers express negative reactions to certain elements of the book, such as its portrayal of Operation Paperclip or certain character designs. These reactions may be due to personal preferences or discomfort with certain themes or elements within the story. It is important for readers to consider these opinions when deciding whether or not to recommend the book based on their own values and preferences.

Conclusion

Goldie Vance Vol. 1 (1) by Hope Larson is a captivating graphic novel that combines mystery, adventure, retro charm, queer representation, and positive themes into a delightful reading experience. Readers praise the book for its engaging storytelling, artistic appeal, inclusive representation, retro-inspired setting, and positive themes. While some readers may find certain elements of the plot far-fetched or have negative reactions to certain aspects of the book, overall Goldie Vance Vol. 1 (1) is recommended for those who enjoy engaging stories with relatable characters and a sense of nostalgia.