Graphic Novel Review – The Great Space Iguana (Hilo, Book 11) by Jeff Winick (5/5 stars)

Reading Level: Middle Grade
Genre: Graphic Novel/Science Fiction
Length: 240 pages
Publisher:‎ Random House Graphic
Release Date: February 11, 2025
ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0593807095
Stand Alone or Series: 11th volume in the Hilo series
Source: Bought
Rating: 5/5 stars

“AHHHHH! A GIANT SPACE IGUANA has landed in D.J.’s backyard. Where did she come from? And why is the whole universe out to get her?! D.J., Hilo, and Gina will have to RACE through space to get her home! Iif they don’t, the whole universe will be in DANGER! But there’’s a galaxy of TROUBLE—(not to mention one super annoyed alien dad, some very cranky monsters, and a warrior match combat challenge (um, what?!?!)—in their way. Can they make it?! (And how is D.J. at driving a spaceship, anyway?)”

Series Info/Source: This is the 11th volume in the Hilo series. I bought this in hardcover.

Thoughts: I started reading this middle grade graphic novel series with my son many years ago. He has stopped reading it but I continue to get the books because I love them so much and they are so much fun! This is another great installment in the Hilo series. This book ties together the stories from the 9th and 10th books. I loved seeing all these characters come together in this book.

When a giant space iguana shows up in D.J.s back yard chaos ensures. Our favorite characters are in a race across space while chased by hoards of angry aliens in an effort to return the space iguana to its home planet. In the midst of this we learn that Gina has a final trial to perform before she can return home for good and D.J. may be more important than we ever knew.

I love these books, and this one was just as wonderful as all the others in this series. We get more character development, and the story from the previous books comes together to help explain magic versus science in this world. There are some fun new characters introduced and all of our old favorites are here as well.

The drawings are colorful and fun and entertaining to look at. The dialogue is witty and silly all at once. I love the enthusiastic joy of the characters (especially Hilo). There is a lot of humor in here that will make you chuckle out loud. All of this is wrapped up into a fast-paced and engaging book that I really enjoyed.

My Summary (5/5): Overall I loved this. If you are looking for a humorous middle grade adventure graphic novel, I would highly recommend. This digs a bit into magic versus science and has a lot about family and friendship as well. This is all packed into a colorful, cheerful, action packed story that is incredibly entertaining and engaging. This is a series that both kids and adults can enjoy together (or on their own). I look forward to more Hilo novels in the future!