10.6.08

clubbing



Andi Watson/Josh Howard: Clubbing

For using a fake ID at a West End club, Lottie's parents banish her from London to stay with her grandparents on the grounds of a country club. Lottie spends her days learning about golf clubs, decorating "Goth" cakes for the local women's group, and getting to know Howard, the only single man close to her age in the vicinity. This mundane existence suddenly changes when an elderly woman, whom Lottie once saw arguing with her grandfather, is discovered dead, with an occult symbol carved on her arm. Howard suspects Lottie's grandfather, but as the two investigate, they discover a more supernatural answer. Josh Howard's expressive black-and-white art makes Lottie's tough-teen attitude dance off the page. She is one intrepid sleuth, in her high boots, fishnet tights, and short shirt, and she is not afraid to swing a golf club to protect her loved ones. The plot may have a supernatural element, but Lottie can still pass as Nancy Drew for the iPod generation.

King, Kevin