LIFE LESSONS FROM A UFO CATCHER

In Loui’s debut graphic novel, a man passes on what he’s learned while collecting crane-machine plush dolls.

Kenny Loui is a student, teacher, and Civil Air Patrol lieutenant. But he’s first and foremost a UFO catcher— his mission is rescuing plush dolls from captivity (crane machines at a local arcade). Kenny endures such trials as a bill validator repeatedly rejecting his currency and develops a gamer rivalry with the blonde-haired, perpetually snarky Killian. There’s also Somi, a mysterious woman often appearing at Kenny’s side, though he apparently can’t see or hear her. When she isn’t photo-bombing his selfies she cheers him on in multiple languages, including Korean and Japanese, and she offers sage advice she hopes he’ll somehow understand. Kenny applies his arcade experiences to real life: “Don’t just jump in without knowing what you’re going to do,” he muses as he contemplates which doll to aim the crane at. The author has fun with this breezy, semi-autobiographical tale. Irene, a bubbly, talking plush pig, introduces a couple of “episodes” that are BGM (background music)-enhanced, with QR links to music videos to play while you read. Loui keeps the story fresh with Kenny failing as often as he succeeds and provides (disappointingly few) glimpses into his history. Many of Kenny’s “life lessons,” are simple platitudes; some of these, including “Always look before you buy” and “No good deed goes unpunished” are already implied by characters’ actions. Yamawe’s dynamic, manga-inspired illustrations perfectly suit Loui’s tone, with exaggerated facial expressions and lightning bolts intensifying a Kenny/Killian face-off. Readers will surely welcome more of Kenny’s antics in future volumes.

This entertaining, pleasantly mellow story, despite trafficking in cliches, brims with exuberance and features an animated cast.