I like a good graphic novel. I like ones that capture relatable subjects and can be humorous. And of course, I like serious ones too, but I was in the mood for something that was funny. And Table Titans Club (I am assuming it is the first in a series, since how it ended) looked funny. Scott Kurtz did not disappoint. The story of three friends (Alan, Darius and Andrew) who ask the new girl Val (though reluctantly on Alan’s part), and the dismay of their sort-of friend Kate, to join their tabletop game. As an academic club, the four kids find a rhythm in and out of the game, only to learn that next semester, they will be disbanded if they do not find a teacher to sponsor them. Through some interesting methods, they secure a teacher. Or maybe not. It all depends on if Val can keep her temper, keep her grades up and not get kicked off the wrestling team.
A delightful story of friendship, goofy, really bad, but funny, humor and a few stereotypes tossed on their head, but not preachy. Simple illustrations support the story arc and are colorful, keeping things light hearted. The details are as needed, but do not take over. The theme of “being yourself and not caring about what others think” has been done before, and even “dorky games” (Dungeons and Dragon and D&D like games) have even been used, but Kurtz creates characters that are both familiar and new. One part I found both a plus and minus was some of the cluelessness of some of the characters. But the biggest chuckles came from that as well (Teacher to Darius: “Cooler heads will prevail; it just takes time.” Darius: “Like what? Fifth period?”). And while I am not sure if it was deliberate, there is a nod to The Goonies (who I know would have been D&D players). I also enjoyed the way the wrestling team accepted Val, even the “hot shot” player. (Spoiler) She becomes their “little bear” (there are a few jokes before this that make it funnier) and they are not “threatened” by her (she was meant to be on the practice team, but gets bumped up quickly). The “smoothness” of focusing on only the big issue of the bully (Kate) and Val made things stronger. 
There is a nice diverseness to the characters, some stereotypes such as the wrestling coach is a “Dude-Coach-all-about-the-team”, but at the same time he has the best solution to the problem between Val and Kate. These layers are not “laid on thick” but they are obvious. And while people are realistic and believable, they might be a little over the top, but that adds to the fun. Due early March 2024, this read online reader copy might not become a classic, but will be a child favorite. It works for gamers, non-gamers, reluctant readers and strong readers, too. Good for most ages 8 and up, it is set in middle school, though the subjects in this volume are not all “teeny” issues.