James Kochalka. Peanut Butter and Jeremy’s Best Book Ever. Alternative Comics, 2003. ISBN 978-1891867460 280 pp. $

*****

Peanut Butter and Jeremy’s Best Book Ever is a whimsical collection of the adventures of a naive workaholic cat (who thinks he is an office employee) named Peanut Butter and a sarcastic trickster crow named Jeremy. Peanut Butter, who takes himself much too seriously, needs a nemesis-pal like Jeremy around to bring him back down to earth. Character development here is excellent–the two epitomize their species and display charmingly human affectations as well. The art is smooth, featuring simple lines and velvety black backgrounds.

Appropriate for children in that the themes, dialogue and artwork are easily comprehended, some of the plots and jokes may go over their heads. Saavy teens and collegiate intern-types will probably get the most out of Peanut Butter’s career track and Jeremy’s meanness. Some parents of young children may object to the name-calling and threats of violence throughout, but they are true to Jeremy’s character and should be taken lightly.