A to Z Challenge: Z is for Zipper

Wow. This is zee end. <heh> The final post in the Blogging From A to Z Challenge. By now, you should know what it's all about, but if not, click here for the deets, and here for my theme reveal. And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here. In fact, I encourage it!

Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 16 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author. (Or scroll through my other posts for other ways to win...but you should hurry. The contest ends MAY 1!)

Z is for Zipper

It's fitting that the final post for this year's Blogging From A to Z Challenge be in reference to the theme of "O"—the FINAL book in the Superman Duffy series.

In this book, "cartoon me" learns about all of the amazing things that were invented in Canada, like hockey masks, insulin, the IMAX theatre and...yup, you guessed it, the zipper.

Apparently, it was first manufactured by he Lightening Fastener Company in St. Catherine's Ontario, and was called the "separable fastener"—not quite as catchy as the "zipper!"

But like many "inventions" throughout time, the real origins of the zipper is under review. Did you know that some even say hockey, our national winter sport, may not have even been invented in Canada? I refuse to accept that! (By the way, who are you rooting for in the Stanley Cup?)

There are many great facts and statistics about Canada in "O"—and of course, you can order your copy via the Alberta Canola Producers Commission. OR, you can scroll through past posts, including the letter "C" for some easy ways to WIN he full set.

Thanks for sticking with me through this year's Blogging From A to Z Challenge. I had a lot of fun with this year's theme and hope you did too. Drop me a comment or send me an email if you want to know more about the Superman Duffy series.

Gotta jet, but I'll be back Friday for my usual weekly posts!

~ Chase Superman Duffy

A to Z Challenge: Y is for YOU!

This is IT! The final two posts for the Blogging From A to Z Challenge. I have serious mixed emotions about this! Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal. And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here.

Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 16 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author. (Or scroll through my other posts for other ways to win...but you should hurry. The contest ends MAY 1!)

Y is for YOU!

I've spent most of the month talking about myself—well, "cartoon me" and the Superman Duffy series of graphic novels.

But the truth is, neither "cartoon me" nor the series would exist without YOU. Yes, YOU...the readers.

Literally thousands of copies of these books have been printed and distributed to schools across Alberta (don't have them in your school? Ask your teacher to contact the Alberta Canola Producers Commission!)—and it's so cool because YOU actually READ them.

Of course the books relate to what you're learning in school, but every story is an adventure story, written and illustrated with YOU, the reader, in mind. Because if YOU don't like the books, then there would be no reason to create them...

So, thank YOU.

Gotta jet! The Blogging From A to Z Challenge takes a break tomorrow before rounding out with the letter "Z" on Monday—and then that's it. Zee end! <grin> See you then.

~ Chase Superman Duffy

A to Z Challenge: X is for Xerces

Only THREE MORE days left in the Blogging From A to Z Challenge. Can you believe it?

Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal. And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here.

Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 16 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author. (Or scroll through my other posts for other ways to win...but you should hurry. The contest ends MAY 1!)

X is for Xerces

I have a love / dislike relationship with my sister, Amelia. Most days, I don't mind hanging out with her—reading, chasing butterflies, cooking, even crafting.

But Amelia can be annoying too. Like, the way she talks about bugs...she likes them! Not all of them—she's not much a fan of mosquitoes—but she's not afraid of spiders, or moths, os even Bertha worms, which a lot of farmers DO fear because they can be detrimental to crops.

Maybe it's because the author of the Superman Duffy series of graphic novels gave my sister her own book—and essentially her own super power. Yup, Amelia Xerces (that's her real middle name) Duffy is a junior entomologist...someone who knows a LOT about bugs. And while she can be really annoying sometimes, "cartoon me" is grateful for her in the book about bugs. She, er, well, she saves me and our friend Sophie from some bugs of unusual size. It's quite an adventure.

But Xerces ins't just my sister's middle name. It's also the name of a "non-profit environmental organization that focuses on the conservation of invertebrates considered to be essential to biological diversity and ecosystem health. The name is in honour of the extinct California butterfly, the Xerces blue."

I'm pretty sure my parents had NO idea that their daughter would have such an interest in bugs...but they couldn't have picked a more fitting middle name.

Gotta jet! Grab your copy of AMELIA XERCES DUFFY from the Alberta Canola Producers Commission...or, you know, read through pas posts (especially C!) for a chance to WIN the whole set.

See YOU tomorrow.

~ Chase Superman Duffy

A to Z Challenge: W is for Wish

Ready for today's post in the Blogging From A to Z Challenge? As you wish...

Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal. And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here.

Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 15 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author. (Or scroll through ALL the posts for three other chances to win...)

W is for Wish

Have you ever wished for a genie or a wizard? Someone who could make your dreams come true with the wave of a wand?

One time, I wished for my room to clean itself—but unfortunately there was no genie around to make my with come true. There's actually a bunch of things I'd probably wish for—an endless supply of books, the ability to run faster than Superman, for my first short story to be published in a major magazine...that kind of stuff.

But if there's one thing reading the Superman Duffy graphic novel, AS YOU WISH taught me, it's that I'd have to make sure my wish was sustainable.

What does that mean? Well, it's all great to wish for an endless supply of novels, but where do I keep them? I don't have enough room in my house. How often do I get them? Can I give them away? Do I get to choose what kind of books I'd like? So many factors—but they're important decisions if I want my wish to be sustainable.

Sustainability is important to agriculture producers, too. My grandparents consider all kinds of factors when making decisions for their canola farm, like whether to rotate out crops, spray for pests, and so on. There's a lot to think about.

Don't get me wrong, I'd still like to wish for a genie...but I'd definitely be very careful about what I asked for. If you read AS YOU WISH, you'll see that perhaps "cartoon me" should have done some research before he meets the genie that wafts out of an old bottle of canola hiding in his grandparents's attic.

Interested in reading the book? You know what to do. <grin>

Gotta jet! Tomorrow's "X" post is probably an obvious one, but my biggest wish is that you come back and read it!

~ Chase Superman Duffy

A to Z Challenge: V is for Village

Hello! *waves* I hope you've forgiven me for yesterday's "U" post—especially since I dropped another way that you can WIN a full set of the Superman Duffy series of graphic novels. But sometimes, these posts for the Blogging From A to Z Challenge can be tough!

Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal. And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here.

Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 15 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author. (Hint: This is the easiest way, but so far, there are FOUR different ways to win...scroll through my pas posts for more information!)

V is for Village

I haven't talked much about IT TAKES A VILLAGE on the blog, which doesn't make sense, because the theme of the book is "careers in agriculture"—and you may be surprised at how many there are. Working in the industry doesn't stop at tending to animals or crops...there are actually hundreds of jobs in agriculture, and "cartoon me" explores a bunch of them in this "Freaky Friday" story.

It's probably the funniest book in the series, even though the topic is kind of serious.

My parents sometimes ask me if I plan to be a farmer, since I love spending time at my grandparents's canola field—and not just running around it, either. I like doing chores, or riding alongside Grandpa in his tractor.

But after reading IT TAKES A VILLAGE, I realized that if my career as a track star doesn't pan out, I have some great options—like, writing articles for an agriculture newspaper. "Cartoon me" plays a "reporter" in the book "O," but one appears in this story too, taking pictures and writing a feature about "Grandma" who has grown a prize-winning tomato. Seriously, you should see it!

Well actually, you CAN see it, if you order the book from the Alberta Canola Producers Commission...or of course, if you try winning the whole set.

Gotta jet! See you tomorrow for my "W" post—can you believe we're almost through the WHOLE alphabet?

~ Chase Superman Duffy

A to Z Challenge: U is for Universe

Good morning! I admit, I'm stretching a bit for today's post for the Blogging From A to Z Challenge, but I hope "U" will understand. Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal. And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here.

Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 15 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author.

U is for Universe

What does "universe" have to do with the Superman Duffy series of graphic novels? So glad you asked! The universe is where "cartoon me" rockets to in IT'S A BLAST! He explores three separate planets, in fact, to talk to "alien" farmers about growing canola.

I know, it's a bit of stretch. But the truth is, this might be my favourite book in the series. Not just because astronaut Robert Thirsk makes an appearance (and I got to meet him!) but because I love things all outer space. You've probably heard me talk about Star Wars (especially on May 4th!), but I also use my grandpa's telescope out on the farm to look at the constellations clear nights, I've completed a science project on the "universe" AND, my favourite character of all time—Superman!—is not from Earth. I mean, he was CREATED by a Canadian artist from our planet, of course, but Superman is from Krypton.

It might not be possible in real life for farmers—even aliens—to grow canola in outer space, but with all the technological advancements happening almost daily, it might not be long. I don't know about you, but I'd definitely stand in line for a chance to explore the universe. Can you imagine how BIG it must be?

Well, the author of the series certainly imagines it, and the illustrator brings it to life. Contact the Alberta Canola Producers Commission to score a copy of IT'S A BLAST!—or, you know, you could try and WIN it. How? Good question.

Check out my past posts for ways you can WIN a full set of signed books, OR, write a haiku about one of the planets in he universe, and send it to me via email. If I publish it on the blog, you WIN. Talk about a cool way to celebrate Poetry Month, right?

Gotta jet! Have a great Tuesday.

~ Chase Superman Duffy

A to Z Challenge: T is for Tasting My Story

And we're back—for the last 7 days of the Blogging From A to Z Challenge! Can you believe this month is almost over?

Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal. And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here.

Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 15 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author.

T is for Tasting My Story

You guessed it—the fourth book in the Superman Duffy series of graphic novels is a cookbook. But it's not just any cookbook.

Sure, TASTING MY STORY is jam packed with delicious recipes using canola oil, but it's also a mystery story. A mystery that takes you back in time...to FOUR different eras. It's kind of fun to see the characters go from the early 1900s to the 60s, 70s and even the 80s!

But what's even better is that the recipes in TASTING MY STORY are totally kid-friendly. Which means, with only a little bit of help from my mom, I can whip up a batch of Grandma's special Monster Cookies. (Well, if cartoon "me" can track down the recipe!)

If you're looking for an adventure that will not only give you mouthwatering recipes, but also a lesson on the importance of food and family tradition, TASTING MY STORY is the book for you! You can get it by contacting the Alberta Canola Producers Commission, or, yep, that's right, scrolling through past posts in this year's Blogging From A to Z Challenge to see how to WIN the entire set—signed by the author!

Gotta jet! See "U" tomorrow. <grin>

~ Chase Superman Duffy

A to Z Challenge: S is for Soil

The Blogging From A to Z Challenge takes a break on Sunday, but today, we round off the week with the letter "S."  Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal. And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here.

Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 15 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author. If you have some time tomorrow, go through ALL of the posts so far for more chances to win. It's like a belated Easter egg hunt!

S is for Soil

You might be itching to get your hands dirty in your garden now that Spring has finally arrived. But before you do, check out Beneath the SOIL, by far the spookiest book in the Superman Duffy collection of graphic novels.

In it, cartoon me is charged with babysitting a little boy by the name of Jack...and things don't quite go as planned. Jack runs through the canola field to a wetlands area...where he sinks beneath the soil. Yup, you guessed it, there are some creepy critters nosing around in that dirt.

This is clearly where the author gets things wrong, because the real me is an excellent babysitter. Well, except that one time I took my sister to Sustainaval and... never mind! The point is, if you've ever been curious about what lives in soil, this is the book for you.

There's a lot more under there besides earthworms! *shudder* Do you want a copy? You know what to do. <grin>

Gotta jet! See you Monday for the homestretch of the 2018 Blogging From A to Z Challenge.

~ Chase Superman Duffy

A to Z Challenge: R is for Reading

This month is FLYING by! We're almost at the end of week three in the Blogging From A to Z Challenge. Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal. And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here.

Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 15 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author.

R is for Reading

If you read my blog regularly, you know that I don't have any trouble reading—it's one of my most favourite things to do. I have a bunch of go-to authors—like Roald Dahl—and can spend an entire day curled up on the couch exploring new worlds and adventures.

But I get that not everyone likes to read. Enter graphic novels. These are stories told through a mix of both illustration and text, and they're the format of the Superman Duffy books.

Not that there's anything wrong with comics (I have an impressive Superman collection), but graphic novels are not just glorified comics. And here are five reasons you may want to include them in your personal or classroom library.

1. The illustrations—especially when they're great—provide an immediate overview of the story, which encourages you to read the whole thing. By looking at the pictures, you get a sense immediately of what is happening...and that is a fun way to dive into the story.

2. They are fast paced! For those of us with high energy, slowing down can be an issue, but with most graphic novels—and especially the Superman Duffy books—the plots are exciting, and there's plenty of action to keep you focussed on the story.

3. The pictures reenforce, not replace the story. A good graphic novel only works when the text and images go together.

4. The language is high quality! A great graphic novel pairs awesome images with clear dialogue. With so little space for words, the author has to choose the ones she uses very carefully. Plus, graphic novels often deal with a theme—in the case of the Superman Duffy books, that theme is about the importance of agriculture and knowing where your food comes from. Educational and entertaining!

5. They can be read over and over again. Just last week, a Grade 4 student attending Aggie Days in Calgary said he'd read Cut! To The Chase... more than a dozen times! Because they're a quick read, graphic novels are an easy choice when you want to revisit a favourite tale.

Convinced? Perfect! Contact the Alberta Canola Producers Commission to see how to get the full set of books for your classroom—or of course, you can read my past posts for a chance to WIN all 16 books.

Gotta jet! Happy Friday—and see you tomorrow!

~ Chase Superman Duffy 

A to Z Challenge: Q is for Questions

Can you believe we're already at the letter "Q" for the Blogging From A to Z Challenge?  Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal. And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here.

Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 15 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author. (We've already given away three sets! Don't miss out on yours....scroll down for another chance to WIN!)

Q is for Questions

Did you know that the very first book in the Superman Duffy graphic novel—Fields of Home—was inspired by the letter "Q?" Well, sort of...

Actually, it was written to answer some of the QUESTIONS people were asking about canola. Like, when and where was it first planted? What is rapeseed and how did it become canola? What can you make from canola besides oil? How does canola grow? What are farmers in Alberta doing to manage soil, water, and pests?

If you've read any of the graphic novels, you'll find the answers to these questions woven into the story—and believe me, "cartoon me" has been on some exciting adventures. Like that one time, I went back in time to meet the first Canadian canola farmer.

If you haven't read the books (or even if you have!), you may have some questions—and today is your day to ask them. In fact, I encourage you to ask away. Because every person who asks a question from today until Monday—either in the comments of this post or via email—will be entered into a draw to WIN a full set of the Superman Duffy graphic novels. That's right, this is your THIRD chance to WIN.

What are you waiting for? Go ahead and ASK.

Gotta jet! But I'll be back later for your questions—and tomorrow for the letter "R!"

~ Chase Superman Duffy

A to Z Challenge: P is for Pirate

Argh! I've dug up a mighty fine treasure for today's post for the Blogging From A to Z Challenge. Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal. And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here.

Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 15 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author.

P is for Pirate

Red sky at morning...

I love pirates. Well, reading about them at least. I'm not sure how I'd feel about running into a real-life Blackbeard—one of the most famous pirates in the world.

But the pirates in SHIVER ME TIMBERS, one of the graphic novels in the Superman Duffy series, are all pretty cool—well, except the obvious nefarious one trying to steal *my* treasure—canola gold.

Yup, that's right, Captain Chase Superman Duffy (that's me!) and his crew on The Yellow Mist have set sail on the high seas to deliver a ship's worth of canola treasure to the American and Chinese export markets. But as a terrifying storm brews in the distance, Chase must face off against the dreaded pirate Captain Flood <gulp> and risk losing his ship or worse—be forced to walk the plank.

Aye, it's one of the most thrilling books in the series and you could WIN it, just be writing a review of one of the other Superman Duffy graphic novels, or by writing a quick thank you note to the Alberta Canola Producers' Commission for making the books available for schools. Easy, right?

Gotta jet! See you tomorrow!

~ Chase Superman Duffy

A to Z Challenge: O is for...O

Hello! *waves* Thanks for joining me today for my Blogging From A to Z Challenge post. Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal. And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here.

Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 15 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author. And that's no myth—for real!

O is for "O"

You probably know that hockey and lacrosse are Canada's national winter and summer sports, but did you know that the basketball was created by a Canadian? Or that insulin—the medicine used to help people with diabetes—was invented by a Canadian scientist? How about Superman? Did you know the artist who came up with that character is from Canada?

If any of these facts surprise you, you're going to be blown away by what you learn in the Superman Duffy graphic novel, "O." The 16th—and last—book in the series was written to commemorate Canada's 150th birthday last year, and in it, cartoon me is a junior reporter on the hunt for cool trivia about our nation. And wow, do *I* ever come up with some amazing statistics.

Canadians are responsible for some amazing inventions—from canola crops, to Jet Engine Funny Cars that run on canola biodiesel—and everything in-between. When you finish this book, you'll be sure to hum "O Canada" all day long.

Gotta jet! By now you know the drill—see you tomorrow for "P" and be sure to order your copy of "O' from the Alberta Canola Producers Commission website, or of course, flip through my past posts to see how you can WIN the full set of 16 books.

~ Chase Superman Duffy

A to Z Challenge: N is for Nicolai

AND...I'm back on track with the Blogging From A to Z Challenge—week 3 begins today! Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal. And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here.

Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 15 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author. And that's no myth—for real!

N is for Nicolai

Who is Nicolai? Good question. Nicolai Driscoll is the new kid that shows up in book four of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, Tasting My Story. He's a chef...or at least he wants to be when he grows up.

Cartoon me is pretty competitive, so when the school announces a baking contest, Nicolai becomes "my" biggest competition (off the track...on the track, that's Lightning!) To beat Nicolai, I have to help Grandma find the recipe for the delicious monster cookies that have been in the family for decades.

It's a bit of a mystery. Not just where the recipe is, but the book itself. And the author takes "me" on a pretty wild journey back in time...

But there's also recipes in the book, including the one for the cookies—which really ARE delicious. It's the perfect book for kids who love to read mysteries AND like to bake.

And, do you want to know a secret? Nicolai was based on the author's nephew, Nick, who at the time this book was written wanted to be a chef. To read more about me...er, him...check out Tasting My Story. You know the drill—order it via the Alberta Canola Producers Commission or try to WIN all 16 books here and here.

Gotta jet! Hope you have a most excellent Monday. See you tomorrow for "O"—literally!

~ Chase Superman Duffy 

A to Z Challenge: M is for Mythconceptions

Whoops! For some reason yesterday's post for the Blogging From A to Z Challenge didn't go live—I'm a day late...

Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal. And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here.

Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 15 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author. And that's no myth—for real!

M is for Mythconceptions

For some reason, I forget to talk about this book in the Superman Duffy series, which is silly, because it's actually one of my favourites.

Mythconceptions takes place at Sustainaval, a carnival that takes place in Alberta every year where the rides run on canola biodiesel, like the Jet Engine Funny car featured in Gotta Jet! It kicks off with my (cartoon) sister going rogue...leaving (cartoon) me on a desperate hunt to find her, before anyone else realizes she's gone.

That feels pretty real to life, to be honest.

Anyway, throughout the book, cartoon me is doing something the real me LOVES—busting myths. All kinds of myths about agriculture and canola, but also about carnival rides, food, spiders...so much great trivia!

It's one of the more fun books in the series, and you can WIN it simply by doing this or this. OR, you can order a copy via the Alberta Canola Producers Commission website. If you're an Alberta teacher, it's free!

Gotta jet! I'll be back on schedule tomorrow, with a great letter "N" post. See you then!

~ Chase Superman Duffy

At to Z Challenge: L is for Leprechaun

Happy Friday the 13th! If you've been following my blog for a while, you know that THIS is one of my favourite day—or days, depending on the year! I've written a few posts about it—like this one. But today isn't for that kind of post.

Today we're looking at the letter "L" for the Blogging From A to Z Challenge! Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal.

And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here.

Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 15 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author. Good luck!

L is for Leprechaun

Speaking of luck, Irish folklore says that if you find—and capture—a leprechaun, he or she will trade freedom for treasure. I'm not sure if that's fact or myth, but I DO KNOW that in the Superman Duffy graphic novel, Cloud 9, cartoon me doesn't exactly catch a leprechaun—the leprechaun catches me!

It all starts off on a plane, where my (cartoon) grandpa and I are going on a trip. Everyone else is sleeping, especially Grandpa, and next thing I know, I'm being tapped on the shoulder by a very short man with a beard who says he needs my help. Thinking I'm in a dream, I follow him—to this beautiful city in the clouds!

But what do clouds—and leprechauns—have to do with growing canola? I don't know about the leprechauns (pinch of luck, maybe?) but weather is an important factor in all agriculture production. And in the book, several climates are represented among the clouds...including what Lucky the Leprechaun believes to be the "perfect" temperature—his version of "Cloud 9."

Of course, the theme of the book is all about climate change—but these cloud cities are like nothing you could have imagined. Trust me, after reading Cloud 9, you'll look at the sky in a whole different way!

I've gotta jet but I hope you checked out yesterday's post for your chance to WIN a set of the Superman Duffy graphic novels—all 16 books. If you just want Cloud 9, you can order it from the Alberta Canola Producers' Commission.

Have a great day!

~ Chase Superman Duffy

A to Z Challenge: K is for Kevin

Whoop! Another day on the Blogging From A to Z Challenge! Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal.

And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here.

Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 15 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author. To be eligible, re-read this post here.

Or scroll down for ANOTHER way to win. Ready?

K is for Kevin

Not all of the characters in the Superman Duffy series of graphic novels are made up—some of them are based on real people. Like Kevin Therres.

I talked about him briefly in my post about Gotta Jet! but he's truly remarkable and deserves his own post. He's one of my idols, and not just because he designed one of the fastest cars I've ever heard of. Kevin Therres is a true Canadian inventor.

Kevin and his family live in Saskatchewan. While he's been racing cars for most of his life—just my kind of person!—he is also a mechanic, and spends a lot of time fixing farm equipment. He and my grandpa go way back, and I've seen him working on Grandpa's tractors before.

But one day, Kevin started researching about fuel, and they figured out how to create the first jet engine funny car to run 100% on canola biodiesel. The corvette REALLY stands out on the race track, and when it fires up, the exhaust smells like popcorn. And, it's fast. Really fast. The car puts out 7,500 horsepower, and tops 250 mph in 6.4 seconds on the quarter mile.

But more than all that, Kevin Therres is an all around nice guy. He even let me sit in his race car! Maybe one day, he'll let me drive it. <grin>

And of course, you can read all about Kevin and his FAST cars in Gotta Jet. 

Gotta jet! But before I go, here's your second chance to WIN the complete set of Superman Duffy graphic novels.

If you've read one of the books, we'd love for you to write a review—whether it's in class or on a site like Goodreads. Send the review to me via email, or link my Superman Duffy social media accounts, and you're in. Easy peasy, right?

Have a great day! See you tomorrow for the letter "M."

~ Chase Superman Duffy

A to Z Challenge: J is for James

Today on the Blogging From A to Z Challenge, we celebrate the illustrator half of the creative duo behind the Superman Duffy graphic novels—James Grasdal! Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal.

And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here.

Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 15 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author. It's a massive prize, and to enter is simple. Read more here.

J is for James

James. James Grasdal. <heh> It's true he's not James Bond, but he does know how to wield a weapon for the greater good—James is an illustrator, and he drew all of the pictures in the 16 Superman Duffy graphic novels. That's hundreds of pictures of (cartoon) me!

Of course, the Superman Duffy books aren't the only project James has worked on—he's illustrated children's books, and if you live in the Edmonton area, you may have seen some of his artwork on windows in local businesses.

James says he started "doodling" in the crib. His art sure has come a long way from those first crayon scribbles. You can check out his website to see more! I'm sure grateful he made "me" look so cool.

Gotta jet! I'll be sharing a second way to win the entire set of graphic novels tomorrow, but until then, read this post.

See you tomorrow!

~ Chase Superman Duffy

A to Z Challenge: I is for IUS

It's funny how things work out, sometimes. Today on the Blogging From A to Z Challenge, we celebrate the letter "I"—read on to see why it's a DOUBLE celebration! Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal.

And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here. Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 15 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author. It's a massive prize, and to enter is simple. Read more here.

I is for IUS

As in, Dawn Ius, the author of all 16 Superman Duffy graphic novels!

But did you know Dawn also writes books for young adults? She already has two published by Simon Pulse (an imprint of Simon & Schuster) — Anne & Henry and Overdrive — but her third book, LIZZIE, launches today!

LIZZIE is a modern re-telling of the Lizzie Borden ax murders, told from the point of view of Lizzie herself. I'm a little too young to read it, but if you want to know more about it, check out this Amazon page, or add the book to your Goodreads.

I can't wait until I can read—everyone knows how much I love a scary book! That's why Beneath the Soil is my favourite of the Superman Duffy books. It's the spookiest in the collection.

Gotta jet! To learn more about Dawn, check out her website, and of course, collect her books—especially the Superman Duffy graphic novels. Click here to see how you can WIN the set (signed by the author) or contact the Alberta Canola Producers Commission to order copies for yourself or school library.

See you tomorrow for the letter "J"!

~ Chase Superman Duffy

A to Z Challenge: H is for H20

Good morning! We kick off week two of the Blogging From A to Z Challenge with the letter "H!"
Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal.

And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here. Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 15 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author. It's a massive prize, and to enter is simple. Read more here.

Okay, here we go!

H is for H20

I know, I've already covered the book TRANSPIRATION in a previous post—because, who wouldn't highlight DINOSAURS for the letter "D?" But the point of the book is actually about the importance of water—aka: H20. (Sometimes you need to be creative to hit all the letters for the A to Z Challenge!)

If you read that post—or you've read TRANSPIRATION—you know that during one of my runs, I drink not enough...and then too much...water. Both of those "H20 mistakes" cause some interesting side effects. The right balance of water is needed for our bodies (and our minds!), but did you know it's also very important for farmers?

Like my grandparents, who grow canola in central Alberta.

Simply put, water is vital for both livestock and plants. It forms a large part of all plant tissues, as well as being an essential component of all animal body cells. A complete lack of water can mean a total loss of income for farmers—the animals have nothing to drink, the soil dries out. It's bad news.

Too much H20 isn't great either. Crops can flood, which is as catastrophic as them drying out.

Farmers around the world—especially in Canada—are looking at ways to conserve water, and be more efficient in using it for agriculture. My grandpa says that we've come a long way...but there's still a long way to go, especially as water sources become less accessible.

You can learn more about the importance of H20—for your body and for the farm—in TRANSPIRATION. To get a copy, contact the Alberta Canola Producers Commission!

Alright, I've gotta jet, but *I* will be back tomorrow for the next letter in the Blogging From A to Z Challenge. (Heh, see what *I* did there?")

Have a great day!

~ Chase Superman Duffy 

A to Z Challenge: G is for Gotta Jet!

Good morning! I'm rounding off the last day of the first week of the Blogging From A to Z Challenge with a post about one of my favourite sayings!

Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal. And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here. Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 15 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author. It's a massive prize, and to enter is simple. Read more here.

G is for Gotta Jet!

Ever wonder why I sign off my blog posts with Gotta jet!?

There's actually two reasons. The first is because it's the name of one of the Superman Duffy books in the series—the story of when cartoon me meets race car driver and Canadian inventor Kevin Therres.

Mr. Therres created the world's first Jet Engine Funny Car to run 100% on canola biodiesel. And believe me, this car goes FAST!

When it fires up, with a ground-shaking rumble, flames shoot out of the car's back end. When Mr. Therres hits the gas, the car shoots forward like a rocket.

Like I said, FAST!

You can read all about Mr. Therres and his amazing fast cars in Gotta Jet—check out the Alberta Canola Producers Commission website for details on how to order it.

Or, you know, you could click here to see how to WIN the entire set of books. But you might want to hurry—these books go fast!

I like fast.

Not just on the track field (there's a reason my friends call me Superman!) but on my bike too (safely of course!) And I love things that go fast—like sports cars, spaceships, jets...and ME!

Gotta jet! The Blogging From A to Z Challenge takes a break tomorrow, but I'll be back Monday with the letter "H." Have a great weekend.

~ Chase Superman Duffy

A to Z Challenge: F is for Fields of Home

Happy Friday! I hope you're ending the week with reading (or writing!) some Blogging from A to Z Challenge posts. Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal. And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here.

Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 15 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author. It's a massive prize, and to enter is simple. Read more here.

F is for Fields of Home

We're going back in time for today's post—to the very first book in the Superman Duffy series of graphic novels, Fields of Home. It was written in 2010—8 years ago!—but the subject of the story started many MANY years before that.

That's because Fields of Home tells the story of canola—and how a Polish farmer came to Canada with a handful of rapeseed in his pocket. Mr. Slovokuk planted that first crop in Shellbrook, Saskatchewan and from there, it has grown to be one of the biggest and most important crops in the country. Seriously! I bet if you look in our pantry RIGHT NOW you'll find a bottle of canola oil—we use it for all kinds of cooking.

Of course, there are all kinds of things we use canola and canola byproducts for—like biodiesel, animal feed, and more. You can learn all about it in the Superman Duffy series of graphic novels, which of course begins with Fields of Home.

Be sure to contact the Alberta Canola Producers Commission to get a copy of this book (it's a bestseller!) OR click here to read the post that tells you how to win the WHOLE set.

Gotta jet! See you tomorrow for the letter "G"—you can probably guess what book will be featured. <grin>

~ Chase Superman Duffy

A To Z Challenge: E is for Errand Boy

And so we continue with the Blogging From A to Z Challenge! Not sure what the challenge is about? Click here for the deets, or here for my theme reveal. And of course, you're welcome to read my past posts—starting with the letter "A" here.

Also, if you haven't read my "C is for canola" post, you should—you could WIN a set of all 15 of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, signed by the author. It's a massive prize, and to enter is simple. Read more here.

E is for Errand Boy

Okay, so my "E" post is a bit of a cheat, because the actual title of this Superman Duffy graphic novel is actually 5-7-5 Errand Boy. But maybe it's fitting since April is also Poetry Month, and the 5-7-5 in the title are representative of a special kind of poem—the haiku.

If you've never read or written a haiku before, essentially it's a three-line poem that follows a special format. The first line has five syllables, the second has seven, and the third has five again. It's a little harder than it sounds, but the author of the Superman Duffy books figured it out because there are several haikus throughout the book—mostly in the form of sending (cartoon) me out for chores. ON. MY. BIRTHDAY.

I know, right?

I have to admit, it's a fun little adventure, and it has a great surprise ending. Plus, if you're just learning about haikus in class—we started working on them last year, but I think we're writing more for Poetry Month—then it's a good way to get used to the rhythm. Hey, it could be worse—in one of the Superman Duffy graphic novels, my mom sings to Chase. I hope her cartoon voice is better than her real one!

Gotta jet! Thanks for sticking with me for the challenge. If you're doing it too, leave your link in the comments and I'll drop by your blog. See you tomorrow for "F"—be prepared to step back in time. <grin>

~ Chase Superman Duffy