The Adventure zone vol 1 by The McElroys

Vol 1: Here there be Gerblins, by Clint McElroy, Griffin McElroy, Justin McElroy, and Travis McElroy. Illustrated by Carey Pietsch

Based on a popular podcast, Adventure Zone follows three heroes as they quest and roll for initiative. Warrior Magnus has an aptitude in pretty much everything, which both helps and annoys his companions. Takko is a kleptomaniac spell-caster who Often charms monsters and other characters. Merle is the typical treasure-obsessed dwarf with a cousin who has the inside scoop on a really great score. When a mysterious warrior shows up and every other word is censored, the trio has no choice but to go along with her. Mix in a dungeon master who keeps everyone on the straight and narrow by breaking through the top corner of panels periodically, you’ve got a recipe for hilarity!

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The storytelling in this volume is enjoyable and wonderfully paced. Having a character unable to fully explain themselves because of censorship is pretty hysterical. Takko is hilarious and probably my favorite character, followed closely by a charmed bad guy, Gnash, with his big, sad eyes and fondness for making and serving oolong tea.  As Dungeons & Dragons has recently enjoyed a revival, readers will enjoy the interjections from the dungeon master befuddling characters' plans or making them roll for initiative.  This was a thoroughly enjoyable fantasy-with-a-twist, and I'm eagerly looking forward to reading the next volumes.

There is some mild language and some adult themes, including joking about masturbation.  The violence is mild with little blood.  A large-scale violent explosion wipes out a lot of people, but it happens off page.

Sara’s Rating:10/10
Suitability Level: Grades 10-12

Tags: Rating: 10/10, Suitability: High School, Graphic Literature, Fantasy, Humor, Magic, Action Adventure