We don’t get a lot of reading that I call “fanciful” in comics these days. Grim and gritty is the rule in most books I buy. I’m okay with that, but every once in a while, I want something whimsical, fantastic, fascinating while surprising me with engaging characters and stories.
A graphic novel called The Reason for Dragons was recently released in local comics shops, and will be available in national bookstore chains in early August. You can check out Archaia Entertainment’s initial release at this link.
Here’s its description: ” Wendell lives a lonely, suburban existence, losing himself in books in order to avoid his motorcycle-driving stepfather, Ted. When the school bullies convince Wendell to venture into the forest around their neighborhood and explore the long-abandoned Renaissance Fair grounds they all believe to be haunted, Wendell is surprised to find a man living in the barn—and even more surprised by the man himself. Believing himself to be a medieval knight named Sir Habaersham tasked with the duty of slaying the dragon he insists is wandering the woods, Wendell’s new acquaintance seems the definition of crackpot. But when Wendell starts hearing rumblings—and listening to Habaersham’s stories—he starts to wonder if perhaps it could all be true. In a heartfelt coming-of-age story, Wendell must defy logic in order to follow his heart…and face the dragon of the forest!”
Chris Northrop’s story begins with events that happen every day, with a boy who has a demanding step-father that he disappoints, only to run into bullies who terrorize him. However, things take a fascinating turn when Wendell is forced to enter a fairgrounds where he encounters what appears to be a real knight, dressed in period clothing.
When night falls, forcing him to stay with Sir Habaersham, Wendell ends up on a quest with the knight, then when a challenge arises, the boy disappoints him as well by not bringing the knight’s sword with him. Can Wendell do anything right?
Is Sir Habaersham the real deal? Why is he searching for a dragon? Will Wendell ever really succeed at anything?
Those are the questions this volume asks, and it’s an enjoyable ride that shows character growth and intriguing twists and turns.
Jeff Stokely’s art is clear and dynamic, something all ages of readers will enjoy. Before you know it, you’ve come to the end of the story. It’s so worth the money and the time to enter this book’s universe.
I’ve long been a fan of Archaia Entertainment’s graphic novels. They give me a great read that keeps me entertained much longer than the average monthly comic.
Check out the cover below:
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