Review by Booklist Review
Based on the hit podcast Adventure Zone, this chronicles the travails of its three clueless characters as they quest in a Dungeons & Dragons game format. Prior knowledge of the podcast or D&D in general is definitely helpful, but readers should be able to pick up what's happening as the gamemaster guides the group and the reader through the overall journey. Though it has the hallmarks of all fantasy epics, like battles against dark forces as well as magic, the focus is clearly on humor. The larger sardonic commentary on taking fantasy too seriously, matched with the characters' unwillingness to follow a game's unrealistic rules, will be clever and hilarious to those in the know. For example, Taako the Wizard's affinity for stealing anything that isn't nailed down in a level will likely resonate with nerds and gamers alike. The artwork definitely adds to the piece, mirroring a manga style that's heavy on action and outrageous facial expressions. Gamers with a sense of humor about themselves and their pastimes will likely appreciate this the most.--Peter Blenski Copyright 2018 Booklist
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
The McElroy family ups their metafictional wackiness in this comic adaptation of their podcast of same name, which revolves around live performance of role-playing game The Adventure Zone. The comic follows Magnus (human), Taako (elf), and Merle (dwarf) as they fight their way deep into dungeons filled with monsters, mayhem, and whatever else the dungeon master throws at them. In between exploring and fighting, the heroes amuse themselves by antagonizing one another, pontificating on dwarves' musical preferences, and cussing out the dungeon master, who occasionally pops into the story to give direction, insult the players, or congratulate himself on his own crafty storyline. In the tradition of RPGs, illustrator Carey Pietsch (Mages of Mystralia) introduces each new character with a trait sheet, helping the reader to quickly get up to speed on their quirks. Pietsch delivers the essence of role-playing, enhancing many scenes' ambience and transforming the book into a delightful visual experience that balances exposition and action. (July) © Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved.
(c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 10 Up-Based on the McElroy family's hilarious Dungeons and Dragons podcast, this story follows intrepid adventurers Taako the elven mage, Merle the dwarven cleric, and human warrior Magnus Burnsides along with their DM (dungeon master) Griffin as they become entangled in a quest for riches on the "last job" they'll ever need. However, for these weak level 1 adventurers, survival isn't so easy when enemies are around every bend. Readers familiar with tabletop gaming or the McElroys' podcast will appreciate the snarky dialogue, the rampant geekiness, and the critical fail rolls that result in comic injury and mayhem. Likewise, "Lumberjanes" artist Pietsch's vibrant, expressive illustrations capture the characters perfectly. However, frequent profanity, mild sexual jokes, and casual violence make this a book geared to more sophisticated readers. VERDICT With its pop culture appeal and absurd humor, this will be perfect for reluctant teen readers, but librarians should be mindful that the colorful art may draw younger patrons unprepared for the mature content.-Lara Goldstein, Orange County Public -Libraries, NC © Copyright 2018. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
