My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
5 stars for a gorgeous production.
4 stars for the (necessary) compression of the story to fit the medium.
The Last Unicorn has been one of my favorite books for many years, and I loved the movie. I was quite excited to hear about the graphic novel, even if that isn’t a form that I normally read.
It’s hard for me to review this objectively, since I really wanted to like it, and I don’t have a good sense of the norms for the genre. Given that:
- It is really gorgeous. I can just sit and look at it, and look forward to doing so in the future. To catch a look at some of the artwork, check out this YouTube video!
- The visuals match the characters and the story. It’s a different approach than the movie, and that’s fine. Nothing pulls me away from the story I remember.
- The story also matches the plot as I remember it (it’s been a while, so small differences would go unnoticed, and I don’t think they’d be an issue anyway).
- Even the words are ones I remember from the original in places! There is some gorgeous writing in the book.
- If you haven’t read the original, you should, in some format or another. Wonderful writing, great characters, commentary on seeing the magic in the world and in ourselves…
The problem (with this review, not the book)?
I remember the book/movie well enough that I’d fill in any gaps, if there were any. I don’t know if it is too abridged to make sense, or to connect properly with the characters. I think there was enough there, but I can’t say that with assurance.
My review copy was electronic, and I can’t wait to get a physical copy, simply to have one to hold in my hands and admire!
I requested access to this book through NetGalley. Thank you to NetGalley & IDW Publishing for allowing me access to this book for review.
