I've long been a fan of the delightful Oz books by L. Frank Baum (many people are surprised to discover that there are more than one Oz book). I am also a fan of the adaptation of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by Eric Shanower and Skottie Young.
Now that team is back again to tackle the second Oz book, The Marvelous Land of Oz. That story was actually adapted a few decades back by Marvel, right on the heels of its historic adaptation (with DC) of the MGM film based on the first book.
Once again, Shanower and Young show that they have the magic touch in bringing this story to life. The pages are full of magic, energy and a sense of wonder.
Surprisingly, none of the characters from the first book appear (other than in flashback). Instead we meet a boy named Tip who has a mysterious past, a hated guardian (the witch Mombi), and a new companion in the aptly-named Jack Pumpkinhead.
Like the original story, there are dark undertones running through the story, but they're leavened with the lighthearted adventures of Tip, a boy with a surprising destiny.
With a terrific story and original, brilliant art, this series is recommended for any Oz fans.
Grade: A-
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