Publisher: NBM
Release Date: May 30, 2018
Price: $24.99
Creator: David B.
Format: 112 pgs., Full-Color,9"x12", Hardcover
ISBN: 978-1-6811-2162-8
Age Rating: N/A
ICv2 Rating: 4 Stars out of 5
This is an intriguing take on one of the less well-known tales from the Arabian Nights. The book is adapted from the tales which immediately precede those of Sinbad the Sailor, which have been adapted far more commonly. That may be because the tales of Hasib and the Serpent Queen are more difficult and more convoluted, far more complex than simple adventures.
David B., whose artwork in this case is very stylized, may not appeal to every reader, but in this case he has made the story complex and surreal. There are serpents everywhere, but even the human beings are somewhat elongated and bendy as portrayed. There are giant spiders, winged spirit women and a variety of other beings to add to the strangeness. The tale follows the actual sequence in the tales of the 1001 Nights, and gives the breakpoints in the tales as they are normally compiled and translated. Thus, readers who want to follow along with a favorite translation can see what David B. has done to turn this into a graphic work.
This book deserves the nice hardcover format, but the increased cost may weigh against it for borderline purchasers. The book is aimed at adults and older teens.
--Nick Smith: Library Technician, Community Services, for the Pasadena Public Library in California.
