Read or Die: Book Reviews by Emily

(Grade 11 and up) Countless years ago, the mythical lands made famous in story and song were conquered by the evil Adversary, forcing the characters from fairy tales and epic stories set in such territories to flee for their lives. The Fables, as they’re called now, settled in what would eventually become New York City, and though they must hide their true nature from mundane residents, in private, the fables possess amazing abilities, old grudges, and dark secrets from the time before their exile. They also have their own government, which is how Snow White, deputy mayor to King Cole, finds herself investigating her sister’s disappearance alongside the (formerly big and bad) wolf, now Sheriff of the secret community of Fabletown. Was Snow’s sister, Rose Red, really murdered? And if so, who is the culprit?

Quick random note about my copy of this book: I was able to buy it, and the next several volumes, for 50 cents each at my library’s book sale, which makes it both awesome and ridiculously affordable. Here are the pros of this series, and SPOILER ALERT, I can’t think of any cons right now; beautiful art, fascinating characters, and a great story. (And I kind of have a crush on the wolf now. Seriously, he looks like an extra scruffy Viggo Mortenson. Swoon…) I’ve heard glowing reviews of this series for a long time, and as it turns out, all the praise is well-deserved. The mystery at the center of this first volume is fast-paced and satisfying, and…yeah, if you’re not already a fan, stop reading right now and go find this series. (4.5 out of 5 stars)

• Unknown Binding
• Publisher: Vertigo (December 31, 2002)
• ASIN: B001TMVN68 (Source of Publication Data: Amazon.com)