Jia and the Nian Monster (graphic novel) - Paul's REVIEW

*I received this book as an eARC from Dark Horse Books via Edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

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Title: Jia and the Nian Monster
Author: Mike Richardson
Illustrator:  Megan Huang
Upcoming Release Date: March 31, 2020


Synopsis: Each new year is marked by a monster's attack on their mountain village. This year, young Jia and her friend Deshi have decided to fight back.

For Deshi, it is the grand adventure he has always dreamed of. For Jia, it is revenge for the loss of her mother--who was taken by the monster five years before.

But it will take more than mere pluck and courage to best the beast of the mountain, which is where the mysterious stranger who has befriended Jia and Deshi comes in . . .

Based on an ancient Chinese legend, Jia and the Nian Monster blends fantasy, fable, and the invention of gunpowder into a tale of courage and friendship. Written by Mike Richardson (47 Ronin, Father's Day, and The Atomic Legion), and illustrated by the amazing new artist Megan Huang, this could be a new children's classic! 

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Review: This colorful fable starts out with a robust prologue setting up this world. Essentially, a magical beast attacks a village once a year. Jia is a nice and hard-working, though mischievous young girl. Her mother was taken by the Nian monster and then her father went missing looking for his wife. 

This is a predictable and traditional story. This is based on a Chinese legend and it has that feel to it. It's a cite story, but it doesn't feel very modern. I would have liked a more modern take on a classic tale. 

There are some interesting topics that come up in this story: deities, immortality, traditions. But it doesn't take the time to really delve into any of them. It feels more like an old fairy tale that's been passed down many times over many years. 

I give this book a 3/5. The art is great and the story is solid, but it feels just like a retelling (not re-imagining) of a classic tale.


--PAUL