Booknote: Halo Graphic Novel

Various authors, Halo Graphic Novel. New York: Marvel, 2010. ISBN: 978-0-7851-2378-1.

Genre: graphic novels and comics
Subgenre: science fiction, video games
Format: trade paperback
Source: Berea branch of the Madison County (KY) Public Library

Fans of the video game will probably like this. For casual graphic novel readers who may not be as familiar with the game, their mileage may vary. The book pretty much assumes that you are familiar with the game. There is very little to no background provided to help those who may need a little briefing. Though I have not played the game, I've read enough about it to have a passing familiarity. In the end, this is mostly for fans.

The book features four short stories set in the Halo universe. If you were expecting to see Master Chief do his thing,  you may be disappointed. Aside from a reference here or there, he does not appear in these stories. The stories are mostly filler and background stories taking place in the periphery of the main action.

The stories are so-so in terms of quality and interest. A strength in the book is really the art. Each  story has a different writer and artist, so you get to see different art styles. However, even in the art, the quality can vary. For instance, I usually like Simon Bisley's art, but for this comic it seems his art was a lot more cluttered and busy than usual for him.

Overall, the comic is a mixed bag. It is more a work of hardcore fan service than anything else. I liked it, but I would consider it optional reading. For public libraries, this is an optional selection; buy it if you get demand, but skip it otherwise.

I am barely giving it 3 out of 5 stars as there were some parts I did  like, mostly the art.

This book qualifies for the following 2017 Reading Challenges: