Booknote: Asterix and the Black Gold

Albert Uderzo and Rene Goscinny, Asterix and the Black Gold. London, UK: Orion Books, 2002.  ISBN: 0752847139.

Genre: graphic novels and comics
Subgenre: children and YA, historical fiction, humor
Format: hardback
Source: Berea branch of the Madison County (KY) Public Library

This book is volume 26 in the series. When druid Getafix runs short of rock oil, and merchant Ekonomikrisis forgets to fulfill the druid's order, it falls to Asterix and Obelix to go find some in the Middle East. The oil is an essential ingredient in the potion that gives Gauls their superhuman strength. As if that is not bad enough, a Roman spy will attempt to stop our heroes.

I always enjoy this light and humorous series. One of the things I enjoy are small historical tidbits you find here and there that may actually teach you a thing or two. Of course, some of the pop culture references are pretty good as well. As time passes, some pop culture references may get a bit outdated but overall the books still hold up well including this one.

Overall this was a light, fun, and quick read. I always like the humor in the series, and stories were Asterix and Obelix get to travel are always fun. I really liked this one.

4 out of 5 stars.

Booknote: Asterix Omnibus 1

René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo, Asterix Omnibus 1. London, UK: Orion Children's Books, 2016.  ISBN: 9781444004236.

Genre: comics and graphic novels
Subgenre: humor, children and young adult
Format: hardback
Source: Berea branch of the Madison County (KY) Public Library

This omnibus edition collects the first three volumes in the long running series. In Asterix the Gaul, we meet our protagonist and the rest of the village's cast. The Romans manage to place a spy in the village in the hopes of learning the secret of their superhuman strength. Hijinks ensue. In Asterix and the Golden Sickle, Druid Getafix breaks his golden sickle, which he needs to cut herbs for his superhuman strength potion. Asterix and Obelix go on a long journey to get a replacement. In Asterix and the Goths, it's time for the annual druids' convention. The Goths kidnap Druid Getafix hoping he will share his secrets with them. Instead, he tricks them as Asterix and Obelix work to rescue him.

Overall this is a nice collection with good humor, small historical references, and a pun here or there. I used to enjoy this series in  younger days, and I still do. It is definitely entertaining and worth reading. I really liked this one.

4 out of 5 stars.

Book qualifies for this 2020 Reading Challenge: