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Welp, I guess I’m into children’s graphic novels now! Especially ones with hilarious existential ridiculousness in nature (a.k.a. “bewilderness”.) Children’s author and illustrator Gus Gordon spins the bewildering tale of two furry friends venturing to the big city. Along the way, they ponder some of life’s big questions.
My Into the Bewilderness book review:
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Thank you, HarperAlley for providing this book for review via NetGalley! All the stuff I say here is MY opinion. I mean, of course it is, but I feel like I should say it here anyway.
Into the Bewilderness Book Summary
Into the Bewilderness is a graphic novel by acclaimed Australian author-illustrator Gus Gordon.
The story follows best friends Luis (a large, furry bear) and Pablo (a small, furry mole) who enjoy a simple life in the wilderness. They wander through nature, playing guitar (Luis), and sharing meals with neighbors. Their routine takes a turn when Luis receives an unexpected invitation to attend a performance of The Weary Mermaid in the big city. Enticed by the city’s allure, Luis embarks on the journey with the reluctant, grumpy, yet loyal Pablo by his side.
As they traverse the Bewilderness, the duo encounters various challenges and whimsical musings. Based on their friends’ advice on the big city, Luis and Pablo wonder if they will encounter laser-eyed gargoyles, zombie chickens, or tyrannical cow rulers. The bewildered friends also ponder, “why is quicksand so slow if it’s called quicksand?” Their adventure is filled with nonsensical revelations and silly musical interludes.
Surprises, disappointments, and revelations await the furry friends in the big city.
Who is author and illustrator Gus Gordon?
Gus Gordon is an Australian author and illustrator known for his charming and whimsical children’s books. His illustrations often combine mixed media, including collage and ink, giving his work a distinctive, textured look.
One of his most well-known books is Herman and Rosie, a heartwarming story about two lonely city dwellers who find friendship through music. His books often carry themes of connection, adventure, and self-discovery Gordon often injects nonsensical humor into his storytelling.
Find more about Gus on his most awesome website! (Seriously, check this out): Gus Gordon – home
Into the Bewilderness Book Review:
Overall Book Awesomeness Score: 4/5
Into the Bewilderness is highly awesome. The book is packed with silly characters spewing delightful nonsense (like Roaming Ray, the Sasquatch maybe?)
It’s a kids’ graphic novel intended for ages 8-12, which means no foul language, violence or other unwholesome content. The banter between Luis and Pablo gets a bit mean-spirited at times, but ultimately their friendship outshines any negativity.
Much of the humor in this graphic novel will likely resonate better with parents, rather than the 8-year-olds it is intended for. But hey, the humor connected with me, so who cares about darn 8-year-olds!?
Much of the adventure unfolds without words. Gordon’s immersive illustrations bring the bewilderness to life on every page. This is a book that could be read and studied over and over again, simply by enjoying the elaborate artwork.
Things I liked:
- Absolutely captivating illustrations!
- I like a bit of bewilderness from time-to-time. This book was full of nonsense and ridiculousness. Kudos Gus Gordon!
- Basic instructions on how to draw Luis (the big, furry one) and Pablo (the little, furry one)
Things I didn’t like:
- The banter between friends was a bit mean spirited at times. Name calling like Furball, peabrain, weirdo, witless loon, etc. Hey, I’ve been called worse. But I can imagine 8-year-olds running with the insults.
- It suggests the intended audience was ages 8-12. However, much of the humor and dialogue seemed to target a much older, sophisticated reader (like me!)
Conclusion: Into the Bewilderness by Gus Gordon
I read this as an e-book on a small screen. But the beautiful illustrations are intended to be physically held and cherished! Gus Gordon is a master illustrator, and his ridiculous (bewilderness-ing) storytelling was right up my alley.
Read any good graphic novels WITH lots of humor? Gimme your recommendations below in the comments!
Scott Johnson is a Midwestern humorist, author of Essays Out of Left Field, and the mind behind scottjohnsonauthor.com. He’s also a husband, dad of three, and Data Systems Administrator (whatever that is). Scott is on a mission to find and read all the funny books. He shares his thoughts on those books, author life, and other delightful randomness with his readers on his website.
