Outlaw: The Legend of Robin Hood

     This book details the legend of the inception, deeds, and adventures of Sir Robin of Loxley, a.k.a.      Robin Hood

     The book is great for older youth.   There is some language, violence and mature subjects.  The pictures and panels are very dark, and the depictions and language would be too mature for young children.

The strengths:

     The writers and illustrators have stayed true to the legend and characters familiar through history: The Sheriff of Nottingham, Black Hugo, King Richard, this brother John, Little John, Robin Hood, and Maiden Marian, to name a few.  The plot is very detailed, and addresses how Robin Hood grew up, his relationships with friends and family, and then how he became the hero to his people.

The Weaknesses:

     The pictures are very dark.  I found it very difficult to tell exactly who people are, especially early in the novel, before Robin begins to wear his distinctive green attire.  The men all look the same, and there is only one distinctive woman, so there are a lot of men to keep track of.  Also, the love affair between Robin and Marian seems too contrived.  It happens very quickly after their first meeting, and she is supposedly still in mourning, so I am surprised that she accepts Robin’s advances after so little contact.              The love plot seems more realistic and organic later in the novel, once they’re had a few more encounters.

Uses:

The graphic novel is great for reluctant or visual readers, either on its own or as a supplement to written material.  It also works well as a “short” version for becoming familiar with plot, story line, themes, and major characters.  It is a fun way to introduce historical legends as well.

Outlaw: The Legend of Robin Hood

By Tony Lee, Sam Hart, Artur Fujita

Graphic Novel

Candlewick Press

ISBN: 0763644005

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