THE SECRET ANIMAL KINGDOM

Can kindness and a magical knapsack defeat an evil villain with a dastardly plan?

While on his way to investigate a mysterious mountain, small, round, white-bearded Dusty Dabbert is kidnapped by the dastardly Carl Craven and his bumbling toady. Luckily, Dusty is rescued and taken to the Valley of Bam, a hidden paradise populated by clothed, talking animals. Peace among species is ensured by a strict law forbidding carnivorous behavior. Unfortunately, Craven and his lackey find the valley and stir up rebellion by introducing the wolves to the mouthwatering joys of meat; they have an eye toward enslaving the animals in a circus. Can Dusty and his magical knapsack save the day? Originally published in the Netherlands in the late 1970s, this new English-language edition features Moss’ snappy translation. Filled with familiar archetypes and slapstick humor, the classic good-versus-evil story features a name-calling scoundrel and a protagonist with a heart of gold. Full-color illustrations and tight linework are reminiscent of Asterix comics. The panels are densely packed, and occasionally the sequencing is tricky to navigate. The setting is a pre-industrial fantasyland with a European look, and human characters appear to be White. There is a noticeable lack of female characters with agency.

A satisfying fantasy adventure that follows a familiar formula to a triumphant conclusion.