QUEST FOR THE SPARK

Bone fans, rejoice: Beloved creator Smith has once again teamed up with Sniegoski (Tall Tales, 2010) for this illustrated novel, the first of a trilogy. Picking up where the Bone graphic novels left off, it introduces readers to young Tom, who comes from turnip-farming stock and is an unsure hero about to embark on a new quest. Guided by visions, Tom and his raccoon friend Roderick (who keen readers may remember from earlier volumes) join up with a family of Bones, a Veni-Yan priest and, yes, some stupid, stupid rat creatures to fight against the nefarious Nacht, a sinister force that has left the Valley trapped in a nightmarish, soporific stupor. For those unfamiliar with the earlier Bone works, this is a fine jumping-in point; well-acquainted aficionados should relish the chance for yet another romp. Sniegoski navigates well within Smith’s carefully constructed world, although inevitably this prose-with-illustrations format has a different feel than the graphic works. However, this transition is easily abetted by the adept storytelling, making this one of those very rare creatures: a successful graphic series–to-novel translation. (Fantasy/adventure. 9 & up)