I was given a digital ARC from the publisher through Edelweiss+ in exchange for a honest review.
Title: Timo the Adventurer
Series: standalone
Author: Jonathan Garnier
Illustrator: Yohan Sacré
Release date: October 13, 2020
Publisher: Etch/Clarion Books
Genre: middle grade, fantasy, graphic novel
Pages: 128
My Rating: ★★★★☆
Goodreads page
This review is spoiler-free!
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Synopsis
Having read every book in his tiny village, young Timo decides it is time to leave home and become a hero. And while that is easier said than done, Timo is determined to succeed. When he rescues an enchanted beast named Broof, Timo gains a gruff and reluctant ally. But little does good-hearted Timo suspect that Broof’s mysterious past will bring complications to his journey…. An engaging hero, surprising plot twists, and a host of fantastical creatures keep readers turning the pages of this spelling-binding fantasy.
[ This synopsis was taken directly from Goodreads. ]
Thoughts
The digital ARC copy that I was given was in gray scale, but the final published edition will have color. The story is split up between following Timo and his journey outside his village and his journal where he records his adventures and thoughts.
Sadly, I wasn’t able to include a quote at the beginning of this review because I’m not reviewing the finalized, published copy, but just know that there are some really nice quotes in this book. I had to write some of them down in my review journal because I loved them so much!
The story follows Timo, a boy who longs for adventure outside his sheltered village. It reminds me of the Pokemon TV series, where Ash sets off by himself to become the greatest Pokemon trainer there is. Similarly, Timo leaves the safety of his small village to become a great adventurer like in the books he has read.
It felt like a coming-of-age story, where Timo goes on this journey to learn more about the world and the things around him and returns a slightly more mature, less naive boy. He makes friends and enemies along the way and learns important lessons. One of the more important messages in this book is the lesson of forgiveness. This book not only talks about the importance of forgiving others but also oneself.
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The Artwork
I really love the art style of this graphic novel. Something about it makes me reminisce of story times as a kid. The style is simple, clean, and beautiful.
I mean, look at that! How could you not be drawn to that? The artwork is beautifully done and the color palette is very soft and pastel, giving it that adventure fairy tale vibe. Plus, all the mythical creatures are very cute, and I want to squish and hug each and every one of them.
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Overall, this is a great story for anyone who is looking to read a cute adventure book that make your heart warm when you read it. It’s a fantastic read for those who don’t want to commit to a long story.
Characters
Timo
Oh, how the boy has grown. His juvenile earnestness makes me think back to when I around his age and ready for an adventure.
Broof
Very floofy. Very cute. Very angry.
Conclusion
I give Timo the Adventurer 4 / 5 stars! It’s a good story with good lessons and some fantastic artwork!
Stay awkward and amazing!
The Awkward Book Blogger 