Graveyard Quest by KC Green

Oni Press, 2016

ISBN: 9781620102893

Available: Kindle edition and comiXology ebook, print

Graveyard Quest follows, well, the Gravedigger, who keeps the bones of his dead mother in a cabinet, and talks to them every moment he can. He is tormented by the ghost of his dead father, the previous Gravedigger, who is frustrated with his son’s inability to get over his mother’s death. One morning, the Gravedigger wakes to find his mother’s bones missing. He ventures to the underworld to try to reclaim them. Along the way, he encounters an unusually helpful mole, a town of worms, and a team of ghost bandits, among others. The Gravedigger’s father follows him, demanding he turn back and do his job, as the bodies are piling up in the graveyard back home.

Will the Gravedigger help the government break into Hell? Will he reclaim the bones of his dead mother? Will his father ever be happy with him? Why is this mole always helping him? And what’s the deal with the ghost bandits wanting to break into Heaven? All of these questions are answered within the pages of this graphic novel, which is hilarious, heart wrenching, and full of adventure. While the language may not be suitable for some children, it may be enjoyable for some young adults, depending on their reading taste. I would be fine with my oldest nephew, who is also a horror fan, reading this.  The artwork is simple, but pretty great. I think my favorite panels involve the worm community. The “reverend” worm is fantastic. Recommended for those who like a little humor in their graphic novels.

Note: Graveyard Quest began as a story arc on Green’s web comic, Gunshow.

Contains: some strong language

Reviewed by Lizzy Walker