Dragons

I was really excited and nervous for this volume - technicolor dragons in a brilliant rainforest is something that should be thrilling in graphic novel format, and can so easily fall flat. Overall, this adaptation was solid - the art is bright and colorful without being garish, although the style is still fairly simple. I'd love to see a more elaborate artist take on these book, though I know that won't happen.

In text, discriminating characters quickly often relies on the first letter/syllable of the character's name. In graphic mediums, color schemes fill that role to orient the reader. In The Lost Heir, this was sometimes difficult as the book was largely monochromatic. Going into this book I was nervous since Rainwing color palettes are more complex and constantly change with mood/circumstances. The artist did a great job with body structure to differentiate, better than the previous book, even. I think the scenes with Tamarid could have been a bit more experimental in depicting her experience without alienating the younger audience.

My biggest complaint is that the plot of the book shifts gears very abruptly, and the tone shifts with it. The ending doesn't feel satisfying because the pre-shift arc isn't satisfactorily closed. The first half focuses on the mystery of the monster and missing Rainwings. The second half if about Glory vying for the throne. By the end, she gets the throne, but saving the Rainwings is on the back burner. I know why, given how the books link up, but its not as tight or satisfying a story structure as the other books.

Can't wait for #4. ( )