Conor McCreery

The graphic novel, Kill Shakespeare: First Folio, written by Anthony Del Col and Conor McCreery with gorgeous art by Andy Belanger brings together many of Shakespeare’s best known characters for an epic battle between the heroes Falstaff, Othello, and Hamlet and led by Juliet (yes, that Juliet) against villains Iago and Lady Macbeth and led by Richard III. As the battle commences, Hamlet, now known as the Shadow King, enters the forest to find the great god and wizard, Shakespeare, to gain his help or at least his magic golden quill but things don’t go quite as he had hoped.

I gotta say I really enjoyed this graphic novel. It was a compelling and exciting fantasy tale and it kept my attention throughout. Not only sis love the story but it was fun seeing how many characters I remember and from which plays and to try to place many of the references and words to the plays they come from. But even if you haven’t read all the plays referenced here or, like me, it’s been a long, long time since reading them, this is one fun read with a well-plotted adventure tale and beautiful art

I received an e-ARC of this graphic novel from Edelweiss+ and Gemstone Publishing in exchange for an honest review… (more)

To begin with, it is an amazing premise--to have these characters play in a shared sandbox. It obviously builds on League of Extraordinary Gentlemen and Fables. And to see the interactions is cool. I just wish that with all of the promise of the premise that it went a but further. The use of Shakespeare's fantastical elements is okay (the ghost of Hamlet's Dad, the Weird Sisters, etc.), but it really could've been expanded on. I also think that some of the interpersonal chemistry between these characters in their eventual meetings could've held for some great discussions (Hamlet and Othello could've really talked about being consumed by revenge). And the visual storytelling of the layouts sometimes leaves much to be desired. But still, it's a fantastic idea, some cool artwork, and builds towards something. Recommended, and a great way to introduce or supplement Shakespeare to those just learning about his work.… (more)