The Quest for the Time Bird

In this epic fantasy work, French cartoonists Le Tendre and Loisel (Deviant Virtues) tell of a heroic quest to save the world of Akbar. The aging knight Bragon is summoned by Pelisse, the buxom daughter of his old flame the sorceress-princess Mara, to help her prevent the return of the mad god Ramor. With Pelisse's help, Bragon must recover the conch shell that is Ramor's prison and then find and bring to Mara the mysterious Time Bird. An enigmatic helmeted stranger joins them along the way, as does Bragon's student Bulrog, who is their sometimes ally, sometimes foe, as well as myriad strange creatures that people the lands of Akbar. At different times, each member of the party rescues the others or ensures the continuation of the journey. The group must answer tricky riddles, escape traps both magical and physical, and battle hordes of adversaries. As the adventure proceeds, readers learn more about the heroes, but Le Tendre saves some amazing revelations for the final act. Loisel uses a brilliant palette for his illustrations, altering his color selections for the different realms. The various races and beasts he creates are unique, although some recall creations by Dr. Seuss or Jim Henson.