Jim Henson's Fraggle Rock: Where Is It? (Family Comic Friday)

For this week's Family Comic Friday, we trek into an underground wonderland. Join Boober, Mokey, and friends in the all-new young readers graphic novel: Jim Henson's Fraggle Rock: Where Is It?

Jim Henson's Fraggle Rock: Where Is It?
Written and Illustrated by art Baltazar
Published by Archaia
Pages: 32
Retail: $9.99

Gobo is missing something very special. With the help of his best friend Wembley, hopefully he'll find it. But as more Fraggles join the search for Gobo's missing item, will they all come to the realization that pink-haired moppet forgot to tell his pals just what it is he's looking for?

Fraggle Rock: Where Is It? was written and illustrated by one of my favorite all-ages talent, Art Baltazar. The co-creator of such fun titles as Tiny Titans and Aw Yeah! Comics, Baltazar's work is engaging for all readers. He's got a cartoony style that makes iconic characters approachable for both the youngest and most veteran of fans. But what makes me a huge fan of Art Baltazar is his classic Easter eggs! They are added for those keen-eyed fanatics who are looking to share their beloved childhood franchises with the next generation of fans. Plus, unlike Disney Easter eggs, the one's Baltazar hides in his artwork aren't naughty!

I do feel that with a title such as 'Where Is It?', a great opportunity was missed. Instead of a funny story about Gobo and his missing item, the creators at Archaia could have made this graphic novel into an introduction to the world of the Fraggles. There's some many wondrous realms and characters in this book aching for a proper introduction to readers new and established. And just where are the Doozers at in this book?! It's not Fraggle Rock without those mint green miners!

Devoted fans know that Fraggle Rock lies on the other side of a series of holes in Doc's workshop and house. When a Fraggle says that they are going to venture into outer space, they wind up somewhere on Doc's property. Often the Fraggles run afoul of Doc's dog, Sprocket , as one does in this book. But that encounter isn't very well explained and could be confusing to new readers. 

Another aspect that isn't properly established for newcomers are the roles of the Gorgs. They pop up in this story scaring Wembley. But other than Wembley's state of fright, if you were new to this franchise, you would not really understand the why behind the alarm.

This hardcover graphic novel is great for readers aged 5-8. But even an original watcher of Fraggle Rock from the days of airing on HBO will enjoy this book. It's not set up just right for newcomers to the Fraggles. But longtime fans and the young readers they introduce the Fraggles to will have a perfect trip to the land of Fraggle Rock!

Jim Henson's Fraggle Rock: Where Is It? Debuted in print and digital formats on August 14th, 2019.

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 9 out of 10 stars.