Here at Comics Bulletin, we like to shine the spotlight on some hidden gems within the convoluted world of comics. In this post, we’re introducing you to three wonderful, charming fairy tale and fantasy comics that are just pure escapism.
The comics we’re featuring today are: Castle Waiting by Linda Medley; The Wizard’s Tale by Kurt Busiek and David Wenzel; and The Hobbit by David Wenzel. Whether you’re looking for charming, comfy fantasy, you want a little more depth, or you’re seeking an absolute classic — these gems will fulfil your desires.
Castle Waiting by Linda Medley
As someone who absolutely adores fairy tales, when I first heard about Castle Waiting, my excitement was enormous. My previous favorite fairy tale comic was Fables by Bill Willingham, which while fantastic, was very much a twist on the fairy tale genre, taking classic characters and pitting them in a more contemporary scenario. The Sandman is also a standout comic that contains great fairy tale and fantastical stories, too. There are so many examples.
Castle Waiting is a charming, feel-good fairy tale series. The story takes place in Castle Waiting, a residence for outcasts, travellers, and a sanctuary for anyone. Its residents include a couple of names you’ll recognise from classic stories, such as Iron Henry. Our main character is Lady Jain, a pregnant lady who seeks refuge in Castle Waiting after fleeing her abusive husband, Sir Hathmar.
I can’t recommend Castle Waiting enough. It’s one of my personal favourite comics ever and I keep going back to it. Linda Medley is currently writing another volume, but updates have been scarce for a while.
You can buy Castle Waiting here.
The Wizard’s Tale by Kurt Busiek and David Wenzel
Published in 1997, The Wizard’s Tale is a fun and whimsical fantasy tale following Bafflerog Rumplewhisker; a formerly evil wizard who’s grown tired of committing acts of evil. He might have a fearsome reputation, but he’s sweet really.
In the midst of trying to change his ways, Rumplewhisker catches wind that the Book of Worse has fallen into wrong hands. Thus begins his epic quest to reclaim the fated book and prevent it from causing chaos in the land.
This is a comic that totally transports you. It’s a rich, fully realised fantasy world — something Busiek managed to pull off in just one graphic novel.
The Wizard’s Tale isn’t as popular as Busiek’s other works. Of course, Busiek has previously written Astro City and Marvels, among other things. If there’s any way I can spread the word about this fantastic graphic novel, I will.
You can buy The Wizard’s Tale here.
The Hobbit by David Wenzel
I was hesitant to add the graphic novel adaptation of The Hobbit, simply because it’s such a popular IP. However, with that said, I think most fans of Middle-earth have read the novel. Meanwhile, David Wenzel — who also illustrated The Wizard’s Tale — has his own masterful graphic novel version. I would honestly consider it a must-read for any Tolkien super-fans out there.
The Hobbit comic is just as you’d imagine… a version of the story adapted for the comics medium. But what I love most is that it tries to stay as unabridged as possible, whilst also giving readers some absolutely gorgeous illustrations. It adds a whole new perspective and side to the story that you simply can’t get from the original novel. And it uses direct quotes and descriptions from the source material too, making it a word-heavy comic. If you read this and not the original, you wouldn’t really be missing out on anything.
You can buy The Hobbit here.
Keep checking back to see what other comics we recommend! What are your favorite fantasy and fairy tale comics? Tell us in the comments below.
