Books of Magic #6 // Review

Kat Howard and Tom Fowler continue to produce nothing short of spectacular work with this heartwarming series. The duo takes readers on a journey of adolescence and discovery as this young Wizard comes of age and must find his own in a world filled with magic. Having long missed an ongoing series about the young Merlin for well over a decade, this series stands as a much-needed ray of sunshine for old and new fans alike. As the Sandman Universe imprint carries on forward, this title holds in contention as best of the bunch.

Timothy finally makes it home after an overextended vacation in The Dreaming, only to find one of his closest friends has gone missing in a very magical and mysterious way. As he learns the truth behind his teacher’s death back in issue one, as well as his nefarious plan of murdering Timothy himself, the boy wizard joins forces with his previously questionable new teacher. With light being placed onto his mother’s unknown whereabouts, Timothy finds hope for her yet and makes a choice to set out with his teacher to find his friend.

Tom Fowler continues to make Timothy and his world entirely his own. His signature style fits the series perfectly as he encapsulates all of Hunter’s triumphs and heartbreaks with every panel. His character work still stands as the crowning achievement and selling point of this series. The cheerful colorwork of Jordan Boyd delivers the quintessential look and aesthetic that has become totally synonymous with the run on the title.

Kat Howard continues to show her care and attention for Timothy as she develops him into something all her own. While still remaining connected to his previous runs, Howard is able to play upon the pre-established continuity while also carving out her own path for him and taking a new spin on things. Entirely living up to Neil Gaiman’s name in stride, Howard continues to garner the love and affinity that Timothy deserves as she saves him from obscurity.

As this duo work together with such excellent synchronicity, the series gets more vibrant and entertaining with every issue. From the fabulous artwork of Fowler down to the deep character beats of Howard, they both prove yet again they are a creative force to be reckoned with.

Grade: A