Quick Take

When a savage creature known only as the Adversary conquered the fabled lands of legends and fairy tales, all of the infamous inhabitants of folklore were forced into exile. Disguised among the normal citizens of modern-day New York, these magical characters have created their own peaceful and secret society within an exclusive luxury apartment building called Fabletown. But when Snow White's party-girl sister, Rose Red, is apparently murdered, it is up to Fabletown's sheriff, a reformed and pardoned Big Bad Wolf (Bigby Wolf), to determine if the killer is Bluebeard, Rose's ex-lover and notorious wife killer, or Jack, her current live-in boyfriend and former beanstalk-climber.Collecting: Fables 1-5

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Fables, Vol. 1: Legends in Exile (Fables, #1)

Introduction

"Fables, Vol. 1: Legends in Exile" by Bill Willingham is a captivating graphic novel that brings classic fairytale characters into a modern world. The story takes place in New York City, where a community of magical beings from folklore has established a secret society known as Fabletown. When Rose Red, the sister of Snow White, goes missing, Sheriff Bigby Wolf (the reformed Big Bad Wolf) is tasked with finding her killer. As he investigates, he encounters a range of familiar faces from fairytales, each with their own unique quirks and backstories.

About Bill Willingham

Bill Willingham is an accomplished writer known for his work in comics and graphic novels. He gained recognition for his series "Fables," which explores the lives of fairytale characters in a contemporary setting. Willingham's writing style is characterized by his ability to blend humor, violence, and mature themes into his stories, making them stand out from traditional fairytales. His attention to detail and ability to create engaging characters have earned him a dedicated fan base.

Analysis of Views

A Fun Murder-Mystery with a Fairytale Twist: Readers appreciate the unique premise of "Fables, Vol. 1: Legends in Exile." The combination of familiar fairytale characters and a murder mystery keeps readers engaged from beginning to end. The inclusion of well-known characters adds an extra layer of excitement and nostalgia.
A World of Characters Evolved from Fairytales: The book introduces readers to a diverse cast of characters who have evolved from their original fairytale personas. Their modern-day lives and interactions provide a fresh take on these familiar figures, making the story even more intriguing.
A Blend of Humor, Violence, and Mature Themes: Bill Willingham's writing style is praised for its ability to balance humor, violence, and mature themes. Readers enjoy the balance between lighthearted moments and darker, more serious scenes, which keeps the story dynamic and unpredictable.
A Strong Introduction to the Fabletown World: The first volume of "Fables" sets the stage for the larger world of Fabletown. It establishes the premise, introduces key characters, and lays the groundwork for future storylines. Readers appreciate the depth and complexity of the world-building, which creates a rich tapestry for the series to explore.
Engaging Artwork: The artwork in "Fables, Vol. 1: Legends in Exile" receives high praise from readers. The illustrations by various artists contribute to the overall atmosphere of the story, enhancing the visual experience and immersing readers in the world of Fabletown.

Reasons for Recommendation

A Unique Blend of Fairytales and Modernity: "Fables, Vol. 1: Legends in Exile" offers a refreshing take on classic fairytales by placing them in a modern-day setting. This fusion of genres appeals to readers who enjoy exploring new interpretations of familiar stories.
Engaging Characters and Character Development: Bill Willingham's ability to create engaging characters and develop their backstories is a significant reason for recommending "Fables." Readers appreciate the depth and complexity of the characters, which makes them relatable and memorable.
A Well-Crafted Mystery: The murder mystery at the heart of "Fables, Vol. 1: Legends in Exile" keeps readers engaged and invested in the story. The plot twists and turns, keeping readers guessing until the end. The murder investigation serves as a compelling narrative thread that ties together the various elements of the story.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Lack of Familiarity with Fairytales: Some readers may not be familiar with the fairytales referenced in "Fables, Vol. 1: Legends in Exile." This lack of prior knowledge could hinder their understanding and enjoyment of the story. However, it is worth noting that Willingham provides enough context for readers to follow along without prior knowledge of the source material.
Mature Themes and Violence: While some readers appreciate the mature themes and violence present in "Fables," others may find them off-putting or not to their taste. The graphic nature of certain scenes may be unsettling for some readers, particularly those who prefer more innocent or family-friendly stories.

Conclusion

"Fables, Vol. 1: Legends in Exile" by Bill Willingham is a captivating graphic novel that brings classic fairytale characters into a modern world. With its unique blend of humor, violence, and mature themes, it offers readers an engaging murder mystery set within a richly-detailed world of evolved fairytale figures. The artwork adds depth and immersion to the story, making it a highly recommended read for fans of both fairytales and graphic novels alike. While some readers may find familiarity with fairytales or mature content challenging, those who embrace these elements will find "Fables" to be a thrilling exploration of beloved characters in a new light.