You must have a certain type of humor to understand some of Yorick and Bones. The Shakespearian references can be amusing, but not always easy to read. I have a very basic knowledge on the subject; therefore, I was able to see the humor/joke and able to read the parts that are more “Shakespearian language” in nature. Yorick themselves only speaks in that “old English/Shakespearian” (to a point) which is where the humor comes from. However, it is modern enough to keep today’s reader not confused. Due to this unique format, obviously this graphic novel is not for everyone. However, it is quirky enough to be make kids want to find out if Yorick learns about true friendship and if he learns about his situation. Most kids aged 7 to 10 can solo read, where younger children could be read to.
The simple art is detailed only with what is needed to move the story along. It is not overcrowded with images or text but there is not a lack of detail either. The self-dialogue of Yorick speaking to Bones (the dog that dug Yorick out from their resting place) is an interesting tool to move the story along. One plot issue I had (the fact that Yorick comes to the party a lot later than he should that he is a skeleton) will not bother most readers/kids.
Jeremy Tankard had fun and you can tell that while reading. The plot is an introduction story. We are learning about Yorick and what they think they need. But of course, they learn that what they want, and need are not always the same thing. But also learning that what you need is sometimes right underneath your nose (or would be if you, you know, had a nose).
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