The graphic novel adaptation of the novel Took, has similar qualities to other Mary Downing Hahn books and the “classic 1980s thrillers” I read as a kid (such as Pike, Stine, Cusick, etc.). Those themes are that the “stereotypical normal” (two parents, two to four kids, sometimes a pet or two, and having moved from the city to the country) has fractured and there is supernatural at work. It is a realistic thriller, but with folklore and legends attached. This is a familiar story (the father loses his job, the family moves to the “boonies”, the kids have issues with each other and fitting in at school, the family dynamic changes, the witch on the hill is up to no good) does not stray too far from the social stereotypes (the father is the ‘tough one” and the mother “falls apart and spoils the younger child”), but for most readers at least 10 and up, it is fine. It is the children who are the main focus of things. Hahn’s writing style is one that could be called “grandmotherly” (if she was Stephen King’s grandmother…. )
The illustrations do make some things more “alive” and add to the thriller/with a hint of “horror” (but not over the top) aspects. Overall, things are interesting, and captures the thriller aspect. However, the book does have moments not for the sensitive reader. We are talking about the legend of a woman who kidnaps children, has a wild boar who murders people and the overall spooky factor. Jen Vaughn’s artwork is not “boom!” off the wall exciting, but has a tone that allows things to feel real, as if you are watching from a window or in the wooded area yourself. They are complementary to the adaptation of Hahn’s book, by Scott Peterson. When I was reading the art, I noticed how they are supportive of the text, though some things feel a bit missing. Yet they also capture a Goosebumps effect to things, moving the story along.
I actually recommend reading Hahn in her novel format and not a graphic novel adaptation, especially for the younger reader (she can work for strong readers aged eight and up, but usually things are more aimed at the 10 to 12 range). As an adult reader, my love of Hahn is part because she is a good writer and part nostalgia for the memories of summer reading.