'Marsupilami: The Beast' by Zidrou with art by Frank Pe is a graphic novel about a really strange animal and the small boy who finds it.

The story takes place in 1955 in post-war Belgium. A strange unseen animal with a really long tail terrorizes a cargo ship and ends up stranded. It is found by a small boy who collects animals of all types, including a beer drinking horse. Will this new creature get along with the others or will it make them all a meal?

I am familiar with drawings of the original Marsupilami, but I never read the comics. This is a reboot that seems pretty different than those, but I found the story engaging and the characters were good. The art was kind of a caricature style, but I liked it.

I received a review copy of this graphic novel from Europe Comics and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this graphic novel.

My Selling Pitch:
Jojo Rabbit x Calvin and Hobbes

Pre-reading:
The cover reminds me of Blacksad which is one of my all time faves.

(obviously potential spoilers from here on)
Thick of it:
Poor animals!

I don’t think I've ever had a detritus sin in a graphic novel before lol.

A little Jojo Rabbit

That quote about the embers is really romantic.

They're so cute together. I hope nothing bad happens.

The art reminds me of Bill Peet’s.

Post-reading:
That was so cute and bittersweet. I can't wait for part two. It's appropriate for children while also having more adult content for older readers. The pop culture references helped establish the time period and didn't feel overdone. The art is charming. The characters are likable. There's nothing I would change. I think if you liked Jojo Rabbit, you'll like this.

Who should read this:
Disney fans
Bill Peet kids turned adults
Jojo Rabbit fans

Ideal reading time:
Anytime

Do I want to reread this:
I think I'll just remember it.

Would I buy this:
Yes

Similar books:
* Blacksad by Juan Diaz Canales-historical, noir, graphic novel, personified animals
* Animal Pound by Tom King-graphic novel, classic retelling, political satire, personified animals
* The Warm Hands of Ghosts by Katherine Arden-historical, magical realism, romance, queer, ensemble cast

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.