What They Say:
Adrienne has hit a bump in the road. She’s failed in her first attempt at rescuing one of her sisters. In fact, she didn’t even make it out with her pants intact! No rest for the weary though, because now she must face every female action hero’s archenemy: fashion. She’s rescued herself from captivity in her tower, but can Adrienne escape the bonds of chain mail underwear and leather corsets? The story of the Princess who dared to save herself continues in Princeless #3, written by JEREMY WHITLEY (GlobWorld) with spectacular art by the one and only M. GOODWIN.
The Review:
Our story picks up where the last one left off… Adrienne is soaring through the air dangling from the back of her dragon! To add insult to injury, her polka dotted bloomers are on display for all to see. Clearly, what she needs before she continues her quest to save her sisters is a set of armor that fits. The story that follows is full of humor and wit.
Bedelia, the smith’s daughter, is a wonderful addition to the story line. When she removes Adrienne’s helm and discovers her customer is a girl, her reaction is a delight. Quickly, she hustles the princess off to an amazing, secret room – the Women Warriors Collection. On display are items that are favorites of, as Bedelia puts it, the “fans of women warriors”. “Wouldn’t that give you a wedgie?” Adrienne questions. This whole scene is great! Adrienne quickly uncovers Bedelia’s secret, and wins the chance to have a real set of armor – one that will actually protect all her bits – crafted for her.
Goodwin’s art is a perfect match for the tone and content of the series. Light and fun, the characters consistently have highly expressive faces and body language that communicate clearly. The coloring is also a fabulous fit for the fairy tale genre, with lots of bright, rich shades.
This issue made me laugh repeatedly. The humor is perfect for an all ages comic. There are lots of silly jokes that will appeal to everyone, and numerous little references that will make older readers – or those who have background knowledge about characters like Wonder Woman and Xena – chuckle. How does Adrienne get the money for her armor, since she ran away from home? That part is also a hoot!
In Summary:
This issue was just nominated for an Eisner in the “best single issue” category, and the series for “best publication for kids 8-12” and it is easy to see understand the appeal. I loved the first two issues, and thought they would be perfect to hook young readers into comics, and this issue is also completely loaded with the kind of humor that will make everyone smile. It continues to communicate the valuable message of princess empowerment with a lively story, witty dialogue, and wonderful art. I highly recommend this issue, and this series!
Grade: A+
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