Graphic Novel Review - The Dragonslayer (Bone, Book 4) by Jeff Smith (5/5 stars)

Reading level: Middle Grade
Genre: Fantasy
Size: 176 pages
Publisher: GRAPHIX
Release Date: November 18, 2010
ISBN-13: 978-0439706377
Stand Alone or Series: 4th book in the Bone series
Source: Borrowed from Library
Rating: 5/5 stars

This is the 4th book in the nine book Bone graphic novel series by Jeff Smith.  It was a spectacular addition to the series and probably the darkest book yet.  The story really deepens and the danger for our beloved characters really takes on an urgency.

Smiley Bone and Phoney Bone are competing in sales at the inn to see if they can pay of their debt; Phoney Bone has everyone convinced he is a dragon slayer which is causing problems.  Meanwhile Granny, Thorne, and Fone Phone have started a journey to leave the valley and get Thorne to safety.  When they are attacked by the rat creatures on their journey things take a turn for the worse.  Ends up Thorne has more truth to learn about her identity and the valley has worse enemies than rat creatures to worry about.

Thorne goes through some rough times in this book.  It is a dark book for her.  This is the first book where there is more violence, blood, and despair present throughout the story.  That is not to say everything is bleak; there are some pretty funny scenes with Phoney Bone, Smiley Bone, and the Dragon.  Still it is becoming clear that the residents of the valley are facing a peril worse than they ever could have imagined.

As with previous books the plot is well developed and the story continues to deepen.  There is humor throughout and the drawing continues to be wonderful.  This book was a bit scarier than some of the previous ones so take caution if reading this with young children.

Overall a great addition to the series.  Darker than previous books, but still some humor throughout.  The story expands and is wonderfully told.  I can't wait to read book 5, Rock Jaw, Master of the Eastern Border.  I am absolutely loving this series.

This book goes towards the following reading challenges:
- 100+ Reading Challenge
- Fantasy Reading Challenge
- Graphic Novels Challenge List