Bone Vol. 9: Crown of Horns
by Jeff Smith

    BONE: CROWN OF HORNS by Jeff Smith
    Category:  Manga/Comics/Pop Fiction
    Age Recommendation:  Grades 6+
    Release Date:  1/20/09
    Publisher:  Graphix
    Reviewed by:  Randstostipher "tallnlankyrn" Nguyen
    Rating:  4 Stars


    From the very first page, the ninth installment in the BONE graphic novel series starts off with a bang.

    It begins with Thorn and Fone Bone, who are imprisoned by their own people, having the recurring dream of when
    her parents gave her away to the dragons. This time, however, the dream is clearer than before - she is able to see
    her mother.

    With this dream, Thorn figures out that the only way for the war to end is if she finds the Crown of Horns. But Fone
    Bone is quick to object, since the object could just lead to an unclear end to the war.

    Outside, the war has begun between the enemies - the Pawan and rat creature army led by Briar - and the city of
    Atheia. Although Atheia’s army are able to force the enemy to retreat, they are still surrounded by them. With this,
    despite objections, Thorn understands that it is up to her to save her Gran’ma and her city, even if it could mean that it
    will end her life.

    So as Phoney and Gran’ma hold down the fort and venture off on their own journey, Thorn and Fone Bone, along
    with Bartleby, are off to seal the fate of their city. Whether or not Fone Bone is right is a different story.  Finding the
    Crown of Horns is a challenge with so many obstacles standing in their way, and what it could possibly awake is what
    makes this installment darker than those before.

    As the first BONE graphic novel I’ve ever read, it definitely grabbed me from the start. For one, the art and the
    colors are extremely stunning. The plot itself is intriguing and compelling and is full of action and ferocious creatures
    that no one should ever have to encounter. The intensity of the war is balanced by the hilarious characters of Phoney
    and Smiley, who just put a smile on the reader's face whenever they are featured in the story.

    This is a wonderful series for those reluctant to pick up a book, and BONE: CROWN OF HORNS makes for a
    thrilling addition.