Reason for Reading: next and last in the series.

A powerful, exciting finale to a most enjoyable series. Coming up to this last book I had some trepidation. Would it be worth the journey? Would it be a satisfying end? I can wholeheartedly say yes to both those questions. First off we are presented with a nice fat volume considerably larger than previous volumes, letting us know we can settle down for a good read. Action-packed, with a conclusion worthy of the eight previous volumes it took to get here. All major characters have their fates determined and get closure and it is not all "happy, happy, joy, joy" for everyone either. I'm not going to say anything about plot in this review, you'll just have to read this far yourself to find out on your own. But I highly recommend the series. Some volumes are better than others, but all rated high with me, either 4 or 5 stars. The story takes turns towards the darkside and is lightened up every now and then with a humorous side story. And all throughout the story, even though it does get mighty dark at times the humour is always there too. My favourite characters were the Red Dragon, Ted the leaf bug, and Bartelby. My favourite of the main characters was Smiley Bone. If you haven't had the pleasure yet, take some time out and read the series as it is a great ride with a satisfying ending.

The Bone series from Jeff Smith is considered one of the best graphic novels of all time, and with good reason. The series centers around the Bone Family, drawn in a caricature style similar to that of the slapstick comics from the 1940s. The three Bone cousins, "Phoney" Bone, Smiley Bone, and Fone Bone are driven out of the their hometown of Boneville after Phoney tries to run for mayor. They travel across a desert and end up in the mysterious valley. This is where the series brings in dark, epic, Lord of the Rings styled fantasy. And that is clear in the art style that is more realistic.

This series has received so much praise for good reason; it is incredible to say the least. For a comic, the ending was surprisingly emotional, and considering the main characters are drawn in this very caricature style, there was still an ending that was both sad and redeeming. If you haven't read this series, do yourself a favor and pick it up.

I got the entire series at christmas awhile ago, the one with all of them in black and white, so I got to read this one before it came out. I was definatly surprised. I thought this was just for kids, but it actually made me laugh out loud. even, if some people dont find it funny, you have to love the illustrations. pick it up.