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Cover of FLASH GORDON
3.09

Based on 11 Goodreads ratings

FLASH GORDON

by an escape pod containing Flash Gordon, a freckle\u002Dfaced girl with endless curiosity and energy but no memory of her identity. When the Ark crashes on planet Omnia X, the new friends find themselves at odds with the “Merciless Emperor” Prince Azimuth, who dominates the planet’s kingdoms with his rage\u002Dpowered dark magic. Flash is shocked to discover the tyrant is no older than she is, while Azimuth’s sister, Princess Aura, is even more surprised by the fear her brother has for their unexpected visitor. Seeking to use this, Aura saves the girl from the gladiatorial arena and takes her to Arboria, a land of rebellious tree\u002Dfolk and gallant knights led by the honorable Captain Barin. But as the determined Flash readies herself to save Dale and liberate Omnia, she is blind to the Princess’ own ambitions and the unsettling reason behind the Prince’s fixation on her. Johnson’s illustrations, delightfully influenced by shojo manga, are rich with detailed characters set against simple, colorful storybook\u002Dstyle backgrounds, capturing expressive facial expressions—even during an intense battle with a giant, razor\u002Dtoothed axolotl. Bennett, who has worked on some of Marvel’s and DC’s biggest properties, displays her talent for inclusive storytelling—this universe is filled with more than just the white and green faces so many space operas feature. The spirit of Alex Raymond’s original creation is here, too\u003B there’s an intoxicating combination of sword\u002Dand\u002Dsorcery tropes with laser guns and flying saucers. The book never talks down to its audience, and this heartfelt adventure will be great for kids to share with parents, or even for longtime fans looking for a reminder of what made them love Flash Gordon—and comics—in the first place."

Book Details

Publisher:Of
Published:2024-01-01
Pages:128
Format:paperback
Language:English
ISBN:9781545818

Reading Info

Age Range:12-18

About This Book

This thrilling space opera rockets readers into a universe of interplanetary adventure, where the heroic Flash Gordon battles the tyrannical Ming the Merciless across the exotic landscapes of Mongo. ...

Our Review

This thrilling space opera rockets readers into a universe of interplanetary adventure, where the heroic Flash Gordon battles the tyrannical Ming the Merciless across the exotic landscapes of Mongo. Adapted from the classic comic strip and serials, the narrative is a fast-paced blend of ray-gun fights, daring rescues, and strange alien creatures that will captivate young fans of science fiction and action. The story's straightforward conflict between good and evil, set against a backdrop of vibrant alien worlds, provides an accessible and exciting entry point into the genre.

What makes this tale endure is its quintessential hero's journey, filled with unwavering courage, loyal companions like Dale Arden and Dr. Zarkov, and imaginative, otherworldly settings. Teen readers seeking escapist adventure with a classic, pulpy feel will be instantly hooked by the non-stop action and clear-cut morality. It’s a foundational sci-fi adventure that continues to deliver pure, unadulterated excitement from the first page to the last.

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