Book Review: Grimm Volume 1 by Jose Malaga, David Greenwalt, Jim Kouf and Marc Gaffen

Grimm Volume 1 is a graphic novel by Jose Malaga, David Greenwalt, Jim Kouf and Marc Gaffen that tells an original story from the world of  the acclaimed NBC series, Grimm, by the show creators. Homicide Detective Nick Burkhardt, (and supernatural police known as a Grimm) is joined by his mother Kelly, Hank, and Monroe. They uncover secrets long buried during their adventure in Europe. They are hunted by Verrat soldiers while on their quest to destroy the Coins of Zakynthos. The story line reveals dark secrets and promises a member of the cast.

Grimm Volume 1 stands alone, so those that have never sen the television series, or like me  watched it for awhile but stopped for one reason or another, will not find themselves lost. Avid fans might find themselves a little annoyed at the information replays at the beginning of each section, but these little interludes help everyone start off on equal ground. The interaction between Nick, his partner, and the rest of the cast is very well done, as is the action that surround the crew on their mission. I always get a kick at the reaction different supernatural creatures have to the Grimm, and this holds true through out the graphic novel. Since I had not been following the television series, two of the characters were new to me- however as I noted earlier, everything was clear and tied together in a way that made it seem new to everyone rather than like I was playing catch up.

Readers and television fans that enjoy new takes on creatures from fairy tales and legend will see things to make them happy in Grimm Volume 1. If you have never had any interest in the television series it is unlikely that you will have any interest in the graphic novel collection. However, if the premise of the show looked good to you, whether or not you actually watch(ed) it, then you ought to give this graphic novel a look.