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Mar 15, 2017forbesrachel rated this title 5 out of 5 stars
Ben Hatke's next foray into the world is picture books is an absolute success. This critically acclaimed, children's graphic novel creator has a flair for centering stories around unlikely heroes, and this time is no different. Goblin is a delightful and responsible fellow who lives in his dungeon. He enjoys feeding the rats, and chatting with his friend Skeleton. His peaceful days are brought to an end though when a bunch of adventurers literally burst into the scene, stealing all that Goblin cares for. Determined, this little green guy sets out to find his friend, which is made difficult by all the "fair" folk who immediately chase him away. Even though, there are those that dislike him, Goblin also finds some in unexpected places that do like him. Sharp readers will notice the young woman who joins his crew; she plays no role in the story, but in the illustrations we first see her tied up, and tucked away, on the adventurers cart as a prize. The boogey-eyed goblin encounters a bunch of other squat, and frankly cuddly looking, creatures. It's hard to see any of them as a threat, and the art's more classic lines, watered-down colours, and tone setting, isolating black backgrounds, only emphasizes this. Fantasy readers will enjoy this different perspective on the sword and sorcery genre. Nobody Likes a Goblin is an amusing adventure grounded by its lessons of friendship, bravery, and prejudgment.