I have thoroughly enjoyed the run that Art Baltazar and Franco have done on Itty Bitty Hellboy. I actually named this little five issue mini as my favorite family friendly title of the year. It has been a breath of fresh air in every sense of the word. Wonderfully drawn, thoughtfully written, and excellently presented, it has been one that I highly recommend to anyone who wants to introduce the dark world of Mike Mignola to a young one without scaring the crap out of them. We have now entered into the final issue and I am actually saddened to see it ago. I believe the previous issue dropped the big bomb of the story line, but with this issue, a very decent wrap up has been given that once again, was entertaining and enjoyable to read. With this issue, Abe has invited everyone (yes everyone, it's a family friendly read) to a party and the issue depicts the various persons preparing to go. We get to Babi Yagas Turkey leg house finally in action as well as Hellboy’s attempt to deal with those turkey legs in a way that makes sense with the story. Likewise, we get to the conclusion of Roger's split selves embracing who they are and bringing Hellboy into the mix as well. The three discover the comfort of the bush so to speak.
Art Baltazar and Franco’s story has made me a big fan and I actually have begun to search out similar works thanks in part to this title. Seeing all the guys, Hellboy, Abe, Lobster Johnson, Babi Yaga, Roger, et al. was fun and seeing how their interactions at more of a child level can be entertaining as can be. Hellboy is typically quite dark and disturbed fare, but not here. It is light-hearted, peaceful, and above all fun. It is a very good read for young and old alike. The coloring is refreshing, bright and airy. This is very nice when you realize how the material from this world can be pretty intense. It is a very impressive piece of work. These guys are real pros.
Now that all five issues are out, I would recommend this as an excellent Christmas gift for a kid who is interested in comics. It is a hip kind of gift to be sure and the recipient will be entertained. Shoot, you might just have the next great Art Baltazar type in the making by giving this as a gift. It certainly does inspire.
Score: 4/5
Writers: Art Baltazar and Franco Artist: Art Baltazar Publisher: Dark Horse Comics Price: $2.99 Release Date: 12/18/13