Parents' Guide to

Outlaw: The Legend of Robin Hood: A Graphic Novel

By Teen Librarian, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 12+

Fast-paced retelling makes this myth exciting for teens.

Book Tony Lee Historical Fiction 2009
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What's the Story?

As a young boy, Robin watched as his father's friend, an outlaw, was killed, but he still dreamed of being one himself. After fighting in the Crusades, Robin returns and finds that his father has been murdered, and he's intent on finding his killer. He soon meets up with "Little" John and Friar Tuck along with their merry gang and sets off to avenge his father and protect the townspeople he loves against the lawless Sheriff of Nottingham and Guy Gisburn, a dangerous and sadistic man with power.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: Not yet rated
Kids say: Not yet rated

This action-packed origins story of Robin O' the Hood is expertly written, drawn, and colored by three talented artists. The illustrations fit perfectly with the fast-moving nature of the story and neither the words nor the pictures overwhelm the other. The story is an intriguing account of Robin Hood's life -- from his first interaction with an outlaw as a young boy to the grown man he becomes who wants nothing more than to provide for and protect the citizens of Nottingham. The tension between Robin and Gisburn is thick and readers will want to see who ends up victorious in the end. Teen readers will appreciate this fast paced retelling of the popular myth.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the myth that is Robin Hood. Do you think he was real or strictly an imaginary character? Is there someone that exists today that upholds some of the ideals that Robin Hood did?

  • Why do you think people made up the story of Robin Hood? What good are myths to a civilization?

  • What other stories of Robin Hood have you seen or read? What versions of the story do you like best?

Book Details

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