The Smurfnapper

By: Y. Delporte and Peyo
Publisher: Papercutz
Publication Date: May 2010
Reviewed by: Holly Connors
Review Date: August 2010

They’re small, cute, and very, very blue. Yes, the Smurfs are back! With the upcoming release of a major motion picture, the Smurfs are about to be introduced to a whole new generation. To tie-in to the resurgence, Smurf graphic novels are being released which are sure to make even the grouchiest child laugh.

To re-introduce the Smurfs, and their graphic novels, Papercutz has released The Smurfnapper, a classic Smurf tale. In this deliciously cute story, evil Sorcerer Gargamel has discovered a portion that turns metal into gold. Unfortunately, the recipe calls for a Smurf. “What’s that?” asks the sorcerer. He soon gets his answer and along with his cat Azrael, sets out to capture a Smurf.

Smurfs are insatiably curious so it doesn’t take long for a Smurf to wander into Gargamel’s trap. Bringing the little blue creature home, he tosses him in a small cage, laughs an evil laugh and gets ready to finish his potion. What will the Smurf do?

Fortunately, the Smurfs have a secret weapon – Papa Smurf. He comes up with a plan and soon mayhem breaks out as the Smurfs take on Gargamel.

The Smurfs are just as cute as I remember them and today’s kids should love their antics. There’s plenty of action in this graphic novel and watching the little Smurfs get the upper hand over Azrael the cat (and his evil owner) should put a smile on every child’s face. The frequent injection of the word “smurf” (or some form of it) may take a few pages to get used to, but it quickly becomes an endearing quality of the little blue munchkins.

Quill says: Colorful, action-packed, and funny, The Smurfnapper is a great introduction to the world of Smurfs.

For more information on The Smurfnapper, please visit the publisher's website at: Papercutz.com