Deadpool Volume 1 by Posehn and Dugan

Type of Read:

Graphic Novel

Plot Summary:

There is a deranged and very patriotic necromancer on the loose who is intent on raising all of the dead presidents in order to right the wrongs in America. Since it is bad publicity for America's heroes to take down America's past leaders, Deadpool is recruited by S.H.I.E.L.D to get a handle on the problem. Being the Merc with a Mouth, he never stops joking and poking fun at the presidents, S.H.I.E.L.D., and just about anyone else that happens to cross his path.

Background:

I'm not going to pretend that I am an all-knowing master of everything Deadpool, but here is just a brief overview of who Deadpool is. (A lot of Deadpool's background is vague and changes often depending on the telling) Deadpool AKA Wade Wilson was dying of cancer when he is recruited by the same organization that filled Wolverine with adamantium. Wade was given different abilities from different mutants including Wolverine's rapid healing ability. While the cancer was stopped and he gained superhuman abilities, he was severely disfigured with horrible burns and scars over his body, and he went insane. He is known for seeing illusions and hearing voices. Despite everything, he has a wicked sense of humor and he is known for breaking the fourth wall (this means he addresses the audience directly...Google 'fourth wall' for a better explanation). Also, he can't die. In some ways Deadpool is a tragic hero because he doesn't necessarily enjoy his life, but he can't end it. Also, no one, even other superheroes, likes him. 

Strengths:

I really like Deadpool. He's one of those characters you really shouldn't like, but his witty comments and funny jokes kind of masks the brutality he displays.  This was my first Deadpool experience, and I was very impressed with it. I found myself giggling and then showing my husband the instances where Deadpool broke the fourth wall. I even read parts to my grandfather who chuckled. I later learned that this particular graphic novel is a reboot of the Deadpool series so I don't know how different this version is from others. But if you want a good experience, check this one out!

Weaknesses:

While there is very little language in this book, there are some adult jokes and references that are not appropriate for a younger audience. Plus it's bloody and violent. (While Deadpool can't die, he can get seriously injured....like he gets shot in the head or gets his legs smashed to smithereens) 

Also, there are some political jokes sprinkled in throughout the dialogue. Some people might find this inappropriate or distasteful. But readers have to remember that they are just jokes. Some are hits and some are misses.

Opinion and Recommendation:

This was a great read. It was larger and longer than most graphic novels that I've read before, but I demolished this novel in a day. It was funny and clever and very enjoyable. I had a gift card to Barnes and Noble and this was an impulse buy, but I'm glad I bought it. I will definitely be reading through this again and even sharing it with friends. If you don't feel like shelling out the money for this hardback graphic novel, just pop into the library and request it.