Saturday, February 23, 2008

A Bone to Pick

Boned.I haven't read "Bone," despite having heard good things about it ever since I started buying Wizard oh so long ago (and long before I stopped buying Wizard, also a fairly long time ago). I've been planning on picking up the One Volume edition ever since it came out, but so far I haven't gotten around to it. Fairly recently, I looked at the new color trades that have been collecting the series, and I like the look of them. Then again, I like the compact-ness and the pricing of the One Volume edition.

So, I put the question to you, my loyal readers: most of you have probably already read Jeff Smith's magnum opus; most of you probably have some insight on this, so which version should I buy? Would I be better off getting the whole series in one convenient package, or waiting and splurging a bit so I can see it in four-color glory?

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

I have the One Volume, but I wouldn't call it compact, really. It's a massive book that has proven difficult to travel with. I'm not sure if that's a concern for you, though. If it isn't, I say go for the One Volume.

John said...

The first three volumes in the series are great. But after that, it's a marginal read at best. (The art stays consistent throughout.) If I were you, I just buy the first three volumes and avoid the rest.

Jason said...

I think the whole thing is fantastic. It takes a turn after the first few volumes from Disney-style cartoon adventure to full-bore LOTR-type fantasy epic, but the quality remains. I collected the original issues, and have the one-volume. But if I had to do it over again, I would have forsaken the OV for the color books. It depends on what is more important for you: overall price or portability (and color)?

Anthony Strand said...

I agree with those who love the whole book. It definitely changes tone, but it does so gradually. At no point is there an abrupt shift.

I'd say get the one-volume edition because it really is just that, one novel in 55 issues.

LurkerWithout said...

I bought the One Volume so I haven't been tempted by the color trades. Plus I can reread it easier that way...

*note to self: Reread Bone*