Review: A Wizard of Earthsea: A Graphic Novel

Title: A Wizard of Earthsea: A Graphic Novel

Author: Ursula K. Le Guin, Adapted by Fred Fordham

Publisher: Clarion Books

Publication date: March 11, 2025

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Summary

This is the story of Ged, the greatest sorcerer of Earthsea. When he was young, he was known as Sparrowhawk and he was hungry for power. In his quest to gain more power, he accidentally unleashes a shadow onto the world. See how he learns to master his power, tame a dragon, and eventually conquer his shadow.

Review: A Wizard of Earthsea

Thanks to NetGalley and Clarion Books for an advanced copy of A Wizard of Earthsea: A Graphic Novel by Ursula K. Le Guin, adapted by Fred Fordham. It’s been awhile since I read A Wizard of Earthsea, but I thoroughly enjoyed this adaptation! From what I can remember, it does  a good job of hitting the main themes and feel of the original story.

I was super impressed with the art in this. Fordham does a great job bringing this story to life, and the art is so detailed. There are multiple sections with no words, but the story is still carried forward with the art. Graphic novel artists are definitely bringing their A game when it comes to art this year.

This seems like it would be a good introduction to Ursula K. Le Guin if you haven’t encountered her work yet. As someone who doesn’t remember a lot from the novel, I didn’t feel like I was lost at any point. The characters and the world come to life nicely in this format, and I’m hopeful that they’ll continue with her other books as well.

If you’re a fan of fantasy graphic novels, definitely check this one out when it comes out in March!

4/5 stars