Tradio #13 - Pinocchio: Vampire Slayer

This week's Tradio continues that Halloween theme with a vampire hunter of a very different kind.  I give you, Pinocchio: Vampire Slayer by Van Jensen and Dusty Higgins from SLG Publishing.

You only think you know the story of Pinocchio...a dark tale, full of darker violence, and pitch black...ok...not really.  Though the story is in black and white and does have a dark take on the story of Pinocchio, it is very much an all ages read with plenty of wit and comedy to go around.  The story centers on Pinocchio and Geppetto being attacked by vampires who kill Geppetto and through an act of luck, Pinocchio discovers a new use for that wooden nose of his.  After this encounter, Pinocchio sets out to avenge his "father" with the help of Master Cherry the carpenter and the Blue Fairy.  The premise is truly inspired and the book is a lot of fun.  Does he get revenge on those that killed Geppetto?  Does he ever become a real boy?  Is there really a weapon called the Monsterminator?  Read it and find out.

As you can tell, I loved the book and it even got passed around at one of my schools by some of the teachers.  The art fits the tone and the writing is really good and very tongue in cheek.  You can't go wrong with this book and there have been a few sequels since that you may want to check out.  You really can't go wrong with Pinocchio: Vampire Hunter.  Till next time...