Dark Tower: the Gunslinger: The Man in Black

In this excellent new work in the series of graphic novels based on the Dark Tower books by Stephen King, Roland continues his quest for the Tower, and the Man In Black who flees before him. Now he is joined by Jake, a young man who died in his world and is "reborn" in Mid-World. The only problem is that both Jake and Roland believe that only through Jake's death is Roland going to get closer to his ultimate goal.As with the previous works in this series, the artistry is excellent, and the storytelling matches as well as possible with King's works. Occasionally the books take a bit of a different slant on the quest, but always within the context of the original tales. There is a bit of that deviation in this book, but it stays true to the overlying story, and actually in some ways enhances it.The Constant Reader knows that Jake's fear that he is going to die is correct, and also that Roland knows it and has to decide at some point to save Jake or continue on his journey to speak with the Man In Black and gain more knowledge of what he is seeking. That confrontation is quite eerie, and there is some foreshadowing of what is to come. The book ends, basically, where the first King volume ends, and I suppose soon we will have the beginning of The Drawing of the Three. Can't wait!

I am a big fan of the original books by Stephen King, and think the graphic novels are an ideal way to bring new life to this story. The artwork is fantastic, the original elements add to the story, and it brings back the excitement I recalled when I first read this as an young adult. If your a fan of this series, it is a great way to relive it. If your new to the series, then I highly suggest you read both the books and the graphic novels.

Thus ends the adaptation of The Gunslinger. Me and a friend have discussed how the comics and novel differ in minor details but yet stick to Kings over all vision of Roland and his quest. It is fun to think that just this time he might do something different that will change the outcome of his quest. As Jake would say there are other worlds than these. So far it has been a fun one and I look forward to continuing the journey with Marvel. This collection is under the mountain with Jake and Roland's Palaver with the Man in Black. It leaves off with Roland laying down to nap on the beach. If you have been following this series you know what to expect but if you are picking this one up for the first time I recommend getting the Waystation first. Or you could read the novels first and really get an adventure! I can't wait till the Drawing of the Three gets adapted.

Perhaps a "pure" fan of comic books can provide a more objective review, but as a rabid Tower Junkie, it's hard to find fault with any excuse to revisit the tale that started them all. The series has excelled at fleshing out moments hinted at in the book, while serving as an incredible visual companion to key scenes, such as the palaver between the Gunslinger and the Man in Black. I buy these the day they're released, and read them as soon as I get home.

This is a very well-made rendition of the last part of The Gunslinger. If you are familiar with Mid-World, this really succeeds in immersing the reader in that strange and mystifying realm.

thankyou

Love the graphic novel adaptations of the Dark Tower series. Writer Robin Furth has said she's following the original tales closely but taking each section of Roland's journey from just a little different perspective, which makes the stories both familiar and new.Seeing the different approaches in terms of artwork from the different artists is fun as well, though I don't think this book is my favorite in terms of art style.The only problem with this series is that I'm going to need more room on my bookshelf!

Having read and loved all The Dark Tower books by Steven King, I needed to get and read the comics also. They give me a visualization of the the characters and scenes from the books, while filling in some spots and extending Mr King's vision of Mid-World. Highly recommended, if you love good storytelling and artwork.