Hellboy Library Edition Volume 1: Wake the Devil and Seeds of Destruction ~Mike Mignola
–published 2008 (reprints older material)
–288 pages, Dark Horse
–5/5 stars, 
In large part due to the successful 2004 adaptation of Mike Mignola’s work by the phenomenal director Guillermo del Toro and a few animated specials, Hellboy is much more of a household name than many other non-super hero comic book characters. However my suspicions are that few people outside of those who proclaim themselves fans of the genre have picked up the individual comic books or the graphic novel collections to discover just how incredible they really are.
I am here today to convince you to do so while reviewing this new collection of the first two graphic novels.
In spite of prestigious awards and movie adaptations and the presence of bona fide award-winning authors and artists working in the genre, comics, or graphic novels if you like, are not an ‘acceptable’ form of literature in a way that they deserve to be. We all know the stigma and stereotypes of comics and the comic book geek. While entertaining, it is unfortunate as that kind of thinking closes the door to a kind of reading experience that can only be achieved through this medium–the combination of words and art that come together to tell a powerful, rich and rewarding story.
Some comics work their way out of this obsurity: The Sandman series by Neil Gaiman, Art Spiegelman’s Maus, and without a doubt, Mike Mignola’s Hellboy. Hellboy is the kind of graphic novel that transcends the genre to become something more. It is literature in its own right. And it is a perfect read for the Once Upon a Time II Challenge.
Hellboy is more than just a made up creation set in a fictional world. Instead Hellboy is an amalgam of different genres of storytelling set in the framework of a real world, albeit with fictional elements, that reaches back into the folklore and mythology of (primarily) Europe to create stories that have both a timeless and historical feel to them at the same time. Hellboy manages to be deep and entertaining at the same time.
Mike Mignola has created a John Wayne/General Patton-type of character in the guise of Hellboy. He was “raised” in the final months of World War II and grew up in the late 40’s and 50’s and Mignola infuses the character with moral and heroic qualities that tie him into this time period. At the same time Mignola mines both well-known and lesser known history and folklore to act as the foundation for both the individual, self-contained stories and for the ongoing over-arcing story of Hellboy.
Before each story (in the graphic novel collections) Mike Mignola shares the folklore and mythological inspirations for his tales and that in itself makes these stories a rewarding read. Mike Mignola manages to do the same thing that so many of my favorite authors do in my favorite stories and that is to tie the tale into a broader mythology…a mythology that can send one off on tangents reading old literature and exploring the internet looking for the origins of certain myths, etc. This type of storytelling, when done well–and Mignola does it well–provides for a deep and resonant reading experience and keeps you coming back for multiple re-reads as you look to discover more and more about the story behind the story.
And all through the ongoing tales of Hellboy, Mike Mignola maintains an aura of mystery and suspense about exactly who Hellboy is and what is going on. These books are fascinating. Mike Mignola also incorporates Lovecraftian elements and (non-Victorian) steampunk elements into his art and storytelling that make these stories a pure joy to read.
Lest you think that this is all serious, let me assure you that Mignola infuses his titular character with both the bravado and wit of the heroes of 1940s and 50’s adventure novels as well. Hellboy has a wicked sense of humor that plays very nicely against the darkness and evil that surrounds his purpose and existence.
Which leads us to this collection. For the past few years Marvel and DC comics, the Big Dogs in the industry, have been putting out oversized, bound, hardcover editions of various graphic novel collections in their vaults. DC Comics call theirs the “Absolute Editions”, a term I prefer to refer to them all by, just because I like it. These editions are much larger than the standard comic and they are published on better quality paper and often recolored to be more rich and vibrant. That is certainly true of the Hellboy Library Edition, Volume 1. For someone who has read and reread the Hellboy graphic novels, this book is like a dream come true. While the story told by Mike Mignola is every bit as rich and complete as I have described above, it is the art of Mike Mignola combined with the coloring of Dave Stewart that gives Hellboy its distinct look and feel–a look that engages the reader by invoking a mood and atmosphere that enriches the experience of reading these graphic novels.
The re-coloring in the Hellboy Library Edition is amazing. Hellboy always did stand out because of his bright red skin, but he does even more so in this new volume. His skin practically glows. The shadows and sense of foreboding that Mike’s art and Dave’s coloring evoke are even more prevalent in this larger format. Simply put, this book is beautiful to look at. Even in the smaller graphic novel collections Mike Mignola’s art recalls an earlier time and includes bits and pieces of ephemera from a bygone era that link these tales to their mythological roots. Being able to see his art in this larger format is incredible.
I sat down the other day with my recently received volume and read it cover to cover. Mike Mignola’s Hellboy graphic novels, most especially these early ones, are no different than my favorite stories–I love to re-read them and each time I do I get that delicious aura that can only come from revisiting stories that one loves and I see or learn something new. Have I convinced you? I hope so. Not only will the graphic novels themselves possibly be cheaper (I can imagine in comic shops and online that people are getting rid of their graphic novels to buy these library editions) but I have no doubt that many libraries have copies of these stories. I recommend reading them in the order found here. But more than anything I just recommend reading them! Looking for a mythology entry for your Once Upon a Time II quest? Look no further!
Hellboy II: The Golden Army will be released this summer. Looking at the trailer it appears that this episode in Hellboy’s life will connect him more to the mythology, folklore and fantasy elements so prevalent in the series. I am very excited. If you haven’t seen it, here is the trailer. If you want to see it on a bigger and nicer screen, visit the official Hellboy movie site here.
Do not let any preconceived ideas about comics or graphic novels deprive you of the experience of discovering just how amazing the Hellboy series is. Find it and read it. And if you love it like I do you’re going to want to get it in this new format. It is a real treasure.
It’s okay to say YET AGAIN that I love Hellboy? Yes? He’s funny, with a “Not again!” kind of irony – but he’s also a real hero.
And I’m so psyched for the new Hellboy movie. Have the date penciled into my diary.
ohhh, thanks for the heads-up! I’ve always enjoyed the irony and dry wit that Hellboy has. My favorite character is Abe Sapien tho, that whole pathos thing he’s got going i guess.
Have you checked out Matt Wagner’s original “Mage: the Hero Discovered”? It fits all the criteria that you love Hellboy for but is more in an Arthurian mythos. This is probably my all time favorite comic, followed closely by Hellboy, Sandman and some really really hilarious alt-press independents, (one of which being Desert Peach; the story of the Desert Fox’s gay {and much prettier} younger brother and his grave-digging platoon which is an absolute hoot!!!)
anyhoo, lovely as always, cheers, later
Once again, you’ve persuaded me to raid the piggy bank – I’ve got the individual volumes, but how can I be expected to pass it up when “The re-coloring in the Hellboy Library Edition is amazing.”
Thanks Carl – but you may have to explain to my wife about the charge on the credit card!
My introduction to Hellboy was through the movie. Since then I’ve watched a few of the cartoons and wandered the internet picking up pieces of the Hellboy saga.
I recently found my way to the graphic novel genre and I’m thoroughly loving the depth a good artist can bring to a story. Combine that with incredible writing? I’m hooked.
I liked your view on the Mignola’s story telling blend. It always fascinates me how authors can find just the right balance between the universal and the individual stories. It’s a tough technique.
Thanks for the great review.
Rachael: You represent what all Hellboy fans…and no doubt Mike Mignola…hopes happens when people see the movies and that is that you eventually make your way to the source material. I hope you can find the graphic novels and read them. They are especially powerful when read in order as there are storylines and characters that continue across the various self-contained arcs in the graphic novels.
Ken: Send her my way, I’ll give her a sob story that will get you off the hook! 🙂
Susan: I love a lot of small press and independent comics as well. I long to go to the Alternative Press Expo (A.P.E.) one of these years. I want to do that every bit as much as attend the San Diego Comic Con. I haven’t read any of Wanger’s work but it sounds interesting enough for me to check out. Did you know that there is a current Abe Sapien mini-series being put out right now? And that one of the more recent B.P.R.D. arcs focused on him? There are several BPRD trades out right now and I think that one is either out or about ready to come out. It has a real Island of Dr. Moreau feel to it.
Dark O: Proclaiming Hellboy love is always welcome! I too am super excited about the theatrical release.
No i wasn’t aware that there were BPRD trades out. I’m now in the same boat as Ken. Good thing i’ve only got the one credit card =D I think i’ve got the first of the Abe Sapien mini-series, i’ll have to dig through the stack and make sure.
Matt Wagner’s better known for his first work “Grendel” but Mage was always my favorite. It is supposedly a trilogy with “Hero Discovered” being the first arc. About 10 years later he published the “Hero Defined” 2nd arc, and now we’re in limbo waiting to see if he finishes it. “sigh” I think you’d enjoy it.
Susan: The following BPRD trades are out and this is the order they go in. These too are important to read in order as various aspects of storylines continue in each trade:
* B.P.R.D.: Hollow Earth and Other Stories
* B.P.R.D.: The Soul of Venice and Other Stories
* B.P.R.D.: Plague of Frogs
* B.P.R.D.: The Dead
* B.P.R.D.: The Black Flame
* B.P.R.D.: The Universal Machine
* B.P.R.D.: Garden of Souls
* B.P.R.D.: Killing Ground
and thanks for the heads up concerning Wagner’s stuff.
Yup, you have convinced me! I have read two individual Hellboy comics and I loved them, so I really don’t know why I haven’t picked up any of the collections yet. But now I’m even more interested in doing so. Thanks, Carl, for another fabulous review.
Oh, and:
“it is unfortunate as that kind of thinking closes the door to a kind of reading experience that can only be achieved through this medium–the combination of words and art that come together to tell a powerful, rich and rewarding story.”
Very well said!
I’ve seen this library edition of Carl’s and it’s great. The coloring is wonderful. It covers the material from graphic novels 1 and 2 which you could buy each for twenty dollars a piece so your really on spending 10 dollars more for such a great absoulte edition. It’s really the best way to go. I’m sure Amazon has a great price on it or if your a Borders Rewards member I just receved a 30% off one item over $ 10 coupon for this week. Borders Rewards is a great free service I get coupons every week from them. I also love Hellboy as much as Carl. I can’t recommend this series enough. It’s tons of fun, creepy, pulp entertainment.
Susan GT – Thanks for the heads up on Mage. I will have to check out that series as well.
Ohhhhh that’s yet another new trailer!! And my first view of Roy Dotrice as the king (with the antlers)!! I can’t wait for a still photo of him to become available!!
Even when I heard rumors that Hellboy (the first movie) bombed and wasn’t very good, I was surprised when I saw it on television how good it was!! I am really excited about the new movie!! It’s great when books and movies both score high!!!!
Deslily: Hellboy was critically liked (79% on Rotten Tomatoes) but I don’t think it made the money we fans hoped it would. It was a hard sell as this certainly wasn’t a well known comic book character. I think del Toro’s reputation has grown and enough people have seen Hellboy on tv and DVD that I hope that this new movie makes a bunch at the box office.
Jeff: Sorry your ordered copy keeps coming in damaged!
I was incredibly honored to interview Mignola – ON THE PHONE!! – for my next Weird Tales interview. Let me reiterate: ON THE PHONE!!
He was very sweet and incredibly patient with my babbled attempts at conversation. “I izz writing the folk talez0rz too!!”
I think it came out pretty good. I asked him about some stuff I’d always wondered, such as: “Folktales: what’s the appeal?” I mean, I know what it is for me, but it’s different for everyone.
Anyhoo!
I also frickin’ LURVE the art in that first Hellboy volume.
In other news – I’m diggin’ the new blog theme!
Thanks Elizabeth! I will certainly be picking up that issue of Weird Tales. I cannot imagine even being able to get a word out to the guy. Wow! That is too cool.
And thanks, the theme is growing on me.
i got the first gn and quite enjoyed it, although was a little dissapointed. i remember you and jeff telling me that i should keep reading ’cause it gets better and you’ve just reminded me of that again.
these images are very cool and i suspect you’re right, that the series does get better.
also, in a curious way, the first gn has improved in the back of my mind. very much in the way of a creature FROM hellboy, its mutated and developed in the corner of my mind.
i think i just needed to get fully in sync with what mignola was doing. you know how that sometimes happens, when you can’t fully appreciate something ’cause its new to you and you aren’t yet equipped to understand it. but then as you get more familiar with it you understand it more and like it more.
(not that understanding always equals enjoyment, of course, but you know what i mean)
i’ve got quite a backlog of gn’s waiting for me on my bookshelf (which is quite rare) and once i get my life back then i’m looking forward to reading whats on my shelf and then getting hold of some more hellboy!
on a side note: ah, i’m so enjoying reading your blog again! i’ve really missed it.
i’m reading it at work at the moment, but i can afford to today, ’cause i’ve just started a new project and my deadline is a while a way now.
but yeah, your blog is a delight to read!
and i… like the new theme. i hesitate, ’cause its different and its that out-of-your-comfort-zone feeling you have when any web page changes. but its definitely gorgeous. and please don’t tell me you took that photo up there, ’cause then i’m gonna faint.
JP: No worries. Wish I could claim credit for the creativity of this site, but it is all just a free WordPress template. None of my doing whatsoever.
I certain understand what you are saying about, er, understanding. It makes all the difference in the world the mood one is in and where one’s understanding is at when trying something new. Especially if that something has been hyped by others.
I’m glad you’re back to reading and commenting here and look forward to more regular posting on your site as well. Don’t miss your deadline though. 😉
Ooh Carl, I am so, so tempted. I do have a Hellboy graphic novel somewhere but can’t rememeber if I’ve read it, coming to him as a character through del Toro’s film rather than the comic books. I’m so looking forward to the sequel this summer, it’s on my must-see list. Have you checked out the two animated Hellboy films? Well worth watching.
Yes, they are a lot of fun, Bride. If you enjoy all that I think you’d really enjoy reading the graphic novels.
You simply have no idea how much I long to read graphic novels, but living in a land, where nothing gets to you is just so depressing. Your blog is like a magic portal that leads me away from my misery and lets me taste a bit of what I am missing. I so need to move to an English speaking country and grab whatever comes as art, books and misc. Hellboy is one of my favorite characters after I saw the first movie (see how far back we are. I just learned about him being comicbook character by the movie. a tragedy) and now I just stare dreamily.
Okay, okay, you convinced me. I have a few of the tpbs, but I might as well complete the collection with these- the colors look amazing! (I don’t think I needed too much convincing!)
Oh yeah, and. . . cannot. wait. for. Golden Army.
Thanks for this great review. I know once I order and receive the book(s) and see the colors live and in person, I’ll be thanking you again 🙂
And good call on the John Wayne/Patton influences! I never thought of that.
I just got Vol. 1 and 2. First time reading the story and it’s pretty interesting. The monster origin concepts are neat and the illustrations are wonderful.
I am leaving a lot of fingerprint residue on the pages though. Kinda disappointed but oh well, it’s not like I bought it for reselling.
Yes, these are easily fingerprinted volumes that is for sure. But like you, I bought them to keep, not resell, and they are really fun to read and re-read.