Emily's Review: Pride of Baghdad by Brian K. Vaughan

Brian K. Vaughan's graphic novel (Pride of Baghdad, illustrated by Niko Henrichon) is the story of a pride of lions that escapes from the Baghdad Zoo during the American bombing of the city. Zill, Safa, Noor and Ali roam the deserted city, meeting more than a few other animals and even a few humans--such as in the painfully sad conclusion. Despite the seemingly childlike premise--talking animals--the book is surprising graphic. There is cursing, violence, and even a sexual situation; none of it, however, is to excess.
The writing, however, seems too fast-paced; though we know each lion has an individual personality, we don't get enough time with them, and the book goes from beginning to end with surprising speed.
I give this book: 5Q-hard to imagine a better book, 3P-Some teen appeal