Fables - Volume 5: The Mean Seasons by Bill Willingham

Books Completed: 16
Completion Date: January, 2009
Pages: 168
Publication Date: April 1, 2005

Reason for Reading: Next book in the Fables series. Graphic Novel Challenge.

Collecting issues 22 and 28-33 of the hit VERTIGO series, this trade paperback features two tales of Bigby's exploits during World War II as well as "The Year After," which follows the aftermath of the Adversary's attempt to conquer Fabletown — including the birth of Snow White and Bigby's children!

After the heavy packed fourth addition to this series, this volume slows down a bit. It is necessary, though, because there are some storylines that need to be developed and worked on. The book begins with Prince Charming's three ex-wives having lunch together. I thought that was rather entertaining! Snow White has been with the series since the beginning, Briar Rose had some character development in volume 3, and now, I guess, it is Cinderella's turn. She plays a lot of roles expertly, but you learn quickly that there is more to her than meets the eye! A character from The Legend of Sleepy Hollow joins the cast, which I really enjoyed! I like how diverse these stories are.

Then, it is Bigby's turn for character development. Jack (of beanstalk fame) was shown in an earlier war, but Bigby was in WWII. He was involved in some secret missions, and the last surviving member of his team has reached the end. He calls Bigby over to talk about old times. Scenes from Frankenstein appear in his story. Then, we return to 'regularly scheduled programming'. Snow White is now a mother and I love her children! I am really interested in seeing what happens with them as they grow up because they don't have 'normal' parents, so there is a lot of potential there. Because of their strange parents, though, Snow White is forced to move with them to the Farm (central in volume 3), a place where Bigby Wolf is not allowed to go. Also included is Prince Charming's rise to fame, Snow White and Bigby Wolf stepping down, and another threat to both Fabletown and the Farm.

Another great addition to the series! I am really looking forward to reading the next book! I am thinking that will probably end up being today, because I want to see what happens next!