Punderworld, Vol. 1

Sejic (the Blood Stain series) adds a playful entry to the trend of updated Greek myths (from Percy Jackson to Lore Olympus) with this riff that drafts Hades and Persephone into a down-to-earth romantic dramedy. Hades and Persephone’s romance finally begins to blossom after 200 years of attempted flirting, while Demeter, Persephone’s mother, worries about her daughter’s rebellion. Hades and Zeus’s brotherly banter and Demeter and Persephone’s strained relationship help deepen the characterizations. The contemporary character art is accessible, with cute touches like Zeus’s glowing thunderbolt crown. Sejic leans into the luxury of Mount Olympus, showcasing the plant-growing powers of Persephone, contrasted by the cold dark depths of Hades. Cameos by other members of the Olympic pantheon combine to create a mythological world that feels complete. There are some technical flaws, such as a tendency to digitally blur backgrounds, which becomes repetitive. Still, this entry boasts charm in a crowded category. (Aug.)