Neil Gaiman and Charles Vess' Stardust by Neil Gaiman (1998, Hardcover)

"Stardust" is the fantasy tale of a young man named Tristran, who travels to the world of Faerie to retrieve a falling star in efforts to prove his love. As harmless as the world may sound, Faerie is actually a dangerous place, filled with all types of fanciful creatures- both good (angelic unicorns) and bad (evil witches). And Tristran encounters them all while attempting to retrieve the surprisingly sentient star.

I’m unsure as to whether this book should be described as a graphic novel or illustrated prose. Though it was originally published in comic book format, over four issues (and released by comic book publisher, DC Comics), there are no word balloons, but there are at least as many pages with pictures as there are pages with words.

These pictures are marvelously illustrated by Comic Book Artist Charles Vess. Vess has made a career of drawing fantasy characters, and "Stardust" is his best work to date.

The book is written by comic book author and novelist, Neil Gaiman. Gaiman briefly explored the wickedly eerie world of Faerie in his comic book masterpiece, "Sandman" and the mini-series, "Books of Magic." But the world is fully fleshed-out in the pages of "Stardust."

"Stardust" has been described by its author as “a fairytale for adults.” And a better description couldn’t apply. The combination of fantasy characters and threatening situations is perfectly illustrated, creating a creepy, yet inviting, world. It’s a bit intense and mature for children, but perfect for adults who are able to recall their long-abandoned, childhood sensibilities.

Neil Gaiman fans and fans of J.R.R. Tolkien will love this book. For readers new to fantasy novels, "Stardust" is very accessible and easy to read. And at 223 (illustrated) pages, it’s also a relatively quick read.

A movie adaptation staring Michelle Pfeiffer, Claire Danes and Robert De Niro is currently in production. But even with a fine cast such as this, the movie will have to be spectacular to live up to this book.