Bone

Beginning in 1991 and continuing on for the next 12 years, Jeff Smith created a long epic story simply called Bone. Equally accessible for children and adults, Bone is the story of three cousins, all with the last name of Bone, who have been unceremoniously kicked out of Boneville. As they try to find their way back, they encounter a strange cast of characters, some human, some animal, and some indescribable. A delightful fantasy, Bone belies simple description—it’s not just a children’s fable featuring funny cartoon characters, although it certainly appears that way at the beginning. But as the 12-year-long story unfolds over 1,300-plus pages, it becomes something much more, a darker story of courage and heroism. Most of all, it’s a completely satisfying romp.