Dynamite; $4.99 

Gaston is finally facing the repercussions for his pompous bravado and unapologetic lack of concern for the consequences of his actions. When he took the job of finding an alchemist deep in the forest, Gaston approached the job with his usual overconfidence, and paid the price. The crafty magical woman turned Gaston into a fuzzy little squirrel. 

The second issue picks up with Le Fou making a mad dash through the woods with Gaston clinging to his shoulder as a group of animals chase the man – now squirrel – that has hunted and killed so many of their kin. Their brushes with death continue across other locations with Gaston learning more about the curse put on him, and Le Fou makes his own self-discoveries.  

So far, this series written by Greg Pak and Fred Van Lente and illustrated by Milena Ciccarello has been pretty darn funny. Watching Gaston get his comeuppance is satisfying as a reader, and its being done in a slapstick comedy way that makes it quite entertaining. Gaston still hasn’t learned any humility, but is clever enough to adapt, pointing to intelligence beneath his machismo. Watching Le Fou in a more action-oriented role is also fun since he can’t hide behind the big, strong Gaston.  

It’s a good entry in the Disney Villains line that can be enjoyed by readers of all ages. 

–Amanda Sheriff