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Sword of the Champion
An ordinary boy must find his inner hero in this hilarious, action-packed debut MG graphic novel filled with jokes, friendship, incompetent villains, and lots of heart.
Orin’s life is uprooted when he discovers that he is the reincarnation of a great hero, destined to defeat the evil Fiendlord. And he just may have a shot because, in the years since he conquered the world, the Fiendlord has become lazy and complacent. He sees Orin’s appearance as motivation to finally get back in shape and relive his glory years, and hopefully regain the respect of his unimpressed teenage daughter. In need of a mystical sword if he’s to stand a chance against the Fiendlord, Orin teams up with a precocious, entrepreneurial sorceress who's ready to launch Orin’s career as the Champion of Draeland—which would be much easier if he didn’t keep befriending the Fiends they’re supposed to destroy.
Orin’s life is uprooted when he discovers that he is the reincarnation of a great hero, destined to defeat the evil Fiendlord. And he just may have a shot because, in the years since he conquered the world, the Fiendlord has become lazy and complacent. He sees Orin’s appearance as motivation to finally get back in shape and relive his glory years, and hopefully regain the respect of his unimpressed teenage daughter. In need of a mystical sword if he’s to stand a chance against the Fiendlord, Orin teams up with a precocious, entrepreneurial sorceress who's ready to launch Orin’s career as the Champion of Draeland—which would be much easier if he didn’t keep befriending the Fiends they’re supposed to destroy.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published February 25, 2025
3 people are currently reading
3046 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
July 5, 2024
Cute. Not an overly new idea, but done in a cute and creative way. Not sure how they still have the power from the goddess if she *spoiler*, but I’ll just squint at that from the corner of my eye and it’ll be FINE.
The characters were ok. Kind of tropey and not really able to peg their ages properly. Like, was the sorceress who had to find and support the Champion an adult, a teen, a tween, WHAT?
It sadly made sense that the parents were ok with their child leaving to do a dangerous job, considering if he didn’t go, the entire world would be destroyed.
Also, not happy with how some of the “bad guys” get redemption and others don’t have that option.
Middle grade fantasy graphic novel. I read an ARC, so it was in black and white after page 14. I’m sure it would look much more impressive in full color.
3, middle of the road didn’t knock my socks, stars.
The characters were ok. Kind of tropey and not really able to peg their ages properly. Like, was the sorceress who had to find and support the Champion an adult, a teen, a tween, WHAT?
It sadly made sense that the parents were ok with their child leaving to do a dangerous job, considering if he didn’t go, the entire world would be destroyed.
Also, not happy with how some of the “bad guys” get redemption and others don’t have that option.
Middle grade fantasy graphic novel. I read an ARC, so it was in black and white after page 14. I’m sure it would look much more impressive in full color.
3, middle of the road didn’t knock my socks, stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 7, 2025
I was already looking forward to this book, but I am not the only one, my hubby was also excited. This is a fun (and often also very funny) graphic novel about the chosen one, evil fiendlords (and their fantastic daughters who made me laugh and I am also rooting for her), great lore, a big big adventure with many dangerous things, new friends (including a Mimic with a hilarious name (plus his family as well)), new powers, and finding yourself and the power within. I loved the art, and I can see that the artist really loved Akira Toriyama/Dragon Ball.
This book is all about them finding the sword and I am looking forward to the next book (or books).
Highly recommended!
This book is all about them finding the sword and I am looking forward to the next book (or books).
Highly recommended!
September 28, 2024
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
June 1, 2025
Cute and a fun start to a rather generic fantasy story. A lot of the art and scenes felt highly influenced by Dragonball, in terms of expressions and poses, but overall the drawings were dynamic, easy to follow, and full of emotion. Could be enjoyed by manga readers.
May 29, 2025
SUCH a fun and lovely book, couldn't put it down!! Kids (and graphic novel enjoyers of all ages, especially fans of fantasy games) will absolutely love the jokes and visual gags and exciting action sequences. Absolutely a delight and I can't wait for more in this series! If nothing else moves you please read it for Chester the treasure chest mimic and his entire punnily-named family. Do it for them
February 8, 2025
**I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
This was cute. The illustrations are colorful and vibrant, and the MC is a POC, which is a plus. The story isn't anything particularly original ("chosen one" hero who struggles with self-doubt and goes on a quest to find a magical artifact to defeat the big baddie, picking up unlikely allies along the way), but it is well-executed. There's some fresh humor, the pacing is good, the climax does not feel rushed (which is a fate that befalls a lot of graphic novels), and all the threads are resolved. I was originally only going to read half of it, but somewhere in the midpoint decided I couldn't put it down and read it in one sitting. I would read the rest of the series.
Speaking from the perspective of a parent-educator and Sunday school teacher, my one concern with this book is that the line between good and evil is very gray. The big baddie has a rebellious teenage daughter who doesn't listen to him and wishes the protagonist would "chop dad's stupid head off"--so we all know where that plotline is going. To me as a discerning adult, it's funny. For an eight-year-old reader who's already struggling with respect and obedience... maybe not so much.
"Good" also seems to be defined more by "are they helping the protagonist" rather than an individual character's actions. For example, the mimic is given a redemption arc and added to the party, but it sounds like he plans to go back to shanking travelers after the big baddie is defeated? Again, throwaway plots like that are fine in moderation, but it will be interesting to see if, by the end of the series, the protagonist actually stands for something.
I will read the rest of the series, and I'd consider using it as a book club feature. Unfortunately, for the above reasons, I wouldn't be able to unilaterally recommend it to every parent.
CONTENT:
--Mild fantasy violence (no gore)
--Substitute swearing (heck, made-up fantasy words, etc.)
--No sexual content
--Magic & fictitious deities
LGBQT CONTENT:
--A background character uses they/them pronouns.
--A background character mentions "her fiancee."
This was cute. The illustrations are colorful and vibrant, and the MC is a POC, which is a plus. The story isn't anything particularly original ("chosen one" hero who struggles with self-doubt and goes on a quest to find a magical artifact to defeat the big baddie, picking up unlikely allies along the way), but it is well-executed. There's some fresh humor, the pacing is good, the climax does not feel rushed (which is a fate that befalls a lot of graphic novels), and all the threads are resolved. I was originally only going to read half of it, but somewhere in the midpoint decided I couldn't put it down and read it in one sitting. I would read the rest of the series.
Speaking from the perspective of a parent-educator and Sunday school teacher, my one concern with this book is that the line between good and evil is very gray. The big baddie has a rebellious teenage daughter who doesn't listen to him and wishes the protagonist would "chop dad's stupid head off"--so we all know where that plotline is going. To me as a discerning adult, it's funny. For an eight-year-old reader who's already struggling with respect and obedience... maybe not so much.
"Good" also seems to be defined more by "are they helping the protagonist" rather than an individual character's actions. For example, the mimic is given a redemption arc and added to the party, but it sounds like he plans to go back to shanking travelers after the big baddie is defeated? Again, throwaway plots like that are fine in moderation, but it will be interesting to see if, by the end of the series, the protagonist actually stands for something.
I will read the rest of the series, and I'd consider using it as a book club feature. Unfortunately, for the above reasons, I wouldn't be able to unilaterally recommend it to every parent.
CONTENT:
--Mild fantasy violence (no gore)
--Substitute swearing (heck, made-up fantasy words, etc.)
--No sexual content
--Magic & fictitious deities
LGBQT CONTENT:
--A background character uses they/them pronouns.
--A background character mentions "her fiancee."
August 31, 2025
31/08/2025
3 ⭐
I really enjoyed the artwork and the colours! I hope this one gets the hype it deserves!
✨ 142/100 read for 100 Graphics in a Year Reading Challenge ✨ + Graphicsathon 24 Hour Readathon ⏰
My Blog | Letterboxd | Instagram | Bookstagram | Tumblr | Twitter | StoryGraph | Pagebound | Hoemance Book Club | Graphicsathon | Scoobathon | Wishlist
3 ⭐
I really enjoyed the artwork and the colours! I hope this one gets the hype it deserves!
✨ 142/100 read for 100 Graphics in a Year Reading Challenge ✨ + Graphicsathon 24 Hour Readathon ⏰
My Blog | Letterboxd | Instagram | Bookstagram | Tumblr | Twitter | StoryGraph | Pagebound | Hoemance Book Club | Graphicsathon | Scoobathon | Wishlist
November 12, 2025
I got this book for my little sister- but she didn’t want to read it and so I decided to give it a read since I already checked it out and it looked good. So, it is recommended for kids between 8-13. I do want to mention it contains LGBTQ content (a background character refers to themselves as they/them, and there’s a same-sex couple) and I think parents have the right to decide if they want their little one to read books that contain LGBTQ. Another thing for parents to know, is there is a rebellious daughter, though the daughter of the antagonist, if a parent struggles with disrespect and obedience from their little one, this could be a not so good influence. The book does contain a blurry line between good and bad. Now! I do love the characters in this book. Some say this book is typical and it is, but it’s still good, entertaining, and fun, and there’s really no exact same story/plot. This book actually made me laugh which I don’t remember if a book has ever done that. The writing style is fresh and easy to read for the age range it says it’s recommended for. Last, the art style is adorable, easy on the eyes and colorful. Even though it’s for kids, adults can get a kick out of it; Especially when you just need something a little light hearted. I’m glad I read it.
August 13, 2025
This book is cutely drawn and perfectly readable and completely generic. There's nothing bad in it, but also nothing that feels truly creative, or unique, or engaging. This probably doesn't matter for the apparent tween target audience which is less likely to be as familiar with (or as tired of) all the tropes that this story is constructed from. There's tons of video game influence on this work, from designs that seem lifted straight out of on old JRPG Dragon Quest (especially the giant dragon on the cover of this book), to the fact that the monsters defeated early in the book disappear in a puff of smoke (which strangely seems to stop being a thing later in the story.
I wouldn't mind reading the sequel (I really hope the author isn't going for a trilogy or longer, it doesn't seem like there's really enough material for it) but I also don't feel like I would be missing anything if I didn't.
I wouldn't mind reading the sequel (I really hope the author isn't going for a trilogy or longer, it doesn't seem like there's really enough material for it) but I also don't feel like I would be missing anything if I didn't.
September 25, 2025
Reviewed by Trish palmer for Bluewolf reviews and New South Books
Eric Lide is an African American cartoonist. His illustrations are superb in this Graphic novel Dragon Forged: Sword of the Champion. They convey an understanding of the story, using humour, while conveying a sense of mystery. The tale is aimed at readers between 8-12 years old, but many older readers would also be entertained . All will be guessing and laughing until the end.
Orin’s life changes when he finds he is the reincarnation of a great hero. He has been sent because the evil Fiendlord has become very complacent and lazy. Working together, Orin and his friends discover the power of friendship and humour. Their journey together builds trust and a strong desire to eradicate the Fiendlord.
The cartoon characters and colourful pictures are clear and purposeful in their conveying of a message. They depict subtle changes in mood and humour. This is a most enjoyable way to read, relax and smile.
Eric Lide is an African American cartoonist. His illustrations are superb in this Graphic novel Dragon Forged: Sword of the Champion. They convey an understanding of the story, using humour, while conveying a sense of mystery. The tale is aimed at readers between 8-12 years old, but many older readers would also be entertained . All will be guessing and laughing until the end.
Orin’s life changes when he finds he is the reincarnation of a great hero. He has been sent because the evil Fiendlord has become very complacent and lazy. Working together, Orin and his friends discover the power of friendship and humour. Their journey together builds trust and a strong desire to eradicate the Fiendlord.
The cartoon characters and colourful pictures are clear and purposeful in their conveying of a message. They depict subtle changes in mood and humour. This is a most enjoyable way to read, relax and smile.
May 28, 2025
There's nothing that stands out, and it's tropey but fun. A lot of Dragon Ball Z, Dragon Quest, and JRPG energy/references are dispersed throughout this. A good read for kids interested in manga without anything unsavory!
I'd like to see more character from Orin. Margo has some character motivation (why she must protect him; a family situation hinted at) and vices (money-hungry) that make her more dynamic and interesting. Outside of being the chosen one, there's not much to Orin, but I hope he gets more fleshed out in subsequent volumes. He's a good kid.
The middle-aged dad being added to the RPG party was a hoot and a favorite of mine.
I'd read volume two. This debut sets up the story and its main characters well. I see the main evil dude's daughter is a wildcard, which should be fun.
2.5
I'd like to see more character from Orin. Margo has some character motivation (why she must protect him; a family situation hinted at) and vices (money-hungry) that make her more dynamic and interesting. Outside of being the chosen one, there's not much to Orin, but I hope he gets more fleshed out in subsequent volumes. He's a good kid.
The middle-aged dad being added to the RPG party was a hoot and a favorite of mine.
I'd read volume two. This debut sets up the story and its main characters well. I see the main evil dude's daughter is a wildcard, which should be fun.
2.5
September 14, 2024
I got to read an ARC. It’s cute. I enjoyed it even as an adult. It has some charm and energy and I think I’d like the final product better based on the cute art and coloring in the first few pages. But I think the audience is limited to kids who like both tabletop RPGs and video games, are fairly young, and have parents or relatives nerdy enough to help them find this title. It’s like D&D being run for grade school kids but with zero blood and the defeated poof away like a video game with the gore turned off. Don’t get me wrong. If the second book was in front of me at the library I’d check it out. Didn’t take long to read and it was cute. But I’ve seen other kids graphic novels with better stories.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2025
Graphic Novel
Middle grade readers will enjoy the adventure blended with humor as the new Champion sets off on an adventure to claim his sword. He is joined by a young sorceress and a fiend. As a team they defeat the Fiendlord's armies and claim the sword.
I love the theme of believing in yourself that moves through the story. Orin struggles to believe he is worthy of this honor and has to find his confidence to defeat the evil forces.
Middle grade readers will enjoy the adventure blended with humor as the new Champion sets off on an adventure to claim his sword. He is joined by a young sorceress and a fiend. As a team they defeat the Fiendlord's armies and claim the sword.
I love the theme of believing in yourself that moves through the story. Orin struggles to believe he is worthy of this honor and has to find his confidence to defeat the evil forces.
May 7, 2025
👦🏻review: Colorful, funny, cute illustration, silly characters, a bit of Japanese manga-ish theme, mystery with adventures and interesting ending. At first I was skittish about the graphic novel because it has many pages to it yet I didn’t realize that I was actually enjoying the story after all. The is definitely perfect for middle-graders who would love pictures and funny dialogues to get through reading.
May 12, 2025
My child picked this up at the bookstore today and ran to ask me when the next one was coming out right when he finished it. I leafed through it and ended up reading the whole thing. It doesn’t have a lot of reviews so I wanted to add a positive one. We loved it! It’s clever and funny! Can’t wait for the next one!!
May 21, 2025
Cookie cutter chosen one fantasy story. But with above average art.
I got an ARC of this at ALA last summer, and it was just line drawings. The difference that coloring makes in this volume (and the color is done with the author) is immense. Color truly brings this world to life.
Good book - and an easy sell to a kid looking for a fantasy GN.
I got an ARC of this at ALA last summer, and it was just line drawings. The difference that coloring makes in this volume (and the color is done with the author) is immense. Color truly brings this world to life.
Good book - and an easy sell to a kid looking for a fantasy GN.
September 25, 2024
Orin grew up with the story of the Champion, a hero of great power who will free all of Draeland from the evil clutches of the Fiendlord. Orin also wakes up one day to find out he is this mythical figure, with great power and great destiny, but he doesn't quite know how to feel powerful or act like a champion. Full of humor and full of heart, Eric Lide's "Sword of the Champion" is a great start to what promises to be a fun new series.
June 4, 2025
Silly and fun. Full of modern slang and attituded, with a fantasy setting. Orin has to learn how to be confident in his new abilities and use his powers for good. Love that they team up with a mimic, the ridiculous puns, and the strange obsession with juggling.
eligible-in-2025
November 5, 2024A recommendation from Melissa Fox, our MG Fiction chair.
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September 15, 2025Good character dynamics, good jokes!
July 23, 2025
An enjoyable journey, where the maybe-champion of the land meets friends and fiends alike!
December 18, 2025
Sword of the Champion by Eric Lide is a fantasy graphic novel that follows Orin, a reluctant hero whose life is upended when he discovers he is the reincarnation of a legendary warrior destined to defeat the evil Fiendlord. To fulfill his destiny, Orin must first seek out a mystical sword and come to believe in his own strength—joined by loyal friends and facing dark forces along the way.
The graphic novel is visually stunning, with bright, vibrant colors and dynamic, gorgeously illustrated panels. Its humor and style pay homage to classic RPGs, making it especially enjoyable for fans of the genre. While the story ends on a cliffhanger—which was unexpected—it left me eager to continue reading. Watching Orin grow in confidence and embark on new adventures with his companions is both fun and inspiring.
The graphic novel is visually stunning, with bright, vibrant colors and dynamic, gorgeously illustrated panels. Its humor and style pay homage to classic RPGs, making it especially enjoyable for fans of the genre. While the story ends on a cliffhanger—which was unexpected—it left me eager to continue reading. Watching Orin grow in confidence and embark on new adventures with his companions is both fun and inspiring.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews