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Lexcalibur
Useful poetry for adventurers above and below the world from the guys at Penny Arcade. A collection of nerdy poems for adventurers of all ages, written by Jerry Holkins and featuring illustrations by Mike Krahulik.
48 pages, Hardcover
Published November 1, 2017
About the author
Jerry Holkins
32 books112 followersKeith Gerald "Jerry" Holkins is the writer of the webcomic Penny Arcade. Holkins goes by the pseudonym "Tycho Brahe." This is also the name of one of the two main characters of Penny Arcade, who is a cartoonized self-insertion of Holkins. However, as the character of Tycho was not originally meant to represent Holkins, the two have few physical similarities; for example Holkins is bald, unlike Tycho. They are primarily similar in their various interests and attitudes.
Holkins writes news posts or rants which accompany each comic. These newsposts/rants generally take the form of computer and video game commentary. Jerry is also featured in the Dungeons and Dragons 4E podcast, playing the CEO of Acquisitions Incorporated, Omin Dran, a Cleric of the Goddess Avandra.
His style contrasts with that of Penny Arcade artist Mike Krahulik, with Holkins assuming the role of the lead and Krahulik the sidekick. However, it has been mutually agreed between the two that Penny Arcade wouldn't be the same with just one of them. The two have been said to give an indication of the diversity of styles among gamers, with Krahulik representing action-oriented gamers and Holkins representing the more cerebral players.
Holkins' other exploits include being a lead singer/guitarist in a band called The Fine Print, whose works are freely available over the internet and who have opened for Anal Cunt in the past.
Along with Krahulik, Holkins was included on the 2010 Time 100 for their work on Penny Arcade.
Holkins writes news posts or rants which accompany each comic. These newsposts/rants generally take the form of computer and video game commentary. Jerry is also featured in the Dungeons and Dragons 4E podcast, playing the CEO of Acquisitions Incorporated, Omin Dran, a Cleric of the Goddess Avandra.
His style contrasts with that of Penny Arcade artist Mike Krahulik, with Holkins assuming the role of the lead and Krahulik the sidekick. However, it has been mutually agreed between the two that Penny Arcade wouldn't be the same with just one of them. The two have been said to give an indication of the diversity of styles among gamers, with Krahulik representing action-oriented gamers and Holkins representing the more cerebral players.
Holkins' other exploits include being a lead singer/guitarist in a band called The Fine Print, whose works are freely available over the internet and who have opened for Anal Cunt in the past.
Along with Krahulik, Holkins was included on the 2010 Time 100 for their work on Penny Arcade.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
May 31, 2018
Brilliant. Beautiful. Fun. Cannot recommend highly enough.
January 15, 2021
I was gifted this poetry collection. My friend described it as “Shel Silverstein poems for nerds”, and there’s really no better description. It’s all kinds of nerdy fun!
The poems are generally on the shorter side, and are extremely clever. There’s never that feeling of trying too hard and I found myself chuckling as I read through the book. The poems are engaging enough for children with enough wit and little nods that adults will be just as entertained.
The book covers all things fantasy, ranging from important topics such as were beasts, to concerns about viziers, and complaints about mimics. It’s incredibly obvious that both the author and illustrator are well versed in both the tropes and the lesser-known gems of the fantasy genre. They appreciate all things imaginative and fun.
excalibur is made even better by the inclusion of whimsical and fun illustrations which are scattered throughout. They’re truly delightful and add so much to the book.
I should mention that Lexcalibur can only be found on the Penny Arcade website . The Penny Arcade comics themselves are meant for adults to enjoy, but this book is all-ages fun. I have heard rumors that there will be a second poetry collection coming before too long. If that’s true, I’m ready to pre-order it.
I loved, loved, loved this collection of poems! If you’re a lover of all things fantastical, you’ll really enjoy Lexcalibur.
https://wittyandsarcasticbookclub.hom...
The poems are generally on the shorter side, and are extremely clever. There’s never that feeling of trying too hard and I found myself chuckling as I read through the book. The poems are engaging enough for children with enough wit and little nods that adults will be just as entertained.
The book covers all things fantasy, ranging from important topics such as were beasts, to concerns about viziers, and complaints about mimics. It’s incredibly obvious that both the author and illustrator are well versed in both the tropes and the lesser-known gems of the fantasy genre. They appreciate all things imaginative and fun.
excalibur is made even better by the inclusion of whimsical and fun illustrations which are scattered throughout. They’re truly delightful and add so much to the book.
I should mention that Lexcalibur can only be found on the Penny Arcade website . The Penny Arcade comics themselves are meant for adults to enjoy, but this book is all-ages fun. I have heard rumors that there will be a second poetry collection coming before too long. If that’s true, I’m ready to pre-order it.
I loved, loved, loved this collection of poems! If you’re a lover of all things fantastical, you’ll really enjoy Lexcalibur.
https://wittyandsarcasticbookclub.hom...
February 14, 2023
This is a short collection of short poetry by Jerry Holkins and illustrated by Mike Krahulik (the authors of Penny Arcade>), it reads a lot like Shel Silverstein's "Where the Sidewalk Ends" but perhaps a bit more nerdy? It's quick read, enjoyable and thought provoking.
January 25, 2020
I picked this up at PAX South recently (and got it signed, too! Thanks guys!) and it didn't disappoint. A wonderful collection of short, fantasy/RPG-inspired poems to entertain and inspire the imagination.
I only wish it were longer!
I only wish it were longer!
February 17, 2025
A gentle listen while doing work. I listened to half of it and then answered a call and the listen to the rest the next day - such a cozy cute vibe and poems are super cute.
I recommend the audio version as it’s a good sound block and easy going and the poems are so easy to and not in-depth.
I recommend the audio version as it’s a good sound block and easy going and the poems are so easy to and not in-depth.
May 30, 2018
LOVE this. Fun DND-related poetry for all ages.
January 2, 2019
I bought this for my son for Christmas, but let's face it, it's really for me. Imagine Shel Silverstein was into D&D and better at drawing (sorry, Shel).
September 4, 2019
Delightfully whimsical and kind. Beautiful illustrations (Mike Krahulik) pair with these poems for a book that is creative and endearing.
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April 9, 2026"If I listen I have the advantage; if I speak, the others have it."
February 15, 2021
A refreshing and grammatically beautiful piece of art! The words of Jerry Holkins paints adventures in my head and Mike Krahulik brings them to life! This work moved me and I recommend the experience.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews