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Jim Henson's Labyrinth Bestiary: A Definitive Guide to the Creatures of the Goblin King's Realm
Discover the world of Labyrinth in this guide to the wondrous creatures of the Goblin King’s realm, featuring illustrations by acclaimed artist Iris Compiet.
From Ludo to Sir Didymus, to the Goblin King’s legion of mischievous minions, Jim Henson’s Labyrinth is packed with wondrous beings and chaotic critters. For the first time, Jim Henson's Bestiary - A Definitive Guide to the Goblin King's Realm brings their world to life. Exploring the nature and behavior of each creature through original illustrations and insightful text, this is a must-have book for fans of Labyrinth , Jim Henson, and the fantasy genre.
• ALL-NEW LABYRINTH Experience the world of Labyrinth in a whole new way through the stunning art of acclaimed illustrator Iris Compiet ( The Dark Crystal The Definitive Guide to the Creatures of Thra).
• DISCOVER THE CREATURES OF This book features an in-depth look at every creature from the world of Labyrinth , covering the beloved 1986 movie as well as the wider world of the Goblin King’s realm, including the hit comics and the original novelization.
• AN EPIC ADDITION TO YOUR HOME A gorgeous volume filled with incredible artwork, Jim Henson's Bestiary is the definitive tribute to the fantastical creatures of this much-loved classic.
From Ludo to Sir Didymus, to the Goblin King’s legion of mischievous minions, Jim Henson’s Labyrinth is packed with wondrous beings and chaotic critters. For the first time, Jim Henson's Bestiary - A Definitive Guide to the Goblin King's Realm brings their world to life. Exploring the nature and behavior of each creature through original illustrations and insightful text, this is a must-have book for fans of Labyrinth , Jim Henson, and the fantasy genre.
• ALL-NEW LABYRINTH Experience the world of Labyrinth in a whole new way through the stunning art of acclaimed illustrator Iris Compiet ( The Dark Crystal The Definitive Guide to the Creatures of Thra).
• DISCOVER THE CREATURES OF This book features an in-depth look at every creature from the world of Labyrinth , covering the beloved 1986 movie as well as the wider world of the Goblin King’s realm, including the hit comics and the original novelization.
• AN EPIC ADDITION TO YOUR HOME A gorgeous volume filled with incredible artwork, Jim Henson's Bestiary is the definitive tribute to the fantastical creatures of this much-loved classic.
160 pages, Hardcover
First published June 7, 2022
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239 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
June 26, 2022
What do you do when you have a day to yourself - well apart from crack open the wine you start on the back log of books you have been promising yourself to read and so here we are and I have to say I have been loving it.
So on to the next - a book I treated myself to over my birthday and its a beauty. It is visual guide to the beasts of Jim Henson's Labyrinth. It has a lot of the feel of the original books (and their artwork) done by Brian Froud however this is in fact created by a different artistic team as recognised in the title. (It may be me but it felt that rather than capturing some new aspects of the inhabitants of the Labyrinth it instead focused on showing more of what we knew - or thought we knew)
The artwork is great and often spread over several page and rather than try and flesh out the characters actaully goes in to more details of what we see and experiences (something at times these books are guilty of - trying to tell me additional facts when really we want to know more about what we are seeing).
So all in all another great book - just be warned there are several fold out pages which can distort the spin a little until that is you realise what is going on. So take care.
So on to the next - a book I treated myself to over my birthday and its a beauty. It is visual guide to the beasts of Jim Henson's Labyrinth. It has a lot of the feel of the original books (and their artwork) done by Brian Froud however this is in fact created by a different artistic team as recognised in the title. (It may be me but it felt that rather than capturing some new aspects of the inhabitants of the Labyrinth it instead focused on showing more of what we knew - or thought we knew)
The artwork is great and often spread over several page and rather than try and flesh out the characters actaully goes in to more details of what we see and experiences (something at times these books are guilty of - trying to tell me additional facts when really we want to know more about what we are seeing).
So all in all another great book - just be warned there are several fold out pages which can distort the spin a little until that is you realise what is going on. So take care.
June 22, 2022
Iris Compiet’s artwork is absolutely exquisite! Such a beautiful book
April 30, 2024
I love the sketches; they are unique from Froud's works but captivating nonetheless. I was fascinated by the character profiles and the additional backstory to the original Labyrinth tale. I highly recommend this book for Labyrinth fans!
September 6, 2023
Haunting, bewitching and simply beautiful.
This book reminded me alot of older publications by Brian Froud and it even gave away the feel of a real mythical bestiary from Medieval times. I almost had the urge to go wondering in the woods with this book on hand, hoping to cross paths with elves, goblins and giants.
This book does not only provide information about the beloved 80's movie, but also fills you in on information we get from the novel tie-in and the prequel comics.
What really makes this book such a gem, is the artwork. Iris Compiet's style gives the world of Jim Henson's Labyrinth a dark and mysthical edge that I found very appealing.
This is for sure a unique piece that I will treassure in my collection for years to come.
This book reminded me alot of older publications by Brian Froud and it even gave away the feel of a real mythical bestiary from Medieval times. I almost had the urge to go wondering in the woods with this book on hand, hoping to cross paths with elves, goblins and giants.
This book does not only provide information about the beloved 80's movie, but also fills you in on information we get from the novel tie-in and the prequel comics.
What really makes this book such a gem, is the artwork. Iris Compiet's style gives the world of Jim Henson's Labyrinth a dark and mysthical edge that I found very appealing.
This is for sure a unique piece that I will treassure in my collection for years to come.
November 12, 2022
Loved the illustrations they are gorgeous.
I found the last part interesting with Jareth’s backstory and illustrations of new creatures.
I found the last part interesting with Jareth’s backstory and illustrations of new creatures.
November 23, 2023
The art is beautiful (perfect likenesses except Jareth, who is unrecognisable about 70% of the time), but the text is mostly worthless and not well written.
June 28, 2024
There couldn't be a better choice of art.
Iris Compiet ❤️❤️❤️
Iris Compiet ❤️❤️❤️
April 8, 2023
I wasn’t going to log this but my friend said ‘all reading is reading’ and you know what? I agree with her. Plus I got this and read it on my birthday, so what I say goes.
April 5, 2023
stunning !
September 21, 2022
Illustrations: 4★
Contents: 2,5★
I was looking forward to having this books in my hands, having pre-ordered it at the start of the year. This is why - along with my love for this universe - it pains me to say it was a bit disappointing.
The illustrations are beautiful, I couldn't tire of looking at them, but the text itself, the descriptions? They are straight out of the movie and The Goblins of Labyrinth . It's faithful to the source material, but to the point where the descriptions are plain copies of the lines and the previous book, nothing new created on top of their wonderful canon. The few original stuff was at the very end, and that wasn't developed enough to be worth anything, or even original enough, as you can see they are almost direct copies of the characters we meet in the movie but with a new "skin".
'Goblins' was so much fun as a whole thing, having read this one after that showed me the huge difference between the two.
Contents: 2,5★
I was looking forward to having this books in my hands, having pre-ordered it at the start of the year. This is why - along with my love for this universe - it pains me to say it was a bit disappointing.
The illustrations are beautiful, I couldn't tire of looking at them, but the text itself, the descriptions? They are straight out of the movie and The Goblins of Labyrinth . It's faithful to the source material, but to the point where the descriptions are plain copies of the lines and the previous book, nothing new created on top of their wonderful canon. The few original stuff was at the very end, and that wasn't developed enough to be worth anything, or even original enough, as you can see they are almost direct copies of the characters we meet in the movie but with a new "skin".
'Goblins' was so much fun as a whole thing, having read this one after that showed me the huge difference between the two.
August 10, 2022
Well, of course I'm going to give this 5 stars, it's Labyrinth! As soon as I saw that this was being released, I snapped it up. I have then spent time looking through it, enjoying the sheer beauty of it and enjoying it taking me back to my favourite film. Compiet's illustrations of all of the characters are just stunning. They capture the creatures just as I remember them, and the commentary about each of them adds to the charm. What I also love is that they have included characters from after the film, which featured in the comic Labyrinth: Coronation.
For any fan, this is a must have. I will definitely enjoy going back to it time and again.
For any fan, this is a must have. I will definitely enjoy going back to it time and again.
August 9, 2022
If you love Jareth, Sarah and Tobey's adventures in the Labyrinth, you will love this companion non-fiction book of the many creatures, goblins and creatures that lurk, live, riddle and scheme in the world of the Labyrinth.
The illustrations are striking in their pencil and water color designs, plucked right out from the film.
The only downside for me is that the texts' calligraphy, while beautiful cursive and colorization, makes it challenging to read the text. If that doesn't bother you though, here is a perfect glimpse into the world of Jim Henson and Brian Froud's Labyrinth!
The illustrations are striking in their pencil and water color designs, plucked right out from the film.
The only downside for me is that the texts' calligraphy, while beautiful cursive and colorization, makes it challenging to read the text. If that doesn't bother you though, here is a perfect glimpse into the world of Jim Henson and Brian Froud's Labyrinth!
February 22, 2024
El libro recoge ilustraciones de los seres de la película "Labyrinth" ("Dentro del Laberinto", Jim Henson, 1986) y las completa con descripciones de los mismos. Además de los personajes de la película original, el libro recoge otros provenientes de cómics y novelas basadas en la película y que completan el escenario imaginado por Jim Henson.
Los dibujos, a lápiz y acuarela, son realmente bonitos y están bien ejecutados aunque, para mi gusto, a algunos de ellos les falta algo de contraste y, quizá, un perfilado a tinta.
He echado también en falta una mayor y mejor descripción de los escenarios de la película; habría preferid menos dibujos de criaturas y más de los lugares que la protagonista recorre... aunque entiendo que si el libro se llama "bestiario" es por algo.
Por último, no me ha convencido ver personajes de los cómics y novelas basados en la película. Me habría gustado más que el libro se ciñera a la película original (y, relacionado con lo anterior, que los dibujos de esos seres de obras complementarias estuvieran dedicados a los escenarios en los que no se profundiza).
Estas objeciones son muy personales, pero para mi gusto le han costado la quinta estrella.
Los dibujos, a lápiz y acuarela, son realmente bonitos y están bien ejecutados aunque, para mi gusto, a algunos de ellos les falta algo de contraste y, quizá, un perfilado a tinta.
He echado también en falta una mayor y mejor descripción de los escenarios de la película; habría preferid menos dibujos de criaturas y más de los lugares que la protagonista recorre... aunque entiendo que si el libro se llama "bestiario" es por algo.
Por último, no me ha convencido ver personajes de los cómics y novelas basados en la película. Me habría gustado más que el libro se ciñera a la película original (y, relacionado con lo anterior, que los dibujos de esos seres de obras complementarias estuvieran dedicados a los escenarios en los que no se profundiza).
Estas objeciones son muy personales, pero para mi gusto le han costado la quinta estrella.
September 8, 2024
A picture book of the film, no screenshots just pencil and watercolour illustrations taken from the film by Iris Compiet. She's not quite up to the Froud's art, I'm not sure why they didn't collect the Froud's concept art, but the drawings are occasionally great, sometimes the human portraits are disturbingly off, mostly serviceable enough to trigger that warm, nostalgic glow.
Most of the book is a retelling of the film or things that could be inferred from the film. There are things I missed which were really fun, such as the flitting swamp creatures (a cross between an ostrich and a mosquito). The goblins are the best! And here's where some of the material which was not in the film begins, including goblin sports, all the idiotic fun you'd expect.
Most interesting though is the final chapter, the Labyrinth of Yore, which has the history of the Labyrinth, including the Owl King who kidnapped and tricked Jareth, goblin gondoliers, Septimus (an evil Ludo), and an invincible worm. Excellent stuff.
Most of the book is a retelling of the film or things that could be inferred from the film. There are things I missed which were really fun, such as the flitting swamp creatures (a cross between an ostrich and a mosquito). The goblins are the best! And here's where some of the material which was not in the film begins, including goblin sports, all the idiotic fun you'd expect.
Most interesting though is the final chapter, the Labyrinth of Yore, which has the history of the Labyrinth, including the Owl King who kidnapped and tricked Jareth, goblin gondoliers, Septimus (an evil Ludo), and an invincible worm. Excellent stuff.
December 13, 2025
This is an exquisite book and a must-have for all fans of the world created in classic Jim Henson film. It encompasses not only the cast but extends its line up to some of the graphic novels published as continued lore.
Toby Froud, the infamous infant in the stripey pajamas, wrote a very loving introduction for this book. My one criticism is that the text by S.T. Bende is inaccurate in places creating a false narrative, such as Sarah being the human who wouldn't let Merlin inside out of the rain. However, the eye-catching artwork by Iris Compiet more than makes up for the shortcomings. The luscious illustrations bring all the cherished characters to life, giving this book a well-rounded feeling.
I highly recommend it based on the artwork alone, and fans will be able to spot the errors in the information presented.
Toby Froud, the infamous infant in the stripey pajamas, wrote a very loving introduction for this book. My one criticism is that the text by S.T. Bende is inaccurate in places creating a false narrative, such as Sarah being the human who wouldn't let Merlin inside out of the rain. However, the eye-catching artwork by Iris Compiet more than makes up for the shortcomings. The luscious illustrations bring all the cherished characters to life, giving this book a well-rounded feeling.
I highly recommend it based on the artwork alone, and fans will be able to spot the errors in the information presented.
December 12, 2022
This was beautiful and interesting, perfect for any Labyrinth fan such as myself. What really made it 5 stars were the illustrations - absolutely stunning. The watercolour alone took my breath away. Something I’ll come back to next time I need fantasy inspiration or even just a pick-me-up on a tough day.
December 31, 2022
A fun guide to the creatures of Jim Henson’s Labyrinth. The stylized script font is occasionally difficult to read, but visually appropriate for turnover all look of the book.
The real highlight of the book is Iris Compiet’s illustrations. They are as magical as Brian Froud’s original goblin designs. She is a worthy successor to carry forward the visual world of the labyrinth.
The real highlight of the book is Iris Compiet’s illustrations. They are as magical as Brian Froud’s original goblin designs. She is a worthy successor to carry forward the visual world of the labyrinth.
January 10, 2023
I didn’t realize this wasn’t exactly an unofficial book. It has the blessings of many of the original makers but is really just an artists sketchbook of the characters in the film along with some actual lore from the creators.
Despite all that it’s a beautifully illustrated book with lots of information one wouldn’t have gotten elsewhere and worth being in any fan’s and artist’s collection.
Despite all that it’s a beautifully illustrated book with lots of information one wouldn’t have gotten elsewhere and worth being in any fan’s and artist’s collection.
February 1, 2023
A great addition to the Labyrinth universe, with gorgeous illustrations and brilliant insight into the creatures that live within the Labyrinth. I especially loved all the new additions that I hadn’t heard of, with Jareth’s history and the Labyrinth of Yore. Toby’s foreword was a great touch too. I’m definitely going to have to invest in the graphic novels now!
June 10, 2024
For everyone growing up with a crush on David Bowie aka Goblin King and/or Jennifer Connelly as I did I DO RECOMMEND this book. It is a MUST have! The art is just amazeballs. I just ordered book stative to have this on display all the time.
September 12, 2022
Iris does not disappoint! I love her artwork.
January 25, 2023
A perfect companion for fans of the film, as it provides detailed backstory on the places within the Labyrinth as well as the the creatures who dwell there. And the artwork is GORGEOUS!!
October 14, 2023
Labyrinth fan, bought the book, loved to pieces, enough said. 🥰
January 15, 2024
A book about my favourite movie with gorgeous art.
Yeah. Yeah. Love it. Yeah.
Magical.
Yeah. Yeah. Love it. Yeah.
Magical.
April 25, 2024
This book is a great addition to any Labyrinth lovers collection! Beautiful artwork with lots of details about past & present Labyrinth creatures & goblins
November 24, 2024
Gorgeous artwork and some good-to-know lore of the labyrinth universe. Definitely recommend to any fans.
January 5, 2025
Absolutely beautiful illustrations, worth every penny!
January 19, 2025
A delightful book with insight into the world of Labyrinth you might not know if you've not read all the associated comics etc and the artwork is incredible!!!! Just stunning
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews