Locke & Key, Volume 2: Head Games
Ratings154
Average rating4.2
4.5 stars
Book one was a 5 star read for me. It had everything I wanted and the story hooked me. This one was lacking a little bit which is why it got a 4.5 star rating instead of a 5. I can't really say what exactly was lacking but I think it might of had something to do with the lack of action in this one. In this one we got perspectives from people who aren't in the Locke family which I really enjoyed but at the same time the switch was abrupt and kind of threw me off. As before the illustrations are amazing and depict the story perfectly.
I still don't know what to think. I still don't think I like the art style. I was more interested in the plot this time, but the characters mean almost nothing to me. There's something about the writing, art style, or both that's making my entire reading experience extremely distant and unemotional. At this point, I'm just using this series to fill in the gaps.
A worthy follow up to a strong debut, teeming with creative ideas, lovable characters, and little slices of horror that cut like a knife. There's still room for this series to get even better, but I think I've already begun to fall under its spell.
Our cast of characters begins to grow - little do I know how much I will grow to care about these people over the course of the run. The introduction of the head key is a brilliant bit of magic illustrated perfectly by Rodriguez. I love tying the magical system to a physical object which means the magic can be lost, found and stolen. We're setting up the board at a breakneck pace but it never flags even though I'd say the kids are all handling everything far better than might normally be expected.
I'm really beginning to like this series a lot. The art is not my favorite, but I love Joe Hill, and he is not disappointing me here.
Whatever, past me. The art is kickass.
I liked how this volume brought even more characters into the fold. And I love the emphasis on finding on what a specific key does in each installment. There were also some really great pages in this book especially when they were using the head key. The art for that was amazing.
I'm really intrigued by Rufus right now and want to know more about him. Luke/Zack continues to infuriate me because he is clearly up to no good.
Story
This one focuses on the Head Key, which is just crazy. I really find myself getting attached to the Locke kids here. We get inside their heads (literally) and get a better understanding for who they are.
I also really like Rufus.
Artwork
The artwork continues to impress. I especially like how he handles the head key. I don't think my imagination would have done it the same justice. This really is a story that works better as a graphic novel.
Just as good as the first. You can read my full review here: http://knowitnotsomuch.blogspot.com/2013/01/locke-key-head-games.html