Pearl of Pandaria Hardcover – September 25, 2012

I was in two minds about this, on one hand I love WoW lore, but on the other this looks (forget my ignorance) 'kiddish', but don't be fooled, this is Warcraft through and through.Despite it's title Pearl of Pandaria is a prequel to the free four part online novel on blizzards website about the founding of Pandaria, but this still stands tall by it self.Galloway and his crew have done an expert job of taking the iconic Warcraft style and mixed their on in there.It works shocking well.The dialog isn't really deep, but it doesn't need to be, much of what the character says is in the expressions, full use of the Graphic Novel format is taken into consideration.The story while somewhat predictable at times is still very enjoyable.This is for whose who are already invested at any level in the Warcraft universe as it only requires a basic knowledge of locations to understand and even then those who are new could still come along as explains enough.Li Li is a wonderful character and this is truly readable by everybody over 10 regardless of gender.The book itself is fantastic print and it has a steady book under the dust cover.I cannot recommend this more.5/5 must buy.

I just downloaded Pearl of Padaria for my Kindle Fire HD and absolutely love it. The Graphics are something that Blizzard can finally be proud of. I have been a fan of the comic graphic novel for something like 30 years and this venture for Blizzard is a good go.That being said I think that Amazon was somewhat remiss in not stating that the digital format was specifically intended for the kindle fire causing at least one justified complaint.I have a kindlefire, a kindlefire hd and a first gen Ipad - My favorite of the three is the fire hd for graphic novels and comics - what amazon offers is a raised panel approach to reading that is nothing short of spectacular. This interface is smooth without glitching, the colors are vibrant, this is true not just for Pearl but comics downloaded through Amazon.In some respects the story itself reminds me of Hughart Barry's The Chronicles of Master Li and Number Ten Ox. The humor is more pronounced and adult oriented in Barry's three books but Pearl tells a gripping story that begs to be read as we play the computer game.Highly recommneded

I purchased a physical hardcover version of the book (how archaic) and it is an amazing and beautifully drawn graphic novel! For anyone who's a WoW fan, you'll surely enjoy the story. If you play the game as well (which is probably the main reason you bought the book), it tells the backstory of Li Li and you won't have to wonder why she's following Chen around in the game while you're questing. Also, I feel like this would be a good (PG) children's book.

Pearl of Pandaria is a graphic novel set in the World of Warcraft Universe. Taking place before the Cataclysm, it follows the adventures of two Pandaren, Li Li Stormstout, niece of the legendary brewmaster Chen Stormstout and her teacher Strongbo who is trying to bring her back to her to home on the Wandering Isle.The Good:According to developer’s, the character of Li Li Stormstout was created in order to bring a fresh perspective to the warcraft universe, and in the book, this definitely works. Through Li Li’s tween eyes we see a renewed sense of wonder for old warcraft wonders such as Brewfest and Stormwind City. In a fanbase that seems increasingly jaded, her childlike wonder makes it all seem new and fresh again.There is a real sense of character development for Li Li as well as Strongbo. In the opening chapters, we see that while having a good heart, Li Li is rather spoiled and/or arrogant. She wants to go off and have adventures regardless of the consequences to herself or to others and she neglects her responsibilities. On one hand, her desire for a more exciting life is understandable, on the other hand, she can be seen as rather selfish.Perhaps she acknowledges this privately and simply doesn’t care.Chen Stormstout is a character that has been in Warcraft for quite some time. He came around during the Warcraft III era and has been a fan favorite. Even though he is not seen much, he is very much a memorable character in his zeal and lust for life.The artwork is great. It is a mixture of epic landscapes and somewhat cartoony characters that fit really well into the Warcraft Style.The FlawsThe main gaffe Bookworm has with this story is the artist’s interpretation of the Pandaren. In other media, the pandaren, are clearly portrayed as having sharp teeth, however in Pearl of Pandaria, they are shown as having short, stubby incisors that jut from their upper jaws. That, combined with their pupil lacking eyes, gives the Pandaren, particularly Chen and Lili Stormstout, a look that makes them appear dumb, which they are anything but.It is not that big a deal but it is one of those things that the reader can’t help but notice throughout the reading and it really is to the books detriment, and in some parts the artwork can get a little too cartoony.Also, the facts mentioned above about the protagonist Li Li Stormstout, may make her unattractive as a protagonist.Final Verdict:Graphic novels depend greatly upon personal taste so it makes it a little difficult to attach a rating. But Pearl of Pandaria is a fun, dynamic, story that tells the tale of Warcraft’s most beloved characters, Chen Stormstout, and introduces a personal favorite character. It’s a fun read for all ages and fans of Warcraft.Four out Five Stars.

I really liked this product. The artwork is really nice! The storyline is rather short, but it's an interesting one. It's nice if you're a fan of light reading. There are also hints of lore here and there in the novel, and I loved the main character. She was a great female lead. Loved her in the game, as well!

I enjoyed this so much! I do play the game so it just enhanced it for me. My kids all think it is cute. Now it is well written and the art is so good. The places that are in the book are in the game so if you are a WOW player like I am it makes you feel like hey I've been there. It is like visiting your old school or something like that

This book is an excellent introduction to the Pandarens from World of Warcraft. You get to follow LiLi on her journey to find her uncle Chen. The art brings the story to life. So sit back and enjoy.

This is a gorgeous book with a compelling story. I've enjoyed it so much that I try to always have several copies on hand to give as gifts to my family and friends.