Critical Role has published their stories through different media over the last few years. From comic books to novels, and now a piece from the world of Exandria with Der Katzenprinz and Other Zemnian Tales. Critters have been eager to have more literature from in-game stories brought to life, especially after the excitement for Tusk Love releasing later this summer. No prior knowledge of Critical Role, Exandria, or the characters is necessary to enjoy this cozy book. With just over 100 pages, this collectible book is also for all ages.
This delightful collection of short stories is adorned in a beautifully illustrated dust cover with art displayed along the back. The stories are crafted by Liam O’Brien, one of the original Critical Role founders, and the voice behind Caleb Widogast. The illustrations that enchant the stories come from artist Charlie Borovsky. Fans of Campaign 2 will recognize that Der Katzenprinz (The Cat Prince) was originally told during the latter half of the campaign by Caleb to Jester (Laura Bailey’s in-game character). The second story, Die Waldhexe (The Forest Witch), was debuted during a segment of “Narrative Telephone”, a short series created by the cast where a story gets a little fumbled through the game of telephone. The final story, Himmelsschloss (The Castle in the Sky), is a new addition.
A lot of love went into creating this book. From the gilt edges, the beautiful artwork, story, and text borders, to the dust cover, this book is a must for Critters and any fantasy nerds.
The title is written in German, but this pays homage to the Exandrian language, Zemnian. In Campaign 2, Caleb Widogast is a Zemnian wizard with an insatiable love for books. Being that this is a collection of Zemnian short stories, it fits, and we are all for the immersion. Der Katzenprinz is a warm story about a boy who takes a bold chance at breaking away from his sickly routine stuck at home. Much like Alice in Wonderland, he ventures after a feline and winds up in an enchanted domain. Die Waldhexe is a darker tale of the three, and feels like a proper Brothers Grimm tale.
As a Critter, I was excited to have a piece from within the world created by Matthew Mercer. My favorite part would be that I absolutely adored spotting the little bits of lore throughout the pages. This book is beautiful to flip through and enjoy, and could easily be used as a cosplay prop!
Der Katzenprinz and Other Zemnian Tales is now available at Insight Editions.
Thank you, Insight Editions, for providing a physical copy!
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