A mixed trio of not quite hero material go on a fine romp of an adventure & face hideous quiche obsessed rat-creatures, a dragon - if you believe in that sort of thing - and other foul, fair and fiendish foes and friends. Our protagonists take the tale in interesting directions as if they were spinning the yarn rather than the creator. But though the proceedings develop into epic conclusions it's really a story about the people involved - the tricks and trouble of one, the courage and fears of others. There's humour to be had from the pages as well as more serious and heartfelt turns. Jeff Smith is a fine storyteller. This is one of those graphic novels that makes insomnia worthwhile.