“Boss of the Underworld” by Tor Freeman is a cool graphic novel that whisks readers away on a memorable adventure deep beneath the city streets — in the mysterious, often yucky sewers! This imaginative comic-style graphic novel weaves together themes inspired by Greek mythology, including Homer’s legendary epic, The Odyssey, alongside influences from fairy tales like Hansel and Gretel and classic movies such as Labyrinth (1986).
The story follows Shirley, a brave young girl whose life takes an unexpected turn when she falls into a street drain, plunging into a mysterious underground world. There, she quickly befriends George, a friendly cockroach, and meets a cast of quirky characters — including a cyclops that oddly resembles the fearsome one-eyed giant from Homer’s tale. But this cyclops is surprisingly friendly and cute.
Once in the underworld, Shirley’s main goal is to find her way back home. But that’s easier said than done, since no one knows the exit — except the Boss of the Underworld. So, it seems Shirley will have to find the boss if she wants to escape.
In the early stages of the story, Shirley learns of a prophecy revealing that she is the chosen one, destined to challenge the tyrannical boss, also known as the Green Menace. But it won’t be easy, as the Green Menace has bullies on his side — brutes who make life miserable for everyone beneath the city.
With courage and the help of her new cockroach friend, Shirley embarks on an epic adventure through a strange and fantastical land, where she encounters a colorful array of bizarre characters.
Blending humor, mythology, and mystery, Boss of the Underworld takes young readers on Shirley’s adventurous odyssey through the bizarre underworld. It also shares meaningful messages and has a warm, engaging vibe. Overall, I think it’s a truly enjoyable book that many kids would really appreciate. It’s definitely a pretty cool read!
Boss of the Underworld: A Greek Mythology-Inspired Graphic Novel
When I first picked up this book, I immediately thought it was about Hades, the Greek god of the underworld, since he’s the most well-known figure associated with that realm. I even expected to see Cerberus, the three-headed hound guarding the gates of the underworld. But to my surprise, the top boss in this book is actually a green crocodile!
So, what does Boss of the Underworld take from Greek mythology? Well, one memorable scene has Shirley facing off against two Sphinxes, where she must solve a riddle — or choose another option, which I won’t spoil. It’s very much like what Oedipus had to deal with in his famous Greek myth. Overall, the story cleverly weaves mythological elements into this extremely weird world.
There’s even an amusing scene in Boss of the Underworld that feels straight out of the Odyssey — with Shirley and her boat captain having to outsmart the Sewer Sirens to sail safely through. It’s a tense, fun moment that beautifully captures the adventurous spirit of classic mythology.
Boss of the Underworld: Book Review
Boss of the Underworld is pretty solid, and I’d definitely give it the thumbs up. I’d rate it a 7 out of 10. It takes you on a wild ride through a sewer world full of weird encounters and stranger-than-fiction characters. One of the coolest parts was meeting the Sewer Sirens — really fun and clever how that whole scene played out. No spoilers, but the ending of that encounter is pretty darn satisfying.
As for the villain, the Underworld Boss himself — he’s a green croc with a surprisingly soft heart. The main character is a girl, but honestly, she could pass for a guy if no one told you. The only real downside? Shirley needed a bit more personality. She’s pretty much forgettable as a heroine, and I wish she had something more special or appealing about her.
On a more positive note, the simple style of the artwork is great, and it really immerses you into that underground sewer world. Well done there. Additionally, the story stays consistent from start to finish. Shirley’s strange journey through the sewer maze keeps things engaging, with no dull moments.
Honestly, what sticks with me most about Boss of the Underworld are the imaginative scenes, George the cockroach, and the infusion of Greek mythology — rather than anything about Shirley herself. She could have been more of a standout, but overall, it’s a cool graphic novel that I think kids will really enjoy.
Check Price & Availability: Boss of the Underworld: Shirley vs the Green Menace (Book 1)
If you’re into this kind of book, you’ll probably enjoy these Greek mythology graphic novels and comics. And definitely check out these Greek mythology books for kids too!
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