Hark! A Vagrant

by Kate Beaton
Hark! A Vagrant cover
Good Books rating 4.38
Graphic Novels / Comics
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Waterstones
Paperback • £18.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 8959
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2026-01-05
  • ISBN: 9781473585270
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2020-05-28
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

Since her debut in 2007, Kate Beaton's cartoons have captivated readers with their wit and intelligence, appearing in prestigious publications like the New Yorker and Harper. Her website, Hark! A Vagrant, boasts an impressive following, with millions of hits monthly. Beaton's unique ability to blend humor with historical and literary references makes her work both educational and entertaining. Her cartoons cover a wide range of topics, from historical figures to modern pop culture, all delivered with a light and irreverent touch. /n/n The collection features a diverse array of characters, including a mischievous pony, reinvented superheroes, and a surly teen duo, all brought to life with Beaton's distinctive artistic style. Her work is praised for its perceptive humor and sharp commentary, making it a treasure trove for readers who enjoy a good laugh while learning something new.

Reviews
BostonWriters · 2019-12-06
hilarious 4.50

The book is a hilarious journey through history and literature, viewed through a modern lens. It's a sharp and witty take on classic themes.

This collection is a delightful romp through history and literature, seen through the sharp, contemporary lens of a talented cartoonist. The humor is uproarious and the commentary is insightful, making it a great read for those who enjoy a good laugh with their history lessons. The modern take on classic themes adds a layer of relatability that makes the book even more enjoyable. It's a must-read for anyone who appreciates witty and intelligent humor.

Quick quotes

    An uproarious romp through history and literature seen through the sharp, contemporary lens of New Yorker cartoonist and comics-sensation

    The humor is uproarious and the commentary is insightful

    A great read for those who enjoy a good laugh with their history lessons

Carpelibrum · 2015-08-03
delightful 4.25

The book is a great coffee table book that is easy to flip through and enjoy. It's a delightful read that can be enjoyed in small doses.

This collection is a fantastic coffee table book that can be easily flipped open to any page and enjoyed. The humor and commentary are consistent throughout, making it a delightful read that can be enjoyed in small doses. The book's format makes it perfect for casual reading, and the wit and intelligence of the comics ensure that it's a book you'll want to come back to time and time again. It's a great addition to any coffee table and a must-have for fans of intelligent humor.

Quick quotes

    A great coffee table book, and is easy to flip open to any page and start reading

    Enjoyed it while watching the Tour de France, a perfect blend of humor and history

    A delightful read that can be enjoyed in small doses

The Comics Journal · 2011-11-11
brilliant 4.75

Kate Beaton's first officially published book showcases her meteoric rise in the cartooning world. The book is a brilliant collection of her web comics.

Kate Beaton's first officially published book is a testament to her meteoric rise in the cartooning world. The collection is brilliant and showcases her unique talent for blending humor and history. Her web comics have gained a massive following, and this book is a perfect introduction to her work. The combination of sharp wit and historical commentary makes it a standout in the world of graphic novels. It's a must-read for anyone who enjoys intelligent and humorous storytelling.

Quick quotes

    Any review of Kate Beaton's first officially published book has to discuss her meteoric rise in the cartooning ranks

    She became a webcomics sensation with her sharp wit and historical commentary

    A brilliant collection of Beaton's web comics

Goodokbad · 2000-01-01
engaging 4.00

Hark! A Vagrant is a clever and witty collection that successfully blends history and literature with contemporary humor. The sharp, modern perspective adds a fresh layer to classic tales and figures.

This collection is a delightful blend of humor and clever commentary. The author's ability to take well-known historical and literary figures and situations and infuse them with modern sensibilities is truly impressive. Each comic is a mini-masterpiece of wit and satire, making it a joy to read. The sharp, contemporary lens through which these stories are told adds a layer of relatability and humor that is both refreshing and entertaining. Whether you're a history buff, a literature lover, or just someone who enjoys a good laugh, this book has something for everyone. It's a perfect blend of education and entertainment, making it a must-read for anyone looking for a good time. The book is a testament to the author's unique talent and humor, and it's easy to see why it has become so popular.

Quick quotes

    Plot-heavy literature, when it succeeds, is a wonder to behold; but in its failure, we find little to surprise us.

    Hark! A Vagrant is a clever and witty collection that successfully blends history and literature with contemporary humor.

    The sharp, contemporary lens through which these stories are told adds a layer of relatability and humor that is both refreshing and entertaining.

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