C.O.R.T.: Children of the Round Table #1: Let the Adventure Begin

C.O.R.T.: Children of the Round Table #1 is DC’s newest series from one of its most successful writers, Tom Taylor, who is currently also writing Detective Comics. Rather than continuing the tales of an existing DC team or hero, Taylor introduces his newest creation: the Children of the Round Table. This series is aimed at a younger audience, with an age rating of 8+ rather than DC’s more familiar 13+. The book follows a group of kids from Los Angeles who encounter several weapons that seemingly contain the spirits of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table.

Although this series targets a younger audience, it surprisingly contains moments that feel more mature. For instance, at the beginning of the issue, one of the key characters, Fel, has an interaction with her mother about their new dog. Fel’s mother asks her to watch the dog, to which Fel retorts that the only reason they have it is because her mother wanted to fill the void left by her father leaving. Fel’s mother responds that her father did not leave, he was kicked out. As a comic book fan, it is easy to read between the lines and see this as foreshadowing for Fel’s father to reappear later as an important figure in the narrative. Still, the idea of a parent being kicked out for some mysterious reason is a very mature concept, especially for a series aimed at younger readers.

Another surprising aspect of the series is how genuinely funny it is. Taylor is no stranger to injecting comedic levity into his stories, but this book genuinely made me laugh out loud at times. As the children begin their adventure, Connor, another lead, jokes that their quest isn’t actually as perilous as advertised since he recently went on the same adventure with his grandmother. Taylor then doubles down on this joke a couple of times throughout the issue, giving the book a playful tone that feels both witty and charming.

Daniele Di Nicuolo’s art will likely be the deciding factor for many readers. The style feels very much in line with other series aimed at younger audiences while also blending in some anime influences. For fans of mainstream DC comics, this may not resonate, but for others, it could be exactly what they are looking for. The art shines most in the background details. The issue opens with a rock shooting off from a mysterious installation, and the wide-shot depiction of this event is truly striking. Di Nicuolo especially excels in the small touches, such as a bird subtly included in the scene, making the panels come alive.