Tranche-Trognes #1

A hulking red executioner dominates the cobblestone square on this Gallimard release, axe in hand and very much open for business under his "Artisan Bourreau" shingle. A red-haired woman, a pair of curious pigs, and a black cat populate the medieval street scene, while onlookers peer nervously from a window above. With story by Christian Jolibois and art by Joëlle Passeron, this 2012 French all-ages adventure promises dark comedy with a decidedly light touch.