Review by C.J. Bunce
Writer-artist Wendy Martin is at her best when she puts her aqua-world characters into humorous situations, and that’s what readers will find in the third volume of her collected Webtoon comic series Castle Swimmer. Available now here at Amazon, it includes Episodes 42-65 of the story in graphic novel/storybook form. Readers will be reunited with the Merman named Kappa, now free to begin his own journey as he finds himself tethered to a demigod in the form of a giant crab. At the same time Prince Siren (who may no longer be a prince) is back at the shark castle recovering from wounds he acquired in the last volume. Once they are off on their own, can they ever be reunited?
Writer/artist Martin creates a fun new octopus character in Mucku, an evil witch octopus whose wit and wisdom serve to aid Kappa as he tries to understand the purpose of the crab demigod. Only it’s not just one witch. Three evil witches (who aren’t all that evil, just all talk) appear and capture him as a means to find the crab.
Meanwhile running in parallel is the story of Siren, who is forging ahead without much guidance, leaving home for the first time. Even after weeks of training, can he really be prepared to face the entire ocean world alone?
Without the direct, personal conflicts and despair of the first two volumes, this third volume is a breath of fresh air. Out on their own, both Kappa and Siren get to explore, learn, and grow as they encounter new peoples of the water world, attempt to find good mentors, and try to only trust those who wish them no harm.
Did Wendy Martin watch The Little Mermaid early on and dream of new characters for the Disney story? More than in the past two volumes, these Webtoon episodes have that feel, almost begging for their own accompanying songs. This hardcover storybook adds another 284 pages of colorful fantasy storytelling. Its audience could be young readers and adults alike. Martin includes commentary at the end, along with bonus mini-chapters and concept artwork.
But it’s not over yet. This is a continuation of a great fantasy world you won’t want to miss. From Ten Speed Graphic, order Castle Swimmer, the third volume, here at Amazon. Pick up the first volume, reviewed here at borg, available here, and the second volume reviewed here, available here. The fourth volume is available now for pre-order here, coming in September 2026.
