Tab Article

Ratings: ★★★★☆ (4.1/5)
Genre: European Comics / Adventure / Political Thriller / Classic Graphic Novel

Book Review:
''Land of Black Gold'' is the fifteenth adventure in the Tintin series, with a complicated publication history. Hergé began the story in 1939, but World War II interrupted it. He finally completed it in 1950.

The story begins when cars across Europe start exploding due to adulterated petrol. Tintin investigates and discovers that someone is adding a mysterious chemical to oil supplies. His investigation leads him to the Middle East, where he encounters his old nemesis Dr. Müller (disguised as Professor Smith). The plot involves oil politics, sabotage, and a struggle for control of oil fields.

The book reflects the geopolitical tensions of its time – the importance of Middle Eastern oil and the interference of foreign powers. Tintin befriends a young Arab prince named Abdullah, a mischievous boy who becomes a recurring character. While not the strongest entry in the series, ''Land of Black Gold'' offers an interesting look at post-war politics and features some memorable action sequences in the desert.