Iron Man: The Gauntlet Book Review

Book title: Iron Man: The Gauntlet

Author: Eoin Colfer

I was admittedly very conflicted over whether to pick up this book. Eoin (pronounced Owen) Colfer, being one of my favorite authors, was a definite draw. However, I was hesitant as the skeptical side of me was afraid to find the bloody, butchered remains of one of my idols inside the pages, a mutilated American icon at the hands of a beloved Irish author. Another point of apprehension was that my knowledge of the Marvel superhero was confined to Robert Downey Junior’s stellar portrayal throughout the Marvel Cinematic Universe. My ignorance regarding Tony Stark’s labyrinthine plotlines in the original comics made me pause, as I did not relish in the prospect of having a ruined reading experience due to unexpected spoilers, uncharacteristic behavior, or unfamiliar backstories.

Turns out, I need not have worried. Iron Man: The Gauntlet is a product of expert storytelling. The seasoned bestselling author incorporated his signature elements into the plot, including Irish countryside locales, a biting sense of humor and electrifying action sequences. Colfer simultaneously retained Tony Stark’s distinctive persona and sardonic wit while delving into the unfamiliar depths of his psyche.

The novel is conveniently set in an unspecified timeframe that wouldn’t disrupt the storyline for readers on all ends of the movie-comic spectrum. Tony Stark, dressed in his flashy but harmless “Party Pack” suit, is on his way to add his personal pizzazz to an eco-summit when he is ambushed and kidnapped. Seemingly manipulated by his AI and stripped of everything, Tony is forced to confront himself and the repercussions of his production of high-tech weaponry. Issued an ultimatum by an old adversary, Tony must team up with an unlikely ally to thwart an international terrorist threat and clear his name.

Eoin Colfer took the conventional adventure story genre and turned it on its head. The novel deals with a lot of Tony Stark’s inner conflict, from his relationship with his father to his guilt and PTSD. Opening with a flashback scene to Tony’s teenage years, Colfer sets up a story that focuses just as much on Iron Man’s explosive action as his psychological issues, with Tony alone, betrayed, and imprisoned.

Tasked with the formidable challenge of translating the technological wonders conveyed through the visual mediums of comics and film into words, Colfer brilliantly concocted an engaging tale filled with his trademark breathless action and stunning gadgets. The novel maintains a light, playful tone, with the author perfectly capturing Tony’s unmistakable snark.

I particularly enjoyed the diverse cast of side characters. Chief among them is Saoirse Tory, a whip-smart Irish girl who plays a very–important–role–that–I–shan’t–divulge, because SPOILERS. Without further dipping into spoilery category, the antagonist’s team of thugs, pyromaniacs and assassins all had unique personalities that provided a refreshing break from YA villains’ typical troupe of faceless lackeys. The novel’s lack of a romantic undertone also distances it from one of the major pitfalls of the teen genre.

Verdict: A fast-paced, satisfying read, Iron Man: The Gauntlet is a worthy addition to the superhero mythos that I recommend for both established Marvel fans, as well as unfamiliar readers looking for a thrilling foray into the world of the Invincible Iron Man.

Reviewed by: Sabrina Hsu'20