Asterix and the Picts by Jean-Yves Ferri

“Asterix and the Picts” is the 35th book in the Asterix comic book series, written by Jean-Yves Ferri and illustrated by Didier Conrad. It was first published in 2013 and is notable for being the first Asterix book not to be written by either of the series’ creators, René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo.

The story begins with Asterix and his best friend Obelix receiving a message from their cousin, MacAroon, who lives in Caledonia (modern-day Scotland). MacAroon has been captured by the Romans and needs their help to escape. Asterix and Obelix set off on a journey to Caledonia, where they encounter the fierce and proud Picts, who are at war with the Romans.

As with other Asterix books, “Asterix and the Picts” is full of humor, adventure, and satire. The book includes many references to Scottish culture, such as kilts, bagpipes, and the Loch Ness Monster. It was generally well-received by fans and critics, who praised Ferri and Conrad for staying true to the spirit of the original series while also bringing new ideas and humor to the story.