Saved by the Bell is back in this reimagined, eight issue graphic novel collection about Bayside’s favorite mixed bag high school crew. The stories take place over the course of the characters’ freshman year and include “Fashion Don’t,” wherein Lisa attempts to win a fashion job at Jessie’s expense, and “Screech “Super” Powers,” in which Screech is hailed as a hero after inadvertently saving Mr. Belding from a mugger. Despite a transplant from the early 90s to more modern times, many elements of this franchise remain the same: Zach and Slater are still vying for Kelly’s affection, Lisa is still repulsed by Screech’s excessive attention, and Jessie is as school- and issue-focused as ever. Conflict inevitably ensues as the teens learn to navigate their differences and come to a place of mutual understanding.

Bold lines and a tropical color scheme pay tribute to the show’s southern California roots, giving it a playful and vibrant feel. Seller and Clugston-Flores also manage to seamlessly inject modern touches while lightheartedly making reference to memorable moments from the show. However, despite the inclusion of similar humor, characters, and scenarios, the writing and characterization manage to miss the heart of the show, with characters coming across as considerably more one-dimensional than their television counterparts. Nostalgia is enough to intrigue older readers but not enough to keep them reading past the first few issues. There is no need for younger readers to have seen the show to follow along and enjoy it as something altogether new.