Nick Robinson
“Down, Set, Fight!” is one of those books where you can tell the creators just let loose and had fun with it. The whole idea of a washed-up jock brawling with a bunch of nutty mascots? It's goofy as heck, and you gotta give props to Bowers, Sims, and Kowalchuk for rolling with such a wild pitch. Kowalchuk's art is the real MVP here, slinging out the action with a kind of pop that keeps your eyes glued to the chaos.
But man, the book kinda drops the ball when it comes to telling a solid story. It's like, you've got this cool setup, but then the plot just jogs in place without going anywhere exciting. The characters? They're pretty one-note, and there's nothing about the story that sticks with you after you close the cover. Even with all the flashy art and the bold colors jumping off the page, the comic ends up feeling like a missed shot – it's got the moves, but not the game-winning play you're hoping for.
Bold colors, unique designs. It's a fresh take, something different in the graphic novel scene. But the story, it's hollow. Low stakes, shallow characters. There's a gap, a missing connection. It leaves you wanting, searching for more depth, more reason to care.
Pulls you in with its shifting timelines, each with a distinct voice. The twist is sharp, a jolt that lingers. But the “society” within is a maze, the mystical elements obscure. Questions hang, answers elusive. Still, the narrative's rhythm and style hold a certain allure. The timelines and twist, they resonate.
Núria Tamarit's “Daughters of Snow and Cinders” definitely brings the heat with its visuals. The art is vibrant, and the scenes are meticulously crafted, showcasing Tamarit's talent for bringing a frozen world to life on the page.
However, the story itself doesn't match up to the art. It's confusing and hard to follow, with characters and plot points that seem to appear and disappear without much reason. It feels like the story needed a bit more time in the oven, as it leaves you cold, wondering what could have been if the narrative was as strong as the visuals.
A tale that moves with purpose, touching on the raw and the real. Characters breathe, their paths intertwine, leaving marks. Design sharp, colors bold. A polished piece, despite whispers of flaws. It stands, distinct and memorable.
“Old Head” by Kyle Starks is a fun read, packed with humor that's right in your face. It's got this cool mix of horror and laughs, with a story that's as much about family ties as it is about fighting off the undead. The art really brings the jokes home, with spot-on facial expressions and dynamic action scenes. The colors are bright and add a lot of energy to the pages.
But the book's not perfect. At times, the story feels rushed, and the deeper moments get lost in the rush of events. The blend of genres is a great idea, but it doesn't always come together as smoothly as you'd hope. It's the kind of graphic novel that'll get a nod for its bold humor, but it's not going to be everyone's cup of tea. If you're into a graphic novel that doesn't take itself too seriously and can handle a bit of uneven storytelling, “Old Head” might just be worth your time.
A journey through the shadows of industry. Each page, a step into the unknown. The weight of reality, heavy and unyielding. Beaton's voice, clear and unflinching, cuts through the noise. Characters etched in the dust, their stories linger. The pacing, deliberate, each moment a breath held. The impact, a whisper that stays. A book that doesn't let go.
“How to Survive in the North” is a work that demands attention. The expert usage of color mapping, specific to each of the three storylines, is a testament to Healy's skill as an artist. The artwork is beautiful, and the way the stories are woven together to land an ending with gravity is commendable. It's a book that takes you on a journey, and the destination is worth the trip. However, it's not without its shortcomings. The motivations of Stefansson, a key character that connects all the features, are unclear. This lack of clarity detracts from the overall impact of the narrative. It's a bit like being given a map without a compass; you can appreciate the landscape, but you're not quite sure where you're going. Despite this, “How to Survive in the North” is a book that offers a unique reading experience. It's not perfect, but it's certainly memorable.
“Tender” by Beth Hetland is a solid read that delivers a strong psychological punch. The journey through Carolanne's obsessive behavior is engaging and keeps you hooked. Hetland's storytelling is on point, and the artwork complements the narrative perfectly. The strategic use of color throughout the book is especially effective, enhancing the emotional weight of key moments without overwhelming the reader.
The graphic novel's design is straightforward and effective, with a clear focus on storytelling through visuals. Despite a few moments where the pacing might not be perfect, the overall experience of reading “Tender” is satisfying. It's the kind of book that stays with you, and I'd definitely suggest giving it a read if you're into stories that explore the complexities of the mind with a strong visual element.