10-Page Preview! Whatever showcases a remarkable collection of humorous and beautifully drawn short stories by artist Karl Stevens– creator of Failure and Los Angeles Times Book Prize finalist The Lodger. Set in the world of young artists, dreamers, drinkers, layabouts and dime-store deep thinkers of bohemian Allston, Massachusetts, the strips–originally published in The Boston Phoenix–are revealing snapshots of real-life urban America at the dawn of the 21st century.

This comic book presents an attempt at capturing the mundane and absurdity of everyday life, but unfortunately, it falls short in execution. At the same time this comic book struggles with coherence and engagement, leaving readers puzzled rather than intrigued.

The narrative in this comic book appears to aim for a slice-of-life approach, exploring the trivialities and existential musings of its characters. However, the lack of a clear plot or direction results in a disjointed reading experience. The vignettes feel more like fleeting thoughts than fully formed stories, lacking the depth or wit needed to hold my interested. 

The character development in this comic book notably absent, which is a significant drawback. The characters are introduced briefly, but their personalities and motivations remain enigmatic. This lack of depth makes it difficult for me personally to connect with them or care about their experiences. Without relatable or compelling characters, the narrative struggles to find its footing.

The artwork itself in this comic book showcases a distinct style that could be appealing in another context, but here it feels mismatched with the narrative. The illustrations, while technically competent, do little to enhance the storytelling. The art seems to capture the mundane aspects of life, but without a strong narrative to support it, the visuals feel flat and uninspired.

One of the primary issues I had with this comic book is its pacing. The narrative meanders without a clear focus, leading to a sense of stagnation. Without a driving force or a central theme to tie the vignettes together, this comic book feels like a collection of random moments rather than a cohesive story. This lack of cohesion makes it challenging for me personally to stay engaged or find meaning in the narrative.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book might appeal to readers who enjoy abstract or avant-garde storytelling. However, for those looking for a more structured narrative or engaging character arcs, this comic book may not meet those expectations.

I Give This Book 1 / 5