Tag: 3 Star Reviews

When an eight-year-old girl literally begins to transform into a tree, her single mom, troubled brother, and possibly insane grandfather embark on a bizarre and heart-wrenching odyssey across the back roads of America in a desperate search for a way to cure her horrifying transformation before it’s too late. But the farther they get from home, the more forces threaten to tear the family apart as fanatical cults, mercenaries, and tabloid Paparazzi close in, determined to destroy the girl—or use her for their own ends. A new genre-defying series written by New York Times bestselling author JEFF LEMIRE (GIDEON FALLS, ASCENDER) and illustrated by acclaimed artist PHIL HESTER (Shipwreck, Green Arrow), FAMILY TREE combines mystery, action, and horror into an epic story about the lengths a mother will go to in order to keep her children safe.

This comic book offers a unique blend of horror and family drama. At the same time this comic book sets up an intriguing premise, though it occasionally struggles with pacing and character depth.

The story in this comic book follows Loretta Hayes, a single mother dealing with the challenges of raising her children while working at a grocery store. Her life takes a bizarre turn when her daughter, Meg, begins to transform into a tree. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that weaves together elements of suspense and emotion, exploring themes of family, transformation, and survival.

The writing in this comic book excels in capturing the everyday struggles of the Hayes family, making their dynamics relatable and grounded. The dialogue is authentic and reflects the tension and love within the family. However, this comic book sometimes lacks depth in character development, with certain motivations and backstories feeling underexplored. This can make it challenging for me personally to fully connect with the characters and their plight.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the eerie and unsettling world of “Family Tree” to life with bold lines and expressive character designs. The illustrations we get in this comic book effectively convey both the ordinary and the extraordinary, capturing the contrast between the normalcy of small-town life and the surreal nature of Meg’s transformation. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to depict emotion through facial expressions adds depth to the storytelling, making each panel engaging.

The pacing of this comic book is a pretty mixed bag. While this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and sets up the central mystery, some scenes feel rushed, impacting the overall flow. This inconsistency has left me personally wanting more immediate clarity and deeper exploration of the characters’ motivations and the story’s intricacies.

Despite its shortcomings, the concept of blending horror with a family drama holds potential for future development. With more focused storytelling and character exploration, subsequent issues could delve deeper into the themes and offer more satisfying narrative arcs.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

2017 marks the 25th anniversary of SPAWN, created by TODD McFARLANE. Spawn debuted to the public, selling 1.7 million copies in 1992 and is on track to be the longest running independent comic ever.

This comic book is a landmark comic that introduces the iconic anti-hero Spawn. While this comic book sets the foundation for a groundbreaking series, this comic book has its strengths and weaknesses.

The story in this comic book follows Al Simmons, a former government assassin who is betrayed and killed, only to be resurrected as Spawn, a Hellspawn with supernatural powers. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is rich in dark themes, exploring concepts of vengeance, identity, and redemption. The premise is intriguing, capturing my attention with its blend of horror and superhero elements.

The writing itself in this comic book establishes a strong atmosphere, but the narrative can feel disjointed at times. This comic book introduces multiple plot threads, leaving some readers wanting more clarity and focus. While the backstory of Al Simmons is engaging, the pacing is uneven, with certain scenes feeling rushed, making it difficult to fully connect with the character’s emotional journey.

Spawn’s internal conflict is a central theme in this comic book, as he grapples with his lost humanity and the memories of his former life. The creators of this comic book effectively portrays this struggle, laying the groundwork for deeper character development in future comic books in this series. However, the dialogue occasionally lacks nuance, relying on exposition rather than subtlety to convey the story’s themes.

The artwork itself in this comic book is pretty iconic, because it is bringing Spawn to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The art style we get in this comic book captures the intensity and horror of the narrative, with intricate character designs and atmospheric settings. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion and action through his art adds depth to the storytelling, making each panel visually engaging.

Despite its strengths, this comic book does have moments where the story feels fragmented, with a narrative structure that has left me personally wanting more cohesion. However, the strong visual style and intriguing premise set the stage for the series’ potential to evolve into something impactful.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

The lands between the coasts are vast, slow to change, and full of hidden magics. Mistakes have been made, and in this NEW ONGOING SERIES, an unwitting adventurer searches for answers to quell a coming storm that knows his name. From author SKOTTIE YOUNG (I HATE FAIRYLAND, Deadpool) and artist JORGE CORONA (NO. 1 WITH A BULLET, Feathers, Big Trouble in Little China: Old Man Jack) comes the tale of Abel, a young boy who must navigate an old land in order to reconcile his family’s history.

This comic book is an intriguing introduction to a fantasy-infused tale. At the same time this comic book sets up a visually compelling world while exploring themes of family and self-discovery, though it occasionally falters in pacing and depth.

The story in this comic book follows Abel, a young boy living in a small town, who struggles with a tumultuous relationship with his father. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that blends the ordinary with the fantastical, creating a world where storms rage with supernatural fury. The plot hints at deeper mysteries and personal growth, promising an epic journey for Abel.

The writing in this comic book captures the emotional tension between Abel and his father, effectively conveying the boy’s internal conflict and yearning for something beyond his small-town life. The dialogue is natural and reflects the strained dynamics within Abel’s family. However, this comic book sometimes lacks depth, which has left me personally wanting more insight into the characters’ motivations and backgrounds.

The artwork itself in this comic book is the standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the world of “Middlewest” to life with a vibrant and expressive style. The illustrations we get in this comic book capture the energy and emotion of the narrative, from the mundane aspects of Abel’s life to the fantastical elements that disrupt it. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey motion and mood enhances the storytelling, making each panel visually engaging.

The pacing of this comic book is a mixed bag in this comic book. While this comic book introduces key plot elements and character dynamics effectively, some scenes feel rushed, affecting the overall flow. This inconsistency has left me personally feeling disconnected from the story’s emotional core, despite its intriguing premise.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as family conflict, identity, and the search for belonging. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the fantasy elements. The story in this comic book invites us as readers to consider the complexities of family relationships and the struggle for personal freedom, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“JIMMY OLSEN: MONARCH OF ALL HE SUBDUES!” Superman, Jimmy Olsen, and the Newsboy Legion have a showdown with Victor Volcanium, who hopes to conquer the world! Plus, “DNA PROJECT: GENETIC CRIMINAL” and The Newsboy Legion in “THE MEANEST MAN ON EARTH!”

This comic book offers a nostalgic dive into the Silver Age of comics. At the same time this comic book showcases the adventurous spirit and quirky charm characteristic of its era, while also highlighting some of the limitations in storytelling and character depth typical of the time.

The narrative in this comic book follows Jimmy Olsen, Superman’s intrepid pal, as he embarks on another wild adventure. The creators of this comic book creates a story brimming with fantastical elements and dramatic plot twists, capturing the whimsical tone that defined many comics of the 1950s and 60s. The plot unfurls at a brisk pace, filled with unexpected turns that has kept me personally entertained, even if they occasionally stretch believability.

The writing in this comic book, while imaginative, reflects the conventions of its time, with dialogue that often leans heavily on exposition. Characters tend to express their thoughts and motivations overtly, leaving little room for subtlety or deeper emotional exploration. Jimmy Olsen, as the protagonist, is portrayed with enthusiasm and pluck, though his character lacks the complex development seen in more modern interpretations.

The artwork itself in this comic book shines through, characterized by bold lines and dynamic compositions. The artwork we get in this comic book captures the energetic and larger-than-life feel of the story, with action-packed panels that convey a sense of movement and excitement.

One of the notable aspects of this comic book is the way it encapsulates the era’s storytelling style, focusing more on plot-driven adventures than character introspection. This approach offers a fun and escapist reading experience, though it has left me personally craving more nuanced narratives and character development.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

NEW HORROR SERIES FROM THE WALKING DEAD CREATOR ROBERT KIRKMAN! Kyle Barnes has been plagued by demonic possession all his life and now he needs answers. Unfortunately, what he uncovers along the way could bring about the end of life on Earth as we know it.

This comic book delivers a promising start to a horror series. At the same time this comic book sets the stage for a dark exploration of demonic possession and personal redemption, though it sometimes stumbles in pacing and depth.

The story in this comic book follows Kyle Barnes, a man plagued by demonic possessions throughout his life. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both chilling and emotionally charged, exploring themes of isolation and trauma. The plot introduces a world where the supernatural intersects with the personal struggles of its protagonist, creating a compelling premise with potential for deep exploration.

The writing in this comic book effectively sets the tone, capturing the eerie and unsettling atmosphere of Kyle’s world. The dialogue is natural and reflects the tension and complexity of the characters’ relationships. Kyle is portrayed as a troubled and introspective character, whose past experiences have left him wary and withdrawn. However, this comic book doesn’t delve deeply enough into his backstory, which has left me personally wanting more context for his struggles.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the grim world of “Outcast” to life with a stark and haunting style. The illustrations we get in this comic book are detailed and atmospheric, effectively conveying the horror and tension that permeate the narrative. 

The pacing of this comic book is a mixed bag. While this comic book introduces key plot elements and characters effectively, some scenes feel drawn out, affecting the overall momentum. This uneven pacing can make the narrative feel slow at times, which at times made this comic book boring to me personally. However, the underlying tension and mystery maintain a level of intrigue that encourages continued reading.

One of the strengths of this comic book its exploration of themes such as guilt, redemption, and the battle between good and evil. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative, providing depth and complexity to Kyle’s journey. The story challenges readers to consider the nature of demons (both literal and metaphorical) and the struggle for personal salvation.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

10-Page Preview! One of Booklist’s Top 10 Graphic Novels of 2008, Joel Orff’s graphic novel Thunderhead Underground Falls tells the story of Jack, a young army reservist who has one weekend left before shipping out for combat in the Middle East. He and a friend find themselves behind the wheel of his parent’s car, driving farther and farther west into a snowy landscape. The book is an impressionistic exploration of Jack’s flight from his future, as well as an exploration of this place that he’s pledged his life to fight for. Jack and his friends want to experience the simple freedom of taking a drive, of seeing familiar things before his outlook is changed forever by the violence that he knows he will soon face. As the hours go by, Jack begins to consider desertion, but he knows that if he stays to hold onto the life that he knows, it will still be changed forever.

This comic book offers a contemplative glimpse into a narrative that blends introspection with a touch of whimsy. At the same time this comic book sets the tone for a story that explores themes of connection, memory, and the passage of time, though it occasionally lacks the momentum to fully captivate its audience.

The storytelling aspect of this comic book is thoughtful and reflective, inviting readers to delve into the quiet moments of life that often hold deeper meaning. This comic book introduces us to characters who are navigating personal journeys, each grappling with their own set of challenges and introspections. The writing itself is gentle and evocative, capturing the subtleties of human emotion and the nuances of everyday interactions.

The narrative in this comic book unfolds at a leisurely pace, allowing readers to savor the intricacies of the characters’ experiences. While this approach suits the introspective nature of the story, it can also lead to moments where the plot feels stagnant. The lack of a clear driving force or central conflict has left me personally yearning for more direction and urgency within the storyline.

The character development is a strength in this comic book, because the creators of this comic book has created individuals who feel genuine and relatable. This comic book hints at the complexities of their inner lives, suggesting a depth that promises to be explored further in the full narrative. This comic book has the ability to convey their emotions and thoughts through subtle dialogue and interactions is commendable, adding layers to their personalities and inviting us as readers to connect on a personal level.

The artwork itself in this comic book is complementing the tone of the story, employing a simplistic yet expressive style that enhances the narrative’s introspective quality. The illustrations are infused with a sense of nostalgia, capturing the beauty of ordinary moments and the emotions they evoke. The use of line and shading adds texture and depth to the visuals, creating a harmonious balance between the artwork and the story it supports.

Despite its strengths this comic book may not appeal to readers seeking action-driven plots or high-stakes drama. The focus on introspection and the slow build-up of the storyline might not resonate with those looking for immediate engagement or clear resolutions. However, for readers who appreciate nuanced storytelling and character-driven narratives, this preview offers a promising introduction.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

Award-winning Filipino comic, and now hit Netflix anime series! Foul play. Magic spells. Supernatural criminals. When the case takes a turn for the weird, the police call Alexandra Trese. The TRESE 2022 FCBD comic features a preview of the forthcoming TRESE Vol 4: Last Seen After Midnight TP, along with bonus material on the comic, including some of Alexandra’s journal entries chronicling her creature encounters and more. It also includes a sneak peek at THE ART OF TRESE ANIME, featuring art, sketches, photos, interviews and more on the making of the hit Netflix anime series, HC book coming out 2nd half of 2022 from ABLAZE

This comic book offers an intriguing introduction to the supernatural world of Trese. At the same time this comic book provides a glimpse into the dark, urban fantasy setting that fans of the series have come to love, while also serving as an accessible entry point for new readers.

This comic book is set in Manila, the story follows Alexandra Trese, a detective who specializes in crimes of supernatural origin. The writing in this comic book effectively blends Filipino mythology with modern crime noir, creating a rich tapestry of cultural and supernatural elements. The premise is compelling, offering a fresh take on the detective genre by infusing it with local folklore and mysticism.

The narrative in this comic book is compact, focusing on a single case that showcases Trese’s skills and the unique nature of her world. The creators of this comic book manages to convey a lot of information in a limited space, introducing key characters and setting up the atmosphere without overwhelming the reader. However, the brevity of the story limits character development, leaving some interactions feeling a bit superficial.

The artwork is a highlight in this comic book because it is capturing the gritty, shadowy atmosphere of Manila’s supernatural underworld. The black-and-white illustrations enhance the noir aesthetic, using contrasts and shading to create depth and intensity. The artwork in this comic book has dynamic panel layouts add to the sense of motion and urgency, particularly in action sequences, which are both clear and engaging.

The character design is another strength, with Alexandra Trese portrayed as both formidable and enigmatic. Her interactions with the supernatural beings that populate her world are visually striking, highlighting her role as a bridge between the human and mystical realms. The supporting characters, while intriguing, could benefit from more exploration to enhance their roles within the story.

While this comic book is successful in setting the tone and introducing the world of Trese, it does have some limitations. The plot, while engaging, feels somewhat rushed due to the constraints of the format. This can make the resolution feel abrupt, which has left me wishing for more depth and complexity in the storyline.

The dialogues in this comic book are efficient and often sharp, reflecting Trese’s no-nonsense attitude. The exchanges between characters are effective in conveying necessary information, but they occasionally lack the emotional depth that could elevate the narrative. More nuanced dialogue could enrich character interactions and provide greater insight into their relationships and motivations.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

Meet Glory, raised off the grid in a convoy amid truckers—the last men and women fighting for true freedom on the American open road. Now, in order to pay for her beloved dying Father’s surgery, Glory has three days to pull off four dangerous cross-country heists with mob killers, crooked cops, and a psycho ex-husband all out to bring her in or die trying.The new ongoing series by New York Times bestselling author RICK REMENDER and legendary French superstar BENGAL brings you a high-speed chase across the American West that examines our dwindling freedoms and the price paid by those who fight for an untethered life, in this special double-sized first issue with 40 pages of story!

This comic book offers a thrilling yet uneven start to a high-octane adventure. At the same time this comic book introduces us as readers to a gritty world of fast cars, daring heists, and complex characters, though it sometimes struggles with pacing and depth.

The story in this comic book follows Glory, a determined young woman embarking on a series of heists to save her ailing father. Set against the backdrop of the American Southwest, the creators of this comic book creates a narrative filled with adrenaline-pumping action and moral dilemmas. The premise is engaging, with Glory’s mission providing a strong emotional core that drives the plot forward.

The writing itself in this comic book is sharp, capturing the urgency and stakes of Glory’s situation. The dialogue is snappy and captures the tension between characters effectively. However, this comic book occasionally feels rushed, with rapid transitions between scenes that has left me at times disoriented. This pacing challenge impacts the development of key characters, making it difficult to fully connect with their motivations and backstories.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, vividly bringing the world of “Death or Glory” to life. The illustrations we get in this comic book are dynamic and energetic, perfectly capturing the intensity of car chases and heists. The character designs we get in this comic book are distinctive and expressive, adding personality and depth to the cast. The visual storytelling is compelling, enhancing the narrative’s impact.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as freedom, family, and survival. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative, providing depth and context to Glory’s actions. Her struggle to navigate a corrupt system while staying true to her principles adds complexity to her character and the story.

Despite its strengths, this comic book could benefit from more focused character development. While Glory is a compelling protagonist, the supporting cast lacks depth, serving primarily to advance the plot rather than offering fully fleshed-out personalities. This limits the story’s emotional resonance and the potential for character-driven drama.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

When Jennifer Kajiwara was a rookie agent, well before she became Amazing Agent Luna’s no-nonsense handler known as “Control,” she excelled in her freshmen year at the Agency. Unfortunately, her first field mission did not go as planned. When an important political figure is assassinated, Jennifer and her team become fugitives in the rogue state of Bruckenstein. Determined to learn the truth about the murder, Jennifer discovers that she may have been betrayed by someone close to her-and even worse, there is a conspiracy that goes deeper than she ever imagined.

This comic book presents an engaging continuation of the series. At the same time this comic book offering a blend of espionage, drama, and character development that has kept me personally intrigued.

The story in this comic book picks up with Jennifer navigating the complexities of her dual life as a high school student and secret agent. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that balances action with emotional depth, exploring themes of identity and loyalty. Jennifer’s internal conflict is highlighted as she struggles to reconcile her undercover duties with her personal desires.

The writing itself in this comic book is sharp and engaging, with dialogue that captures the nuances of teenage life and the high-stakes world of espionage. While Jennifer remains a compelling protagonist, some supporting characters lack depth, serving primarily to advance the plot rather than being fully fleshed out. This can sometimes make the narrative feel a bit one-dimensional.

The artwork itself in this comic book is vibrant and expressive, effectively conveying the energy and tension of the story. The character designs are appealing, capturing the distinct personalities of the cast. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to depict action sequences with clarity and excitement enhances the overall reading experience, making the manga visually engaging.

The pacing of this comic book is generally well-handled, balancing fast-paced action with slower, character-driven moments. However, some plot points feel rushed, with conflicts resolved too quickly to allow for significant tension or development. This has left me at times wishing for more in-depth exploration of key storylines.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of Jennifer’s personal growth and the challenges of her unique situation. The creators of this comic book effectively weave themes of self-discovery and responsibility into the narrative, providing depth without overshadowing the action. The story invites readers to empathize with Jennifer’s struggles and triumphs, making her journey relatable and engaging.

Despite its strengths, this comic book occasionally relies on familiar tropes, which might feel predictable to some readers. However, the execution and charm of the story offer an enjoyable experience that sets the stage for further development.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

Midnigter’s on the hunt for the Perdition Pistol, a legendary weapon believed to fire bullets with body-snatching demons inside — but you shouldn’t listen to everything the old stories say.

This comic book offers a bold introduction to the character of Midnighter, delivering a mix of action and intrigue. At the same time this comic book gives us as readers a glimpse into the life of a complex antihero, setting the stage for what could be a compelling series.

Midnighter, known for his brutal efficiency and sharp wit, is a character who thrives in the gray areas of morality. The creators of this comic book captures this complexity well, presenting a protagonist who is both relatable and intimidating. The narrative dives right into the action, showcasing Midnighter’s combat prowess and strategic mind, which fans of the character will appreciate.

The artwork is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing a dynamic and kinetic energy to the pages. The illustrations are bold and detailed, perfectly capturing the intensity of Midnighter’s world. This comic book has a unique panel layouts and use of motion create a sense of fluidity, making the action sequences particularly engaging. The character designs are striking, highlighting Midnighter’s distinctive appearance and adding to his larger-than-life persona.

While this comic book succeeds in its visual and thematic elements, it does have some areas that could be improved. The plot, while action-packed, is somewhat thin, focusing primarily on showcasing Midnighter’s abilities rather than delving into a deeper narrative. For readers unfamiliar with the character, this might make it difficult to fully engage with the story. More context and backstory could provide a richer understanding of Midnighter’s motivations and the world he operates in.

The character development is another area where this comic book could benefit from more depth. While Midnighter’s personality is well-established, the supporting characters are not given much attention. Developing these characters further would enhance the narrative and provide opportunities for more complex interactions.

The dialogues in this comic book are sharp and often witty, reflecting Midnighter’s no-nonsense attitude. The writing in this comic book captures the essence of the character, though at times it leans heavily on quips and one-liners. Adding more layers to the dialogue could enrich the character dynamics and provide more insight into their relationships.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book delivers an exciting introduction to a character with significant potential. The combination of action, striking artwork, and a compelling protagonist makes it an intriguing read. With further development of the plot and supporting characters, future issues could offer a more immersive and nuanced experience.

I Give This Book 3 / 5