Trees, Vol. 1 Graphic Novel review

Trees, Vol. 1 Graphic Novel review

Trees is a science fiction story based on chaos and the fear of the unknown. In desperation as a bunch of criminals flee a futuristic police force in Rio de Janeiro. A tree interrupts the chase, spewing green slime, resulting in massive death and destruction. The story begins ten years after the trees landed on earth. The presence of the trees creates a global atmosphere of unpredictable, semi-controlled chaos. The trees are giant, stem-like space ships that do not emit any sound or move, just like an earth-bound tree. The story is told from several points of view, as all of the characters deal with the constant tension of the controlled chaos in their own special way. In arctic Norway, a team of scientists discovers a deadly new side effect the trees are having on the world. The most interesting location is Shu, China, which was built around the trees and walled off from the rest of the world. In this walled-off city, now a special cultural zone which allows a young transgendered female and her friends the freedom they desire. Since the premise of the story is like no other, Warren Ellis has free reign to create a great read full of unexpected twists and turns that keep the reader interested from the very first panel.

Special Thanks goes out to Queen City Bookstore and Artvoice newspaper.

Clone: First Generation Graphic Novel Review

Clone is a mystery in duplicity. The narrative is action-packed and the pacing of the book is fast and frantic. Clones are constantly interacting with each other with deadly violence, so much so that it’s hard to keep track of which clone is killing which. All the violence is the result of a top-secret government experiment that has been undermined by Facebook—yes, that Facebook. The art by Juan Jose Ryp is highly detailed, using black shading and bright highlights. The art adds a dark realism to the book, helping to tell the story. Deadly gunplay between a pair of clones starts the story, setting a violent tone for the rest of the read. The clones are in kill-or-be-killed mode in the never-ending quest to be the original gen-1 clone. The public exposure of the clones controversy sets up even more murderous government corruption, resulting in some brutally violent scenes in the book. The last issue ends on a cliffhanger, leaving the reader wanting more. A top contender for the original is brought in front of, what just may be, his father after he attempts to rescue his wife from the government. Clone makes for an exciting, fast-paced read.

Special thanks goes out to Queen City Bookstore and Artvoice newspaper.