By Lambil & Cauvin
Publisher: Cinebook
ISBN: 9781849181464
The Union Army isn't doing so well, what with depleted numbers and next to no horses for the cavalry. A battle is looming so Sarge and Blutch are given the task to purchase new mounts (using the delayed pay of the soldiers in the hopes that some of it won't be needed after the battle, if you see what I mean). It's by no means an easy journey for the pair, but their task is made somewhat easier by the assistance of a legendary trainer of horses known as Bronco Benny.
Their path to the horse breeders in the mountains crosses rebel outposts, a dangerous feat in itself, but once past that they then have to contend with the Native Americans who appear rather displeased to see them. By the skin of their teeth they make it to the breeders and find they're in luck – they have a stockade full of horses. However, on of them is a white stallion held in high regards by the Native Americans, hence the local antagonism. When Bronco Benny sets his eyes upon the horse, though, he's captivated by it and determined to break it in. Meanwhile the Native Americans are busy blocking the only pass through the mountains, meaning Blutch and Sarge may well be trapped with their new mounts, but that turns out to be the least of their problems.
There are some lovely comic touches here, including the replacement mounts supplied by train that number three donkeys, a camel and a horse seconds away from expiring, but the most enjoyable part is watching Bronco Benny try to break the stallion – beautifully done. As with other Bluecoats books, the nastier parts of war aren't ducked away from, and although they don't dwell on them, they're mentioned often enough to bring an undercurrent of realism to the comic tale and remind the reader the seriousness of this period in history.
I've a growing fondness for Willy Lambil's artwork too. He's got a wonderful cartoon style with just the right mixture of humour, fluidity and detail. If your cartoon diet hasn't got as far as the Bluecoats yet then you deserve to discover it for yourself.
And if you liked that: Vol 7 will be out soon
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