By Anders Nilsen
Publisher: Jonathan Cape
ISBN: 9781787330658
I do enjoy a book that takes you by surprise, and this one most certainly did that. Combining a fable with a modern-era war zone, this is, at its heart, the story of Prometheus. But Nilsen does so much more than just represent the tale in a modern setting. There’s a diverse set of characters, gods and monsters, tragedy and heroism, and a presentation that will no doubt defy my abilities to do it justice.
Nilsen’s storytelling is exceptional, enhancing the narrative with graphic design techniques, fine detail, and fabulous colour work. It’s like Chris Ware layouts, Geof Darrow’s eye for detail and Dave Stewart’s palette have got together to produce an issue of The Sandman. Consequently, despite the whopping great hardback volume, you feel as if you’re getting more than your money’s worth.
Even though it has its origins in a Greek myth, the story feels original and fresh, never hurried but at no point a drag either.
A second volume is in the works, but judging from the level of work infusing every single page here, it may be some time until it appears on bookshelves.
And if you liked that: Give Sandman: The Dream Hunters a try.
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