The Good
Joe Harris and Martin Morazzo continue to deliver an interesting book that is definitely dealing with some very interesting concepts. This series deals with issues that we haven't really seen in comics before and that's what makes it so interesting: we get real life problems intertwined with a rather fascinating fictional story. The comic turns out to be well written, organized clearly and overall just really, really pretty.
There are two stories being told in this issue simultaneously. First we have Chaz Worthington who has been captured by a group of pirates on the island he has claimed is his. It is interesting to see how in only five issues Worthington has seemingly evolved into a character that was naive about the way the world works, to a young man who is completely taken by surprise and becomes considerably less entitled. And although Chas recognizes that he isn't the only one invested in this pile of trash that is this island, he is still incredibly ambitious (and maybe a little bit crazy) and refuses to give in to his captors. I think the way the creative team is developing the central character is rather interesting. Sure he's a rich kid who's been fed with a silver spoon most of his life, but he is also really rather resourceful, and that's something we see here very clearly early on. As the story progresses it gets interesting and it's great to see the train of thought in Zoe's mind: I think this is particularly well reflected in Morazzo's art, and really beautifully illustrated. The pace of the issue picks up about halfway through and things start to really heat up and become very interesting.
Chas' story gets even more and more complicated as the issue progresses, and readers begin to see that there are more than just two groups invested in this island: that you can't just waltz onto a piece of land (in this case, a garbage heap) and claim it for your own. Even garbage heaps mean something to somebody.
We have both Chas' story and his sort of journey into adulthood, realizing that he was very naive and his behavior has a lot of consequences, as well as the story of his best friend. There are at least four external factors influencing what will ultimately happen to Chaz and his island, and they definitely become clearer through this issue.
The Bad
This is by far one of the most exciting issues of this series thus far: no complaints.
The Verdict
It's funny how nothing actually happens in this issue (in terms of action) and yet, so much happens here. There is not only a lot of character development, but also an interesting introduction to a variety of different characters and groups who are all equally invested in the same thing: New Texas (or at least what's on it). What we get is an interesting story and an issue that pushes the plot really far, ending on a serious cliff hanger that will leave readers yearning for more. The great story is paired with some very beautiful (and very telling) art by Martin Morazzo making this issue one you will definitely want to pick up. So far, one of the best issues in this series, hands down. Finally, while I don't recommend starting here, this is an easy place to pick up the story and follow along.
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