Saturday, February 24, 2007

Graphic Novel A Day: Seven Sons

Writer: Alexander Grecian
Artist: Riley Rossmo
Company: AIT/Planet Lar
Price: 12.95

A folk tale retold in a western (as in the Old West, not just a western POV) style, Seven Sons is an interesting read. I hadn't previously heard the tale of the seven brothers, but there's a good text piece in the back of the graphic novel that tracks some of its history, and Grecian's story stands alone whether you've heard it or not. It's got the universal themes of xenophobia and family loyalty, and a nice mythic feel that smoothly blends the style of American folk tales and Chinese myth, both inspirations for the tale as told. Artist Rossmo has a compelling style, with a charcoal-looking finish and a style that reminds me in some ways of Vertigo/Minx artist Sonny Liew. Although his storytelling has some kinks to work out, it's a promising debut, and I'm sure we'll be seeing more of him in future. Also, there are no lettering credits, so I'm not sure whether it was Grecian, Rossmo or somebody at Planet Lar, but the sound effects lettering on this one is nice, bold and classic.

1 comment:

Alex Grecian said...

To clear up your question, I was the letterer on Seven Sons. Thank you very much for noticing and commenting. Lettering's fun! -Alex