|
|
|
|
Three Shadows
by Cyril Pedrosa
by Travis Jonker, 100 Scope Notes
Graphic novels that set out to tackle tough subjects have their work cut out for them. Fair or not, graphic novels often come with the presumption that
excitement and entertainment are contained within. GNs that can tastefully handle emotional content are worth noticing. Three Shadows is one such
book. Written in response to the death of a friend's child, Cyril Pedrosa confronts fate and grief with affecting results.
Joachim is an only child living with his mother and father in the countryside. Their life together is a happy one until three mysterious horsemen appear,
ominously watching their goings on. Joachim's mother decides to consult the town exorcist, who foresees a grim future: the horsemen have come for their
child and there is nothing that can be done. Upon hearing this news, Joachim's father takes his son and steals away on a last ditch effort to allude fate.
Their travels take them across rough seas and into contact with an old man who offers to solve all their problems for a price. But even that cannot change
the inevitable.
French writer and artist Pedrosa honed his skills on Disney's Hunchback of Notre Dame and Hercules. This influence is apparent his fluidly
exaggerated illustrations. They add to the mood of tension that is tangible throughout. The heavy subject matter and very "French" depictions of innocent
nudity make Three Shadows most appropirate for more mature readers. A well done, poignant graphic novel.
Three Shadows, by Cyril Pedrosa. First Second, 2008. ISBN:1-5964-3239-0.
|
| |
|
|
