Skybound/Image Comics 2013
Created & Written by Chris Dingess
Penciled by Matthew Roberts
Inked by Tony Akins & Stefano Gaudiano
Coloured by Owen Gieni
Lettered by Pat Brosseau
The story of the Sasquatch continues on with part four, of six. I am so into the fact that the Sasquatch is a cyclops, I think that adds a unique quality to what we’ve all thought of as the legend. That Chris and Matthew keep coming up with new ways to depict these cryptids is a stroke of genius. For almost four years now i’ve wanted the opportunity to visit this vast unexplored wilderness alongside them and see these marvelous and terrifying creatures that inhabit the inner region of the United States. How often you find yourself wishing you could just jump into the pages of a comic book and experience this alongside it’s characters?
These are historical figures that are well known it’s just what they experience that’s been altered. So even with all the dangers to go with the excitement here this is hands down the only current book I want to be a part of.
The interiors here are just as amazingly creative as the story itself. What Matthew lays down for his team sets the bar and they reach that and then some. There’s one scene in particular that really hits you and that’s when looking through a spyglass you see a Sasquatch but it’s the way the panel is shown through that lens that you can truly appreciate the talent of everyone involved. The backgrounds here have always been amazing, lush and inviting, which of course belies the denizens within. The creatures we’ve met along the way have been fresh, innovative and delightful or horrifyingly depicted. Even our main cast have their individuality and authenticity about them that keeps you involved in the story.
I wonder how long they can keep Sacagawea on that ship while she’s pregnant and insisting she get to go home. Of all of them she’s the most familiar with this land and what there is out there. She’s also the most incredible hunter, tracker and all around interesting woman i’ve ever seen. I love her no nonsense attitude and it is what it is mentality so much doesn’t get muddled up with the way the “white man” thinks.
I have to say Captain Helm’s nightmare was magnificent! Creepy as all get out and just one of those WTF moments that we live for! Then to see the treck with the men through the interior with only he and Flewelling making it to their destination well that keeps this particular part of the story going and again makes me scratch my head. I mean shared delusion or a manipulative ghost take your pick i’m not sure what Maldonado is but dang I surely do want to know more.
This is the most consistent book i’ve read. Through each issue and arc and twist and turn that the series has taken it’s been on top of what I think of as creative, unique and just damn good storytelling. The pacing of the story and the arcs so that this journey keeps going and the smaller tales woven into the larger picture just keep us thrilled and entertained time and again. There are a few rare series that are on par with this one as far as the absolute best ongoing series around.