IDW Publishing 2017
Written by Brian Clevinger
Illustrated & Lettered by Lo Baker
Illustrated by Wook Jin Clark
Coloured by Anthony Clark
Lettered by Tessa Stone
In the wake of World War II the Pacific Ocean is carved into kingdoms of pirate gangs and mercenary bands currently vying for more territory to plunder. The Flying She-Devils just established a safe haven far from their rivals. There’s just one problem they’ve scavenged everything in range.
I can’t believe i’m being dense but I am because it literally just hit me that the title of this book is more a throwback to the 50’s. It’s a great homage and nod to the traditional beginning of comics and now that “I get it” it’s freakin awesome! So for those that were in the know I salute you for those who were wondering hopefully this inspired you to look that up!
Still a huge fan of the idea of an all female pirate gang. It’s got just the right amount of flair to it to make it girly and yet it’s still completely kick butt in nature. That they are somewhat new and finally found a safe haven yet are struggling to get by it just makes you kind of connect and appreciate them more. So last issue they decided to raid some fellow pirates for supplies that they needed and we pick up at the start of that mission here.
I’m so glad we are seeing a trend in comics right now where the books are fun. I mean this could be darker and grittier and still be a great story but as is it’s so much more fun to read. I mean it’s cute, fun, interesting and captures the imagination beautifully. The characterisation is spectacular and you’ll quickly find a favourite among these strong willed women. You can’t really help it you always find a favourite character in any ensemble book.
The interiors here are so freakin cute i’d verge on adorable. There’s a lot less attention to detail than I normally gravitate towards but there’s the quirky something about them that is sweet and infectious. The way page layouts are used with their angles and perspective and even the backgrounds here are used beautifully to help tell the story.
The backup continues to tell Sparrow’s story of being a wartime spy. She’s quite good and quite lucky at the same time. It’s almost like watching a competent Get Smart or half of the old Avengers television show.
I think Brian is doing an amazing job with this book his pacing, characterisation and story development are completely on point. We get drawn into this world, this era and their lives in ways that make you smile. Dare I say it’s almost reminiscent of MASH in how it is able to connect with it's audience considering where and when this takes place.
This verges on that perfect all-ages balancing beam. It can be a great way to show off that being true to yourself and relying on those you care about are really all you need.