
Oni Press 2016
Written by Adam Glass & Michael Benson
Illustrated by Harwinder Singh
Coloured by Gonzalo Duarte
Lettered by Melanie Ujmoir
Designed by Dylan Todd of Bigredrobot
I really like this story so far. After the events of last issue the guys pick up with Drew and Sera talking about the tattoo on his grandfather’s back. Of course before he died he told Drew the story of the Golem and how his people used them and how unpredictable it was. Still Drew is a young boy and he’s suffering a devastating loss and while it may seem he’s grasping at straws i’ve a feeling Sera knows better.
Drew’s friend, and crush, has been hanging out with his nemesis, and bully Johnny. A nice bit of slice of life stuff but even more ominous when Johnny is basically scared straight by what happens. Are those thugs who killed his grandfather following Drew trying to make sure that he tows the line and keep quiet? It would seem so and this is the kind of stuff that in Yonkers they apparently have to deal with. Chechen gangsters keeping an eye on things and making not so veiled threats. I love the way that went down it was kind of terrifying and left Drew with an even bigger dilemma and reason for a Golem!
Actually this whole issue was a great look at life and what happens after the loss of a loved one. Drew’s mom trying to find a way to get him to talk to her was nice to see. A loving mother who cares about her son is great to see. Yes he’s at that age where talking is the last thing he wants to do and he’s too young to fully understand all the feelings and emotions that go along with all this. He’s too obsessed with that Golem. Still the time they spend together is great characterization.
It looks like Drew’s life is going through even more major changes than he’s prepared for and that makes it all seem too tough to handle. Sera comes though and gives him the translation to grandpa’s tattoo. Is there hope yet? Though I have to say I was a little shocked Sera said what she said she’s a great character with a lot of potential.
I do like the interiors here they have this unique look and feel to them and the attention to detail is nicely rendered. The flow through the pages and panels with the use of angles, perspective and backgrounds are used effectively. There is some great emotions that come from them varying from Drew and Johnny to his search for ingredients to create his own Golem which range from fear, anger frustration.
Can a Golem really solve all of Drew’s problems or is he creating a situation that will just exasperate them? With a strong premise and boys heartfelt desire this story is being wonderfully told from Drew’s point of view. It’s full of emotion, unexpected circumstances and an incredibly sweet this is one that will touch you.