Does anyone remember how I said I wasn’t interested in checking out DB’s and Ascott Hampton’s new graphic novel, _The Life Eaters_, because I didn’t care for _Forgiveness_? Well, Brent Frankenhoff, Managing Editor of _Comics Buyer’s Guide_ (www.comicsbuyersguide.com) has a different view, and now I may go ahead and take a look at it after all.
To wit: “After a disappointing first graphic novel (_Star Trek: The Next Generation – Forgiveness_) Brin and Hampton team up again for an alternate history graphic novel where the Norse gods are summoned to help the Nazi cause during World War II. And this time, the team gives readers a slam-bang adventure that doesn’t let up. Of course, the usual Norse archetypes pop up here with Odin and Thor helping the Nazis and Loki betraying the group by aiding the Allies, but Brin digs deeper and questions whether the “gods” are really mythological beings or aliens or simply belief made flesh. An intriguing concept and one that has been explored elsewhere with “gods” fading into obscurity as their followers dwindle in number. The only drawback to the story is that Brin doesn’t fully apply this concept to other mythological pantheons, leaving readers to do that work. Hampton’s art is well-suited to this story with its powerful imagery and need for flame-lit effects. One scene, featuring a squadron of helicopters invading southeast Asia, is reminiscent of a similar scene from _Apocalypse Now_ and one can almost hear the strains of Wagner’s “Ride of the Valkyries.” This is a book that can easily be shared with non-comics readers who will quickly be immersed in the story and forget they’re reading a comic book. Look for this book to pop up on several awards lists next year.” Grade: A+ Pros: Excellent alternate history. Cons: More adventures needed. Taken from _Comics Buyer’s Guide_ #1565 Just wanted to share an opposing POV from my initial reaction. I may grab a copy and give Dr. Brin and Mr. Hampton’s collaboration a shot despite my earlier misgivings. Jim The Comic Book Guy Maru _______________________________________________ Join Excite! - http://www.excite.com The most personalized portal on the Web! _______________________________________________ http://www.mccmedia.com/mailman/listinfo/brin-l
