Tuesday, October 11, 2016

Book review - Light

Title: Light
Author: Rob Cham
Genre: graphic novel
Similar books: Robot Dreams by Sarah Varon
                     The Tiger by Frederic Brremaud
Rating:
interesting but not my first pick

Summary (provided by publisher): Light is a silent graphic novel that follows a pair of adventurers on an epic quest to collect five magic gems from deep inside the earth and bring them to the surface to return color to the world. On the way they carry fire-lit torches through secret places and endless passages, swim in crystal-clear waters, encounter strange beasts and creatures, and meet strange mysterious hermits! Writer/Artist Rob Cham creates beautiful vivid illustrations that gradually evolve from black and white subterranean worlds to vivid bright colorscapes. This inspiring all-ages story recalls retro video-game vibes and role playing games, creating a one-of-a-kind mythos of magic lands and mischievous critters.

My opinion: Wordless graphic novels are risky. Your images must be distinct and expressive so the reader can clearly follow the plot. This one isn't quite there. Cham does some really cool things with his selective use of color and the interplay between light and shadow. The plot, though, gets a bit muddled at times. Could be interesting to discuss in a group setting, though.
Advance Reader Copy provided by NetGalley

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