“Complex Protagonist in the Old West”
What it is About?
“1880. Kansas. Elijah Stern, the local undertaker, leads a calm and solitary life, until one day he is asked to carry out an autopsy on a man found dead in a brothel. Taking on the role of forensic pathologist, he discovers that the man had not died of natural causes and finds himself involved, against his better wishes, in the middle of a bonafide investigation. But Stern has no idea that the key to this case lies in his own past…”
My Thoughts
Stern, Volume 1 is a great graphic novel, albeit slow paced. It isn’t plodding or lazy but instead the text meanders from one frame to the next. Very much how I would think a cowboy of the old west would mosey. I don’t know if that is a stylistic choice by the author, or just how the author write, but it is effective. The way that the images work with the story has a very dusty authentic feel to it.
I think there is a great need for graphic novels set in the old west. It was an interesting era and it is rife with historical misinterpretation. Really, the past is interesting and exciting enough without having to dress it up in silver spurs and the OK coral. The author really did justice to the time frame. Plus the lead character is likable without being annoying, and flawed enough to seem realistic while he works his way through the mystery.
All and all a great read and I am looking forward to reading more from this author duo.
