Monday, July 02, 2007

Snakes and... snakes (that's what little girls are made of)

Issue #0 of Snake Woman (created by Shekhar Kaphur) is written by Zeb Wells and illustrated by Michael Gaydos. This zero issue oddly enough was published after the first series concluded. As it stands though, at least by my first impression, it firmly sets itself as an excellent introduction story. Choosing to tell the legend and origin of the various Snake Women that have been, and how they came to be. I am a big fan of this kind of storytelling, I like tales that explore what has come before, that interests me. It can sometimes make for a jumbled mess, but at its best this sort of exploration adds to the enjoyment.

I have always been a fan of the vengeance seeking hero. The more raw the better. I think because at the core there is something highly relatable and somewhat noble about seeking to make things right. And there is a strong measure of envy in a direct approach. I do tend to draw the line at the overly gratuitous or just worn examples. Punisher comes to mind. And this pre-issue... while cold, methodical... downright chilling. There is something distinct about each Snakewoman, they each feel very personal, unique in their experience. Which leaves me with the impression that the first trade (out last week) will prove to be right up my alley. For 99 cents I would recommend tracking this down. If only for the not seen often enough art of Michael Gaydos.

More soon... daddy duties are calling.