This graphic novel, The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen: Century: 1910, is another chapter in the adventures of the Alan Moore and Kevin O'Neill-created team.Like the preceding chapters, this edition is packed full of references to fictional characters, songs, historical incidents, prophecies and stories of all shapes and sizes.
It's stunning in its density, and capturing all the references herein would be a scholarly undertaking.
But that's not to say this book is in any way dull or boring. Rather, it works on many levels. At its base, it's a snapping good tale of a strongheaded girl who learns a tragic lesson and takes a terrible revenge; and of the remnants of a team assembled to deal with the problems normal men (and women) cannot.
But there's much more at work here. It brings the story into the 20th Century, as the world begins to change and dark forces move into play. This is Moore at his best, telling a complex story with incredible skill.
The LoEG stories also owe a lot to artist O'Neill. His style is unique and fascinating, loaded with detail, events and in-jokes, and he brings the time period to life. His art is somewhat unconventional (that's a good thing) - sometimes cartoony, sometimes realistic - but always in service of telling a great story.
If you've never read a LoEG book, this would be like jumping into the deep end of the pool - but it's a rewarding experience.
There's some violent material and adult situations in this book, so I can't recommend it for young readers, but if you're looking for a graphic novel that will challenge you while it entertains, there are few (if any) better books out there.
Grade: A
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