Saga #2

Among the weaknesses of too many comic books out there today are: a shortage of likeable characters involved; no romance; little to no humor content; and a lack of surprises - most stories are all too predictable.

The good news is, you'll find none of those problems on display in Saga.

The second issue finds us three days in on the life of baby Hazel, whose parents are trying to find a way to escape from an alien planet. They're under attack from (seemingly) all sides, and their solutions are alternately delightful and harrowing.

We're slowly learning about the universe this new family inhabits, and it's a strange setting, full of wonders and horrors alike.

We're seeing masterful work here. The story by Brian K. Vaughn just seems to spill out effortlessly, but it's expertly crafted and propels you along until you run up against that last page, which leaves you begging for more. We're still learning about the characters, but the odd love story at the center of events is very touching.

The art by Fiona Staples is a real delight, as she brings alien landscapes to vivid life and populates it with all kinds of creatures - some beautiful, some terrifying.

We're going to have to be patient - that last page for both of the first two issues screams, "You gotta wait 30 days for more, pal!" - and the story is building slowly.

Ah, but it's certainly worth the wait. Highly recommended!

Grade: A

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