Atlantis. Atlanteans exploring the surface world (in water-filled ‘space’ suits). Mammoths. Crazy gods. And the search for a DNA key that might bridge the gap between the under-water dwellers and the surface-walkers. This sounds like an ambitious, high adventure book, which is what had me request it. Unfortunately, it’s a bit too ambitious and lacks support to pull it off.
It’s nearly impossible to talk about this book without first discussing the art. The art is poor. In my digital edition, the inks and colors are muddy and it is often difficult to tell the characters apart.
The over-all concept is interesting. A race of Atlanteans, more advanced and pre-dating humans and the quest to find a way to survive on land. But the political tensions and social status of the characters seemed to drag down the story. I quickly became bored, and, as stated earlier, there was no support (art) to keep me interested.
Interestingly, the book includes some illustrated short stories. The art is much more sketch-like … simple and lacking great detail … but much more interesting and easier to follow. The stories are likewise more enjoyable and actually managed to have me interested in the book.
Looking for a good book? There isn’t much to recommend for this graphic novel.
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Undertow Volume 1: Boatman’s Call
author: Steve Orlando
artist: Artyom Trakhanov
publisher: Image Comics
ISBN: 1632150131
paperback, 192 pages
Looking For a Good Book 