Comic Review: Prism Stalker #1 (Image)

Prism Stalker’s first issue comes from Image this month. But It’s a multicolored puzzling creation.

Creator Sloane Leong has created, written, drawn and colored the first issue, and perhaps has edited her own work, as there is no editor listed. The drawings are fascinating ‘indie style’ (line art, with lots of unique characteristics), and the color is vivid and rich.

The story is a fragmented, winding journey that starts at a given point, reverses and twists around, leaving the reader with no reference points or solid narrative. People are visible. Who are they? What the heck is going on??

The Image website offers a bit of help: “Vep is a young refugee, raised away from her devastated home planet as an indentured citizen in a foreign colony. She works tirelessly for her insectoid hosts, but there is no exit in sight in this vicious dripping citynest. Her duty is to her family and siblings, but what more can she do for them here? The answer appears faster than she is ready for.”

The story eventually emerges approximately two-thirds through the issue. Vep has an adventure before her! Hurrah!

If you are a fan of linear, clearly told tales, this comic is not for you. It will appeal to those who revel in discovering their bearings as they adapt to the quirks of the story and its characters.

Image, Prism Stalker #1, $2.99 (!), 26 pages of content, rated Teen