In the final issue of the Hitomi miniseries from Image Comics, Yasuke the warrior is looking ahead, trying to pave a safe passage for the young Hitomi. But he’s a day late, and we are just in time to read the developments in this fascinating Japanese tale.

Writer HS Tak delivers a solid conclusion to the story of Hitomi, the young woman who is determined to become a warrior with a sword. It’s part legend, part narrative, and Tak blends the curtain between traditional tales, dreams, and the gritty reality of Hitomi’s day-to-day survival.

We are all the better for the amazing artistry of Isabella Mazzanti. Her figures, her landscapes, her visual vocabulary for visions and hallucinations are compelling entertainment. From layouts by Nicoletta Bea, together with colour by Valentina Napolitano, the combined finished product conjures up ancient Far East in an accessible way. 

It’s circular, it’s wholly organic, with real character growth and progression. A highly satisfying read and strongly recommended for those who like to journey off the path.

Letters by Rob Jones, edits Chris Ryall. Cover A by Carlos Lopez

Image, Hitomi #5 (of 5), $3.99 for 31 pages of content. Mature for violence.

By Alan Spinney

After a career of graphic design, art direction and copywriting, I still have a passion for words and pictures. I love it when a comic book comes together; the story is tight, and the drawings lead me forward. Art with words... the toughest storytelling technique to get right. Was this comic book worth your money? Let's see!!