Comic Review: Abbott 1973 #2 (BOOM! Studios)

Abbott 1973, the story of the young black journalist dealing with the supernatural, hits issue 2.

This BOOM! comic has a thoughtfulness that sets it apart from others of its ilk: the characters resonate and think. They’re more than ciphers who merely mouth their words to advance the plot. These people strut the stage, land in bed together, flirt, fight and enhabit the space.

The plot is solid. There is a new corruption taking over Detroit Michigan in 1973, and Abbott, who has a new boss, is investigating. Though her male boss sees her as inferior; a mere woman, someone to step and fetch his drinks. But Abbott is a strong-willed personality, a force of nature to be sure. Enhanced by mystical powers, she is being drawn into a magic battle, on the edge of a whirlwind of psychic energy.

The writing is strong and tight from Saladin Ahmed (Eisner Award winner, writer of Miles Morales: Spider-Man) and artist Sami Kivelä (Machine Gun Wizards), with colorist Mattia Iacono and letterer Jim Campbell.

The heavy ink renderings, the nicely paced panel action, the densely demonstrated backgrounds, and atmospheres, the retro aspect, the well-realized characterizations put this comic miniseries in a very favourable light. Consider picking this one up!

BOOM! Studios, Abbott 1973 #2, #3.99 for 24 pages of content. Assume Teen rating