Black Science by Rick Remender, art by Matteo Scalera
Reviewed by: Dave Gibbons, Library Volunteer
Genre: Graphic Novel, Science Fiction
Suggested Age: Adults
What is the book about?: The “eververse” is like an onion, layers of alternate realities surrounding what may be the primal universe that started it all, or so supposes Grant McKay when inspiring the logo design for his so called “dementionauts.” But a more accurate statement would be that the characters in this story are like onions: each layer peeling back as they jump from reality to reality. High-tech Native Americans fighting the savages of Europe in a manifest destiny like war, barbaric lizard kingdoms that exult in debauchery that would make Nero blush and disembodied sentiences that ravenously seek out hosts are just a few of the perils that are faced as McKay’s team stumbles from world to world. Consisting of the philandering Grant McKay, his children Nathan and Pia, his arch rival Kadir, assistant Chandra, fellow scientist Rebecca, noble security officer Ward and Shawn a scientist desperately trying to hold on to his humanity, the team’s struggle for survival will push them to do things they never imagined they were capable of.
My Review: Best known for his work with Marvel Comics on Uncanny X-force and Uncanny Avengers, author Rick Remender has penned a modern take on a classic sci-fi trope. While the family dynamic is central to the story, it is pitted against the harsh realities of science gone wrong as the flaws in each person begin to come to the surface. Fears and insecurities are laid bare as the characters are forced into each situation. It is as if Lev Grossman (The Magicians) wrote Fantastic Four. The story is further amplified by Italian based artist Matteo Scalera’s breathtaking artwork. Each world is given a unique scope and fools you into becoming at ease with it only to surprise you with the bizarre reality. This book is exactly where modern science fiction is heading and I for one am excited to be along for the ride.
Rating: Story – 4/5 Art – 5/5
About FDL Reads
Welcome to FDL Reads, weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library. Librarians (and possibly some other guest reviewers) review all types of books, from children’s picture books, young adult favorites, to the latest adult thriller, and share their thoughts each week at fondulaclibrary.org. If the book is owned by Fondulac District Library (or another local library), you’ll see a direct link to the catalog entry and whether or not it is available. If it is checked out or at another local library, you will be able to place a hold as long as you have your library card and PIN numbers. As with any book review, these are our opinions…we disagree amongst ourselves about books frequently. We all have different likes and dislikes, which is what makes the world an interesting place. Please enjoy, and keep on reading!