I picked up Eternals because Neil Gaiman is one of my favorite authors. I’ve also been hearing a lot lately about “graphic novels”. That doesn’t mean they are full of sex and violence. It means they are illustrated. This particular graphic novel is a comic book, complete with dialogue balloons and several frames per page.
I did get some odd looks for reading this hard bound comic book at the dentist office. I’m sure people wondered about me. But it was fun to read a comic book again. As a writer, I was impressed at how the illustrations complimented the text and how so much emotion went into the dialogue.
The “Eternals” are a race of mythic figures with powers of speed, transformation, mind control, and other super human powers. They were originally created by comic book legend Jack “The King” Kirby more than thirty five years ago. The book includes a fascinating section on the history of these comics. What is really interesting is comparing the illustrations of the current book and the old comics. The females used to be at least four or five sizes heavier. The males haven’t changed that much.
It’s a good story, and a complicated one. The plot is full of twists. Just when you think you have the good guys and bad guys figured out you realize you don’t. People lie and others are misled. Some of the characters have to come to terms with who they really are. They aren’t the average superhero who is sure of his destiny and his role. They have to figure out what is right for the world and for themselves. One of the “Eternals” is even a mom. I think this book has appeal for anyone who likes adventure stories, fondly remembers comic books, or enjoys science fiction.
Also See:
Stardust
Superman: The Movie: A Classic That Deserves a Renaissance
X-Men: The Last Stand – Kid Friendly Review