A
Kind of Hum . . .:
Cicada
Top
Shelf Graphic Novel Review by: Troy
Brownfield
By: Josue´Menjivar
More information: www.topshelfcomix.com
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 Top
Shelf excels at bringing us graphic novels that deal with
realistically depicted emotional landscapes. Such books as
Alex Robinson's "Box Office Poison" and Ed Brubaker's
"A Complete Lowlife" navigate these channels with
strong art and sharply defined characters. You can safely
add Menjivar's "Cicada" to that list. This simply
told story carries some devastating emotional weight and comments
succinctly on how we allow the mistakes of the past to damage
us both physically and psychologically.
Thomas gets a hotel room. It's the Cicada time, meaning that
the insects have returned en masse after a thirteen year absence.
The bugs are everywhere, and their low persistent hum are
said to trigger memories within those who hear. You can see
it happening to Thomas, and what he has to remember is alternately
shocking and sad.
I resist giving away story elements, but it's sufficient to
note that Thomas is a complex guy. He's capable of great sweetness
and has a need to be liked borne out of some lousy moments
in childhood. However, this need doesn't always manifest itself
in the most healthy or honest ways. Thomas's story resonates
with the reader because his motivations and the root causes
of his actions make so much sense. He's a dynamic piece of
work.
Menjivar's art perfectly captures the flavor of the story.
It has a frankness of purpose that cuts right to the heart
of each scene. It's purpose is not to be showy; it's purpose
is to enhance the story itself. When Menjivar does reach beyond
the small confines of his setting, as he does in a terrific
series of pages which move from a diner to a trucker at a
jukebox to a panorama set against a skyline and a Hank Williams
tune, you totally understand that there's a deeply gifted
talent putting the work in front of you.
"Cicada" is brief, but it doesn't need to be long.
It has a message to convey, and it wastes no time. Don't wait
thirteen years; check out "Cicada" now.
Troy
Brownfield is the Editor-in-Chief of Shotgun Reviews. Honestly,
do yourself a favor and hit the aforementioned website for
more great Top Shelf books. Email Troy at psikotyk@aol.com
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