Tuesday, February 21, 2023

Review: The Boy Who Conquered a Mountain (Graphic Novel)

 The Boy Who Conquered a Mountain (2021) Written and created by Jonathan Chance with art by Emilio Utrera was published by Virus/Heavy Metal.

In early 17th Century Japan, young Kaleb fails in his attempt to become a student of the Rising Sun ninja school. Ridiculed by the older students he returns home but has dreams of coming danger to his village.  When a volcanic eruption occurs all the members of the school, who defended the village, have failed to return after an earlier mission to the mountain. It is discovered that all the children of the village have also disappeared while the buildings burned. 

With no one in authority left, Kaleb takes his horse and rides to the mountain, despite his fear of heights. There he must try to save the children and fight the creature that came from the volcano, killing everything in the surrounding countryside. 

Done in a style that takes influences from manga, the story deals with coming to grips with your own doubts and fears. Overcoming your faults to protect others and acting as an adult in spite of your age. 

A nice done in one story, that leaves room for possible sequels. 




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