With all the publicity and talk of the big two publishers, DC and Marvel, what can get lost is how many wonderful independent creations are available, especially for younger readers.
I first read Von Allan’s work in The Road to God Knows, an intimate, poignant and uplifting story about a teenage girl struggling with her mother’s serious mental illness. He’s moved on from that story to an excellent fantasy series for younger readers, Stargazer. Volume One is already available. Volume 2 comes out in October and can be pre-ordered right now.
Summary:
After the death of her grandmother, young Marni is grief-stricken but finds some solace in an artifact that her grandmother left to her. The artifact is far more than a memento, however, and Marni and her two best friends, Sophie and Elora, are soon transported to a strange new world. They’re stranded there, lost and confused, and have to make their way across a fantasy landscape that includes Viking ships, little robots, silent dwarves, a mysterious castle, and a big giant head chasing them.
What Kids Will Like About It:
The three young girls are close friends and brave but they’re also human and scared at the same time. Kids will like the way they support and each and they’ll have a lot of fun with the fantasy world, which is wonderfully depicted by the artwork. The little robot, despite not speaking, has a great personality due to the art.
What Parents Will Like About It:
I really felt the courage and the sadness of the three girls while they are on their quest. The best part of this series is that it really touches emotions and you don’t have to be a kid to appreciate that.
Preview Available:
You can read a long preview of Volume 2 that also has all the information on orders for both volumes at the end. My favorite panel in this preview is the menacing appearance of the scary, giant head. Keep reading until he shows up.
About the Creator:
Von Allan is a Canadian writer and artist and former comics retailer. You can follow him on Twitter as well as look up his work on his website.
