The first issue of Saga introduced us to an equally beautiful and frightening world from the imaginations of creators Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples. A simple enough premise mixed with engaging characters jump-started the story to a full run from the get go. Despite revealing barely anything about the universe readers were thrown into, that first issue left us wanting more. And pronto!
Each issue after was a glimpse into a world we still knew so little about, but was filled with more wonders and terrors than we could imagine. While the story progresses through a splendid cast of characters, the real focus and tension of the story lies on Marko and Alana, struggling to escape soldiers and bounty hunters alike. They are hunted mercilessly for their "betrayal" and for their newborn daughter Hazel, who narrates each issue as needed. The amount of tension present despite Hazel obviously surviving long enough to narrate her own origin story is astounding.
You care for this family and, strangely enough, over time, for some of the characters who pursue them. Or at least, you don't hate them, because, as in real life, it isn't that simple. While there have been a few clear cut black-and-white choices, for the most part it's a world of grays dipped in Staples' vibrant artwork.
Of course, this is all back-story regular readers would know. Whether you've been a fan since issue one or are a new reader, the point of this review is the same.
Go buy Saga #6 now.
Pick up all the rest if you haven't already. I know lots of fans wait for the collected trade instead of picking up single issues, but this series is worth every individual comic's price. Issue #6 proves that.
There is no way to review this book without spoiling details. While I may have less concern for other stories, ruining the genuine pleasure and excitement this book gave me for anyone else is just not worthwhile. Telling you in detail what happens is useless. I can tell you how it felt, though.
The end of the first story arc creates more questions than it answers, but more importantly it shows that for all the gorgeous scenery, deeply fleshed out characters, and fascinating story the book has already shown us, what's to come is even more stupendous. It's an origin story, but beyond that it's a promise of ongoing adventures written with exquisite precision, a true fairy tale in a universe unlike any other in comics today.
With that said... no pressure, Brian and Fiona. Congratulations, actually. Enjoy the landslide of excitement from fans that will come from this arc's conclusion. Know that we will be waiting oh so patiently for its next chapter.
Please don't make it too long!
