In the world of comics, Paul Pope’s art and work philosophy are unparalleled, so it’s no surprise his first major work in years is being met with some much deserved buzz. This one’s for all ages too which is a first for Pope yet still keeps his sense for storytelling and humor. Rendered in his usual kinetic and energetic style, the first volume of Battling Boy introduces the city of Acropolis–overrun with monsters and other night terrors that haunt the local children. When Acropolis’s vigilante, Haggard West, is abruptly defeated by the merciless Sadisto, the city is left searching for a new champion. Enter Battling Boy, a 12-year-old demigod tasked by his godly father to rid Acropolis of its foes as a rite of passage. The young hero quickly learns the monsters are not to be taken lightly and is unsure if he can do this alone–he is going to need help. I only wish this first volume was longer as the world Pope opens to us is one I want to stay in much longer. Eagerly awaiting volume two right here. I picked this up by the power of the cover alone. Very cool frenetic art style throughout. It reminds me a little bit of 90's comics in some ways because of the inordinate amount of lines, but it also has that indie Vertigo/Image feel as well. As to the story it is intriguing enough, kind of a reluctant hero's journey. I will probably pick up the sequel when it is released. But mostly, I would love to get a set of those t-shirts Battling Boy wears!
What do You think about Battling Boy Vol. 1 (2013)?
I love the art, but the story is not as good as I had hoped, and it didn't really go anywhere.
—juprieto
Famtastic read. Great art followed by a great story. Ready for the second volume. =)
—yaa
The art's as good as you would expect, but the plot and pacing feel pretty slapdash.
—dick
Fun and uneven. The dense illustrations sometimes make the action confusing.
—destiny12
3.5 Slow at first but it eventually picked up
—1298shadow
