Saga Graphic Novel Review

28. Saga: Volume One by Brian K. Vaughn

Type: Graphic Novel

Title: Saga: Volume One
Author: Brian K. Vaughn
Publisher: Image Comics
ISBN: 978-1607066019
Pages: 160

Ages: 14 and up
Genre: Graphic Novel, Fantasy, Sci-Fi

Reader's Annotation: Follow these two lovers, aliens from different planets and worlds, as they try to stay alive in this science fiction graphic novel series.

Summary: When two soldiers from opposite sides of a never-ending galactic war fall in love, they risk everything to bring a fragile new life into a dangerous old universe. Saga is the sweeping tale of one young family fighting to find their place in the worlds.

Critical Evaluation:  Fantasy and science fiction are wed like never before in this sexy, subversive drama for adults.  The art from this graphic novel is geared towards adults and can even be considered a "cross-over".  The graphic illustrations are both a combination of bigger drawings and your typical framed drawings.  Younger teenagers are warned that there are pictures of the the human body, specifically when Alana is breastfeeding her newborn baby, and even images of the act of sexual intercourse.

This graphic novel is a struggle of survival for both Alana and Maiko.  The story is quick, with breaks of violence and suspense, as they try to survive from the people of Landfall and the moon Wreath.  The storyline is funny, serious and very dramatic.  Vaughn brings both of these character through life, with witty storytelling and a fast-paced illustrations.      

Challenge Issues:  

• Issues of racism
• Too much violence
• Complex issues for adults
• References and images of sexual behavior

Challenge Ideas: 

• Be familiar with the themes in the material and how they relate to young adults today.
• Stay calm and remember to not be personally offended by their comments or concerns.
• Libraries provide materials and information presenting all points of view on current and historical issues.  Materials should not be proscribed or removed because of partisan or doctrinal disapproval.
• Books and other library resources should be provided for the interest, information, and enlightenment of all people of the community the library serves. Materials should not be excluded because of the origin, background, or views of those contributing to their creation.
• LISTEN to what they have to say and reiterate our freedom to read and be without censorship.
• All material for young adults are under the review of the branch manager and even further up, the Library Director and even City Council members.