Written by: Brian K. Vaughn
Art by: Fiona Staples
Lettered by: Fonografiks
Publisher: Image Comics
Price: $2.99
Release Date: February 23, 2022
Reviewer: JR Huitt
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THE HOOK:
Saga #56 dropped this week from Image Comics. Brian K Vaughn and Fiona Staples have produced the second issue of the second half of their sci-fi tale. Will they be able to continue the highs set by Saga #55 with the newest issue? It really isn’t much of a spoiler to go ahead and say that they have delivered an excellent issue.
THE STORY:
While the previous issue used its expanded length to touch base with all of the players in the tale, Brian K. Vaughn tightens the focus of Saga #56 by following Alanna and Hazel’s story after and spending a bit of time in the robot kingdom. One thing that this issue does well, and I’ve always enjoyed, is how Vaughn uses Hazel’s narration to provide clues that there is more to come with the story. So, while the situation might look touch and go, there is always a bit of confirmation that there will be something else waiting around the corner.
THE ART:
Saga #56 is another beautiful issue from Fiona Staples. I’m still in awe of the fantastic space pirate ship that she revealed in the previous issue. That said, the new pirate crew is another amazing addition to the already wide and wonderful visual world of Saga. I’m especially excited to see if some of the new characters will be available to join Lying Cat in the plushie world. My daughter has a stuffed LC that has been her bosom companion for a number of years, and I would love to add something new.
Another area where Fiona Staples excels is with the small touches. Looking at the scene from the Robot Kingdom is a great example of this. By using the face monitors to express emotions, Staples adds more layers to the story that they are telling. I can’t wait to see what kind of wild and crazy art will show up as the series moves forward
FINAL THOUGHTS:
There is something to be said about reliability. That is the highest praise that I can give to the Saga team. They are reliably going to do something each issue that is going to make me have a ‘spit take’ moment. The trigger warning comment at the end of the issue is the one that leaps out this time. I’ve really enjoyed spending time with the series and cannot wait to see where Vaughn and Staples will drag the characters and the readers to next. Saga #56 is another reminder from Image Comics that they should be taking all of my money.