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benediction's review
adventurous
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0
greeniezona's review
4.0
This comics anthology caught my eye on the new shelf at the library, and I'm glad I checked it out. A collection of short graphic stories by creators of color -- it's united by two themes. One, obviously, is fire. The other is that the entire book is printed in black, white, and red, giving visual consistency as well.
In any anthology, there are bound be to favorites and not-so-favorites. Happily, there were no stinkers here. Some didn't feel entirely complete, but all had interesting aspects. I liked the joyful childish exuberance of "Too Hot to Be Cool," by Maddi Gonzalez, loved the art in "Cactus Flower" by Sara DuVall, was intrigued by "Pulse" by Der-Shing Helmer, would love to see more from Melanie Ujimori, who created "Firestorm," by my favorites were probably "Preta," created by Chloe Chan, a tale about a future with cybernetic upgrades and the pressures people feel among all the new choices, "Breath, Plucked from Heaven," by Shivana Sookdeo, a quiet little tale about wisdom, endings, and goodbyes, and "A Burner of Sins," written by J.Y. Yang, a story about magic, guilt, memory, and the damage done when loved ones reject someone's transgender identity.
I've just learned this team is doing an EARTH anthology next. I can't wait to read it!
In any anthology, there are bound be to favorites and not-so-favorites. Happily, there were no stinkers here. Some didn't feel entirely complete, but all had interesting aspects. I liked the joyful childish exuberance of "Too Hot to Be Cool," by Maddi Gonzalez, loved the art in "Cactus Flower" by Sara DuVall, was intrigued by "Pulse" by Der-Shing Helmer, would love to see more from Melanie Ujimori, who created "Firestorm," by my favorites were probably "Preta," created by Chloe Chan, a tale about a future with cybernetic upgrades and the pressures people feel among all the new choices, "Breath, Plucked from Heaven," by Shivana Sookdeo, a quiet little tale about wisdom, endings, and goodbyes, and "A Burner of Sins," written by J.Y. Yang, a story about magic, guilt, memory, and the damage done when loved ones reject someone's transgender identity.
I've just learned this team is doing an EARTH anthology next. I can't wait to read it!
beethecowboy's review
5.0
This anthology is absolutely wonderful. I found myself increasingly impressed with the stories and the art as it went on, which I never thought was possible- every story was so quality, and you can tell that a lot of thought and love went into each one. The stark contrast of red next to black and white worked to convey a wide array of emotions perfectly, despite its usual association with anger or fear. If you’re a fan of comics, I think especially webcomics, you will love Elements.
sophz7's review
5.0
A gorgeous anthology of fun, thoughtful, unique stories that will leave you smiling.
greyteacup's review
5.0
I picked up this anthology at ECCC 2018 and was honored to meet a few of the artists and the editor!! A lovely collection of stories. We need more diversity in our art, creators and writers. Use your pennies toward what you value and buy this book!
tracydurnell's review
3.0
No real standouts. I enjoyed seeing the different artists' takes on the two-color palette.
helenareadsbooks's review
5.0
A fantastic collection of diverse comics by diverse creators. More please!
cuddlycuddlefish's review
adventurous
dark
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? N/A
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
5.0
depleti's review
5.0
A great anthology full of great stories ranging from funny to heartfelt. The art was great for all of them as well.