A review by talonsontypewriters
On a Sunbeam by Tillie Walden

adventurous emotional hopeful reflective medium-paced
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

"You're just as much a part of this family as Jules is. As any of us are."
"I really love you guys."
"I don't think we'd be doing this if we didn't love you just as much."

With fantastic writing and art alike, On A Sunbeam has been one of my favorite comics of all time since the first time I read it a year or two ago, and that's held true through my reread. Though the comic is of course visually stunning, with sprawling illustrations of space and a limited color palette that makes the mood of each scene almost palpable, art can't stand on its own in this sort of media -- but luckily, it doesn't here. On A Sunbeam is largely character-driven, with the bulk of its focus on the dynamics between its main cast (probably in part due to Tillie Walden describing herself as knowing nothing about science fiction), but the main characters are so charming and lively that that's a positive in my book. Even beyond the two main romantic relationships, the found family dynamic that develops between the main cast is so sweet and so wonderfully written.

Still, it's not lacking in plot or worldbuilding, and each new detail about the world is revealed with care and intrigue. The art of telling versus showing is certainly on display, with few exposition dumps and information more so trickled in over time, which is suited well by the nonlinear style in which On A Sunbeam is told. This does lead to confusion at times, with some scenes feeling spliced together, but personally, I really enjoy the fluid transitions and feel that the nonlinearity fits the narrative well.

Overall, I can't say anything more but that I wholeheartedly recommend On A Sunbeam for its wonderful character work, gorgeous visuals, powerful themes, and lively world. For some extra motivation, it's available to read online in its entirety for free (onasunbeam.com)!
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