When it comes to comics change is not only inevitable it is necessary. For characters and comic series to last, they need to evolve to keep the magic going. Sometimes that means not only changing what is inside the book but also outside. As a series, Lumberjanes has not been the same since the original creators left the series. It still has had its moments but overall it felt like an imitation of a Lumberjanes book rather than the real thing. Lumberjanes: The Infernal Compass marks a lot of changes for the series.

First, it brings on former Eisner nominated writer Lilah Sturges as well as a new artist Polterink. They have come together to create the first ever Lumberjanes graphic novel. You have a lot of new for a series that has been around for four years and it pays off considerably. Although Lumberjanes: The Infernal Compass does not match the previous heights of the series it is the best Lumberjanes story in some time.

Partially why it works so splendidly is that it keeps the story simple enough to allow the characters space to show what makes them unique. In the story the LumberJanes are off to earn their orienteering badge, which should be an easy enough mission to complete if they are willing to put their classic hijinks to a rest. Even when the Lumber Janes are willing to listen sometimes trouble has a way of finding them. Quickly into their mission to begin to become separated from one another. The how and the why are on clear but seemed connected to a mysterious compass that may have a mission of its own. It is the type of adventure that will cause the girls to face their insecurities head-on as they navigate not only the woods but also their relationships with one another.

The key for any Lumberjanes story to work is having the voice for all the characters. Considering this is a self-contained story with a brand new creative team there was not a lot of time to get that done. Lilah Sturges makes it work by giving each character a small moment right up front. Opening the story with Mal and Molly simply enjoying an intimate moment together is the right foot to lead with. The opening pages are just them hanging out reading in their cabin.Polterink’s cartooning then fills in all the blanks.

It only takes two small panels full of priceless expressions to tell you everything you need to know about how they feel towards one another. Also, love the choice to keep the story nearly entirely black and white. At times a light shade of green will appears like a floating highlighting marking important moments and actions that are noteworthy.

Having strong character work out the gate tells longtime fans their beloved characters are in good hands and just as importantly works as a welcoming agent for new readers. With this being a self-contained graphic novel there is a high likelihood new readers will pick it up never knowing there is an entire four-year-long series that proceeds it. For those individuals, everything they need to know about the story being told is contained within this story.

For one it is a story full of heart and humor that can work on a preteen reading their first comic or a thirty-something man who reads more books than he probably should. Sturges’s script is sharp with well-timed jokes that never feel forced. The allegorical adventure the books embarks on may be obvious but it is still effective. It touches upon those insecurities both adults and children share. Things like being cautious of how our happiness and relationships may impact others, or the hesitation to speak our truths in fear of the ramifications. How all of these feelings can lead us astray and away from where we really want to go. Sometimes the most effective metaphors are the simplest ones.

One area this story does stumble is with the pseudo antagonist Henrietta Boniface Nibley, who could possibly hold the secrets to what is causing everyone to become suddenly lost. Part of it may be due to her late appearance in the story that causes her characterization to be extremely condensed to fit into the narrative being told. You then have an entire major arc sped through in order to get to the message the story is trying to convey. This would not be as much of an issue if her entire resolution did not betray the very themes of the story. How other characters learn to overcome the very things holding them back, while she is dealt a much more artificial solution. Although, her robot butlers do lead to some of the best parts of the story.

Final Thoughts:

Lumberjanes: The Infernal Compass is a great addition to the Lumberjanes world. One full of heart, hope, and humor. Creators Lilah Sturges and Polterink remind the comic book world what makes the Lumberjanes such a special series. ,

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Credits:

Writer: Lilah Sturges

Artist: Polterink

Letterer: Jim Campbell

Cover By: Alexa Sharp

About Post Author Daniel Clark https://www.comiccrusaders.com A fan of all things comics. Growing up on a healthy diet of 90’s Batman and X-Men cartoon series ignited a love for the medium that remains strong today. See author's posts