Timala Elliott
Timala Elliott
Compass #1
Image Comics
Written by Robert MacKenzie & David Walker
Art by Justin Greenwood
Colors by Daniela Miwa
Letters by Simon Bowland
The Rundown: Shahidah El-Amin and Ling Hua seek out similar information in 13th Century Britain.
Shahidah searches a castle in Britain for a relic. She discovers that her friend Ling has found it first. The two have an interesting conversation. Then Shahidah is confronted by soldiers of the Mongol empire. After a deadly escape, she is found in a compromising situation by a Welsh countryman. When she is brought before a member of the aristocracy, Shahidah reveals something unexpected. Elsewhere, Ling works with the Khan of the Mongols to obtain something valuable.
The Story: MacKenzie and Walker craft an exciting and interesting narrative with a historical base. I like that the protagonists are women from Muslim and Asian cultures. And that they are presented as competent and fearless adventurers. I am also intrigued by the The House of Wisdom, and its history. It is worth reading the end notes of this issue, as it gives an overview of this network during the Islamic Golden Age. I will definitely be doing some research on this content. And I can’t wait to read the next chapter in this five part series.
The Art: Greenwood creates detailed drawing to illustrate this tale, while Miwa chooses cool tones that change with the setting and situation. Much of the story is told solely through the illustration. And it is perfectly done. This is a well crafted issue that perfectly captures the essence of this story.
Compass #1
