Welcome to Independent Comic Spotlight! A place where you can read all about the printed indy scene! For today’s installment, it is my pleasure to introduce (or rather, re-introduce) Wayne Vansant and his various upcoming and ongoing historical graphic novel projects.
Currently working with both Grand Design Publishing as well as Zenith Publishing, Vansant (famous for his work on Marvel Comics’ long-lasting and fan-favorite Vietnam War series, The ‘Nam) is taking the comics world by storm yet again. This time around, his striking artwork and penchant for meticulous and accurate research and dialogue make for a realistic and altogether enjoyable reading experience. It is just an added bonus that it each page serves as a history lesson. I have had the pleasure of perusing and enjoying the following texts over the last week: Katusha: Girl Soldier of the Great Patriotic War: Book One: Edge of Darkness, Katusha: Girl Soldier of the Great Patriotic War: Book Two: The Shaking of the Earth, Grant VS Lee, Gettysburg, Normandy, Normandy, and Bombing Nazi Germany.
Overall, these are a fun way to learn about some interesting people and events throughout history. I have to admit, I’m not much of a history person, but being an English teacher and a writer, I can certainly appreciate the characters, the plotting, and the meticulous (and obvious passion for) research involved in such projects. These would be great things to have in a classroom or a library for reluctant readers who needed to learn about specific aspects of history. And would certainly appeal to anyone who enjoys great realistic artwork.
My Rating: 4/5
Like what you’ve heard? Comment below. And for further information (or if you’d like to purchase the graphic novels, which you would), ask your retailer to order you a copy today! The Battle of the Bulge, The Red Baron, and Katusha: Girl Soldier of the Great Patriotic War: Book Three (the final act of the trilogy) will be released this year from Zenith Press and Grand Design Press respectively. Look for them on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and at bookstores (and comic shops) near you!
