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Owly Vol. 2:
Just a Little Blue
Owly continues his reign of terror and
intimidation on all woodland creatures in Owly Vol.
2” Just a Little Blue. Just kidding, folks. Owly is
about the sweetest little critter that you could ever
hope to meet. The little owl’s adventures continue in
this graphic novel published by Top Shelf Comics.
The Story
Owly and his best friend Wormy continue
to try to make the world a better place. Owly attempts
to help a pair of bluebirds. However, these bluebirds
have an intense fear of owls and initially, they shun
poor Owly.
Owly, within whose chest beats the purest
most loving heart, doesn’t allow this fact to deter him
from his quest. Along with his trusty friend Wormy at
his side, he persists in helping the bluebirds. However,
when tragedy strikes, this group of animals will all be
affected by Owly’s selfless actions.
Andy Runton’s storytelling is beautifully
simple. Every aspect of this story works and every panel
progresses the story and the understanding of the
motivations of the various characters involved in this
simple tale. Runton has some profound feelings to
express about friendship and personal sacrifice, and he
is able to express this with clarity and without using
words. He gets everything across by just showing the
little things an owl does to help his fellow creatures
have a better day.
To understand the feelings of Owly, all
you must do is to look in his large expressive eyes.
Words are not necessary. The ability to be able to
express such a wide variety of emotions without using
one word is truly a remarkable gift.
Another strength of this graphic novel is
that it is appealing to all ages. Everyone from a small
child to an adult can enjoy this book. Also, because its
story is told without words, it can reach people
everywhere in the world and removes all language
barriers.
I challenge you to read this book and not
have a smile on your face when you turn the last page.
With so much sadness and chaos in the world, Owly
Vol. 2: Just a Little Blue is a spot of pure
innocence and sunshine that you just have to let into
your heart.
9/10
The Artwork
Andy Runton’s artwork style in Owly
Vol. 2: Just a Little Blue is unpretentious and
nicely stylized black and white. Owly has big eyes that
Runton infuses with an amazing amount of expressiveness.
The character designs of Wormy and those of the
bluebirds are great as well. The artwork is charming and
pleasingly subtle.
9/10
Overall (Not an Average) 9/10
Suzie Lackey |