One-line summary:

Pretty Deadly, Vol. 1: The Shrike is a dark and poetic graphic novel that weaves together elements of mythology, Westerns, and revenge tales to tell a haunting and visually stunning story.

The Story:

In Pretty Deadly, Vol. 1: The Shrike, written by Kelly Sue DeConnick and illustrated by Emma Ríos, we are introduced to a world where death, revenge, and myth intertwine. Set in the American West during the early 1900s, the story follows the journey of a mysterious and deadly woman known as Deathface Ginny.

Ginny, the daughter of Death and Beauty, is a reaper of souls who rides alongside a blind cowboy named Fox. Together, they travel through a harsh and unforgiving landscape, seeking vengeance for those who have been wronged. Their path crosses with that of a young girl named Sissy, who possesses a unique connection to the supernatural world.

As the narrative unfolds, we are introduced to a cast of compelling characters, including Big Alice, a ruthless gunslinger seeking her own form of justice, and Johnny Coyote, a trickster figure who manipulates events from the shadows. Their stories intertwine and collide, leading to a climactic showdown that will determine the fate of all involved.

The Themes:

Mythology and Folklore: Pretty Deadly, Vol. 1: The Shrike draws heavily from various mythological and folkloric traditions, weaving together elements of Greek mythology, Native American legends, and Western folklore. These influences add depth and richness to the story, creating a world that feels both familiar and otherworldly.

Revenge and Justice: Revenge is a central theme in the graphic novel, as characters seek retribution for past wrongs. However, the story also explores the complexities of justice, questioning whether vengeance truly brings closure or perpetuates a cycle of violence.

Femininity and Power: Pretty Deadly challenges traditional gender roles by presenting a diverse cast of complex and powerful female characters. From Deathface Ginny, who wields her scythe with deadly precision, to Big Alice, a formidable gunslinger, the graphic novel subverts expectations and celebrates the strength and agency of women.

Key Takeaways:

• The graphic novel blends mythology, Western tropes, and revenge narratives to create a unique and captivating story.
• Pretty Deadly challenges traditional gender roles by presenting strong and complex female characters.
• The artwork by Emma Ríos is visually stunning, with each panel meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of atmosphere and emotion.
• The narrative is nonlinear and poetic, requiring readers to piece together the fragmented story and symbolism.
• The themes of revenge, justice, and the power of storytelling are explored in thought-provoking ways.

A Memorable Quote:

“We are all stories in the end.” – Pretty Deadly, Vol. 1: The Shrike

In conclusion, Pretty Deadly, Vol. 1: The Shrike is a visually stunning and thematically rich graphic novel that defies genre conventions. With its blend of mythology, Western tropes, and revenge narratives, it offers a unique and captivating reading experience. Through its exploration of themes such as revenge, justice, and the power of storytelling, it invites readers to reflect on the complexities of human nature and the enduring power of myth and legend.