My birthday came recently, and as a present to myself, I went and bought some comics from the local bookstore. I’m sure I’m behind the 8-ball when it comes to these particular comics I’m about to review, but I think their merit bears repeating.
Scott Pilgrim’s Precious Little Life and Scott Pilgrim vs. The World are the first two volumes in the Scott Pilgrim series. I thought it would be prudent to catch up on a little bit of the Scott Pilgrim-verse before diving into the movie, and I have to say that I finally understand why this graphic novel series has so many fans.
The writing for this story, involving the title character having to fight off an organization of his girlfriend Ramona’s seven ex-boyfriends, is very alternative and smart, and is, in a way, mimics how teens and young adults today talk to each other. Also, the story mimics the set up of video games like the Mario games, where you can collect items and coins, something Scott does when he defeats an ex.
All of the characters are fun, even the exes. Everyone connects to someone else, so the story is about much more than Scott trying to completely win the heart of Ramona; he and Ramona also have to contend with Scott’s string of ex-girlfriends. The stories behind each of the characters is at once relatable and part of fantasy. This mix of reality and fantasy is one of the reasons this comic series is so popular.
On the whole, this is one of the most inventive, stylish books I’ve read in a while. I’m eager to catch up on the series and become skilled in the Pilgrim-verse.
