Odessa is a graphic novel set in a dystopian California after an earthquake literally tears the state apart. Ginny was a child when this happened, and her mother left her along with her two younger brothers back then. But a mysterious package shows up on Ginny’s 18th birthday that leads to a whole adventure.
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The mysterious package is from Ginny’s mother, who has long been out of her life and Ginny doesn’t actually know where she is. The years of not knowing have caught up to Ginny and she decides she must find her mother no matter what. So she packs her bag and starts her journey through the wild and dangerous territories that have become California. However, Ginny isn’t going alone even if she wanted to. Her brother, Wes and Harry, follow her and they end up in various dangerous situations while trying to find their mother.
One thing I really enjoyed about this book is the world that was created. The dangerous lands, the gangs, the bartering, and just what post-earthquake west coast would be is very interesting and adds a lot of depth to this story.
The art is also very interesting, as the entire comic is black, pink, and white. While pink may seem strange, it all really works. The art style really supports the story and world that was created.
Now there were a couple of things that I didn’t love. The story is touted as a coming of age story and it does make sense with Ginny turning 18 and going to find her mom and the truth. And I do think this is a coming of age story, but throughout it Ginny didn’t really change or grow in my opinion. She had her bratty moments and I got tired of her after a while. Her brother Harry also had his annoying moments, but I forgive that a little because he is the youngest he isn’t necessarily meant to have the big maturity growth. However, her brother Wes really had the maturity growth and is the actually coming of age story so far in my opinion.
Overall I did enjoy reading Odessa. The world created is interesting, the art is great, and the story is full of action and intrigue. I did have moments where I got a little tired of reading because Ginny would be a brat. So I would say it is a good graphic novel that I didn’t necessarily fall in love with.
Odessa comes out on November 10th.
I also like the art in this book. Seems like a fascinating read.