The names Swamp Thing and Alan Moore are widely known and mostly loved throughout the comic book world, but when you pair them together it’s a match made in heaven. Enter Saga of the Swamp Thing, a groundbreaking storyline penned by Moore and brought to life by artists Stephen Bissette, John Totleben, Dan Day, and Rick Veitch.
The Saga of the Swamp Thing begins with a haunting origin story that reshapes Swamp Thing mythology with terrifying revelations that begin a journey of discovery and adventure that will take him across the stars and beyond. As we continue through the saga we follow Swamp Thing on a journey of self-discovery and adventure.
Throughout the first volume, Moore masterfully deconstructs the classic monster story, pushing the creative boundaries. We explore themes of madness, loss of identity, fear and heroism all in one graphic novel. Moore has a keen ability to create stories that are gripping, intense and unique. He challenge us to rethink the character and what it means to be a hero.
While the big draw for a lot of people is the writing from Moore. However, the illustrations are equally impressive. Although we are not big fans of artwork from the 1970s-1990s, this one stood out above the rest. The line work was phenomenal with a blend of big two superhero and horror styles. Created in a day and age where colors were limited, Saga of the Swamp Thing still gave us chills while going from panel to panel.
Swamp Thing is a DC Comics character, but the Saga of the Swamp Thing is a horror story its core. Moore and the rest of the creative team gave us glimpse of the EC Comics feel while still catering to the superhero genre fans.
The Saga of the Swamp Thing not only reshapes Swamp Thing but also tells a story of modern-day issues against a horror backdrop. Swamp Thing’s stories serve as commentaries on environmental issue, social injustice and more while also being a simple comic book.
Saga of the Swamp Thing is an amazing story that is really for superhero fans, monsters fans and horror readers alike. Alan Moore, along with a slew of artists, give us an extremely well-made and wonderful comic series that will stand the test of time. It’s a thought-provoking reshaping of a classic character that was worth the journey.
Saga of the Swamp Thing Book 1 is available at bookstores everywhere as well as your local comic shop!
Saga of the Swamp Thing Vol. 1 Preview
We read volume one as part of the Galactic Comics and Collectibles Book Club.
