The way Brian K. Vaughan plots out his series is very interesting. Something happened to me while reading this book, and I recognized the feeling as one I got while reading the [[ASIN:0785125396 third volume]] collection of "Runaways," another BKV series. Vaughan creates likable, flawed characters in interesting situations and writes enjoyable stories about them. The stories are consistently entertaining and the dialogue is always quotable, but not quite... as astounding as you'd hoped. However, right when you think you know what the series is all about, he hits you with a powerful punch out of no where. That punch was this volume.
The first three issues here (the titular "Safeword" arc) are the best in the series thus far. BY far. We get essential character development for Yorick, and my enjoyment of the series--and respect for Vaughan as a writer and chance-taker--has literally multiplied four times over after reading this arc. There is psychology at work and character depth that aspiring story-tellers like me yearn to achieve. The greatness countinues in the next three issues (the "Widow's Pass" arc), and--though it isn't as groundbreaking as "Safeword"--you will not be let down by the end of this book.
If you haven't yet become addicted to "Y: The Last Man," this is the book that will reel you in.
9/10 |
Y: The Last Man Vol. 4: Safeword Books In Print, Audio Books.