Kepler by David Duchovny (Author), Phillip Sevy (Author, Illustrator)
Sysnopsis:
When the Benadem, benevolent space gods, return to KEPLER, a planet where homo sapiens went extinct and all other hominid species thrived, their arrival threatens to plunge the world into chaos.
West, a 16-year-old Neanderthal girl, is thrust into the conflict and is the only hope to prevent extinction. Her efforts, unique because of her mixed hominid heritage, not only change her life, but also reveal the merciless ambition and identity of the gods themselves.
In the tradition of Planet of the Apes, KEPLER is an allegorical thriller of environmental disaster, colonialism, religion, history, and adolescence told through the eyes of a lonely outsider.
Review:
This is the graphic novel debut of David Duchovny, co-written and art by Phillip Sevy – so, I was excited to check it out. Right away, we’re introduced to a planet like Earth with 3 distinctive, hominid species. West’s parents are of two different species and cultures. And her coming-of-age story is mixed with a captivating tale of a people rising up against their oppressors.
The artwork is stunning and brilliant. Some of the pages are carried by the imagery and the suspense that builds is fantastic. This is a standalone volume, but I wish it was longer. I really enjoyed the unique world, mystery, drama, and fun characters.