No More Ghosts Issue 1 Review

No More Ghosts #1

 
Written by Valia Kapadai
Art by Valia Kapadai
Edited by Lee Grice
Published by Valia Kapadai

 

No More Ghosts… I have to say: what a book. First and foremost, I found this little gem of a book a while back but, like many things, it was in my ‘to read’ pile for a while. Having now devoured the story I am kicking myself for the delay in reading this beautiful little book.

The opening paragraph is something of a false lead – you read the words: “Depression is a state of low mood…” and you fear that this could turn into something self-indulgent and navel gazing in nature. What follows couldn’t be further from that assessment.

The story is an exposition on the creators battle with a year long creative block. Valia brings to life the demons of self doubt and depression that plagued her in a thoroughly honest tale. It is always best practice to write about what you know, what you connect with, and it is evident from this tale of inner struggles, that Valia is laying out a totally personal experience with humor, wit and style.NoMoreGhosts2

The art is really cool, the panels and pages whir by effortlessly. The colors are pitch perfect. This is my first sampling of Valia Kapadai’s work and both in terms of writing and the artist endeavor; I can find no fault. Some of the panels/expressions evoke a feel of Sam Kieth’s work – not in an imitative sense but more of the feel Sam imbues with his own work.

Considering that the book deals largely with the subject of inner struggle and turmoil the story does not drag or dwell in a negative sense but dances along with subtle touches of humor. The art really works perfectly with the material; there is excellent range with the images to keep the eye entertained.

The only criticism I have of No More Ghosts is that it ended. You would never wish for a repeat of the inner struggles that inspired this story yet, to be greedy for more…. Well, I can be greedy!

Valia is a gifted artist and there is much more to come; based on the example given by this book

Overall Score: 10/10