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Bitter Root #1
Publisher: Image
Story: Chuck Brown, David Walker, & Sanford Greene
Pencils: Sanford Greene
Colors: Rico Renzi & Sanford Greene
Letters: Clayton Cowles
Cover: Sanford Greene & Rico Renzi

On the surface Bitter Root is a story about a monster hunter family set during the Harlem Renaissance. However, as you see the foundation of this world come together you realize that this creative team is giving you so much more.

We’re pulled into the Sangerye family’s world of hunting Jinoo and other creatures with steady pacing and strong introductions to Cullen, Blink, Berg, and the matriarch of the family, Ma Etta. Each having a defined role to play but that is also a point of frustration for young Blink. She feels her talents are being wasted in her expected role and wants to be utilized in the field more. We see that it’s not just all talk either when her hands-on talents are utilized in a great action sequence from Greene and Ranzi. But as much as this issue is packed with action it’s also filled with layered characters and fantastic moments set in-between them. Most of which only lead to you wanting to know more about this family and the others we meet before we get to the cliffhanger. Which was jaw dropping and put a smile on my face at the same time but I’m not going to go much further for fear of spoilers.

Sanford Greene and Rico Renzi pair some outstanding visuals with the narrative to help flesh out the world of Bitter Root. The opening sequence firmly immerses you in the era and then we meet the Sangerye family with their scientific and mystical inventions that still fit perfectly in 1920s Harlem. Greene’s panel layouts help build momentum during the action sequences while the art inside of them keeps your eyes entertained. Though there’s several stand out sequences in this issue, one favorite would be a panel with Ma Etta that syncs 100% with the dialogue. It’s subtle but you get the vibe that she has no time for foolishness. The colors also take the art to the next level with the sequence that introduces Berg and Cullen being a true standout. The purples, pinks, various reds make it pop especially when switching back and forth between the color palette used during the conversation between Blink and Ma Etta. The creature designs are exaggerated and huge, exhibiting power and ferocity that makes you doubt if any one member of the family can take one down. However, it makes it all the more exciting when you see one of them succeed in subduing one of the massive creatures.

Bitter Root’s debut is the perfect execution of what a first issue is supposed to do for its audience. And after the main story there’s also extras courtesy of John Ira Jennings that take you deeper into this new world. A world and genre where you don’t see too many Black characters in the forefront so thanks to Brown, Greene, and Walker for this. So get your issue when it hits shelves on November 14th and see for yourself!

Infinite Speech
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