Sundiata: A Legend of Africa

Rating:
Summary: The Sequential Master Comes Full Cycle
Review: Since his creation of THE SPIRIT and his partner Ebony
White over 60 years ago, the fame and influence
of Sequential Master Will Eisner and his inspired
urban fable has frequently been accompanied by the
ongoing debate over the nature of THE SPIRIT's
gregarious sidekick. Is Ebony a blatent
stereotype, or is the durable, likeable
mug an African American maverick hampered
by -and prevailing despite- the
distortions of 1940s racial imagery?
It's an engaging question which has
lost none of its zeal over the decades.

While pondering upon this question about
the past, consider the overall worth of
all Eisner continues to bring to all literary
arenas, Sequential and otherwise. His
comprehensive storytelling genius sharper
than ever, he has recently embarked upon
the distillation of classic literature
into Comic page storybooks
for young people.
Not content with giving the old CLASSICS
ILLUSTRATED a stylistic run for its money,
Eisner has broken further ground in
interpreting one of the most revered of
all African folktales, the legend of the
Lion of Mali, SUNDIATA.

A fine way of introducing young and old
alike to this magnificent tale, this
graphic album is both signature piece
and significant milestone in a long,
distinguished career. A profound tale
of resilience, ingenuity, and fortitude
overcoming all obstacles, SUNDIATA is
both earthy and graceful, carrying
great subtlety while rolling with
flamboyance. In Eisner's hands, the
saga of the cripple who rises up to
oppose an envious sorceror's murderous
tyranny is imparted with deep dignity,
and a winning respect to interest all
ages from all persuasions.

Over 60 years and
still running it
strong.

Will Eisner.
SUNDIATA.

Come read this.