You need to read ‘Johnny Hiro’
When most people think about comic books they probably envision buxom babes and buff dudes flying around with flashy-colored, skin-tight costumes saving the day from maniac villains bent on destroying the world or extracting justice upon criminal enterpises.
Then there’s comics like “Johnny Hiro,” by Fred Chao, which makes reading about heroism fun and original while not sacrificing any of the action or writing.
The tagline for “Johnny Hiro” says it all: Half Asian, all hero.
And that’s what caught my eye today at the comic book shop while browsing around for new comics released this week. A vibrant cover featuring a lobster and a sous chef waving butcher knives.
Seeing the first two issues, I grabbed them instinctively and thought, “this looks almost too cool.” Turns out I was right.
The hero is a 20-something half-Asian guy living in New York City with his girlfriend trying to make ends meet working in a sushi joint. He fights giant monsters and a goon squad of cooks while making friends with Mayor Mike Bloomberg. Even “Good Eats” star Alton Brown makes a cameo.
Chao drew upon his own life as an inspiration for this comic book, and the personal tone is layered carefully and humorfully across its pages. The art has a distinct style that reminds me of “Invincible,” while the writing is rock solid and offers a compelling narrative that’s smart and entertaining.
If you can find this at your local comic book store, do yourself a favor and pick it up. Even if you don’t consider yourself a comic book reader, this is great storytelling that’s not to be missed.
+ Interview with “Johnny Hiro” creator Fred Chao
+ Fred Chao’s Web site
+ Fred Chao’s blog
+ AdHouse Books
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