Brandon Borzelli's Geek Goggle Reviews
Scratch9: Cat of Nine Worlds #1
Hermes Press
Worley & Buchanan
Scratch9 returns with another exciting and fun issue. This issue seems to take more of a science fiction approach than previous issues but it keeps the focus grounded on the character work which is the heart of the concept. The comic has a nice pace to it and definitely pulls a few surprises to keep the reader guessing. This is a great start to the next chapter in the Scratch9 saga and I definitely recommend picking this up.
The comic book is constructed into two parts. Worley uses the beginning of the book to introduce the key characters while setting up the general plot of the comic and arc. The reader is able to get a quick handle as to what Scratch's personality is all about as well as his owner, little girl, Penelope. The basic setup is that Penelope is being shipped off to camp and there is a lot of resistance on her behalf aimed at her parents. However, this launches the bigger plot.
The second half of the book reveals the threat. Penelope and Scratch find themselves in the middle of a science-fiction, action, drama that pulls out all the stops by the end.
The book is a classic all-ages comic. That's not to say that this is a kid's book. It's not. It's a fun book that will appeal to a wide range of people for a variety of reasons. This is a charming comic that has aspects of a deep story that you might find in a mature reader's comic. Worley knows how to entertain with this comic book and the concept behind it.
The artwork is a big help in making this all ages. The expressions are lively, the coloring is vibrant and the characters are cute when they need to be, but scary when the story demands a little fright. Also, the designs in the book are unique and fairly creative which helps drives the story. The artwork is a great companion to the story and it makes the package complete.
Scratch9 is a fun comic book. There are interesting characters and a compelling plot. This is the kind of book that will start you out with a smile on your face and leave you wanting more by the issue's end. With a cliffhanger like the one in this book how can you not pick up the next issue? I recommend checking this out.
4 out of 5 Geek Goggles
