Bigger Than Capes

Written by: David Pepose
Art by: Luca Casalanguida
Colouring by: Matt Milla
Lettering by: Carlos M. Mangual

If you need any further recommendation for Scout’s Honor and have not started reading it yet please check out my review of the previous 3 issues of this comic and then, you know, read it.

Issue #4 raises the stakes yet again, and though I sound like a broken record on Twitter every month this is indeed the best issue yet.

The core theme of this issue is faith and belief. Kit has uncovered the truth behind the Scout Rangers through a series of revelations that would make anyone question what they believe in. While this issue really puts Kit through a trial of faith and belief, there’s something moving about how Kit still holds to the good tenements of an organisation that turned on its creator, and is determined to stick to the true path and ideals of Doctor Hancock. So much of what Kit goes through is relatable, tested by the badlands Kit has to dig deep to find that faith and find the strength to carry on. It’s not easy.

There’s also a really great moment revealing how Kit feels regarding wearing binders which I won’t spoil here but you will know it when you see it. I really did feel for Kit in that moment. 

The art of the badlands is filled with the sulphur storms, acid rain and green lightning which really give an otherworldly atmosphere to the situation Kit is in, and the crisis of faith Kit is experiencing. The weather seemingly mimicking Kit’s inner turmoil. Plus there’s some excellent onomatopoeia going on throughout.

How Kit is drawn also takes on a new and interesting angle this issue as things are revealed and it’s really interesting and striking. You notice it but it’s subtle and Kit is still Kit. It’s really worth studying those panels and you’ll see what I mean. Webelo continues to be the best AI pal Kit could have. It’s good that Kit has someone, well something, to talk to and offer support during the dangerous time in the badlands. Webelo may never understand Kit’s trial of faith but is here throughout.

The badlands hold many dangers as we are introduced to Hellspiders, a suitable creepy and dangerous foe for Kit to encounter (arachnophobes may wish to skip). The spider’s lair in an old diner full of bodies is a nightmarish image.

Again there’s so much going on here that it pays to re-read which is great. As usual David Pepose has crammed a lot of plot and character in but never short changes either, and Luca Casalanguida shows real confidence with the art which so well illustrates the world and characters.

I don’t want to say too much because this is a book that needs to be discovered with revelations intact but I will say that it is wholeheartedly worth your time. This is the best issue yet (did I mention that earlier?) and 4 issues isn’t much to catch up on and if you do catch up, you won’t regret it.

I really want to see where Kit’s grit and determination takes the story next. Join me.

If you want a number rating I give it 5 out of 5 scary spiders.