The following is an interview with writer Jordan Clark (Aquaman, Star Wars Adventures) regarding the upcoming release of the collected Ancestral Recall trade paperback through AHOY Comics. In this interview, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief Barbra Dillon chats with Clark about the incredible bonus material to be included in the collected edition, his experience with the positive critical and reader response to the series, and more!
Barbra Dillon, Fanbase Press Editor-in-Chief: Congratulations on the upcoming release of the collected Ancestral Recall trade paperback! As with all of AHOY’s releases, this trade is sure to be packed with incredible bonus features. What will readers have in store with the upcoming release?
Jordan Clark: Thank you! One of the things I’m most excited about with this collection is that we’ve included short bios for each historical figure featured in the story. It was really important to us to make sure we highlighted and gave readers more depth about the lives of the real people who inspired this story.
BD: In looking back at the development and creation of the series, what can you share with us about your creative process in working with artist Atagun İlhan that really made this series unique to your body of work?
JC: Atagun is just an incredible artist and person, so it was an honor to collaborate with him on this. Looking back on our process, I’m just still in awe at some of the designs and layouts he came back with. We talked a lot about how we wanted things to look, but I think our combined sensibilities (and his talent) made this book something special.
BD: How do you feel that Melvin’s story and its discussion of preserving history and culture has connected with and impacted readers?
JC: I’ve been really touched at how much people have connected with Melvin. Whether it’s his determination to persevere, his relationship with his wife June, or his deep connection to history. It means a lot that this project has sparked so much discussion and joy in readers.
BD: Are there any other projects – past or current – that you would like to highlight for our readers?
JC: Of my own, I’d definitely shout-out DC Power: A Celebration. I got to do a story with my fellow Milestone Initiative alumni Dorado Quick that I’m very proud of. If you liked Ancestral Recall and are looking for similar comics, I’d recommend Bitter Root, Incognegro, Roots of Madness, and Black Arms to Hold You Up!
BD: Lastly, what would you like to tell fans who want to learn more about Ancestral Recall and your other work?
JC: First, I’d just like to say thank you to everyone who took a chance on Ancestral Recall. For my first creator-owned book, I’m super grateful and overwhelmed by all the support. You can follow me on socials (@Jrsosa18) on all the different places to see what I have coming next and for info on cons.
