If you’re interested in finding a comic book that combines humor with the strong will of three college friends, then Giant Days by BOOM! Studios is perfect. The cover, created by Lissa Treiman, tells you exactly what you’re in for when you open up these fun pages. Three friends, Daisy, Esther, and Susan, are lying in the grass with trash and red plastic cups scattered nearby.
This opening scene foreshadows the main plot point for these three; they’re attending a music festival and things don’t necessarily go as planned. Writer John Allison crafts a wonderful story for these friends to navigate, and each one has a distinct personality and view of life that makes their reactions to unkempt events even more unique. One character might see the festival as “decadent,” while another describes it as people letting “their freak flag fly.”
This entertaining comic book presents several awkward or illegal scenarios, and despite how you might approach or not approach them, these three friends have a perspective that’s their own. Now, one of their approaches to pitching a tent or entering a rock band’s bus might result in emotional outbursts from one of the characters. Daisy, I’m talking about you.
Giant Days is full of giant moments that involve independent, strong women sometimes surrounded by either weak or seriously creepy guys. Let’s just say we’re all happy that karma plays a role in this issue of the series, because it is absolutely necessary. The artwork is crafted by Max Sarin, Liz Fleming, and Whitney Cogar, and they provide plenty of funny facial expressions and a great combination of colors. Each page is full of multiple panels, all including the individuality of each character bursting from one to the next.
Despite the hardships that come along with this music festival, the bond between these friends endures and shows how solidarity can come regardless of their differing opinions. This camaraderie is a perfect example of why Giant Days works so well. Loud outbursts, sudden bouts of dancing, and genuine concern for each other’s well-being are some of the many strengths that lead Daisy, Esther, and Susan through this outdoor festival.
Readers of many different ages will be able to relate to this clever story, whether something similar happened recently as a teen or once happened many years ago, making it relatable to a large audience. This particular comic book stands alone; however, you can start from the beginning with Giant Days Volume 1 to see how these three friends began their new journey together.
Giant Days #19 will be available on Wednesday, October 5, in print and digital form.
