What if you lived in an ideal world? What if the problems that plague our current world, like disease and climate change, were conquered long before you were born, and everything is perfect now. Would you sit back and relax in this perfect world? Or would you want more?

Juan wants more. Living in Venezuela in 2216 under a one-world government, his life may be perfect, but there’s no room to grow or to excel. So, he applies to a federally funded program to send colonists to Mars, where they can forge a new frontier. His parents disapprove of the decision, but Juan is determined. The odds are stacked against him, but he’s going to get to Mars, no matter what it takes.

This is a fairly short introduction to what promises to be a really fascinating story. Writer Paul Axel has set up the beginnings of a world that I look forward to exploring further as the story progresses. That world is further developed by the artwork of Megan Fitts, who brings to life some of the basic technology of 2216 and gives us a feel for what the society looks like on a day-to-day basis.

As someone who has always had the urge to explore new vistas, this comic really spoke to me. Much like Juan, I would absolutely sign up for a Mars colonization program, no matter how slim my chances were of actually being accepted. I think anyone who’s ever wanted more out of life, anyone who has dreamed of leaving behind what’s expected of them and doing something extraordinary, and anyone who’s had to explain that dream to their friends and family who just don’t seem to understand, will enjoy this comic. Also, anyone who, like me, thinks the colonization of Mars is a really cool idea will enjoy this comic.

Creative Team: Paul Axel (writer/creator), Megan Fitts (art)
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