Review: Arca

Writer: Van Jensen
Artist: Jesse Lonergan
Publisher: IDW Publishing
Released: July 11, 2023
Received: NetGalley

Find it on Goodreads

Book Summary:

The story of the earth dying is not a new one. In many a tale, we all ignored the pleas of the scientists until it was too late. That is the story that unfolds here, with one unique twist. Some people managed to get off the planet. Well, only the wealthiest people, that is.

Persephone has been sealed inside a survival chamber, and she intends to do precisely that, even though it will require her to fight against the billionaires who imprisoned her and doomed the fate of everyone else. Perhaps especially then.

My Review:

It’s been a minute since I dove into a retro science fiction tale, and Arca seemed like the obvious choice. It blends one of my favorite genres with my love of graphic novels. I mean, what more could a girl ask for?

That said, I’ll admit that the style probably isn’t for everyone. I’d suggest finding it in stores and checking out a couple of pages before making final decisions. While I enjoyed it, I can see why some people may not be as delighted.

Admittedly, I am biased. I love the concept of a generational ship. That is to say, a ship with multiple generations of family on a ship has for a long time. Yes, it does rely on the earth-is-dead trope (why have I been reading so much of this lately? What is wrong with me?), but it works.

Overall, I would have to say that Arca is a dark but fun story. It’s perfect for any space opera fan looking for something with a bit more political or social commentary.

Highlights:

• Dystopian with Mystery elements
• Commentary on Financial Disparity
• Survival

Trigger Warnings:

• Dying Planet

Thanks to StMartinsPress and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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