Blab! Vol. 11
The latest edition of the roughly annual anthologyBlabis always welcome. Originally an elegantly packaged showcase for alternative cartoonists,Blabnow includes cutting-edge graphics of all forms. New-to-Blabtalents--notably the Clayton brothers and cover painter Mark Ryden, all known for their appearances in the alternative-art magazineJuxtapose--appear alongsideBlabregulars, who are among the brightest luminaries in the comics-as-art world. Standout contributions include a droll story by American Illustration Award-winner Greg Clarke, David Goldin's tale of nautical child abuse, and disquieting visual fairy tales from Blanquet and Pamela Butler. Strong contributions from relative traditionalists Richard Sala, Peter Kuper, and Spain Rodriguez prompt regret thatBlabhas largely turned away from its comic-strip roots. Letdowns include a one-page toss-off from Drew Friedman and an inconsequential prose story by illustrator Lou Brooks (such occasional prose pieces areBlab's Achilles' heel). Editor Beauchamp's contribution is an assortment of vintage German postcards depicting Krumpus, a Satanic anti-Santa who punishes wicked children. Sharply designed and attractively assembled,Blabbelongs inlibraries' graphic novel and fine-art collections.Gordon FlaggCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved