Y: The Last Man, Book 3, Deluxe Edition
Gr 10 Up–This work reprints volumes 24-36 of the original comic series in a gorgeous hardcover edition. Yorick Brown and his capuchin monkey, Ampersand, are the lone male survivors of a planet-wide "gendercide." The loss of 48 percent of the population has thrown much of the planet into chaos, creating dangerous conditions for everyone–especially the only man alive. Yorick makes his way to San Francisco, to Dr. Mann, who is trying to find the cause and cure for the male plague. Agent 355 shadows him and protects him from a variety of spies, fanatics, criminals, and nuts who would stand in his way. When Ampersand is kidnapped and whisked off to Japan, they must take to the seas to try and find him. The artwork is stunning, featuring the original strips and cover work. Muted tones and changing palettes are expertly used to convey mood and tone. The highly original plot is compelling and fast moving, with plenty of action. The use of flashbacks, hallucinations, and fantasies within the story line may confuse weaker readers. Most teens will want to read the previous volumes first. Harsh language, adult situations, and occasional partial nudity make this one most appropriate for public libraries.Anthony C. Doyle, Livingston High School, CA© Copyright 2010.  Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc.  No redistribution permitted.