J.M Dupont, Mezzo (Illustrator) – Love In Vain: Robert Johnson 1911-1938, The Graphic Novel | Book Review

jmdupontbookJ.M Dupont, Mezzo (Illustrator) – Love In Vain: Robert Johnson 1911-1938, The Graphic Novel

Faber & Faber

ISBN 9780571328833

Format Hardback

www.faber.co.uk/author/j-m-dupont

Length 72 pages

I have limited experience in the world of graphic novels.  I was an avid reader of comic books later in elementary school and in junior high.  I enjoyed the wacky stuff R. Crumb did in his comics while I was in high school and college and I later appreciated his art as I still do.

jmdupontbookpage2This graphic novel screams in that R. Crumb style of artwork, done completely in black ink in a dark and brooding style.  Mezzo’s work is quite good and is very interesting.  It is befitting of the tumultuous life of the great Robert Johnson.  The writer Dupont was a music journalist and is in touch with the life and music of Robert Johnson.  The story line mixes fact and fiction to move the story line along and gives it an ending that reveals who the narrator is in a very interesting manner.  Suffice it to say I kind of figured out who the narrator was, but the ending is quite cool. I shall say no more about that.

Originally done in French in 2014, the English version was released this year, This book is a very well done graphic novel that tells the story of the legendary bluesman in a manner that enhances the legend.  Dark and brooding at times, but it leads the leader along briskly.    Dupont adds conversation and assumptions to the unknown parts of Johnson’s life to help him come better to life for the reader.

Printed in the UK, it Is available via Faber’s website. It is also available as an ebook, Kindle version or via retailers like Amazon.  It would make a good holiday gift or a great addition to any blues fan’s book shelf.  I thoroughly enjoyed it!

 

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