cbr16bingo Fiasco Read it, you’ll see what I mean! (SPOILER the mean fact I am saying it works for Fiasco tells you A LOT)
I have read some out there things. Some really out there things. Some warped things. And some really warped things. But I think that The Last Delivery by Evan Dahm might almost win top prize for one of the most biz-aaaaaaaaaaaaar books!
I am giving this a three because someone probably will like it. I am giving it a three as there is something about the macabre illustrations that are both beautiful and truly disturbing. I am giving this a three because, though there is an story arc, there isn’t a “real” story arc, but there is something there that is dragging you along to the conclusion. We are told the point of things at the end, but then again, what does that mean? This is not for casual graphic novel readers. This is not for kids like the author’s other works (and even then I don’t think they really are for kids). This might not even be a very good book, but it is up to you, the reader, to decide that for yourself.
That all said, maybe this is a 3.5 out of 5 because there is just, again, something there. I was, “Okay, now what? What in Hell are we doing? Going? How are we going to leave? Will we die? Live? Something in between? Maybe this is a Lotus Trip. Or maybe it is descending into Hades, Hell or just my Freshman year of college Algebra class.” But whatever it was, I was drawn, following the (seemingly young) delivery person, just trying to do its job, and at every turn something worse than before happens. The first F-bomb dropped was surprising and abrupt. I was WHAT THE F….udge monkeys! That was well timed and placed, but later that kind of language just felt for shock value.
And don’t get me started on the violence! I will say that it is almost gratuitous to all out gratuitous. Yet, sadly, it is probably the whole point of things. The reader takes out what they put in and maybe something else as well. Don’t expect this to be sweet and happy. Don’t expect it to give you everything at first reading. I think even multiple readings would still mean I have no idea what is going on. One theme I felt throughout the book was a spiritual, religious atmosphere. This must be Dahm’s signature as their The Island Book series also had similar tones. If you liked that series, you might like this. However, The Island Books are promoted for ages 10 and up, and I would not recommend this for anyone under 14. And honestly, that might be pushing it for some readers.
Read via an online reader copy, but is currently available.