I gave up on graphic novels a couple of years ago – mainly due to their shortness and underwhelming narrative. I gave Odessa a chance after reading the description and deciding that it was time to try another one. Graphic novels tend to be aimed at the young adult audience, which is not my demographic, but Jonathan Hill has created something special here – I really feel this will appeal to any age group who appreciates a great story.

Odessa is a post-apocalyptic tale that centres on three siblings on a journey across California in search of their mother. The characters are realistic, dynamic and most importantly, likeable! Their journey is so well scripted, that you almost feel a part of the story too – I’ve never experienced this in a graphic novel before, but I think this is why I rate this one so highly. As I was reading, I couldn’t help but imagine this story played out on screen – stunning visuals with just the right blend of action, suspense, family drama and mystery…

Artistically, the drawings are fantastic and fit perfectly with the narrative – I love the rose tint of the book – it softens the brutalness of some scenes and gives the impression of an overcast skyline you’d expect in a post-apocalyptic world.

Easily the best graphic novel I’ve read in a long time – most definitely looking forward to the next book in the series!