A couple interesting, new books from image this week. First the manga-esque Compass. I love the colors of it, bright and cheery, and C.B. has a real fun writing style. should be fun, and has an all ages appeal. I’m not sure what to think of Parade but it is awesome to see someone trying something new with the medium, and a good historic drama, presented solidly is a rough idea to try.

preview pages after the cut.

COMPASS #1
written C.B. CEBULSKI & AKIHIDE YANAGI, art & cover RYUSUKE HAMAMOTO

32 PAGES, FC, $2.99

CAN FOUR YOUNG WITCHES WIELD THE POWER OF EARTH’S MAGIC?

In the world where Magic rules, the last four clans of witches meet on the summer solstice for the Rite of Ascendency ceremony. They are set to ring in a new generation of spiritual leadership and appoint their newest “Heirs to the Elements”. However, a deadly attack by forces unknown leaves four young witches alone and helpless as they must learn to cooperate and use their knowledge, skills and magical abilities to prove they are indeed worthy of inheriting the abilities to control Earth’s mystic forces.

C.B. Cebulski teams with writer Akihide Yanagi and renowed Japanese manga artist Ryusuke Hamamoto (Neon Genesis Evangelion, Sea Sir Sun) for this new full-color manga series, debuting first in the United States.

(click thumbnails for larger images.)

PARADE (WITH FIREWORKS) #1 (OF 2)
story, art & cover MICHAEL CAVALLARO

32 PAGES, FC, $3.50

In 1923, Italy was pulling itself from the wreckage of one World War while unknowingly plummeting towards another. The Nation seemed to be holding its breath, and the slightest perceived transgression could result in violence. On the evening of The Feast of the Epiphany, it did. Young Paolo is caught between a rowdy group of local Fascist Party members and his family. And the choice he’s about to make will change his life forever!

Stunning art in a compelling real-life drama torn from the pages of history!

(click thumbnails for a larger image.)