The Last Witch #2by Sheena McNeilReviews may contain information that could be considered 'spoilers'. Readers should proceed at their own risk. Publisher
Credits Grade: 8 Saoirse is able to rescue her brother from Black Annis, but they return home to find all but their Nan killed by the Cailleac. Nan fills them in on the witches, and starts teaching Saoirse to use her powers because the other witches are coming for her.The encounter with Black Annis is terrifying. It has several similar aspects to the story of Hansel and Gretel, but the details keep it different enough to feel like it truly is Saoirse's story. I like that it's Saoirse's love for her brother that gives her strength to fight back. When her witchmark's powers kick in to protect her is when the visuals become most powerful, but the best part is actually when Saoirse cleverly tricks Black Annis despite the fear. The reality of the situation at home pales in comparison to the fiery encounter with Black Annis. Maybe it's because the kids are no stranger to death (their mom already having died), and maybe it's because they have Nan that they are able to be so resilient. The story does show fitting reactions from the siblings, with a focus on Saoirse coming to terms with the fact that she can't change the past but she can fight for their future. Of course the threat is much greater than just the Cailleac and her handmaidens (of which Black Annis is one), and it sets Saoirse fully into a "savior of the world" role. I appreciate the ups and downs of her reaction to all that Nan tells her, but it's the truth about Nan herself that convinces Saoirse to fight. This truth is an unexpected twist that fits well while adding something different to the story, and makes me love Nan even more. This issue is just over 40 pages long. The bulk of it is Nan explaining things to Saoirse, but those explanations are worked into other things like travel and training and dealing with grief; it's excellent pacing. Plus, there's an order to how things are revealed the works for the story but also for Saoirse's acceptance of all this new information. The art is excellent, and the coloring shines through a variety of settings, giving each scene a sense of self and realism. This is a historic-feeling, folklore-as-realism story of magic and bravery, and it's doing an impressive job of holding me captive. Written: February 11, 2021
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