the dreaming - Collection Vol. 1-3by Sheena McNeilReviews may contain information that could be considered 'spoilers'. Readers should proceed at their own risk. Publisher
Credits Grade: 7 Twins who have lost everything are enrolled in a very private school in the middle of Australia's bushlands — there is nothing but dark bush all around for miles. The students must face ghosts and strange spirits that haunt the past and present, gaining access to the girls through dreams. Death and disappearances rock the school for the second time...I enjoyed reading this much more than I thought I would. The cover didn't grab me despite the headless, handless body and dark "horror" colors, and flipping through I was not noticeably impressed with the art. However, I must admit that Queenie Chan's storytelling skills are masterful. She really knows how to build suspense, create mystery, give you chills and surprise you. There are interesting characters, though surprisingly you only really get to know one of the twins and everyone else fall just a little flat despite attempts to fill us in on their past or personality. I really appreciate the twist at the end, but at the same time I was a little let down by the placid "life goes on" ho-hum tone it gives. Thankfully, there's a little bonus story that gives the ending the creepy factor it really needs. Either way, the ending is probably the weakest part of the whole story, but it's not terrible either. There's an interview with Queenie Chan at the end that's interesting, and I definitely see her artistic influences — especially Rumiko Takahashi which struck me before I read the interview. Her art style reminds me of other "Ameri-mangas" (or in her case "Australian-mangas") I've read, yet it has aspects that are unique. I appreciate the Victorian dresses which are traditional and not Lolita-esque. She does a good job with body language and expressions. The wide-eyed look is necessary for this story, but several times while reading I found it to be overdone or unnecessary. One thing that's for sure is she creates beautiful panels full of detail and backgrounds. The use of paintings in the story is genius — they are truly frightful. If you like ghost stories or tales of the supernatural, it's a good read. I like the use of the Aboriginal mythology; I like reading things that are new and different. This collection's price of $19.99 is like getting one volume free so it's a great way to check out this series. Written: August 23, 2010
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