Hard Core Pawn #1
Creator: Stevil
Publisher: Heavy Manners
Review by Hafsa Alkhudairi
Hard Core Pawn #1 is an amazing narrative that addresses different acts of racism with panels that take us from 1937 to the present. Each mini-story acts as a reflection of truth from a certain historical, philosophical, or political perspective. From the story to the art, there is something special within this narrative. In a simple manner it communicates racial issues and power dynamics. The use of the chess pieces highlights that further, ensuring the clarity of the message: there is a king, and there is a pawn. We are pawns in a game that we have no control over.
The narrative of Hard Core Pawn #1 also uses poetry, quotes, facts, and figures through art to express a story. The use of these different forms adds another layer to the discourse’s formation. I really enjoyed this overlap, and I appreciate that the story tackles other forms of racism beyond the black/white dynamics. The narrative also addresses racism against refugees and the ideas of terrorism. This is the part I loved most because the story is relatable on multiple levels.
Furthermore, Stevil has a piercing art style that is simple yet complex. The beauty of the art is in the way it can easily express the point across the page without complicating the message. The art shows exactly what the reader needs rather than what the reader might expect from such a heavy topic. It helps enhance the story’s quality. Basically, Hard Core Pawn #1 is amazing on all fronts!
Verdict: Buy it.
If you like to explore historical, philosophical, and/or political narratives with a twist, Hard Core Pawn #1 is the book for you!
