The first thing I was drawn to when I picked this graphic novel up was the artwork. I really appreciated the style. It was simple but was able to show the action of the novel. I like the cover because of Numi’s hair and how it looks just like it was blowing in the wind. I also appreciated the subtle references to the political and social issues of the country. The way the story flowed was very interesting to me. You were suddenly immersed into the life of Koby and are taken on an adventure as he assists Numi in finding his father with whom he had become distant. I like how the story was lifelike and how the emotions shown by the characters were believable although I can’t understand someone being so hateful towards their dad. I wish I had known more of a back story but at the same time it wasn’t needed.
One problem I had with the story was the fact that it seemed jumpy at times. The scenes would jump around making the story feel less linear to me at least. I do think it felt like a movie but at times I had a hard time moving from picture to picture. I also had a hard time with Koby’s character. One moment he was fine and the next minute he was acting like a teenage girl. I don’t know if that was on purpose or not but it bothered me as I read the story. I also wondered how such a wild goose chase started as it never seemed Numi had much evidence at all but that was mentioned in the story. I enjoyed Exit Wounds but think it could have flowed better.
I’m curious about the mixed feeling you have with Exit Wounds. On the one hand, you say the story seems lifelike, but on the other hand, you had trouble understanding the motivations for Koby’s actions. Is there a specific scene or two you could point to where this paradox arises? I wonder if they come at pivotal moments in the narrative, and if perhaps there’s a narrative or thematic explanation for Koby’s reactions in these scenes.
I completely identify with being drawn to the novel’s artwork. I feel like it’s simplicity helps you to fill in the blanks. I also wish I knew the back-story a bit more; for some reason I really like knowing where people come from and the details of their childhood.
I’m not so sure I agree with it seeming jumpy, but I wasn’t too fond of the story as a whole. While everyone is referring to it as a love story, I wish it hadn’t been. I’d rather it have focused more on the “adventure” aspect.