Ashes

Ashes by Álvaro Ortiz is a captivating graphic story of three estranged friends Piter, Moho and Polly who get together to fulfil their friend Hector’s last wish. 

Hector has recently passed away, and his dying wish is that his friends scatter his ashes. His friends undertake a long road trip. All they have with them is a map, and a place marked X. When the trip begins, the three friends are shocked at how apart they have grown from each other. But as they spend more time with each other, they reconnect and realise they still care for each other. The presence of two bounty hunters and an ex-circus monkey makes the trip more enjoyable.

And finally, when they reach their destination, they are all in for a surprise!

The graphics are absolutely adorable—the design, colour scheme, fonts, placement, layout, and spacing are brilliant. I loved the muted colour palette; it is unusual and distinct.

The themes of love, friendship, death, and forgiveness hold the story together. Also, every character’s (including the monkey’s) backstory is well narrated, making it easier to understand them.

But I found a few bits a tad confusing and had to go back and read to gain clarity.

Ashes is a funny, emotional, and thrilling road trip. Highly recommended!

Thanks to IDW Publishing via NetGalley for the opportunity to read an ARC of this novel. All opinions expressed are my own.

Wordsopedia Rating 4.6/5

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About the author

Álvaro Ortiz studied graphic design at the Escuela Superior de Diseño de Aragón and illustration at the Escola Massana in Barcelona. After winning several comic competitions, including the 2003 Injuve Comic Award, he has become one of Spain’s most acclaimed cartoonists.