THE BLOODY STREETS OF PARIS
Jacques Tardi/Leo Malet
iBooks/Komikwerks (www.komikwerks.com)

When I first started reading THE BLOODY STREETS OF PARIS, I'd assumed it was an import of a European graphic novel - which it is. But I had no idea it was a work over 60 years old.

Originally published as 120 RUE DE LA GARE in 1942, THE BLOODY STREETS OF PARIS is a tale of Nestor Burma - a French detective in WWII Paris. Recently released from a German prison camp, Burma must solve the murder of an old friend while avoiding the Nazi presence in occupied France.

Despite its unparalleled historical accuracy, THE BLOODY STREETS OF PARIS has an amazingly contemporary feel. At first glance, Tardi's art may be interpreted as "cartoony," but the character and depth of his work are soon apparent. His Paris is fantastically real and detailed, down to little touches like advertising and signage.

The translation of Malet's script is natural and free of the awkwardness that sometimes occurs in foreign imports.

At $17.95, THE BLOODY STREETS OF PARIS is an outstanding value - almost 200 oversized pages of impeccable story. It's a vintage masterpiece of epic proportions, unquestionably one of the best graphic novels I've ever read.

Reviewer: Doug Giffin

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Doug Giffin is the creator/writer of Harlow's End: Elijah's Tale (as previously seen in Digital Webbing Presents #3). To see more of Doug's work, visit his website at www.psychoengine.com

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