Xoc Number 4

Written by Matt Dembicki
Illustrated by Matt Dembicki
Self-Published

Wish I had an image for this one, but I wasn't able to find anything. That means you'll just have to buy the issue to see the school of hammerhead sharks gracing the issue's front. Regular readers of the blog know that I am a fan of Matt Dembicki's mini-comics and Xoc in particular. This fourth issue is no exception.

Xoc and her turtle companion keep moving on through the ocean, encountering even more dangers as they try to reach their destination. Dembicki gives us subtle commentary on shark fin harvesting (odd timing, considering I had just read about this myself) and shows other sharks in action. The bond between Xoc and the turtle grows as well, and I'm curious to see where that goes as the series reaches its finale.

We also finally get the reason why Xoc must go to this part of the ocean, a need I suspected all along. As with the other issues, Dembicki uses this space to both educate and show off his drawing skills. Once again, he uses his skills to depict action under the waves and gives it his customary level of detail and accuracy.

Xoc is reaching its climax, and I'll be sorry to see it finish. If you see Dembicki's comic at your local shop or at a show, pick it up. You won't be disappointed.