The first pages of Skybound's upcoming Lastman Book One introduce readers to an action-packed world and a charming young hero.
CBR has an exclusive first look at Lastman Book One, a remastered English-language edition that collects the first two volumes of Balak, Michael Sanlaville and Bastien Vives's acclaimed French fighting comic. The opening pages of the upcoming volume follow 12-year-old Adrian Velba as he trains to participate in the Valley of the Kings fighting tournament. Adrian's passion is as evident as his inexperience in these beautifully drawn pages, which set the stage for a thrilling story and establish a compelling dynamic between Adrian and his mother.
In addition to a brand new translation and extensive backmatter -- Lastman Book One will include an introduction by Robert Kirkman, best known for The Walking Dead and Invincible, who has been a longtime fan of the series. Skybound will collect all twelve volumes of the series in six books, which will feature the gorgeous full-color opening pages of each volume.
The official synopsis for Lastman Book One reads "Adrian Velba has trained all year to fight in the Valley of Kings’ legendary tournament. However, despite his ambition, he has no chance of winning. Not only is his partner unable to compete, but at 12 years old, Adrian is the longest of long shots. That is, until a mysterious, powerful stranger enters town, offering to join forces with Adrian. But who is Richard Aldana? And why in a world of magic does he rely solely on his fists?"
Amanda LaFranco, the editor of Lastman Book One added, "I'm so thrilled that Skybound is bringing the complete Lastman series to English for the first time, and that we have the opportunity to retranslate and repackage the book into these new, remastered editions. This classic series is beloved for so many reasons, but the vast and vibrant world that Bastien Vivès, Balak, and Michaël Sanlaville have crafted through their storytelling, characters, and action is a marvel in sequential storytelling. One thing that has been vastly important to us, is being as true to the original French collections as possible, maintaining the dialogue and humor as the creators intended, and I think we're accomplishing that in these editions. These are books I truly cannot wait for readers to get ahold of -- once you dive in you're almost guaranteed to become a fan. This story is just that fun."
Lastman Book One will be available at comic shops on Wednesday, November 9.