Doctor Strange: Into Shamballa (Marvel Graphic Novel) by J. M. DeMatteis… (edition 1986)

Reading through this was like experiencing a watercolour painting for the senses and a fresh splash of cold water to the face. First off, Dan Green's artwork is simply gorgeous, a treat to the eye. The abstractness suits the nature and world of Doctor Strange very well as a huge theme of the character is the mysticism of our world which Green does excellently through the abstract style. This is probably one of the best comics illustrations I have ever seen. The plot is fairly standard for a Doctor Strange story, although it reads less like a comic book and more of a short story with how its text boxes and font is formatted. Avid fans will love this staple to the good Doctor's stories, while new fans will be fascinated by the art and world. ( )

What an unusual read! Less a comic and more an illustrated short story, the prose is perhaps a little too steeped in mysticism, with the end being (predictably) little more than philosophical reflection and revelation. That's not necessarily bad, and arguably what a Doctor Strange story should be - and, appropriately, what J.M. DeMatteis is known for. Dan Green's painted artwork is gorgeous (if occasionally too abstract) and somewhat reminiscent of Jon J. Muth's , another frequent DeMatteis collaborator. All in all, this graphic novel is probably a great example of why the Doctor has never been able to hold a monthly series for very long: When done right, it's odd and enjoyable - but only in very small doses. ( )