Imperial

July 6, 2015
Seagle, who co-created Big Hero Six and Ben 10 as part of the studio Man of Action, collaborates with artist Dos Santos (Eureka) to create a fast-paced graphic novel about Mark McDonnell, an average guy about to get married. He's interrupted at the scattering of his father's ashes by a classy superhero named Imperial, who declares that despite Mark's apparent lack of intelligence or physical ability, the crown he wears has selected him as the next Imperial. As Mark tries to plan his wedding and accustom himself to the idea of married life, he is constantly swept away from his betrothed, Katie, and taken on flying lessons and laser eye sessions in the desert. This comic has an engaging voice that pulls the reader in right from the first pages. Despite his simple nature, Mark is a likable, reflective, thoughtful young man whose story unfolds with many humorous moments. The art is active and lively, fitting the story well, and leading to an ending that's unexpectedly moving, perhaps even profound.