Stagger Lee is cool...real cool...The music is just as impressive...History was never so interesting. Read on!
Graphic novels can make you laugh, cry, feel sorrow, shame, and educate you. All the while taking you on a journey somehow more than a simple 'comic'. The latest novel to do that is "Stagger Lee" from Image Comics written by Derek McCulloch and illustrated by Shepherd Hendrix. Based on the murder of Billy Lyons by Lee Skelton (Stagger Lee), the true story has become legend.
Like all legends, the truth has become obscured by time and storytellers alike. That's where the brilliance of this book shines through. McCulloch presents both sides of the event and shed light on the racial tension that surrounded the trial and players. Historically, Billy Lyons was part of the powerful African American movement that was just beginning. The murder of a black man by a black man would have normally been deemed not important, but like "To Kill A Mocking Bird", all it takes is one.
Little did I realize that the legend of Stagger Lee had inspired so many songs. Artists from the Clash to Neil Diamond and back to the early 1900's have manipulated the story and told either the black, or white version. Along with my reviewers copy, Jim Demonakos included an exclusive "Stagger Lee" collection of 20 songs that enhanced the Graphic novel experience.
This is an excellent example of the power of the genre. Illustrated in black and white, the power of the art matches the intelligent story and sad ending of a man pivotal to black history.
Hey, look for this one at your local comic dealer. Or go online at www.imagecomics.com.
I remain,
A fan of the genre.
Tim Lasiuta
