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Comic Book Review - Mamo #2

Rob reviews Mamo #2...



Mamo is that rare breed of comic that captures the reader from its first page. Whether it be the engrossing story or its gorgeous artwork, Mamo will certainly have something within its pages that'll keep you reading. Last time out I gave Mamo #1 a resounding 10/10 and this time it's very much the same.

The last time we met both Jo and Orla, Milledge began introducing us to their world. It soon turns out that this world is governed by the use of magic, and as such Orla is a powerful - if not a reclusive - witch. We join Jo as she seeks Orla's help in curing her Mother of an apparent curse. While initially reluctant Orla soon decides to help. As the two youngsters travel back to town Orla speaks of her late grandmother - the titular Mamo. Once back at Jo's home, Orla is drawn to the homes attic and comes face to face with a giant moth that she identifies as Mamo!

Issue #2 picks off straight after this revelation. As Mamo's spirit starts to overwhelm Orla, Jo rushes in and saves the young Witch by helping with a protection charm. Now that Mamo's spirit is trapped, Orla muses about what could be the root of Haresden's troubles. Turns out it could indeed be Mamo. 

It soon turns out that due to her Grandmother not receiving a proper burial, she's haunting the places where her bones were scattered. And it's one of these bones that causing both Jo's Mother's infliction and Mamo's presence in the house. As a result Orla then sets out to end the town's troubles, before they end up destroying the town. 

What I like about Mamo is that it had just the right balance of exposition. Milledge does a wonderful job of explaining the past while pushing the current events forward. The conversations that the characters have are each quite deep and meaningful. Both Orla and Jo have plenty of depth to their characters. We get quite a bit of insight into the girls past as Milledge dives into Orla's turbulent relationship with Mamo. On the other hand, we're also shown Jo's upbringing that's full of playful nicknames and a warm family feeling. 

Aside from characters, magic also makes up a chunk of this mystical world. While we're still yet to learn its full origins, we are shown that anyone can potentially harness the power to use this magic. It very much feels like some classic foreshadowing in that we could see another Witch appear before the series end. 

Mamo #2 continues with the same energy that made its opening such a compelling read. Sas Milledge utilises the quiet periods in her story to not only expand its world but to create more mystery. The art is just as incredible as before and every scene leaps straight from the page. Considering too that this is all the work of one talented writer/artist, Sas Milledge is giving us a masterclass in how a solo creator works. I already cannot wait for issue #3! 

Rating 10/10 

Rob Lake - For more comic book and video game chat why not follow Geek Culture Reviews on Twitter and Facebook @GeekCultureRev
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