CANTO #3: Listen Learn & Train

The first few pages immediately swallow your attention! As Canto and his best “beast” friend falls helplessly deep within the beast, the narration by David Booher with lettering by Deron Bennett articulates an age old story of a boy’s life lesson that he must take the time to listen, learn, and train before jumping blindly to become the knight in shiny armor. Booher knows how to take the reader deep in thought as many people can relate their own life lessons to these first few pages. A talent to immediately hook the reader, Booher has, yes he does!

Once Canto and his Malorex friend reach the bottom, they find out exactly where they are and this is the connection to the ending of the last issue. The dynamic duo is a little confused and disoriented and realizes they are not alone in this strange cavern. Canto is gathering his wits to defend himself and his friend if need be. Like any inexperienced soldier or knight, the first lesson is to listen before charging. This is a common lesson for many, but like Canto, all lessons have their trials and errors.

The hermit reveals himself and Canto is fueled with rage. He strikes out; however, the hermit quickly places Canto in his place. The bulk of this book, Canto learns many things that he has in common with this hermit, who has been an enemy of the tiny tin people. Booher’s talent and skill continue to shine as a fantasy writer within Canto #3. The spectacular artwork by Drew Zucker and colors by Vittorio Astone, enhance Booher’s storyline. The stomach of the monster feels realistic with a clear vision, especially by us spelunkers. I can almost smell the air of this cavern. The walls and flooring has great details, but there could have been more to enhance the surroundings. However, that is rather mute to the plot of this story. Booher takes time in Cano #3 to build the “hermit” character and we see references of Yoda from Star Wars in this creature. Canto learns that his people and the hermit’s people have been manipulated and controlled by another entity. Booher maps out the past and articulates well with the characters. After some great story telling, the hermit guides Canto by offering; “You may rest…or you may train. The choice is yours.”

The next few pages Bennett, Zucker, and Astone pays tribute to master hermit and his apprentice. By the end of Canto #3, our little tin man is ready to continue his journey and we are ready for the next issue. Bring on “The Shrouded Man”!