Graphic Novel Reviews: Chu Volume 1: First Course

John Layman is back with another zany, light-hearted, crime drama set in the universe of his Eisner and Harvey award winning series “Chew.” Only this time the focus is on the younger rebellious sister of detective Tony Chu from his original series. Those familiar with “Chew” will remember that Tony has the ability to pull memories and clues from objects by tasting them. Spoiler alert, Tony’s sister has a similar ability that involves eating food and she likes to use this ability to stir the pot and get what she wants.

“Chu” follows criminal bombshell, Saffron Chu as she plots and schemes with her boyfriend Eddie, landing herself on the radar of the number one crime boss in the city who places a bounty on her head and sends assassins after her. Saffron’s brother, Tony, has been given a case that just so happens to involve his little sister. When the time comes will he put his family above the law or will he maintain his morals and bring her to justice? Will Saffron change her ways or continue her destructive life of crime?

Layman’s entertaining story delves deeper into the Chu family and their larger than life personalities. Boultwood’s illustrations are fun and his use of color is quite pleasing to the eyes. Both creators seem to be in sync and have put together a pager turner that is a must have for public library collections. Even though this is technically a spin-off, readers new to the series will still be able to enjoy this book without having read the previous series. And for those fans of the original series, it’s been four years since they have gotten a taste of the Chu family and this book is sure to leave them with their mouths watering for more.