Graphic Novel Reviews: Aster of Pan

Aster of Pan is a high-speed graphic novel.

Aster is a red-haired girl who lives in the far future after an undescribed nuclear event. She is as quick, agile, and cunning as a fox, and she wears a fox tail wherever she goes. She is not allowed to be a citizen of Pan and relies on her friend, Willis, for rations and education. However, when Pan is invaded and given an ultimatum of occupancy by the nation of Fortuna, she is entered into a series of political games called the Celestial Mechanics, which will determine the future agency of the Pan nation.

Aster of Pan begins as a typical post-apocalyptic scenario: two teens salvaging through the ruins of once-familiar settings now deteriorating and being reclaimed by the elements. Then, the narrative turns on its heel, and Aster enters a political arena, and the narrative again morphs into a hardcore sports story. Adventure and intrigue builds with each twist of the story, and the final result is ultimately a harmonious blend of different storytelling focuses.

After all, what better way to settle a dispute than a modified dodge ball tournament?

Author and illustrator, Merwan, shows his storyboard mastery with his fast-paced action scenes. Readers will feel like they are watching a movie instead of reading a graphic novel. The imagery looks like watercolor and adds effortless beauty to very grounded characters.

Have you read the Chunin Exam in Naruto? Have you cheered during a Haikuu!! volleyball match? Did you cry during the Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games? Did you read Marie Lu’s Warcross with baited breath? Then, Aster of Pan is the graphic novel for you!

Aster of Pan sets out to be a myth of the “triumph of spirit” over unreasonable and unfair odds and succeeds. Whether person or legend, Aster is an easy character to cheer for success. Readers may even shout out loud at some of Aster’s spectacular dodges and scores. The toxic environment is easy to relate to during the current pandemic, and the overall message is very relevant for modern times.

Aster of Pan is a great young adult graphic novel. There is very little cursing and lots of action. The story is readily accessible to fans reading novels such as The Hunger Games or reading manga like Haikyu!! If readers want a strong heroine for modern times or a good sports story, this is the graphic novel to buy.