Graphic Novel Reviews: Streamliner 2: All-In Day

Smell that gasoline? Grab the clutch, and go for the finish line.

Streamliner 2: All-In Day puts you in the fast-lane. This adrenaline-pumping graphic novel is Mad Max meets dieselpunk. Dieselpunk features an alternate universe where diesel powers advanced technology.

Several gangs compete in the Streamline Championship. The track is in the desert, and any violent measures can be taken in order to win while racing full speed. Few will survive. Cristal wants to win in order to make the O’Neil Desert an official and reputable track. Billy Joe is the leader of the Red Noses Gang. He will be driven out of town if he loses the race. The other competitors have their eyes on the prize and will take every unsavory trick to win.

This graphic novel is a sequel. Some knowledge of the first volume would help readers understand the world building and characterization. As a duology, buying the set would give readers the complete story. However, most of this graphic novel is action so feel free to enjoy the ride as a solo purchase.

The artwork is fully colored. The sepia and blue hues give the illustration a retro feel. Heavy outlining adds to the dieselpunk, gritty tone. Chapter breaks feature 1950s-esque advertisements. Even though every picture is a snapshot of action, the action lines and storyboard structure makes readers feel as if they are on the racetrack watching the death match as it speeds away.

Streamliner 2: All-In Day is for mature audiences. There is plenty of indiscriminate violence and cursing. A great selection for fans of the graphic novel Aster of Pan and the movie Fast and Furious.

-Angela Dabrowski, Senior Library Assistant