The Gift #5
Overcast Comics
Writer: Raven Gregory
Penciller: Tyler Kirkham
Inks: Rich Bonk, Marco Galli, Rick Basaldua
Price: $2.95

Rating: 4 stars

The Gift is one of those books that pleasantly surprise a person. It is a multi-layered title that maintains an aura of mystery yet can have a single issue draw in a new reader without being too complicated to understand. Issue five, which arrived in the stores this week, especially caught my eye.

Focusing on a young boy named Henry the life he leads since the death of his mother, this issue shows that perceptions are not what they seem. From Henry?s attempt to keep the peace with his dad, to his problems in school, the book gives a simple overview of his daily existence. Entering the picture is a mysterious stranger with the power to bestow a gift of power upon an individual he deems ready and worthy. The end results are both poignant and tragic, giving the impression that the gift is a mixed bag.

Writer Raven Gregory is writing a book that is obviously dear to his heart. From what I can tell by reading the letters pages, Gregory pestered Top Cow editor Renae Geerlings until she helped him make his title a reality. It is paying off in spades with an incredibly deep, touching series that has yet to scratch the surface of Gregory?s vision. The stranger who bestows the gift to each person is a mystery in and of it, and unraveling the strings that make up his persona should be a treat to behold.

Penciller Tyler Kirkham is the next superstar artist if he plays his cards right. Deep to the core with the Top Cow style, Kirkham brings an extra layer of finishing touches to his work that set him apart from other emerging artists. I am really impressed with his work here, and from the preview of his work on Cyber force. Kirkham understands pacing, and his characterization grows with each passing issue. I am excited to follow Kirkham?s career, and hope the best for him.

The Gift is a unique, compelling title that is new enough that readers can hop on without too much confusion. I would recommend it to any of my friends who read comics. I consider it a horror/mystery comic with a touch of fantasy to it. I added it to my pull list at my local comics shop, and am settled in for the long haul for what looks to be a huge payback.

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