Long Walk to Valhalla Review

Long Walk to Valhalla is an original graphic novel by writer Adam Smith and artist Matthew Fox. Without giving too much away, this book is about two brothers' growing up in rural Arkansas.  The younger brother, Rory, must look out for his mute older brother Joe. Some years later, Rory meets Sylvia, a self proclaimed Maiden of Odin, who is charged with escorting Rory to the afterlife. That description is as far as the preview on the cover goes, so I'll stop there too.

Just know this book is a treat from beginning to end. The tale is a raw showcase of what growing up impoverished in the rural countryside must be like. There isn't much joy to be found in the lives of our protagonists. The colors by Matthew Fox help convey that. I've never seen a grayscale comic look so beautiful. Like an old movie, you forget this isn't full color. The blues, grays, black and whites are a treasure to behold. Fox also does the lettering, which helps the book ooze personality.

I can't say the more abstract aspects of the book make much sense to me, but as a plot device it works. Beyond that, the characters all experience growth. The showdown towards the end show that Rory has indeed learned from his past. There isn't a dull moment in the story, and I found myself finishing the book in an hour.

On a personal note, being from Arkansas, it's extremely cool seeing local talent make a beautiful hardback that creates a mythology I can call my own. There are references to towns around Arkansas, and I'm sure I've driven down the same roads that are in this book. I've met people like Rory and Joe's dad, I've met tight groups of friends from rural places, and I've fished for mudpuppies using bacon. Writer Adam Smith should be applauded for creating something so genuine. I can't wait to see what these two talents create next.

Who is this for? I'd recommend this for high schoolers and up. I'd also recommend going into this book blind. This is definitely worth reading. If you're from Arkansas, doubly so. This story is mature, emotional, and haunting.