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Review: Black River by Josh Simmons

A Miniature Poodle is lying on a fluffy blanket with a softcover book to the right and a decorative human skull above the book. The book is Black River By Josh Simmons


Black RiverI purchased a copy of BLACK RIVER by Josh Simmons at my local library's book sale. I picked it up, thinking it would be a good read for the spooky season. However, it was not exactly what I expected. This graphic novel offers a harrowing journey through a post-apocalyptic wasteland, showcasing a dark and bleak narrative that is not for the faint-hearted. Simmons delves into the depths of human suffering, particularly focusing on women, crafting a story devoid of hope or respite. The graphic novel follows a group of survivors navigating this desolate world, where the collapse of civilization is shrouded in a supernatural haze, leaving characters teetering on the edge of sanity. The lack of character development and intentional distancing from the reader may contribute to a sense of detachment but amplifies the feeling of helplessness, mirroring the characters' experiences. The black and white art, with its contrasts and textures, adds a tangible layer to the grim tale, enhancing the bleakness. However, the unrelenting brutality and misery, lacking a deeper purpose or point, make this a challenging read, testing my limits of discomfort and leaving me questioning its meaning and value amidst the darkness. This graphic novel is not for the faint of heart.

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