Scalped #42

Written by Jason Aaron
Art by R.M. Guera

Okay, so by now we all know the drill - a new issue of Scalped comes out, and I spend praise it to the best of my meager abilities, and a month later, the cycle repeats itself.

This issue is no different, except for that fact that my usual praise seems paltry when compared to how powerful this comic is.  Last issue ended with Dash and Carol meeting in the road.  This issue, following a dream sequence, opens with them having two conversations.  We get the clipped, reticent conversation they are really having, while also being able to read what they wish they were saying to each other, but are both too afraid or just unable to give voice to.  It's very effective, and fills the pages with emotion.

After that, we see FBI Agent Nitz intercepting Wade on his way to meet with Dash, thereby further entrenching in Dash the opinion that he is all alone.  While this is going on, Carol goes to the abortion clinic.  I don't want to give away what her final decision is, as everything in this arc has been leading to this moment, but I will say that this scene, followed by her conversation with Granny Poor Bear, had me close to tears (which is pretty rare in comics).

I firmly believe that this issue should receive an Eisner for comic of the year.  Every aspect of it is perfect, from Aaron's sensitive writing to Guera's clear and expressive art.  Even if you have never read an issue of Scalped, and have no idea who anyone is, you should be able to be impressed by this comic.