Human Lizard Rules Toronto...

Human-Lizard pin up by Jason Loo.

A quick disclaimer before I begin this comic book review, that I will be reviewing this book based on my experience reading the book. I say this because as a Toronto artist and comic illustrator, I am so proud and happy to know Jason Loo. The fact that this book is in my hands and in the hands of plenty of others all across the country and the globe, well that is incredible. This is the kind of work I want to be able to do and to be able to reach as many as possible. We are both huge fans of Seven Lives Tacos as well, it is our bond. So that being said, time to let you guys know, what The Pitiful Human-Lizard is all about.

So the basic plot...

"The Pitiful Human-Lizard is a new comic book series created by cartoonist Jason Loo. The story follows corporate lackey Lucas Barrett who finds excitement outside his 9-to-5 job as a struggling superhero. The debut issue is a grounded underdog story that takes place in the city of Toronto. It's a new, comical approach on a superhero who is uniquely Canadian." 

That is of course the most basic and spoiler free description of the book.

The book is just so much more then that though, with an amazing pace and page flow with the ability to make you laugh all the while delivering an incredibly classic comic book story. The different relationships that take place for Lucas/Human-Lizard is amazing, from stronger heroes to the locals of Toronto or his work or even his parents, the book shows all these different relationships and how he reacts with everyone. The progress of these relationships flow and change through the book, to being practical invisible to most all the way to being the next big hero for kids all over Toronto. The Human Lizard doesn't go from zero to hero completely though, and he still has a lot to learn himself, which gives the readers so much to look forward to in the next issues. And while Human Lizard is doing well, Lucas still hasn't landed a date or gained any kind of respect at work. Needless to say I am very interested in what's going to happen next. 

I highly recommend this book to fans of independent and super hero comics alike, especially fans of Spider-man and The Spirit. And while Spider-man has died and come back to life, it's been a long time since I've gotten a good laugh with one of his books. Something that Human-Lizard was able to do plenty of times, from a late night brawl with a harmless hot dog vendor to the ring tone of the boss in Lucas department. And with plenty of different locations of Toronto used, it makes for an awesome back drop, with locations like the club district and the Royal Ontario Museum making an appearance, plenty of sights to see. Another thing to look forward to is where will the lizard be next. 

Human-Lizard pin up by Vince Sunico.

With the amount of anticipation that I had for this book, I am so glad it delivered. It's been awhile since I've had fun reading a comic book, and it's great to know this is from a local Toronto talent. So to everyone in the GTA, go out and get this book at your local comic book store now, it is more then worthy to be part of your collection. Also be sure to stay tuned and like The Pitiful Human-Lizard Facebook Page as well to keep track of all Human-Lizard news, not to mention Jason Loo will be at many different locations signing copies of the book, so be sure to be there. 

That's all the time I've got for today guys, be sure to follow and comment below here and let me know what you thought of The Pitiful Human-Lizard or give me suggestions on other great comic books that I should be taking a look at. I will try and do a book review atleast once a week, especially with Fan Expo coming at the end of the summer, it will let you know what books are worth your time and money. Thanks again for your time, and keep chasing the storm.