It’s Summer Reading time! This year we are delving deep in an attempt to uncover the unknown. In the spirit of this, why not take a look at some of these graphic novel hidden gems? This list features comics that either relate to the theme of exploring the unseen or might showcase works that are more directly related to archeology-adjacent topics. With all of that in mind, let’s dig in!
“Tunnels”
Imagine “Indiana Jones” as a bold satirical analysis of the conflict between Israel and Palestine. That’s essentially what this first entry boils down to. Protagonist Nili attempts to locate the Ark of the Covenant in order to salvage her ailing father’s legacy. All the while she encounters various exaggerated characters, both friend and foe, in this somewhat allegorical adventure. Author Modan leans into political absurdity in order to illustrate the pitfalls of religious fanaticism and nationalism.
“The World of Andong Agimat”
Keeping with the themes of mysterious artifacts, hidden 
potential, etc., we have “The World of Andong Agimat.” In this one, ex-gang leader Andong has taken a path of redemption and operates as a vigilante attempting to tame the chaotic underbelly of the city of Manila. The city is rife with terrorism and besieged by a local cult. Agimat finds himself overwhelmed, and therefore will have to team up with unlikely allies in order to put a stop the the rampant crime that has befallen his city. Author Arnold Arre won the inaugural graphic novel Philippine National Book Award in 2000 for “The Mythology Class”.
“Sapiens”
Here we have a nonfiction graphic novel, which is a rarity for Quintessential Comics. If you’re passionate about ancient history, evolution or anthropology, check out this next one: “Sapiens” is an illustrated history of the human race, spanning huge swaths of human development. Part scientific analysis, part introspective philosophical musing, this work attempts to define just what it means to be human. Containing evocative illustrations of specific historical events, this graphic novel is sure to grab your attention and hold it.
“1177 B. C.”
Continuing with our historical works, we have “1177 B. 
C.” While “Sapiens” was a more general look at the story of the human race, “1177 B.C.” paints a picture of a very specific moment in time. This graphic novel asks the question: What led to the collapse of the ancient civilizations of the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean more than three thousand years ago, bringing the Late Bronze Age to an abrupt end?
“The Goddamned”
These lists are meant to appeal to a variety of comic fans. Therefore, we’re wrapping this one up with “The Goddamned” for fans of gratuitous violence, monsters and characters with grit. Set 1,600 years after the Garden of Eden, this graphic novel follows Caine, son of Adam, as he navigates this hellish landscape. Humanity stands on the precipice of the first flood, and chaos reigns supreme. If you’ve been looking for a comic with a very heavy metal vibe, you’ve found it.
That’s it for this installment. Be sure to keep an eye out for the next issue!
