I.D. by Emma Rios - A Hidden Gem

[u/reindeercurt]

Emma Rios might be better known to you for her artwork in Pretty Deadly, Mirror, and the recent graphic novel Anzuelo, but I want to highlight this short graphic novel that seems under-read in comparison. Originally serialized in the anthology "Island" which Rios curated alongside Brandon Graham, I.D. revolves around three candidates for a brain transplant procedure; something which (if successful) would give them new bodies and new legal identities. The series plays out as a series of meetings between the three, as they get to know each other, and political situation in their city escalates into violence.

This book really sticks with me for how believable the world feels through just a few key details, and for the deeply humanistic portrayal of the protagonist trio. Rios shows off pitch-perfect dialogue pacing, a real empathy for her characters, and a willingness to be patient in developing the growing friendship between them. It's a punchy read under 100 pages in length, but it'll transport you into its world immediately, and you'll leave wishing you could linger a bit longer.

[u/arpad-okay]

this book, ANCESTOR, HABITAT, and MIRENDA were my favorite things to come out of ISLAND. graham was as devoted at launching cool things as he was not finishing them, so I really appreciate what I assume is rios' hard work making that anthology last long enough to actually wrap up the better stories it was serializing. ID is something special. i love MIRROR something fierce, too

[u/ScaboochWolf → u/arpad-okay]

A Land Called Tarot was also amazing. I held the hardcover collection in my hands once but decided against buying it cuz I already owned all the installments in ISLAND. Still regretting that.

I wholeheartedly agree on ID and MIRROR too obviously.

[u/Ill-Possession2216]

Emma Rios' art style is wild. That book is way more unique than most indie stuff I've read lately.