Broken Frontier

Joey, Courtney, and the Night Pride make a new ally on their dangerous journey. Time is against them, though, as King Bear faces the specter of execution.

Have you ever gone to see a movie sequel only to walk out of the theater disappointed? Never fear because that will not happen picking up Lions, Tigers and Bears vol. 2, #2. Author Mike Bullock cleverly and cannily expands upon themes and ideas from the first series, all the while never losing new readers.

When last seen in issue #1, Joey had been separated from the rest of the Night Pride. Lost in the snowy mountains, he is found by the strong but affable polar bear, Marco. Joey is quickly reunited with Courtney and the Night Pride and Marco joins the determined band as they make a hasty retreat from a Beastie attack. They have a long way to go to the Crystal Castle, though, and the Beasties infest the land in between. Meanwhile, Valthraax is making plans beyond the Stuffed Animal Kingdom. Will the Night Pride arrive in time to save King Bear and all the captive children?

There is such a wealth to carry away from each issue of Lions, Tigers and Bears and each one keeps building on what has gone before. Here readers are treated to new secrets of the Crystal Throne and Valthraax’s wider scheme. I also loved the reference to "The Last Ride of the Polar Bear Patrol" which immediately brings to mind shades of The Charge of the Light Brigade. The threat levels are increased and in response the importance of hope and faith in the future are made more important. Joey, as well, begins learning some new lessons. There is all of this and much, much more all stuffed into an adventure packed yarn.

Bullock’s able partner in all of this is artist Jack Lawrence. His bright, colorful, cartoony style renders the stuffed animal warriors adorable, noble, and fierce by turns. He also again displays his talent for expression in the faces of the captured children. The children are individualistic and the reader can easily see varying stages of fear and apprehension among them, as well as some courage and determination. Best of all, though, is a sequence in the dungeon in which Lawrence subtly changes the perspective between three panels in order to emphasize who is really caged.

If you have not yet found the portal to the Stuffed Animal Kingdom it is still not too late. Open the cover and discover a world of adventure that is tailor made to share.