Saga: An Epic Journey through Love, War, and the Cosmos

The graphic novel series by Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples

I have known about the SAGA graphic novel series for the longest time, but unfortunately, could never afford to buy all the different volumes. With each volume priced at around 1000 INR, it was just too much for me. Flash forward to my Scribd subscription, which really made it possible for me to read all the 9 volumes released so far, for about just 300 INR per month. If you can, I would definitely urge you to get this subscription because it has made reading so much more accessble! And this is not an ad; I am wholly promoting this based on my lovely expereince with it.

Disclaimer: All opinions shared in this review are my own. This is not sponsored by either the creators of the graphic novel series, or Scribd.

Please keep in mind that this graphic novel has quite a lot of explicit content and is definitely NOT for kids. Kindly also look up the trigger warnings before going in.

Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples have crafted a masterwork of storytelling in their groundbreaking graphic novel series, SAGA. As a reader who has ventured through the first six volumes and eagerly hopes to read the seventh soon, I can confidently say that this series is a modern classic in the realm of comics and graphic novels. It is a sprawling, imaginative, and emotionally charged tale that defies genre conventions, pushing the boundaries of storytelling and artistry.

Setting and world building

SAGA is set in a universe unlike any other, where the familiar and the bizarre coexist harmoniously. The story revolves around Alana and Marko, two star-crossed lovers from opposing sides of an interstellar war. Alana is a soldier from the technologically advanced Landfall, while Marko is a pacifist from the mystical Wreath. Their love defies the politics of their respective homeworlds, leading them on an odyssey across the cosmos with their newborn daughter, Hazel.

What sets SAGA apart is its exceptional world-building. Vaughan and Staples have created a rich, diverse universe populated with a staggering array of species and characters, each with their own unique quirks, motivations, and backstories. From a lying, TV-headed prince to a lovable, one-eyed seal named Ghus, the characters breathe life into the pages and ensure that you’ll become emotionally invested in their fates.

Another aspect that makes SAGA stand out is its unpredictability. Vaughan is not afraid to take risks with his characters, and no one is safe from the brutal realities of their universe. This willingness to subvert expectations keeps readers on the edge of their seats and underscores the series’ sense of urgency.

Major themes

At the heart of the series is the theme of family. Alana, Marko, and Hazel’s journey is not just one of survival but of growth and self-discovery. They encounter a motley crew of allies and adversaries along the way, including the enigmatic ghostly babysitter Izabel, the morally ambiguous freelancer The Will, and the unforgettable Lying Cat. Each character adds depth and complexity to the narrative, and their interactions reflect the intricacies of family dynamics.

One of SAGA’s greatest strengths is its willingness to tackle relevant and thought-provoking themes. It addresses issues like war, discrimination, sexuality, and parenthood with sensitivity and nuance. These themes are interwoven seamlessly into the story, enhancing the emotional impact of the series. The characters’ struggles are relatable, even in the context of a fantastical universe, which makes their triumphs and tragedies all the more poignant.

The mindblowing art!

Fiona Staples’ artwork is nothing short of extraordinary. Her illustrations are a visual feast, with each panel meticulously crafted to convey a wide range of emotions. The character designs are inventive, and the alien landscapes are both breathtaking and horrifying in equal measure. Staples’ use of color is masterful, evoking different moods and atmospheres that enhance the storytelling. The combination of her art and Vaughan’s writing creates a synergy that elevates SAGA to the pinnacle of graphic storytelling.

Picking up Part 7

Saga Part 7 is on my September TBR, and as I eagerly await picking it up, I reflect on the profound impact SAGA has had on the world of comics. It has shattered boundaries, challenged conventions, and expanded the possibilities of what graphic storytelling can achieve. Vaughan and Staples have created a narrative masterpiece that resonates with readers on a deeply emotional level while dazzling them with its creativity.

In conclusion, SAGA is a rare gem in the world of graphic novels, a tour de force of storytelling, artistry, and imagination. It is a series that demands to be read, reread, and celebrated. If you’ve already ventured into the cosmic odyssey of Alana, Marko, and Hazel, you know that the journey is far from over. And if you’re just starting out, prepare to be captivated by a universe where love, war, and the infinite wonders of the cosmos collide in spectacular fashion.

Nayanika Saikia graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature and was also a Dean’s List student. She recently graduated with a First Class Master’s Degree in English Literature. She is a Booktuber and Bookstagrammer. She can often be found on her Instagram account Pretty Little Bibliophile.