Review by Frank Plowright

At one time Idelwood was entirely under the dark watch of the Brigade of Shade. Their influence has diminished, but they still hold an attraction for some, including Hawthorne, determined to join them during their next public audition session.

Kennedy Tarrell has already shown us that whatever they want to be, Hawthorne’s not really a bad kid, and this is just a misguided career choice. However, there’s a confidence of being a better fit than Maple, who takes sweetness and charm to almost saccharine levels, yet also wants to join the Brigade of Shade.

So many great cartoonists have emerged in recent years working on graphic novels for younger audiences it’s only natural to wonder why the talent hasn’t been seen in comics before. In Tarrell’s case it’s because she’s been working in animation. There she’s just one of many in a team, but on Evil Ish her ability to design and communicate really stands out. The cast have weight and emotions, the scenery is beautifully created, and Tarrell is the full package for also having a great sense of colour adding atmosphere.

While everything looks spectacular, Tarrell’s writing doesn’t match the art. There’s a facility for comedy and resonant emotion, but scenes are extended too far, especially Maple’s backstory, while some interesting looking characters could do with greater development. There’s a predictable arc to themes of not really fitting in, people not always being who they seem, taking responsibility for mistakes, and grasping reality as it is. Tarrell, though, delivers Hawthorne’s experiences with enough visual charm and imagination to overcome what’s foreseeable.

This stands up as better than average, but moreso as a statement as what Tarrell might be capable of in the future.