Popular science-fiction and fantasy author Neil Gaiman is returning to comic books - this time with a graphic novel adaption of his charming short story “Chivalry”, and to do so he is teaming up with illustrator Colleen Doran. The comic sees the longtime collaborators join forces once again.
Gaiman and Doran wowed readers with their previous collaborations, Snow, Glass Apples. The dark take on the classic Snow White fairy tale had both writer and illustrator raking in the awards, including the much-sought-after Eisner Award. The story, following the Queen as she tries to protect her kingdom from Snow White, is the kind of twist that readers have come to expect from Gaiman’s stories. And that’s not even mentioning their delightful, coming-of-age work, Troll Bridge.
With their newest team-up for Dark Horse Comics, Chivalry, Gaiman and Doran are already catching the attention of eager fans. His original short story puts a uniquely Gaiman-esque twist on the classic Grail quest. Instead of King Arthur and his band of knights, there is an elderly widow - Mrs. Whitaker - who purchases the Holy Grail at a thrift store, only to be dragged on a strange adventure and barraged by one dogged knight as he attempts to convince the old woman to offer up her second-hand relic for his quest, and perhaps trade it in for some other, nicer relics.
As an illustrator, Doran has promised comic book readers “Golden Age illustration styles and Illuminated Manuscript studies” for Chivalry - a promise that hints at leaning into her natural strength as an artist. Gaiman gushes her praises, stating that she has created “a whole new style” for the duo’s story of knights and little old ladies.
The two have plenty of comic book experience under their belts and have made a fearsome team. Gaiman having somewhat started his career penning the popular Sandman comics, while Doran has built a name with her work on Sandman and The Book of Lost Souls, and recently hit the New York Times bestseller list for her work on Amazing Fantastic Incredible Stan Lee. Chivalry takes two talented creators at the top of their game and fits them together for a graphic novel that is certain to be work anticipating.
Chivalry won’t hit shelves until September 2021, but, in the meantime, fans with simply have to wait for this Holy Grail of a graphic novel, and perhaps take a peek in their local thrift store for their own quest. Readers looking to get their hands on Neil Gaiman and Colleen Doran's work can pre-order a copy at their local comic shop or online.
Source: Dark Horse Comics.