Bastard

This economically told graphic novel examines the strength of maternal love and the tribulations of childhood through the lens of crime fiction. After having been involved in a historic series of thefts that unexpectedly veered into murder, young mother May flees the “wolf pack of criminals” that she was involved with, toting along her preteen son, Eugene, and several duffel bags loaded with cash. After altering their appearances, the unlikely Bonnie and Clyde’s road trip brings them into contact with a former businessman turned vagabond trucker, as well as ruthless killers and an idyllic commune of senior citizens and Native Americans in New Mexico. Radiguès (Weegee) deploys a sparse visual style that imparts a childlike perception of the events while keeping the reader invested with his handling of the tender relationship between May and Eugene. Though May is a career criminal and Eugene was raised in her culture of lawlessness, their bond is as undeniable as it is touching. Rich in storytelling despite its deceptive simplicity of style, the surprising plot twists and character development make this a must-read. (Oct.)