THE ONLY LIVING BOY tells the story of 12-year old runaway Erik Farrell, who wakes up the only human on a dangerous planet with no memory of how he got there and chronicles his daily struggle for survival. Erik as written by Gallaher is vulnerable, tough and smart enough to realize early on he needs allies if he’s going to survive and make his way home. Doggedly pursued by Lord Baalikar and his henchmen including evil Doctor Once, Erick quickly throws his lot in with Morgan, a proud mermaid warrior & Thea, royalty of a strange race of sentient insects.
Created by Harvey award-winning creators writer Gallaher and artist Ellis, this series has many devotees, including yours truly worldwide and has received critical and fan acclaim since its launch. It’s such an awesome throw back to pulp serial adventures like Buck Rogers & Flash Gordon and for me reminiscent of Saturday morning Hanna Barbera cartoons I loved like Johnny Quest or Herculoids in the best of ways. Mr Ellis expertly captures the old school dynamism of Jack Kirby but is original in his composition and use of contrasts and shades that propel the story toward. Nobody composes a splash page quite like Steve Ellis!
The female characters in particular are complex flashed out and well developed. I particularly like Thea’s Amazonian take on mermaid culture and girl empowerment. (I’d love to see a Little Mermaid redux featuring no nonsense Thea!) it’s gritty and exciting but suitable for all ages. Gallaher, a former special needs educator, writes his heroes lovingly with fiery sprits, kind hearts and the ability to overcome challenges creatively.
The protagonists deal with loss, abandonment, and conflict in a genuine and resonant way. My kids love this series and had the pleasure to meet Mr. Gallaher and Mr. Ellis who were so gracious, kind and awe-inspiring in their comic workshop at East Side Mags in Montclair, NJ.
Volume #2 available now from Amazon is a terrific continuation of Erik’s journey of self discovery and adapting to life in this Lost World. The story progresses in ways you might not expect and won’t spoil for you but I’d recommend this series to kids young and old who like adventure with heart and I very much look forward to more of Erik’s quest to return home! Get issue #1 as well if you haven’t yet and I’ll bet my bottom dollar you’ll agree!
Art- Steve Ellis / Author