By Dustin Cabeal

You’re probably thinking, “We don’t need another Jack and the Beanstock story in the world”, but you’d only say that if you haven’t read Ben Hatke’s Mighty Jack. Mighty Jack is a modern reimagining of the classic Jack and the Beanstock story. Even saying that doesn’t do it justice because this story about a son, his sister that doesn’t talk and his single, over-worked mom is as much about relationships as it is magic.

Hatke manages to make this story very emotional and simple, yet complex. It’s a style that he does very well and if I had to give it a name I would say it’s dramedy for kids. He pulls all the right strings to craft a narrative that takes you on a ride. All that and his artwork is amazing. Each page has so much heart and soul poured into it. Visually, he’s an incredible talent who fully understands the comic medium. Mighty Jack was one of the most moving stories I read all year and I hope that you’ll check it out.