What a weird little comic.  I don’t even know where to begin to describe what Hybrid Bastards! is about.  Written by Tom Pinchuk and illustrated by Kate Glasheen this collection of the mini series follows the bastard sons of Zeus.  The various characters aren’t quite normal and are hybrids of Zeus’s dalliances with inanimate objects (and one hobo).

Zeus is a god with a reputation for lechery, and it’s been driving his wife Hera nuts for years. Reaching her limit one night, she puts together an epic practical joke: She places a spell on Zeus that makes him fall in lust with every inanimate object in sight! It was a night Zeus doesn’t remember, but his godly seed took root nevertheless. Now, 18 years later, his unnatural hybrid bastards wander the world. And because Zeus has a reputation to protect, these embarrassing freaks have got to go! But this motley crew refuses to go quietly. Through schemes both ingenious and idiotic, Zeus’ bastard children—Cotton, a smarmy cloth patchwork; Carmine, a timid automobile; Corey, a self-loathing apple; Walter, a belligerent stack of bricks; and Panos, their gallant would-be leader—will force their negligent father to acknowledge them…that is, if their own squabbling doesn’t defeat them first! Collecting the mini-series that takes Greek mythology in a decidedly different direction, the HYBRID BASTARDS hardcover includes a bonus story and pin-up gallery.

The graphic novel has two parts, the first being the caper of the sons of Zeus looking to get some recognition from their father.  The second half is a court case after their caper goes awry.

The story is pretty humorous, and my only issue is at times the art is a bit difficult to figure out what’s going on.  But overall the story is very unique and entertaining.  If you’re looking for a funny, unique story, this is one to check out.

Plot: Tom Pinchuk has created a very unique story.  The characters are out there and pretty creative and story is funny.  You can break up the story into two parts, the caper to get back at Zeus and a trial.  Two very different stories, but with similar humor.  I have never read anything like this before, and that’s a good thing.  This is one comic that stands out.  Rating: 8.5

Art: I generally enjoyed Kate Glasheen’s art for the series.  At times it was hard to make out exactly what was going on but, much like the story the art is something that you don’t see anywhere else.  Rating: 7.75

Overall: Hybrid Bastards! is one creative and unique comic series.  The look, story, everything about it makes it stand out.  If you want something to read that you won’t find anywhere else, you don’t need to look any further.  Overall rating: 8

Recommendation: Buy

Page count: 104 pages    Price: $17.95     Release: 6/30/2010

Archaia provided Graphic Policy with an advance copy of this issue for FREE for review.