The last issue of the current Lumberjanes arc, which involves selkies, interdimensional travel, and mysterious mariner Seafarin’ Karen wraps up with a splash with Lumberjanes #24. (Sorry.) Though it would certainly be more enjoyable to read this issue as part of the larger story that began with Lumberjanes #21, it still stands on its own quite well.

This issue focuses largely on character development. In Lumberjanes #23, Molly was enticed by the wonders of the alternate dimension, and was forced to contend that adventures with the Bear Woman might come at the cost of her relationship with Mal and the other Lumberjanes. Lumberjanes #24 expands on Molly’s characterization as well as her relationships and brings more light to Ripley’s character. Ripley is probably the youngest and probably least-developed character, so it’s nice to see her given depth beyond the surface characterization of hyperactive tomboy.

It is a testament to the solidity of the Lumberjanes team that each issue is unflaggingly entertaining, both individually and in the larger Lumberjanes canon. Writers Shannon Watters and Kat Leyh continue to demonstrate their strength as writers while pushing the characters into increasingly foreign situations. The departure of creator Noelle Stevenson after Lumberjanes #17 was disappointing (even if it was for totally understandable reasons) but the story hasn’t suffered since she left. Watters and Leyh have run with the writing responsibilities, and continue to build on the same consistently wonderful quality that the book has maintained for two years now.

Carey Pietsch’s art has only bolstered the series during this arc. It has been another constant in the series, along with Maarta Laiho’s vibrant coloring. Both keep the story visually interesting, but illustrate the chaotic adventures of the Lumberjanes in a way that doesn’t cloud the story itself. The art is in turns appropriately fun and serious, and it’s easy to imagine the comic finding popularity as an animated show. As always, the characters’ expressive faces and gestures are one of Pietsch’s biggest successes.

Overall, Lumberjanes #24 brought this arc to a satisfying close just in time for the series’ two-year anniversary. The Lumberjanes will return next month with an oversized Lumberjanes #25 to celebrate two years of camp friendships and shenanigans.

Story: Shannon Watters and Kat Leyh Art: Carey Pietsch
Story: 8.0 Art: 8.0 Overall: 8.0 Recommendation: Buy

BOOM! Studios provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review.