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Oni Press and Magnetic Press have launched a Kickstarter campaign to A scoundrel in the new worlda historical adventure graphic novel by artist Juanjo Guarnido, best known for sad blackand the writer Alain Ayroles. The Kickstarter campaign is now live.
The story follows Don Pablos de Segovia, a con man and unreliable narrator who leaves Spain to seek his fortune in America during the 17th century. After ending up in prison, Pablos recounts his adventures to inquisitors eager to know what he knows about the legendary treasure of El Dorado. Anime Corner has the exclusive opportunity to share a preview of the novel:
The graphic novel is inspired by Francisco de Quevedo’s 1626 satirical novel. History of the life of Buscón, called Don Pablosalso known in English as The life of the swindler named Don Pablos. The new work continues that literary tradition while expanding Pablos’ story to the Spanish colonies.
Magnetic Press Publishing Director Mike Kennedy commented:
“A Scoundrel in the New World may be Juanjo Guarnido’s most ambitious work to date, even compared to his work as co-creator and artist of the world-famous Blacksad series. Each panel is a painting, filled with immaculate historical detail, expressive characters and cinematic lighting that truly brings the era to life with vibrant intensity. Alain Ayroles’ script is a brilliant homage to the Golden Age of Spanish literature, a witty and somewhat cynical story employing a Rashomon-style Shifting Perspective that keeps the reader questioning the protagonist’s credibility until the last page. This book combines the cynical historical wit of Blackadder with the sprawling adventure of El Dorado.
Ayroles and Guarnido also shared the following statement:
“A scoundrel in the New World is the result of a decade of thought, rumination and rumination around an extremely convincing plot. It is deeply important to us as it is a tribute and a sequel to one of the most important works of the golden age of Spanish literature, as well as the undisputed summit of the picaresque genre: Quevedo’s El Buscón. After a decade concluded by three and a half years of storyboarding, adjustments, drawings, adjustments again, watercolors, adjusting more (oh yes, after painting with watercolor!) and fine-tuning this intricate production that is likely, even as we both cherish our other beloved professional achievements, our best work.”
The Kickstarter campaign includes a deluxe hardcover edition, as well as a limited edition collector’s slipcase with a textured spine, Smyth-sewn binding, satin ribbon bookmark, gilt page edges, and a numbered bookplate.
Guarnido previously worked as an animator at Walt Disney Studios on films including Tarzan and Hercules before becoming internationally known for his work in sad black. Ayroles is known for works including Garulfo and for historical stories built around layered narratives and unreliable perspectives.
Source: Press release