Team Zero by Chuck Dixon, Doug Mahnke and Sandra Hope
02/08/2008 . Source: Paul Hanley 
pub: Titan/Wildstorm. 142 page graphic novel. Price: £11.99 (UK). ISBN: 978-1-84576-856-0). Buy Team Zero in the USA - or Buy Team Zero in the UK  check out website: www.titanbooks.comand www.wildstorm.com
This is a graphic novel and reading the publisher's blurb inside the front cover 'Team Zero' would seem to be part of a series. I have not read any of the others but this particular book was perfectly readable on its own.
The drawings are in colour and filled with details of the uniforms, weapons, vehicles and equipment. The story is set in 1944 with the Second World War moving towards its close. We meet our key character, I hesitate to call him the hero, who is code-named Deathblow as he paddles ashore onto Japanese held territory with a team of men. The story is action-packed from the start with him trying to capture a Japanese island whilst his team set about blowing up a fuel store. After much blood and gore is spilt, the only survivor is Deathblow who is taken to Hawaii to recuperate.
Soon, however, he is off to Europe to grab what can be obtained of information and scientists from the wreckage of the Nazi regime before the Soviet Army captures them.
I should say that I felt strongly enough to volunteer for the army many years ago because I did not want to end up living in a country like East Germany. That said, I think it need be said that the Soviet Forces were the ones who gutted the German Army at a vast human cost to themselves.
Back to the story! Deathblow selects a team to go with him and they parachute onto the German rocket base at Peemmunde but thereafter everything goes array. Their means of return is destroyed and they have to fight the Soviets who are also looking for the rocket scientists. Plenty of action.
I have not read many graphic novels but this one had a good story. Whilst the protagonists were somewhat brutal, I enjoyed it and thought the drawing were excellent. They were full of all sorts of details that enriched the story.
My only quibble would be price. It does seem quite expensive but this is a UK price and it originates in the US so it may be a lot less expensive there and in Canada.
Recommended but perhaps try getting it via your local library.
Paul Hanley |
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