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The Bakers #1
Review posted: 29 Sept 2005
Writer: Kyle Baker
Artist: Kyle Baker
Publisher: Kyle Baker Publishing
5.00 out of 5 Stars
Reviewed by John L. Daniels Jr.
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Kyle Baker’s book The Bakers #1 is a family-oriented
tour de force featuring the misadventures of daily family life.
Baker’s artwork is identifiable; this book presents some of the
best animation sequences published in comic book form.
Although black and white, the comical panels exude such pure
enjoyment that I did not care that it was not in color. Baker proves
that he deserves all the praise that has been heaped upon him for his
previous work, which includes Nat
Turner, King David and his current run for DC comics on
Plastic Man. The Bakers #1 is a collection of short
pieces, each one a snapshot of family life.
“Giant Step” is a cute portrayal of baby girl’s first
steps and the outcome of mastering the pitter-patter of little feet.
If you are a parent, you remember the first time you discovered the
baby had “left the building.”
“The Conservationist” is a short two-panel story that
reminds everyone that their parents pay for the water in the baby
pool.
“The Sofateers” lets us know who really owns the couch.
“Daddy Battle Monsters” deals with every kid’s
fear of monsters at bedtime.
“Smooth Daddy” deals with communication between husband
and wife. You know, about all those times you put your foot in your
mouth.
“Playpen” — well, we all want to go back to
playpen days, especially when you have a rough day at school and work.
“The Mall” is the longest and most hilarious feature in
the book. Kyle forgets to get his wife a birthday gift (don’t
we all forget the big ones sometimes). He quietly tries to sneak to
the mall, but the kids notice him, and it is off to the mall with a
trio of kids to help find Mommy’s gift. While at an expensive
gift shop, all hell breaks loose and the kids get into everything
— and the right things. The panels without dialogue are a crack
in my side and tell a very funny and imaginative tale. The moral of
the story is “kids rule” (and Mommies do too).
In addition to comics, Kyle Baker is a virtuoso with animation.
Check out www.kylebaker.com
where you can explore different cartoons he has produced, as well as
news about his new releases. Kyle Baker is an incredible artist and
an independent publisher who stands up for his thoughts and beliefs.
And he presents animation as a definitive art form. As you can guess,
I am an admirer. Comic fans, read his noted titles; I am sure
you’ll be an admirer too. The Bakers #1 gets a 5.0
rating for a kid-friendly comic from a modern genius.
—CCdC— Cover image used without explicit permission in accordance with the "Fair Use" provision of US copyright law.
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