From Mat Johnson, writer of the acclaimed Incognegro, comes a graphic novel thriller set in the days after Hurricane Katrina. Two small-time ex-cons with big dreams get the idea that this would be the perfect time to rob a bank. Catch is, the bank is in New Orleans, and they're on parole in Houston. Now, as every sane person tries to get out of The Big Easy, Emmit and Dabny will do whatever it takes to get in. As they journey through a tide of human suffering, Dabny wants to help, and Emmit sees only the money. But a rogue commander of the ruthless security force "Dark Rain" has his sights set on taking down the same bank. If Emmit and Dabny don't outrace him, their last hope for a second chance could be washed away in the floodwaters – along with their lives.
Cover by Nessim Higson
160 page hardcover with dustjacket
Vertigo, 2010.
“Alternately funny and moving, but always focused on a very sharp but simple story. . . . More than a couple of moments . . . almost brought tears to my eyes. In the end the book is very optimistic, offering hope to those who choose to do the right thing.” —HUFFINGTON POST
“Johnson’s masterful tale of loss and redemption is a real treat. Read and savor it before some sharp Hollywood producer makes a movie out of this rich gumbo of characters whose humanity and dignity fuel their fight for survival. Gane’s deceptively lithe art captures action and emotion with wit, grit and grace.” —THE MIAMI HERALD
“Captures images of Katrina more vividly than CNN dared at the time. . . . DARK RAIN is the story of two men fighting the elements and their own past. Much more than the story of a bank heist, DARK RAIN is a 21st century parable told in words and pictures.” —CRIMESPREE Magazine
“A pretty ripping heist/caper story. . . . A really well-crafted story. This is a movie waiting to happen. . . Simon Gane’s art captures both the majesty and little moments that a great director might.” –UNDER THE RADAR
“After reading DARK RAIN, I can honestly say that Mat Johnson has become one of my favorite comics writers. INCOGNEGRO wowed me a couple of years ago, and DARK RAIN is equally impressive. … Johnson draws both the good and bad of the post-Katrina landscape in his characters, while Simon Gane’s pen and ink artwork enhances the story without ever overpowering it.” —LARGEHEARTED BOY
“DARK RAIN manages to entertain and inform about the human condition — it’s a well-grounded look at the different ways humans react to situations. Simon Gane’s art is a perfect accompaniment to Mat Johnson’s tale.” —WESTWORD (Denver)
