“The Sandman Universe: Nightmare Country: The Glass House” – Book Six
Writer:Â James Tynion IV
Artist:Â Lisandro Estherren
Color Artist:Â Patricio Delpeche
Letterer:Â Simon Bowland
Reviewed by Steve J. Ray
Summary
The Sandman Universe: Nightmare Country: The Glass House #6 closes the latest volume of the title with style, and power. James Tynion’s foray into Neil Gaiman’s world of dreams and nightmares has never disappointed, and with the final act of this incredible dark fantasy/horror coming in 2024, a clash between Dream and Desire (and possibly Despair too, if the cover for the issue’s anything to go by) is edging ever closer.
Positives
The secret of the Smiling Man has haunted readers for close to two years now and the story of Madison Flynn has been a source of terror and delight the entire time. Seeing her, The Corinthian, Max, and Kells get swept upon by a wave of demons, serial killers and the whims of The Endless has made this series feel closer to Gaiman’s classic than any other spin-off/follow-up that’s come before.
The power that Dream displays in this issue is nothing short of awesome. The way he handles both his creations and his various enemies is unbelievable. Tynion’s take on Daniel is perfect; he’s got the will and determination of Morpheus, but an edge and confidence that the original Dream never possessed.
The art, colors, and letters by Lisandro Estherren, Patricio Depeche, and Simon Bowland are a delight. Estherren’s pencils, painted over with water-color style hues make this series look and feel ethereal, and dream-like. Just like the Sandman books of the 90s, this series doesn’t conform or fit in with what fans may feel comics should look like.
Bowland’s letters are stunning. Just like the legendary Todd Klein, Bowland creates voices for his characters, making them all feel individual and unique. Believe me, comparing any letterer’s work to Klein’s is about the highest praise I can give.
Negatives
A war is coming, and I don’t want to wait. The final chapters of this tale are tantalizingly close, but still just beyond our reach. I will wait, however impatiently, as I know what’s coming will deliver a story for the ages.
Verdict
The Sandman Universe: Nightmare Country: The Glass House #6 gives readers the perfect close to this arc while leaving us all begging for more. Like the winter season itself, the wait will be a long, cold one… but one I believe will ultimately be worth it.
I’ll see you all again in dreams.
Images Courtesy of DC Entertainment
