NIGER (2010)

"by Leila Marzocchi A fascinating ecological fable done in woodcuts, Niger follows the life of a strange new being named 'Pupa' born in the depth of a lake. Wandering about the surface among other creatures, she takes refuge in a glass and falls asleep. Some birds, curious for the event, organize themselves to protect this small, weak, creature to allow her to grow up. They call the 'Fatmah hand' to ask her to pronounce a Fatwa, intended to discourage the other animals in the wood from threatening the small creature. A superb and thoughtful addition to the Ignatz series."

"by Leila Marzocchi Seasons change and many things occur in the second issue of Leila Marzocchi's wildly original, beautifully drawn, ecologically-minded fable. Saved from the threat of a giant centipede by the birds who are taking care of her, the little maggot protagonist 'Doll' goes into hibernation as Winter looms. While she sleeps, follow the adventures of the old owl 'Grandpa,' who discovers that he has a superpower. Spring comes, and Doll wakes up, but she has mutated again and is now so hungry that even the best efforts on the birds' part are not sufficient to stave off potential starvation. Only a prophecy from the Row of Rustling Poplars can save her! Meanwhile, the loyal Wingman realizes that Taxus, the tree he calls home, is no longer answering - what has happened to his spirit?"

"(W/A) Leila Marzocchi Peculiar happenings in the Burnt Spruce Forest take away the spotlight from the rapidly-growing Dolly. Answering last issue's question 'What are those crackling and rumblings sounds emanating from Wingman's nest?,' a rock suddenly sprouts wings! A meeting is convened among the birds and the theory is advanced that fossilized egg suddenly sprung to life. Back at Cesare's nest where Dolly lives, a monstrous intruder once again threatens to cut short her brief life !"