There’s something incredibly nostalgic about Luke Pearson’s world of Hilda that transports you right back to your childhood. The Hilda series has come a long way since its first graphic novel, Hilda and the Troll (following the one-shot comic Hildafolk), with an award-winning animated series, various spin-off books, and at its heart, the comic that started it all, followed by five sequels. The world Pearson has whimsically weaved is undoubtedly beautiful, magical, and heart-warming, not only due to sweet-natured Hilda herself, but also her charming friends, including loyal white deer-fox, Twig. Hilda and Twig are inseparable, and a more loyal pair of pals is hard to come by. As a self-proclaimed Twig fan, it certainly seems like it’s only right that Twig finally gets the spotlight in Pearson’s latest addition to the Hilda series, Hilda and Twig Hide from the Rain.
A cosy, soggy, heartfelt adventure is the type of low-stakes comic Pearson offers in this latest addition, and it is most welcome. Whilst Hilda has always done well at big, emotional, tumultuous storylines, it often shines just as brightly in its more episodic adventures, which don’t necessarily contribute to the lore or overall plot.
Drawn in Pearson’s traditionally soft sketches, with beautifully detailed backgrounds, friends Hilda and Twig decide to venture outdoors for some fun in the beautiful countryside, but their plans are soon scarpered by the heavy rainfall that begins to beat down. Pearson’s use of humour through facial expressions really polishes these drippy strips, with onomatopoeic plops, drips and drops dancing through the panels. Taking shelter in a mysterious cave alongside other animals, Hilda begins to vividly imagine what could be awaiting them outside when they eventually return; could it be towering trolls? Or a great dark dragon? As the animals join in on their speculation, they get a little too into their storytelling, and begin to feel frightened, as thunder booms outside. All apart from Twig, who is completely sure there’s nothing lurking outside, and peeps his head out to check… Famous last words.
Of course, all is not as at seems, and Twig gets a surprise that makes him re-evaluate what he initially believed. Adventure ensues, friendships are tested, and Twig comes to the realisation that Hilda is not the only one who can be brave, and protect their friendship. While Hide from the Rain definitely feels like it leans a little more towards younger readers, particularly with its short but sweet narrative, Pearson’s world is, as always, a place where everyone is welcome. There is an abundance of details to pore over, from its stunning sketched backdrops, use of earthy tones and bursts of nature that the panels cannot contain.
Flying Eye Books always provide a personal touch with their review copies, so the stunning print and sweet Twig pin that accompanied this striking graphic novel really were the icing on the cake to what is a fun, beautifully illustrated narrative focused on friendship. I would certainly be happy to hide from the rain with friends like Hilda and Twig any day of the week.
Luke Pearson (W/A) • Flying Eye Books £12.99
Review by Lydia Turner
