Norse & Greek Mythologies Clash In Lumberjanes #67

The campers new friend, Freya has turned out to be a cat-napper. Diane can’t keep the smile from her face as she knew this Norse goddess was up to no good. Of course, there’s a big thread of jealousy in there too. While half the Roanokes and Zodiacs chase down Freya, the other half are searching for extraterrestrial life. This is just an average day at camp really.

Let’s start with the Freya situation. Lumberjanes has a way of delivering a life lesson without making it feel that way. The message comes through organically. Writers Shannon Watters & Kat Leyh weave this kind of stuff into the very fabric of the series. In the case of Freya, we learn about taking things for granted, believing in others, and swallowing our pride. This is shown through a wild chase through the woods.
The general tone of acceptance definitely pops up here too. Diane has thought of herself as the coolest and most powerful person in the camp. She is a goddess after all. When that role is usurped by Freya, she sees her friends fawn over this newcomer and it makes her extremely jealous. It also makes her realize that she has to work at her friendships, not just take them for granted.

Much of the message and theme throughout Lumberjanes #67 comes from letterer Aubrey Aiese and the clever use of selected all caps. This allows for select emphasis on certain words in a way that regular bolding just doesn’t do in traditional comics lettering.
I absolutely love the devilish grin that spreads over her face when she is in her element. Artist Kanesha C. Bryant brings a cartoonish flare to this, creating a Grinch-like visage. Diane bounces between this mischievous look and one of cool confidence. She’s the goddess of the hunt and that’s exactly what they’re all doing so she’s ready to show off a bit.

Diane manifests this cool bow when needed. It appears in her hand at a moment’s notice. Colorist Maarta Laiho gives this an ethereal look with a glowing purple and a pinch of sparkle. We’ve seen all kinds of stuff in Lumberjanes, but shock and awe still come about when we tap into the supernatural or otherworldly.
The cartoonish vibe extends to every aspect of Lumberjanes #67 with some over-expressive characters and crazy moments. When Emily opens up to the group about her obsession with aliens, it captures Ripley’s imagination. You see literal stars in her eyes as she wonders about what could be. It’s easy to get caught up in this kind of excitement over something, especially when you see how enthusiastic the other characters are.

Lumberjanes is setting up for an epic goddess vs. goddess battle between Freya and Diane with the Roanoke and Zodiac cabins looking on in fear and excitement. Also, there are [maybe] aliens! Seriously, what’s not to love about this comic?
Lumberjanes #67 from Boom! Studios is currently available at your local comic shop and digitally through ComiXology and Amazon Kindle.