Dark Horse Expands International Line With Two New Graphic Novels

With all the capes and tights filling up the US comic shelves, it’s good to be reminded of the vast array of comics made around the world. Dark Horse Comics is doing just that by bringing some to us in the near future. The publisher has added to its international line with two new original graphic novels, Gert and the Sacred Stones and Papaya Salad.

First up is Gert and the Sacred Stones from Italian publisher Tunué. The middle grade graphic novel from creators Marco Rocchi and Francesca Carità will be available in English for the first time with help by translator Jamie Richards. It follows a young orphan whose land is shrouded in a thick fog that hides ferocious, fantastical animals, endlessly besieging her village. Gert is tired of the endless war between humans and animals and sets out to make sure no one else has to suffer from this conflict. In order to do that, she must become a warrior, something that’s forbidden for young women like her.
Creators Marco Rocchi and Francesa Carità say:

We wanted to create a multi-faceted and well-rounded female character who could mirror the strengths and weakness of both girls and boys. Although it’s a fantasy setting, there are many references to real life and to our way of seeing the world. Many will recognize themselves in the protagonist’s will to forge and affirm her own unique identity despite the adversities she faces, and in her awareness that she must learn more, experience more, and grow by taking responsibility for her choices before she can change the world.

Gert and the Sacred Stones is set for release on August 26th, 2020 at your local comic shop and on September 8th, 2020 at bookstores and Amazon. The 160 page graphic novel will retail for $14.99.

Next we have a bit of a different flair with Papaya Salad, a comic offering a new perspective on World War II. Creator Elisa Macellari explores the idea of finding yourself in a war that’s not your own, looking back at the life of her Great Uncle. Translator Carla Roncalli Di Montorio helps bring this graphic novel to English.
Papaya Salad centers on Sompong as he leaves his native Thailand to study abroad in Italy on a military scholarship. He’s a gentle, resolute man with a love of books and language. Along the way, he chronicles his life during the war while finding humor, joy, and love as the world irrevocably changes around him.
Creator Elisa Macellari describes the graphic novel as:

[Papaya Salad is] a historical and emotional journey through my family and my roots, grown in both Europe and Asia. A personal narrative that needs to be shared and hopefully finds a home in the empathy of readers.

Papaya Salad was originally published by Italian publisher BAO. It comes to the US on August 26th, 2020 at your local comic shop, bookstore, and Amazon and will retail for $24.99.