Script by: Julio Anta
Art by: Daniel Irizarri
Coloring by: Patricio Delpeche
Lettering by: Lucas Gattoni
Cover by: Daniel Irizarri
Published by: Dark Horse Comics
Summary:
The issue starts at a moratorium where the workers notice the deep gash marks on a dead body, marks that resemble bites from a beast. Meanwhile, Loli’s friend meets up with her, and she asks about the origin of the Vampiro de Aquadilla, a tall tale about a beast that roams Aquadilla, only to attack goats and earn the nickname “El Chupacabra”.
Later on in the issue, we see the story move forward as Mr Hunt demands that the construction crew hide clues of the beast roaming the area, so that the construction project can finish for his profit, not for the island. I like how the elements of Caribbean culture and practices such as Santeria have been enmeshed in the story, such as Loli and her friend seeking spiritual guidance, only to be confronted by the beast.
“My goal is to not be believed” is a short story towards the end of the issue, written by Jadzia Axelrod, drawn by Michael Axon Oeming and lettered by Aditya Bidikar.
The beast is a Huipa, which is connected to the Taíno, who are indigenous peoples of the islands. The issue ends with Loli and her friend learning a little more about the mystery and motives behind the beastly attacks. I would highly recommend that readers continue reading the Beast of Boriken, especially for people such as myself who have roots tied back to the Caribbean, the islands and the ancestors.
Overall: 8.5/10
India Williams is a comic writer and reviewer based in Florida. She is a lifelong comics fan, with favorites including Thor, Conan, G.I. Joe, and Speed Racer. When she’s not writing comics or reviewing them, she enjoys toy photography.
