Wasted Space, Vol. 2

Wasted Space #2

by Michael Moreci, Hayden Sherman (Artist), Jason Wordie (Colorist)

MP3 CD Format

GraphicAudio and Vault Comics are proud to present WASTED SPACE VOLUME 2! Adapted directly from the graphic novel and produced with a full cast of actors, immersive sound effects and cinematic music.

A bitter, driven Billy Bane and his dysfunctional, thrown-together family of adventurers pinball their way through spatial anomalies and galactic raiders to find the long-forgotten planet Earth, in order to take down the sadistic celestial being called The Creator who supposedly resides there. Dysfunction leads to heartbreak and alienation, strange new allies & enemies and catastrophic galactic war. But hey, it's a comedy! Climb back aboard Billy's crappy ship for a wild final ride to confront his destiny, a journey filled with absurdity and tragedy, not to mention philosophy and slapstick, through the mad, mad universe of Wasted Space!

Performed by Richard Rohan, Eric Messner, Duyen Washington, Henry W. Kramer, Karen Novack, Chris Genebach, Jacob Yeh, Lolita Horne, Richard Rohan, James Konicek, Andrew James Spooner, Nick DePinto, Robb Moreira, Earl Fisher, Amanda Forstrom, Zeke Alton, Matthew Pauli, Rose Elizabeth Supan, Yenni Ann, Joe Mallon, and Dani Stoller.

Genres: Comics, Science Fiction, Fiction

144 pages, Paperback

Published July 2, 2019

About the author

Michael Moreci is a bestselling comics author and novelist. His original works include the space adventure novels Black Star Renegades and We Are Mayhem, as well as the comic series Wasted Space, The Plot, Hexagon, Curse, Archangel 8, and more. The Plot appeared on numerous best of 2019 lists, and Wasted Space has been hailed as one of the best comics of the past decade. Moreci's comic trilogy Roche Limit was called one of the best sci-fi comics of all-time by Paste Magazine, and Black Star Renegades was an Audie Award finalist for best sci-fi of 2018.

Moreci has also written for Star Wars, Battlestar Galactica, and the DC universe--including the YA graphic novel The Lost Carnival: A Dick Grayson Story. He's also adapted Eoin Colfer's bestselling Artemis Fowl series into graphic novels.

He lives outside Chicago with his family.

Reviews

[Victoria Hawco]

On the one hand they go shopping at a space gas station and it’s hilarious, but on the other hand it busts out lines like “We can feel peace and sorrow both” and “If being good was easy, more people would do it, wouldn’t they?” And just WRECKS me.

[Lightwhisper · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful comic full of sci-fi adventure =))))

[Tom · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story continues, with the collection of macguffins, and a stop at a space mall/gas station.

The additional holiday story was good.

[Matt Harrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

2026 reread

Another great instalment in this sci-fi series which seamlessly blends humour, action, and pathos. Complimenting Moreci’s story, Sherman’s artwork is wonderfully kinetic and expressive throughout.

[Akshay · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Wasted Space, Vol. 2" by Michael Moreci, with art by Hayden Sherman and colors by Jason Wordie, is a compelling and thought-provoking entry in the science fiction comic book genre. This volume continues the story of Billy Bane, a former prophet, and his companions Molly and Dust, as they embark on a perilous mission to kill the Creator, an ancient god, at the behest of another deity named Legion.

Plot and Narrative:

The narrative of "Wasted Space, Vol. 2" is a masterful blend of high-stakes action and philosophical musings. Moreci crafts a story that is both entertaining and intellectually stimulating, taking readers on a journey through a chaotic galaxy filled with spatial anomalies and galactic raiders. The plot is infused with humor and existential angst, creating a unique take on the classic space adventure.

What sets "Wasted Space" apart from its contemporaries is its ability to balance humor with heavier, more serious themes. This volume delves deeper into the backstories of its central protagonists, providing a rich narrative depth that is often missing in similar genre works. The comprehensive story arc, spanning a total of twenty-five issues across five volumes, allows for extensive world-building and plot development, a feature less common in contemporary comics that often favor shorter, more episodic narratives.

Characters:

The character development in "Wasted Space, Vol. 2" is particularly noteworthy. Billy Bane, the protagonist, is a complex character grappling with his past mistakes and the burden of his mission. His journey of redemption and quest for personal peace adds depth to the narrative. Molly and Dust, Billy's companions, are equally well-developed, with their relationships and individual arcs contributing significantly to the overall story.

Themes:

Thematically, "Wasted Space, Vol. 2" is rich and multifaceted. The series explores deep existential questions about purpose and redemption, drawing parallels with literary works like David Foster Wallace's "Infinite Jest". It also incorporates political and social commentary, questioning the nature of societal structures and humanity's propensity for conflict. These themes are expertly woven into the narrative, creating a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Art and Visual Style:

Hayden Sherman's art and Jason Wordie's colors have been widely praised for their dynamic and visually engaging style. The artwork complements the narrative perfectly, enhancing the storytelling and bringing the chaotic galaxy of "Wasted Space" to life.

Comparison to Contemporaries:

When compared to its contemporaries, "Wasted Space" stands out for its unique blend of science fiction, philosophy, and humor. While it shares some similarities with other contemporary comic series, its approach to storytelling and thematic exploration sets it apart:

Like "The Seeds" by Ann Nocenti and David Aja, "Wasted Space" combines science fiction with a critical look at contemporary issues. However, "Wasted Space" leans more heavily into existential themes and galactic adventure.
Similar to "Invisible Kingdom" by G. Willow Wilson and Christian Ward, "Wasted Space" explores power structures and philosophical questions. However, Moreci's series distinguishes itself with its irreverent humor and more personal character journeys.
While "Far Sector" by N.K. Jemisin and Jamal Campbell blends science fiction with social commentary, "Wasted Space" takes this a step further by incorporating existential questions and a more expansive galactic setting.

Critical Reception:

"Wasted Space, Vol. 2" has been well-received by critics and readers alike. It has been hailed as one of the best comics of 2018 by numerous publications, indicating its strong impact within the comic book community. Critics have praised its engaging storytelling, thematic depth, and ability to tackle big questions about humanity and society while maintaining an entertaining narrative.

Conclusion:

"Wasted Space, Vol. 2" by Michael Moreci is a standout entry in the science fiction comic genre. Its unique blend of action, humor, and philosophical inquiry creates a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The series challenges readers to contemplate existential questions while delivering an engaging space adventure.

Moreci's background in both original series and franchise contributions shines through in "Wasted Space," resulting in a work that feels both fresh and familiar. The series' ability to balance complex themes with humor and action sets it apart from its contemporaries, making it a must-read for fans of thoughtful science fiction comics.

While its complexity may not appeal to all readers, those who appreciate a blend of action, philosophy, and dark humor will find "Wasted Space, Vol. 2" to be a rewarding and unique reading experience. It stands as a testament to Moreci's storytelling prowess and his ability to create compelling, multifaceted narratives in the comic book medium.

[Derrick · Rating 2 out of 5]

I checked out the comic while listening to the GA version and it is crazy how close they went and also added great context for the pictures. This story is so weird. I do love the actor though as he does a great job! The novel itself though is freaking weird.

[Chad · Rating 2 out of 5]

Man this book has not gotten any better in volume 2. Hayden Sherman's art is so terrible. I didn't realize one of the characters was even a woman until they were referred to as "she" in issue #7. I honestly thought she was having a gay relationship with Dust until that point. Besides that, I have very little idea about what's going on with the plot other than pretty much everyone in this universe thinks it's shit.

[Ondřej Halíř · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pořád skvěle humorem našláplá scifárna s kupou dobrých zvratů, škoda jen že tu tvůrce občas až moc sype monology na téma víra není tak dobrá apod. V některých pasážích tehle monologů bylo už docela moc :D

Edit: Ted mi to naopak vubec neprislo a bavilo me to mnohem vice!