Earlier this month, I reviewed artist/author Larry Johnson's The Complete Madame Boogala, Vol 1, a black-and-white compilation of introductory issues. Now, I offer a rundown of Vol 2, which, if the truth be told, is as enjoyable as the first.
Madame Boogala is a captivating character, a Brookston, tea-room proprietor in league with the Magic People, who takes the conniving reins in each yarn, much in the way of Fu Manchu, but in another way, she's rather like Carl Kolchak in reverse. In other words, she doesn't seek out strange affairs, as much as she prompts them, sometimes with frightful outcomes and at other times, offbeat hilarity.
The 205-page, Vol 2 spans Johnson's installments from 2001 - 2004, covering such unearthly topics as a shape-shifting, wrestling match; odd, astral love; a necromantic television and the flamboyant guest it summons; a vicious, talking horseman; a man whose body parts reside in a jar; a wandering, Triffid/Audrey Jr.-like plant; otherworldly, curio-shop statues; chilling, demonic manifestations; and as extra-special treats, "The Black Widow" and "Escape Too," Johnson's mesmerizing works of illustrated, Boogala fiction, supplemented by the artist/author's thorough introduction. The culminating brew is wild and fun, especially when Boogala's bumbling son, Goomar, or the inquisitive Lew Brown get involved.
Madame Boogala is an indisputable original, thanks to Johnson's clever know-how. Delve in, and you'll see why the madame is the talk of the metaphysical town.
Vol 2 can be purchased at
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C87QH3GQ?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title
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