Hollywood Jan #[nn]

From Bastien Vivès and Michaël Sanlaville comes this French-language graphic novel published by Casterman in 2008, following a wide-eyed young kid in a green hoodie clutching oversized boxing gloves — looking equal parts nervous and determined. Looming behind him in deep red silhouette are several imposing figures, setting up a story that feels like an underdog's plunge into something much bigger than himself. It's a charming, kinetic package that immediately makes you want to know how this kid holds his own.