Les Vélo maniacs #7

This seventh volume of Les Vélo maniacs from Bamboo Édition captures the series' sunny, good-humored spirit perfectly: a determined cyclist in full racing kit strains on his bike past a crowd of spectators who are far more interested in their ice creams and cold drinks than in cheering him on. Julié and Garréra pack the cover with expressive, rubbery characters — a family licking cones, kids with popsicles, lounging bystanders — all set against a rocky, sun-baked backdrop that makes the poor racer's effort feel delightfully absurd. If you enjoy French humor comics that celebrate the gap between athletic ambition and leisurely reality, this 2011 installment is a thoroughly entertaining addition to the collection.