In the spring of 2003, a pride of lions escapes from the Baghdad Zoo during an American bombing raid. Lost and confused, hungry but finally free, the four lions roamed the decimated streets of Baghdad in a desperate struggle for their lives. In documenting the plight of the lions, PRIDE OF BAGHDAD raises questions about the true meaning of liberation - can it be given, or is it earned only through self-determination and sacrifice? And in the end, is it truly better to die free than to live in captivity?
As I mentioned above, Pride of Baghdad is a book that will stick with you long after youve put it down, and the themes and emotions explored within these pages still feel every bit as relevant today as they did a decade ago. Vertigo Comics have made their living by producing inventive, thought-provoking works of art, and if youre putting together a list of their most affecting releases over the last twenty-five years, Pride of Baghdad has to be right at the top. Highly recommended. Read Full Review
Pride isn't quite as edgy as what one expects from Brian Vaughan, so I found it a little puzzling at first. Ultimately, I like that this is a significant diversion from his usual fare. The cynicism isn't as overt, but the idealism is. It's still trademark BKV, but with a much softer side that surprisingly effective at drawing the reader into a shattered society of intelligent animals. Read Full Review