Think Tank: Fun With PTSD #1

By Matt Hawkins & Rahsan Ekedal

This one-shot has Dr. David Loren trying to solve a major issue within the military: PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). Despite the light-hearted subtitle, Matt Hawkins and Rahsan Ekedal take the condition and situation very seriously!

To be honest, I have not read any of the three prior volumes of this series. Despite referencing prior events, the book is easy for newcomers to immerse themselves into Think Tank‘s world. The framing is more grounded in reality than say Manhattan Projects. Right off the bat, Hawkins sets a light tone in the prologue, but quickly shifts to the true serious nature of the comic. As the story unfolds Hawkins infuses clinical and historical information about PTSD and its treatments. Learning and pleasure being combined…What a concept!? By doing this effectively, Rahsan and Matt are able to make the audience feel enriched by what they have read. This one-shot will no doubt please long-time fans and generate a new following. Sadly, the next issue won’t be for another year.

Ekedal matches the dramatic, realistic content with several close-up panels. He makes the reader see the anxiety and pain the main characters are going through. Generally speaking, artists will shy away from these impactful depictions because they may not deliver on the intended significance. As. Dr. Loren learns the story of his friend with PTSD; almost every panel is a close-up or middle shot with only the character in the frame. Rahsan delivers completely even without the aid of color.

This comic was such a surprise! I highly recommend it and a percentage of each issue purchased goes to the Wounded Warrior Project. You will get a good read and contribute to a worthy cause. This is a no brainer folks!