Author: Matt Page
Title: Future Day Saints: The Gnolaumite Crystal
2021.
82 page hardcover 8.25” x 10.25” Full color.
Reviewed by Conor Hilton
Matt Page does it again! The second volume in Matt’s planned FUTURE DAY SAINTS trilogy extends and deepens the lore of New Zion, weaving in complicated themes and ideas from Mormon theology and folklore into a moving and at times jaw-dropping and gut-wrenching zany adventure. One of the reveals here in particular literally left me with my mouth gaping open in shock, awe, and excitement at what possibilities it opens up.
The artwork is excellent and a fitting pairing for Matt’s speculative, utopian spirit. The single story told in this volume really allows Matt’s sensibilities to shine through, building on the groundwork laid in volume 1, WELCOME TO NEW ZION. Even the ads placed throughout are elevated and intriguing in the light blurring of fiction and reality–makes me wonder about (and hope for) the physical realization of some of the other ads here: the Pride Cycle! What an ingenious name.
This was a delightful, wonderful Sabbath read. I’ll be imagining many possibilities and pondering the implications of what Matt does here for a long time to come. Strongly recommend. Cannot wait to see what Matt has in store for volume three! But for now, I’ll happily spend some more time revisiting the wonderful, whimsical world on display here.