Description

5 Is the Perfect Number is a masterfully crafted graphic novel that takes readers on an emotional journey through the streets of Naples, Italy. Written by a talented author recognized with numerous accolades, this captivating story blends elements of romance, violence, and profound loss, making it a standout work in modern literature.

Set against the backdrop of the gritty Italian underworld, the narrative follows Peppino Lo Cicero, a retired hitman whose life is turned upside down when he faces the tragic loss of his son, Nino. The tale begins with a poignant image: a young hitman lies dying in the gray, narrow streets of Naples, clutching a revolver—a gift from his father on his birthday. This revolver, which has never been fired, symbolizes the unfulfilled dreams and the harsh realities of life in a world riddled with crime and vengeance.

As Peppino grapples with the pain of losing his son, he is propelled back into a violent life he had left behind. Driven by grief and a thirst for revenge, he abandons his peaceful retirement, trading in his fishing rods for his old pistols. The quest for vengeance leads him through the dark alleys and underbelly of Naples, where he seeks not only the murderers of his son but also the beautiful black revolver that was meant to symbolize hope and new beginnings.

The story is enriched by a series of awards that highlight its excellence, including the prestigious ‘Book of the Year’ award at the Frankfurt Bookfair in 2003, the Coccobill award for best author, and the Grand Prix at the Romics comic festival in Rome. Such accolades emphasize the novel’s impact on readers and critics alike, reinforcing its status as a vital work in the graphic novel genre.

The narrative is spare yet deeply romantic, intertwining moments of violence with reflections on love, loss, and the price of revenge. Peppino’s journey is not just about seeking out those who have wronged him but also a reconsideration of what truly matters in life. As he navigates the complexities of his emotions, readers are drawn into a story that is both heartbreaking and beautiful.

This graphic novel not only tells a story of revenge but also challenges the notions of masculinity, family, and the moral dilemmas faced by those living in the shadow of the Mafia. The artwork complements the story, enhancing the reader’s experience, drawing them into the vivid world of Naples, where every corner holds a memory, a dream, or a nightmare.

In conclusion, ‘5 Is the Perfect Number’ is more than just a graphic novel; it is a poignant exploration of grief, love, and the unbreakable bond between a father and son. It invites readers to reflect on the legacies we leave behind, the choices we make, and the love that endures even in the darkest of times.