Under the Western Sky by Morris

1999-08-01 17:00

Why read the book?

This is a young album from 1952, drawn and written by Morris alone before Goscinny joined. The first tale sees a smooth talker who calls himself John the Philanthropist steal Jolly Jumper, paint him black, and enter him in a race to scoop the prize money, until Luke catches him and the barber unmasks the bandit Joe the Trigger.

The other two stories keep things plain and quick. Luke untangles a round-up where two hundred head of cattle go missing, then plays coach to a boxer. Jolly Jumper does the real heavy lifting throughout, and the West feels fresh and unhurried.

Favourite quote

A horse cannot change his colour, but a crook can be made to change his tune.

—Lucky Luke

What I Loved

There is real charm in seeing the series before its formula set. The art is loose and lively, and the gags are simple and well aimed.

The painted-horse swindle is the pick of the three, a neat trick built around the bond between Luke and Jolly Jumper. Nothing is overworked, and the whole album reads in one cheerful sitting.

Key Takeaway

Early Lucky Luke is rougher and shorter, but the warmth and the wit are already there.

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