Wig Wam Bam is a graphic novel by Jaime Hernandez, serialized in the alternative comic book Love and Rocketsbetween 1990 and 1993, and later collected in 1994. It is part of Hernandez’s ongoing Locas stories, which explore the lives and relationships of a group of young women, particularly two central characters—Maggie and Hopey.
Synopsis
The plot details of Wig Wam Bam are not fully detailed here, but the graphic novel continues the narrative of the Locasstories, which revolve around the complex, often tumultuous lives of Maggie and Hopey. The story unfolds in a realist world, far removed from the science fiction settings that characterized some of Jaime Hernandez's earlier works. As with many of the Locas tales, the graphic novel focuses on the characters’ emotional journeys and their evolving relationships, set against a backdrop of everyday life, filled with challenges and poignant moments.
Background and Publication
Love and Rockets is an influential alternative comic book series created by the Hernandez brothers—Mario Hernandez(b. 1953), Gilbert Hernandez (b. 1957), and Jaime Hernandez (b. 1959). The series began in 1982 and is known for its unique blend of realistic characters, detailed artwork, and mature storytelling. Most of Jaime Hernandez's work within Love and Rockets focuses on Locas, a series centered around Maggie and Hopey, two young women whose lives intersect in ways that highlight themes of friendship, romance, and personal growth.
The early Locas stories incorporated science fiction elements, but Jaime Hernandez eventually shifted to more character-driven narratives grounded in realism. His sleek, streamlined art style blends realistic anatomy with traditional cartooning techniques, capturing the emotional depth of his characters while remaining stylistically distinct from mainstream comic art.
Wig Wam Bam was serialized in Love and Rockets from June 1990 to August 1993, appearing in issues #33–39 and #42. The graphic novel was later collected in The Complete Love and Rockets, Volume 11 in 1994.
Style and Analysis
At 120 pages, Wig Wam Bam is the longest of the Locas stories. The narrative is notable for its use of unannounced flashbacks, which unfold the story in a non-linear fashion, adding layers of complexity and depth to the characters' emotional journeys. This narrative style allows for a more nuanced exploration of the past and present dynamics between Maggie and Hopey, as well as other key characters.
Jaime Hernandez's artwork in Wig Wam Bam continues to reflect his skillful combination of realistic portrayal and dynamic cartooning, capturing both the emotional intensity and the everyday struggles of his characters. The graphic novel is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished entries in the Locas saga, showcasing Hernandez's evolution as both a storyteller and an artist.
Legacy
Wig Wam Bam is an important work within the Love and Rockets series and the broader world of alternative comics. Its portrayal of strong, multifaceted female characters, combined with its mature themes and complex storytelling, cemented Jaime Hernandez’s place as one of the most influential comic book creators of his generation.