Trees #2
Written by Warren Ellis
Illustrated by Jason Howard
Lettered by Fonografiks
Cover by Jason Howard
Image Comics
Release Date: June 25, 2014
Cover Price: $2.99

Trees #2 by Warren Ellis and illustrated by Jason Howard is all about discovery and advantage. Characters we were introduced to in the first issue continue to uncover new aspects of the Trees and their surrounding areas; new characters hope to use the Trees for personal gain, plotting political maneuvers and power grabs; and more questions arise throughout the world.

I am not quite sure what to make of this series. The concept, in and of itself, is odd yet interesting: extremely tall, alien cylindrical structures land on earth, positioning themselves like trees. In the onset of the initial invasion, humans themselves caused global chaos. Ten years later, the Trees have done nothing. They don’t consider humans to be intelligent, or even alive for that matter; thus, humans have adapted. The Trees along with humanity’s restructure after the early fallout, have become commonplace amongst all cultures.

The story is intriguing and confusing at the same time. In both issues, we are introduced to a large cast of characters across the world who react to the Trees differently. There is much potential with each storyline, but not enough information given – as we’re only offered a small glimpse at most of the characters – and even after the second issue, it’s difficult to say where the story is actually headed.

What I want to know is why these people being showcased are so important? Why only now, after ten years, are powerful people who would use the Trees for their own benefit coming into the forefront? Nothing is being answered and I’m left wondering more after each issue.

Howard’s art excels in Trees #2. Heavy sketched lines are used to give a dark and gritty tone to the world. The colors are grim, hinting at the uncertain feel of the world.

You won’t find a typical alien invasion story within Trees #2, which wouldn’t necessarily be a bad thing if the story weren’t bogged down by a slow-paced progression of character development and plot. There’s just a bit too much mystery for me.