The story in this book is scattered. It seems as though the author spent more time on the illustrations---which are quite nice---than he did developing the story.

As with other graphic novels I've read, I don't really see how the illustrations add to the story, and the story seems to lack the depth that it might have had if it were written in prose. Maybe I'd prefer a graphic novel in which the words are the most important part and the pictures secondary, rather than the other way around. But it's possible that it just isn't the genre for me. They're really quick to read, though. If my TBR were filled with these, I could be done in a year or two rather than seven years. ( )

Disappointing. Because of the place they were in their relationship, I found neither of the main characters particularly likable or interesting. And exploring the problems of a foreign country through the perspective of a white American couple is always problematic, if not cliche and lazy. While the white couple has their heads up their asses, the residents of Oaxaca are barely developed. Off the top of my head I really only recall four major supporting characters and one of those was a white bookstore owner. So the population of Mexico is represented by a wild, drunken photographer of mixed heritage, a sleazy artist and a maid who generally just tries to stay under the radar. Not a lot of depth there. Hell, the flying butterfly gets more pages than any of those characters. Kuper's art is nice and creates a beautiful setting at least. ( )

Though Ruins has its strengths (a decent story, good character development), it failed to impress me much. Overall, the story arc is good, but the subplots fall to the side. The art leaves much to be desired. And, my biggest gripe: why are we getting a story about Mexico and a particular event in Mexican history through the eyes of gringos? Even the supporting cast is gringo. Actual Mexicans, well, they are merely used for making the background more colorful. ( )

Samantha and George, are an unhappy married couple, who decide to spend a year in Oaxaca, Mexico. They hope to use this time, so Sam can finish a book she is writing and George can rediscover his passion for painting. They also hope to mend a broken marriage.

Paralleling, this story is the journey of a monarch butterfly, as it migrates, from Canada to Mexico.

Wow! This was a terrific surprise and will end up being one of the best GNs I have read this year. It is well-written and it is gorgeously illustrated. The author captures the Mexican setting with beauty and grace. I had never heard of Peter Kuper but he has sure got my attention now. ( )