From IDW Comics and the one man creative team of John Byrne, who both wrote the issue’s main story, “A Scent of Ghosts” and is also responsible for all of the photomontage work in this month’s issue of Star Trek New Visions #5.
For me the best part of this particular issue of an amazing and terrific ongoing Star Trek series from Byrne and IDW, is the return of not only the original Captain Pike, but also of his executive officer, known then only as ‘Number One’, as was played by the enchanting and unforgettable Majel Barrett, who upon returning to the Enterprise, now has the rank of Commodore.
What most intrigues me about this photo book series is just how much fun it is to read as it really does feel as if it is a lost episode from the original series! Especially noteworthy in this issue was seeing Majel Barret’s character a few years later within the original Trek universe and Byrne’s choice of green command tunic and white streak in her hair, was I thought entirely believable!
While the story was fun, this ongoing series deserves to be picked up when it hits comic shop shelfs simply because it looks and feels just like the real thing! Likewise, Byrne and IDW treat Trek fans to an additional short story in this issue entitled, ‘Memorium‘. The story quite nicely pays tribute to both the character of ‘T’Pring’ as well as the late actress who originally portrayed Spock’s betrothed; Arlene Martel.
The short story sees Spock wondering the deserts of Vulcan sometime after Star Trek II & III on a spiritual quest, in which he is drawn to the trapped Katra of T’Pring and ultimately releases her tortured soul. This was a very brief but touching story dedicated to the late Ms. Martel. Well done Mr. Byrne!
I highly recommend this issue of IDW’s Star trek New Visions #5 and may you Live Long and Prosper.
