Embrace the Present Moment

Bringing Comics to New Shores

Paul B. Rainey is redefining the comic landscape. He aims to engage readers beyond traditional comic book fans. A few years ago, while discussing his work, “Why Don’t You Love Me?”, he expressed this vision. He targets those who might prefer watching classic British TV soaps. Rainey, a prolific writer and artist, continuously pushes creative boundaries.

Revisiting Time Travel

“There’s No Time Like the Present” began as a self-published series. A decade ago, it was first published by Escape in a collected form. Now, a fresh edition hits the shelves. It resonates with today’s tech-driven world. Surprisingly, its time-travel premise hasn’t dated. This success is due to Rainey’s exceptional storytelling prowess. He crafts characters that aren’t immediately relatable. Yet, readers grow to empathize with them. His work stands out from the generic sci-fi tales filling comic shelves.

Complex Characters, Rich Narratives

The story features three male protagonists, quite misanthropic and immature. They are British to the core, each eccentric in his way. These characters remain tied to their habits and past moments. They express a wish to move forward but fail when given opportunities. This refusal to change may hint at one of Rainey’s intended morals. Far from being dull, the narrative is vibrant. Rainey weaves in cult television notes and unrequited love subplots. His commentary on societal norms adds depth and intrigue.

Time and Comedy in Unison

Driving the plot is the Ultranet, a futuristic internet concept. It lets users pirate future shows or peek into their destinies. Some characters navigate centuries, and these journeys affect others’ lives intriguingly. Rainey expertly blends humor, poking fun at collectors, nerds, and British culture.

Engaging, Despite Flaws

Not every storyline in the comic fits seamlessly. Some twists might make more sense to Rainey than readers. A few characters vanish without explanation. Despite these points, the story’s charm shines through. A second read unveils layers initially overlooked.

A Deep Dive into Human Experience

Rainey’s subtle humor tackles grave topics like grief and mortality. His characters accept the inevitability of aging with grace. This lends a profound note to the book’s closing chapters. The reissue is a fine excuse for return readers and fresh eyes alike.

Paul B. Rainey continues to capture attention with his unique narratives. “There’s No Time Like the Present” remains a testament to his talent. Whether revisiting or discovering for the first time, readers are in for a treat.