A superb entry in the series, this has a deceptively simple plot but works in some really good set pieces, detection and intrigue along the way. The lads are in the right place at the right time to witness a dispute at a local carnival and things quickly escalate from there - bad luck, a human fly, a robbery, this has it all. There’s an underlying pathos to it - similar to the freeways in “Talking Skull” - about the waning carnival life and people wanting something for nothing and, coupled with some great imagery - the human fly, the rotting fairground - elevates this into something quite special. This also marks the introduction of the tracking devices and features several characters saying “The Jones Salvage Yard has everything!”, which I thought was cool. Highly recommended.
In addition to being one of my favourites, this also has the distinction that each piece of artwork is completely different, focussing on a fresh set piece each time. The 1973 edition is on the left, the 1983 version on the right. I love the 1983 editions (did I already mention that?), so it gets my vote as the best.
