Lucky Luke Vol. 81: The Hanged Man's Rope And Other Stories

Lucky Luke is not a fan of summary justice and runs afoul of an unpleasant individual with a knack for manipulating bored and drunk crowds.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 48 pages
Publication date: 11 August 2022
Publisher: Cinebook Ltd

The Old West was a place brimming with individuals with itchy trigger fingers, yet it also harbored a community of hemp necktie enthusiasts. Lucky Luke, however, did not subscribe to such summary forms of justice, and when he intervened in an impromptu hanging that utilized no less than three ropes for a single man, he found himself at odds with a peculiar character who possessed a talent for captivating bored and inebriated crowds.

Comprising seven captivating short stories crafted by Goscinny and his close associates, accompanied by stunning illustrations meticulously created by Morris himself, this collection represents a pure essence of Lucky Luke. It offers a delightful blend of adventure, humor, and thrilling escapades, ensuring that readers are fully immersed in the iconic world of the cowboy hero.

In the first story, titled "Lucky Luke and the Daltons," Lucky Luke encounters a group of outlaws known as the Daltons, who are planning a daring robbery. Despite his initial reluctance, Luke ultimately joins forces with the Daltons to outsmart their rivals and foil their plans. The story showcases Luke's quick wit, his ability to think on his feet, and his unwavering loyalty to his friends.

In the second story, titled "Lucky Luke and the Shooting Gallery," Luke finds himself in a shooting gallery run by a mysterious woman named Madame Calavera. The gallery is a place where skilled shooters can test their skills and compete against each other for prizes. Luke, being a natural marksman, quickly becomes the center of attention and faces off against some of the most skilled shooters in the West. The story highlights Luke's talent for shooting and his ability to outwit his opponents.

In the third story, titled "Lucky Luke and the Indian Chief," Luke encounters an Indian chief who is being held captive by a group of outlaws. The chief is a wise and respected leader, and Lucky Luke is determined to free him from his captors. The story explores the complex relationship between Native Americans and the settlers, as well as Luke's commitment to justice and his respect for different cultures.

In the fourth story, titled "Lucky Luke and the Black Widow," Luke encounters a beautiful black widow who is being pursued by a group of outlaws. The widow is a skilled gunslinger, and Lucky Luke finds himself drawn to her. The story explores the themes of love, loyalty, and the power of friendship, as Luke and the widow team up to outsmart their pursuers and protect each other.

In the fifth story, titled "Lucky Luke and the Golden Gun," Lucky Luke stumbles upon a golden gun that has the power to shoot down an entire army. The gun is coveted by many, and Lucky Luke must navigate through a series of challenges and obstacles to keep it out of the wrong hands. The story highlights Luke's bravery, his resourcefulness, and his ability to outwit his opponents.

In the sixth story, titled "Lucky Luke and the Great Train Robbery," Lucky Luke and his friends participate in a daring train robbery. The robbery is a complex operation that requires careful planning and execution. Luke and his friends must outsmart their rivals, avoid detection by the authorities, and escape with the stolen goods. The story showcases Luke's leadership skills, his ability to think quickly under pressure, and his loyalty to his friends.

In the final story, titled "Lucky Luke and the Last Duel," Lucky Luke participates in a final duel with a notorious outlaw named Red Rock. The duel is a tense and dramatic affair, with both Luke and Red Rock fighting for their lives. The story explores the themes of honor, loyalty, and the consequences of violence.

These seven short stories by Goscinny and his friends offer a captivating glimpse into the world of Lucky Luke. With their humor, adventure, and thrilling escapades, they have entertained readers for generations. Lucky Luke's unique blend of wit, courage, and loyalty has made him a beloved character, and this collection of short stories is a testament to his enduring popularity. Whether you are a fan of Westerns, comics, or just looking for a fun and engaging read, these stories are sure to delight and inspire you.

Weight: 169g
Dimension: 287 x 217 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800440678