Treasure hunter, sailor, and adventurer, Corto Maltese remains one of the most popular characters from graphic literature in Europe and maintains a devoted cult following among American readers and creators. Originally published in 1967, `Corto Maltese: The Ballad of the Salt Sea` introduces our hero for the first time. The story begins with Corto Maltese adrift at sea in the Pacific during World War I. He is picked up by a Russian pirate/privateer named Rasputin. The graphic novel follows Corto and the adventure that ensues. “Corto Maltese: The Ballad of the Salt Sea” is sure to appeal to fans of swashbuckling action-packed tales and sophisticated readers seeking elegant stories alike.