Maltese artist Raymond Dominic Agius has today shared the first 20 pages from his epic graphic novel Konvoj, detailing the dramatic story of Operation Pedestal.

Coinciding with the 80th anniversary since Italy announced it had officially joined the Axis forces, an act which initiated three years of terror for the Maltese, the graphic novel solely focuses on a singular event throughout that time period which was crucial to the survival of the Maltese people.

Known in Malta as the Santa Marija Convoy, it involved 14 merchant ships laden with much-needed provisions for the island's long-suffering population. Malta had reached starvation point, and although only five of the ships made it through the enemy's heavy bombardment, the relief was just enough for Malta to get back on its feet.

In his Facebook post, the artist revealed he will be sharing the rest of the novel in segments over the next five days. You can follow updates directly from Raymond by following the artist here.

We're so excited to read the rest of Konvoj!