Something Is Killing The Children
written by James Tynion IV, art by Werther Dell’Edera, colors by Miquel Muerto
Boom! Comics
$15
I am not kidding when I say that every volume of this series is better than the last. I don't typically read horror because I don't like to be scared, but I always feel safe with Erica Slaughter around. Volume 5 is the first time I was actually worried for Erica, and if you have already read volumes 1 - 4 you know she's been through a lot. If you haven't read any of these, what are you waiting for?!
written by Jake Wyatt, art by Choo
First Second
$18
This book seems to start as a fable, but sometimes the stories of the past become a little more personal. Taking a few coins from a wishing well to pay for the ferry back home seemed like a good idea to Lizzy at the time, but now she finds herself in the position of having to fill the unfulfilled wishes those coins represented. Perfect for all ages.
by Ellinor Richey
Top Shelf Productions
$25
The colors in this book are mesmerizing. Sometimes we give the objects that fill our lives a little too much power, but just because an object represents something difficult doesn't mean it's easy to just throw it away. Florence ditches her skates and they take on a life of their own as she finds herself the subject of a very interesting type of curse. I can't wait to read more from this first-time comics creator.
by Alex Ross
Abrams
$25
Alex Ross was born to write and illustrate a Fantastic Four story. The colors in this book are out of this world, which is quite fitting since the FF are headed to the Negative Zone in this retro adventure. Uses a classic Fantastic Four issue (Volume 1, Issue 51) as a jumping off point and is absolutely stunning from cover to cover.
by Jordan Crane
Fantagraphics
$30
By far my favorite book of the year and also the hardest to describe. It starts as a story (and another story) about loss, but it explores superstition, anxiety, reminiscing, grocery shopping, mind-wandering, catastrophizing, washing dishes, appreciation, and how hard it is to pick a movie to rent. This book is an experience that deserves to be shared with the people you care about. Be sure to have a box of tissues nearby.
by Michael Deforge
Drawn & Quarterly
$35
Just in case you have forgotten just how ridiculous life on Earth has become, let a bunch of birds who live on the moon tell you how dumb it is. On the moon everyone has free and easy access to information (even the beatles), they don't need money (no more fines), and can aspire to do and be whatever they want, even a fashion designer (although economist is frowned upon).
written by Jonathan Hickman, art by Mike Huddleston
Image Comics
$40
This is the perfect book. Even when I'm not reading it I just love to flip through and be amazed. An assassin with excellent etiquette takes a foul-mouthed courier under her wing. Let the Sisterhood of Man guide you through the universe in this mind-bending science fiction, just watch out for the Church of the Singularity.
Ask me about my 8-hour Decorum playlist.