Book of Slaughter #1 is written by James Tynion IV and published by BOOM! Studios. Illustrations are by Werther Dell’edera and colours are by Miquel Muerto. Letters are by AndWorld Design. The issue features guest artwork by Letizia Cadonici, Francesco Segala, Chris Shehan, Antonio Faso and Dylan Todd. The main cover art (left) is by Dan Mora and Dell’edera.
Book of Slaughter #1 is available now in print and on digital where all good comic books are sold.
Synopsis
From the sidelines to the spotlight, the White Mask Maxine Slaughter features in this new special issue that ties together threads from both Slaughterverse series… but will her loyalties remain where they have always been, or will she show her true colors?
Review
If you only know James Tynion IV for his work on Batman then I’m here to tell you that you’ve been missing out. Between his work on The Nice House on the Lake (also at DC) and creating the Something is Killing the Children franchise in which this book is based, Tynion has carved out an outstanding niche in the world of horror.
Book of Slaughter is a one-shot which aims to acclimatise new readers to the world of Something is Killing the Children and act as a re-contextualisation ahead of that series’ next chapter.
This first one-shot puts Maxine Slaughter front and centre as a potential new lead. Slaughter is a White Mask, part of a long line monster hunters who come from a complex history worthy of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Feeling lost already? Well that is where this excellent book comes in to its own. Book of Slaughter introduces Maxine at a turning point which sees her exploring her own history and place in the world.
The audience experiences her exploration in real-time in a perfect analogy for the reader experience. Much of the book is made up of pages from a historical text which explores the history of the various factions and traits that exist within the realm of Something is Killing the Children. What better way to acclimate new readers who’ve yet to have the chance to catch up?
Tynion has created a rich world which is really ripe for expansion and discovery. Whilst Book of Slaughter is relatively low-key, its explorative nature is the perfect foundation on which to build future chapters. Maxine is a compelling lead and even as we watch her simply trying to understand who she is the story remains compulsive reading.
Werther Dell’edera’s artwork is nothing short of stunning. Dell’edera has such a unique style which naturally aligns itself with the style of Tynion’s story. The sketch-like design work is beautifully enhanced by Miquel Muerto’s colours and AndWorld Design’s sleek lettering. Book of Slaughter is an undeniable visual feast and a tantalising first glimpse in to Tynion’s world for this reviewer.
Verdict
A uniquely explorative look at the world of Something is Killing the Children through the eyes of Maxine Slaughter.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
