I think that knowing this series is going to run for a couple of years is what makes the story so interesting. Each issue we’re given a little more of the world and what’s going on, but how long can it really go on for? I’m in it for the long haul, but part of me does wonder if there will be a time in which there isn’t enough information given or the characters fall flat… well that’s impossible in this issue because the characters are fantastic. I’ll skip the opening because it really only has context when you read the entire issue and a recap of it would be boring. In the present Cassius explains what the Articles of Incorporation is and what it will mean to the high school students. Oh I can’t wait until we check in with the high school! That shit is going to be great. In the meantime we learn an in depth version of what we already know, the school will be forced to become soldiers while our trope will be adopted by Cassius and his family.
Can I just say that Cassius is one of my favorite new characters? I dig this dude and love how he just wants to protect the kids. He really is the kindest character to grace the pages of a comic book in a long time.
After everything is explained our trope of misfits decide they must warn the school and not let their friends fall into military slavery. They ask for Cassius’ help, but as caring as he is he must think of his livelihood and his family’s well-being.
I dug this issue. It’s mostly talking, but the character moments and development are superior to the last issue in every way. Issue nine was too sharp, too quick with its development. With this issue the characters come across as a natural progression to when we saw then in issue eight. It just clicks here whereas previously it felt forced/rushed.
We get to see the dino-birds wearing armor and they look pretty badass. I mean they’re no Wally (RIP Wally, you and your hat were adorable), but I like the strange creatures. Dialynas illustrates some fantastic looking creatures and even if some of them are creepy and trying to kill everyone, they’re still wonderful to look at. I’m looking forward to the next issue in which we might get to see the dragons. This issue just their heads are teased, but it’s a great scene in which Calder shows that he has tremendous heart as one of the dragons warms up to him instantly. Its little scenes like that that show Dialynas’ talent as a storyteller.
You really should be reading this series already. Now that several of BOOM!’s other titles have wrapped up, it’s safe to say that this is their best ongoing series. You can argue it, but you’ll be wrong. This series has more character development, story development and better visual storytelling than the vast majority of comics on the market. Catch up on The Woods, this is a ride you’ll want to be a part of in the coming years.
Score: 5/5
Writer: James Tynion IV Artist: Michael Dialynas Colorist: Josan Gonzalez Publisher: BOOM! Studios Price: $3.99 Release Date: 2/4/15 Format: Ongoing; Print/Digital