Robert Kirkman’s ‘The Walking Dead, Vol. 1: Days Gone Bye’ is book three of 2024.

Ever since I watched the show – which, for all its flaws, I love – I’ve been curious about the comic. Yet, I never got around to it because I was too busy reading non-graphic books. I craved something visual after finishing Junji Ito’s ‘Tomie’ last year. A perfect chance to check out ‘The Walking Dead’.

The writing is faster-paced than the TV show. This pace was jarring because I expected a slow introduction and build-up. But it makes sense – this is a comic, after all. It’s a different medium. Once I got used to that, I got into the rhythm of each issue. I miss including some of the show’s characters – Daryl – but if I want the show, I can go and watch the show. The comic is its own thing, and it’s bloody good!

The art style is gorgeous and gruesome in equal measure. I often paused at some nastier scenes and found myself whispering, ‘Wow!’ I love the black and white choice; it reminds me of ‘Night of the Living Dead’, one of my favourites. If you love the aesthetics of zombie apocalypse media, there is a lot to love in these comics.

On to ‘The Walking Dead, Vol. 2: Miles Behind Us’!