The ability to tell scary stories in the dark is not lost on the creators of Something Is Killing the Children from BOOM! Studios. Collecting Issues 11 through 15, Volume 3 concludes its story arc in the town of Archer’s Peak, and Erica Slaughter continues her reign as one of the best comic book characters.
Writer James Tynion IV creates an exquisitely horrifying concept in Something Is Killing the Children, where invisible monsters can tear people apart at any given moment. So, when a group of the town’s residents witness such an event right in front of their eyes, the fear is real. The ability to see these monsters is limited to a select number of people known as the Order of St. George. Though Erica isn’t the only one who can see these gruesome creatures and doesn’t see eye to eye with the Order, her ability to fight and make decisions allows the reader to depend on Erica as she takes charge to stop these monsters. Not only does she have to contend with these nightmarish creatures in Volume 3, she has to protect the town from the Order that wishes to eliminate anyone who has seen the invisible, but deadly, attacks.
Artist Werther Dell’edera brilliantly draws the characters’ emotions and their actions within the shadows. Conversations and fight sequences carry equal weight as the enormity of each panel leads the reader through, wondering what will happen next. Colorist Miquel Muerto does a phenomenal job creating pops of color through the various nighttime sequences. This wonderful mixture of color and darkness enhances the overall feel, providing a scary vibe that leaves you on the edge of your seat. Additionally, letters by Andworld Design provide depth to what’s happening, whether a character is shaky from injury, a monster is screeching, or a creepy stuffed animal is telling Erica she’s going to die.
Something Is Killing the Children: Volume 3 is a story that leaves no doubt that readers will want more from this creative team. From the townsfolk’s frightened expressions or Erica’s raging attacks while being outnumbered by demonic-looking creatures, her signature green jacket or lingering stare, or how the creatures formed in the first place, Volume 3 is incredibly well done. It doesn’t falter for one second, and, much like the rest of the series, is simply one of a kind. Readers will leave this chapter hoping for more Erica Slaughter, whether in comic book form or another medium, and there isn’t anything more satisfying than that.
Something Is Killing the Children: Volume 3 will be available on Wednesday, June 9, for print and digital release.
Creative Team: James Tynion IV (writer), Werther Dell’edera (artist), Miquel Muerto (colorist), Andworld Design (letters), Michelle Ankley (series designer), Marie Krupina (collection designer), Eric Harburn (editor), Assistant Editor (Gwen Waller)
Publisher: BOOM! Studios
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