Bundle up, it’s time for “So You Want To Read Comics”, the weekly feature, where we take a look at a single topic, then offer a pair of comic book recommendations perfect for new readers, based on that topic. This week we’re taking a look at comics that are perfect for those winter months.
Nearly 67% of the world’s population lives in the northern hemisphere. And within that hemisphere, a good majority of them live in the northern temperate zone. It’s in this zone where the cliché depiction of winter occurs. Crisp, quiet, and cold air, barren trees, icicles hanging off roofs, massive mounds of snow, and people wrapped up in as many layers as possible. We’ve all seen the commercials and Hallmark movies, with people cozied up in their living room with a cup of hot cocoa, spending time with family, and sometimes, reading. It’s a time of the year marked by both stillness and excitement of celebration as it’s the time of year when some of the most observed holidays from various religions and cultures take place. It’s also been the muse to poets, storytellers, and artists of all shapes and sizes.
So let’s take a look at a couple of comics, perfect for those who enjoy it when the temperature drops.
MOUSE GUARD
Writer: David Petersen
Artist: David Petersen
Publisher: BOOM! Studios
Mouse Guard follows the Redwall route and re-imagines the lives of woodland creatures, specifically mice, as medieval, fantasy, adventures. In this particular series, The Mouse Guard, are ex-soldier who act as guides and protectors in the wild, helping lost travelers and others who may be vulnerable to the perils of nature. The first volume of this series takes place during autumn, but the 2nd one places the characters in the middle of winter, which only adds to the dangers facing them. Where this series really shines, especially for fans of winter, is its art. This series features gorgeous artwork that uses both ink and paint to create a storybook like feel that not only shows how harsh a winter can be, but also the beauty of it, not to mention the comfort that can be found when you can hide away from the cold. It should be said though, that while this series does feature cute and cuddly animals, the stories themselves are not always so cute and can be grim and gruesome.
A VERY REBIRTH HOLIDAY
Writer: Various
Artist: Various
Publisher: DC Comics
There’s no getting around it, when you think of winter, you’re probably also thinking about a particular holiday that’s near and dear to you. Don’t worry, comic books have you covered. For many years comic book companies have seen the holiday season as an excuse to put together anthologies featuring a slew of their characters engaged in various holiday-themed shenanigans. This particular one was made after the latest big DC continuity shuffle, so it features characters that are going to be closer to the versions you’ll find in today’s (as of the writing of this article) comics. These sorts of collections are typically hit or miss in terms of quality of story (this one is particularly good), but more importantly, they offer up a fun and hassle-free way to be introduced to these characters. Fun little sidenote: I was introduced to one of my favorite comic series’ The Runaways, by a holiday anthology from Marvel. But anyways, if you’re looking for a good way to get into comics and like things appropriate for the time of year you’re in. This is a good way to go.
What did you think of these recommendations? What are some of your favorite winter themed comics? Let us know in the comment section below.