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A life restored by His glory.

24 pages, Paperback

First published July 8, 2010

4 people are currently reading
137 people want to read

About the author

Robert Kirkman

2,778 books6,964 followers
Robert Kirkman is an American comic book writer best known for his work on The Walking Dead, Invincible for Image Comics, as well as Ultimate X-Men and Marvel Zombies for Marvel Comics. He has also collaborated with Image Comics co-founder Todd McFarlane on the series Haunt. He is one of the five partners of Image Comics, and the only one of the five who was not one of the original co-founders of that publisher.

Robert Kirkman's first comic books were self-published under his own Funk-o-Tron label. Along with childhood friend Tony Moore, Kirkman created Battle Pope which was published in late 2001. Battle Pope ran for over 2 years along with other Funk-o-Tron published books such as InkPunks and Double Take.

In July of 2002, Robert's first work for another company began, with a 4-part SuperPatriot series for Image, along with Battle Pope backup story artist Cory Walker. Robert's creator-owned projects followed shortly thereafter, including Tech Jacket, Invincible and Walking Dead.

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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
Profile Image for Jess the Shelf-Declared Bibliophile.
2,454 reviews934 followers
July 8, 2020
Being a huge fan of the show, I wanted to see how the original writing started and how the show writers followed and deviated from the comics. My dislikes were that the comics are much more crude, crass, and unnecessarily violent. I did like the change in relationships and how people worked together differently, and the comics have a different creepiness feel than you get watching it on TV. Overall, I prefer the show, and probably will not finish out the comic book series.
Profile Image for Michael Sorbello.
Author 1 book317 followers
November 19, 2020
This is a review of the entire series.

Rick Grimes is a strong-willed deputy who missed the end of the world because he was in a coma for a month after getting shot in the line of duty. Shaken, starving and confused, Rick escapes the horror of the abandoned hospital only to be met with something far more terrible. Not only has the world ended, but the dead have learned to walk and to kill without mercy. After learning that his wife and son have fled to Atlanta from a single survivor and his son, Rick goes on a journey to reunite with his family and search for more survivors.

Rick quickly has to come to terms with the fact that the world has ended and only a select few survived. The dead have risen from their graves and they prey on the living. In a world where every minute feels like hours, where there's no such thing as law and order, where finding a small meal is a tremendous task, the walking dead are quite possibly the least threatening thing for the survivors to have on their breaking minds. Humanity is pushed to the brink of destruction, forcing them to embrace their cruel and primal nature in order to survive. Sometimes you have to be more concerned about who you let into your community so they don't kill you in your sleep and steal everything you once cared about. Rick has no choice but to abandon the ways of law and order that he's upheld as an officer for so long in order to protect the few loved ones he has left. He has to become a monster to protect his crew or risk being devoured by those who became more monstrous than him and even the walking dead.

Despite zombies running the world and having the series named after them, what really sets this series apart from the average zombie apocalypse tale is the focus on realism and the daily struggles, flaws and depth of the characters. There's plenty of badass zombie killing action, but the action often takes a back seat to give the characters plenty of times to share their extremely tragic yet endearing stories, grow through mutual suffering and learn to adapt to a world that has left them to die. Even after the world has ended, many people still can't see eye to eye. They turn on each other and kill each other when they should come together. Others form alliances in spite of their differences and try to rebuild over the corpse of everything that was lost. The daily human drama and conflict is more intense than any monster apocalypse could hope to be.

We watch Rick struggle to balance his old moral code with the many necessary evils he has to commit in order to survive and make the world a better place for the ones he holds close. We watch people like Glen, Dale and Maggie attempt to find love in spite of having every reason to be filled with fear, hate and self-loathing. Characters like Michonne have to learn how to forgive themselves and convince themselves they deserve to be loved despite all the blood on their hands. We watch the weak like Carl and Andrea become strong and sometimes the strong become evil like The Governor. Even monsters like the wicked yet oddly lovable Negan are given the chance to find new ways of redeeming themselves by struggling alongside the other survivors that have all been changed by the horrors of the fallen world.

The pacing is extremely slow and I can understand why that may be a turnoff for a lot of people, but I eventually learned to enjoy watching the characters grow, overcome their trauma, find meaning in life and learn to love again. The characters are forced to do many terrible things to survive and it haunts them every waking moment. The ways they overcome these regrets is very realistic, human and hopeful. The slow pacing really gives the feeling that we're living beside these people. The way every tiny detail of their lives and who they are is explored makes them feel very real and believable.

When I first started reading the series, I wasn't expecting it to have such an uplifting ending. It seemed so bleak and nihilistic for a long time and things would go horribly wrong even when they seemed to be going so well, but the finale channels all the pain, suffering and betrayal of the previous volumes and tops it off with a very touching and inspiring finish. This was never a story about hopelessness. It's about learning to appreciate the little things, learning to forgive yourself and learning to move on even when it's hard. When everything seems lost there's always more to be found, even when we believe otherwise because we convince ourselves that we don't deserve to be happy ever again. Instead of dwelling on what was lost, strive to try and make things better than they were before.

I've never been a huge fan of zombie apocalypse stories, but The Walking Dead had enough heart and strong social commentary to make me stick by the characters until the end and I enjoyed every moment of their long trial.

***

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November 12, 2024
Following the intense cliffhanger from the last issue, where Abraham confronted the construction crew after risking his life to save Holly, I was eager to see how the tension would evolve. Abraham’s bold actions could affect his position within the Alexandria Safe-Zone community, potentially reshaping how the residents view strength and loyalty in such a perilous world.

The issue opens with Abraham standing his ground against Tobin, calling out his cowardice in nearly leaving Holly to die during a roamer attack. Tobin attempts to justify his actions, insisting the construction crew has a "system" and asking Holly if she understands their approach. In response, Holly promptly shuts down Tobin’s excuse by kicking him in the groin, a powerful and satisfying moment that clearly illustrates the Safe-Zone’s deteriorating faith in Tobin’s leadership. Holly thanks Abraham for stepping up, but he humbly brushes it off, saying that helping each other is just second nature for him and his group.

Meanwhile, Rick unveils the stash of guns he and Glenn secretly took from the armory to Andrea, only to be met with frustration. Andrea is less than thrilled, fearing that Rick’s unauthorized stockpiling could jeopardize their relatively peaceful new life in Alexandria. She’s concerned that Rick’s distrust of their new neighbors could shatter the safety they’ve found, but Rick counters by saying he doesn’t fully trust the community and needs to be ready for anything. He explains that, especially for Carl’s sake, he’s determined to protect the fragile normalcy they’ve found, even if it means bending the rules. This exchange highlights Rick’s protectiveness as well as Andrea’s desire to fully embrace a stable, peaceful life again.

Elsewhere, Tobin meets with Douglas to discuss his role as head of the construction crew. He admits he’s lost the crew’s respect and that the group has shifted to following Abraham’s lead. Douglas is quick to point out that Rick’s group has actually improved Alexandria’s odds, citing Rick’s suggestion of placing snipers on rooftops for added security. Tobin’s confession about his own fears and shortcomings is bittersweet, revealing his regret over lives lost due to his lack of courage—a realization that, while admirable, comes too late to undo the harm.

In a positive turn, Rick’s group receives new housing in Alexandria, a significant milestone that feels like a step toward long-term stability. Carl, however, is reluctant for Andrea to move out, a subtle reminder of the close-knit bonds that have formed within the group.

At the church, Father Gabriel hosts a service, and as it ends, he appears torn and deeply troubled by guilt. His inner struggle becomes apparent as he privately wrestles with the difficult decisions he’s made, praying and crying out to God for guidance. Gabriel’s character is intriguing here—he has a history with the group but remains morally conflicted, even self-tormented.

In the city, Glenn and Heath venture to scavenge supplies for Scott, whose condition has worsened. The two are quickly confronted with the dangerous reality of their mission when the alleyway Heath once used to gather resources is now filled with walkers, making their already perilous task even more daunting. Glenn’s agile rooftop maneuvers add a new layer of tension—there’s always the fear that one misstep could cost him his life. His loyalty and determination stand out here; Glenn is willing to brave incredible risks to help others, solidifying his role as one of the group’s core strengths.

In a tender moment, Rick and Michonne discuss their new roles as peacekeepers in Alexandria, hinting at the changes both of them have had to undergo. Michonne, in particular, expresses a desire to retire her sword, though it’s hard to tell if she genuinely believes it’s possible to let go of that part of herself. When Michonne gently brings up Lori, Rick remains silent, and Michonne quickly apologizes, acknowledging the delicate space Rick still holds for his wife’s memory.

In a surprising and somewhat unsettling twist, Gabriel visits Douglas late at night, confessing his fears about Rick’s group. He tells Douglas that he believes they’re “bad people” and that they don’t belong in the Safe-Zone. Gabriel’s distrust reveals the cracks within Alexandria’s seemingly cohesive community, creating a sense of unease about the group’s future.

I found Abraham’s defense of Holly to be the highlight of this issue. His insistence on protecting his own, regardless of the cost, reveals his strength and loyalty, and it was validating to see the construction crew witness his courage firsthand. Tobin’s attempt to justify his cowardice only made Abraham’s heroic actions stand out more—Tobin’s “safety-first” mentality may be logical, but in this world, a leader needs bravery, and Abraham’s approach felt far more natural and reliable.

Rick and Andrea’s argument struck a chord as well; I understand both sides here. Rick’s need for protection is valid, especially after everything he’s experienced. He can’t fully trust the Alexandria community to safeguard his family, and I think Andrea’s reservations stem from her fear of jeopardizing the peace she’s begun to embrace. It’s easy to empathize with both perspectives—they’re each justified in their own way.

Tobin’s belated realization about his shortcomings adds depth to his character, even if it’s a little too late to repair the damage done. His regret over lives lost due to his hesitation feels genuine, underscoring the difficulty of leadership when every decision is life or death.

I can’t help but feel a pang of anxiety watching Glenn navigate rooftops and alleys filled with walkers. His agility is incredible, but any misstep could end badly. I’ve grown attached to Glenn, and I’d hate for him to meet an untimely end—it’s a reminder of just how risky life has become for everyone.

Finally, Gabriel’s actions add a layer of suspense and tension. His distrust and willingness to betray the group to Douglas were unexpected and disappointing, leaving me questioning his motives. With the Alexandria community’s safety on the line, his betrayal could be costly, undermining the sense of unity Rick’s group has been fighting to build.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

This short comic strip offers a lighter, more humorous take on the series, providing a momentary reprieve from the relentless tension of the main story. Despite the shift in tone, it gives insight into Carl’s character in a way that only a comedic strip can.

Rick and Carl attend a church service together. Rick notices that Carl has started doodling inside a Bible and, concerned, asks him to stop. Carl, unfazed, retorts that God “probably doesn’t care” in the middle of a zombie apocalypse. In fact, Carl thinks God would approve of him adding a bit of color to the bleakness of their world.

Carl’s line here is unexpectedly hilarious and perfectly captures his rebellious nature. His confidence and nonchalance in the face of a scolding from Rick are priceless, showing a mature, if somewhat defiant, worldview for his age. In a world overrun by the undead, Carl’s casual indifference and humor bring a refreshing, if dark, sense of normalcy.
Profile Image for Kelsie.
296 reviews24 followers
May 12, 2021
A slower issue this time but still interesting enough.
Basically we find out Father Gabe is a snake. Andrea doesn't want the stolen gun. Abraham is potentially going to be the new leader of the construction crew because Tobin is a whimpy bish. And Maggie says goodbye to Glenn when he goes off on a pharmacy run. Can I hear a 'FOOOOOORESHADOWING!'
x
Profile Image for Josy.
185 reviews8 followers
November 25, 2022
No me sorprende que Gabriel siga siendo igual de traicionero. Realmente nunca pense que los comic me fueran a gustar tanto.
Profile Image for Artrix.
121 reviews15 followers
April 22, 2024
El cura ni me caía bien en la serie ni me cae bien aquí...

Porque en todas las historias los curas son los peores y más cogidos de la cabeza?
Profile Image for Laina.
237 reviews2 followers
June 6, 2016
I like Abraham more and more as the issues go by. I'm glad that he saved Holly's life, and that he told those assholes that work with them on the construction crew, how it should be.

Andrea's stupid for not taking the gun Rick offered. The fact that she wants so badly to believe that Alexandria's a good place, will probably end up getting her killed. She needs to protect herself, and a gun will help with that.

I don't like that Douglas almost threw a child-like hissy fit because Tobin, who WAS in charge of the construction crew, put Abraham in charge of it now. If it wasn't for Abraham, Holly and I'm sure all of the others on the construction crew would be dead.

Okay, so apparently Heath and Scott aren't a couple. Maybe they're just really good friends. That's the feeling I got from their conversation when they talked about Heath going on a run with Glenn.

Heath is a downer when it comes to the idea of them coming back alive. He should have kept his comment about Glenn not making promises he can't keep, to himself. No one needs or wants to hear that.

Michonne's acting weird again. I mean, who brings up another person's dead wife, and the time they were hallucinating and talking to them on a phone? No one normal, that is.

Yikes. The runs with the Alexandrians might end up being even more dangerous than the runs that Glenn had done while he and the rest of Rick's group were in Atlanta earlier in the series.

Oh crap, look at all those zombies. I hope that Heath and Glenn can figure out a way to get past them and that they can get back to Alexandria safely. I don't want anything to happen to them.

Really Gabriel? Rick and his group saved your ass, and you're gonna go and tell Douglas that they're bad people and that they should be kicked out of Alexandria? What the hell kind of 'man of the cloth' are you, if you're willing to send people to their death?
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews

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