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No one can be trusted. Critically acclaimed, fan-favorite The Walking Dead depicts the harrowing aftermath of a zombie apocalypse. Rick Grimes, a small-town police officer from Cynthiana, Kentucky, woke from a coma to find the world he knew was gone, and zombies dominated the earth. Now he and his young son struggle to survive, battling "roamers," cannibals, starvation . . . and his fellow humans. Harrowing, unpredictable, and emotionally devastating, The Walking Dead is THE zombie series of the 21st Century. SOON TO BE A TELEVISION SHOW ON AMC!

24 pages, Paperback

First published September 22, 2010

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About the author

Robert Kirkman

2,777 books6,963 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 - 10 of 10 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 22, 2024
This issue was an intense blend of heartbreak, action, and emotional honesty. From Rick's struggle with grief to the escalating tensions in the Alexandria Safe-Zone, Issue #77 has a little bit of everything that makes *The Walking Dead* such a gripping story. As characters try to find some sense of normalcy, the past keeps haunting them, and the line between safety and chaos is razor-thin.

The story begins with an intimate and almost haunting moment as Carl walks in on his father, Rick, having a one-sided conversation with “Lori” on a phone—a connection to his late wife that Rick can’t seem to let go of. Carl, in a mix of confusion and frustration, asks Rick to explain. When he listens to the receiver and hears nothing, he reacts with sadness and anger, calling the situation “weird and stupid” before storming out. This heartbreaking exchange highlights how differently father and son process loss, with Carl forced into maturity by the harsh world around him while Rick still clings to memories of a life that’s long gone.

Meanwhile, in the heart of the community, Andrea tries to settle into her new role as a lookout in the bell tower. Spencer, another member of Alexandria, approaches her and eventually invites her for dinner. Andrea, balancing her past with Dale and her present responsibilities, tentatively agrees. There’s a touching subtlety to her interactions with Spencer, and their budding friendship teeters on the edge of something more—until her memories of Dale put a halt to any romantic development. Spencer understands, offering instead to share a meal with no strings attached, showing a gentleness that adds dimension to their characters.

In another corner of the Safe-Zone, Scott is struggling with his injuries despite the antibiotics that Glenn and Heath risked their lives to retrieve. Heath stays by his side, trying to comfort him, but Scott ultimately succumbs to his infection. His death is a reminder that, even in a community like Alexandria, survival is never guaranteed. When Michonne drives a nail into Scott’s head to prevent him from turning, it’s a stark and jarring scene, underscoring the bleak pragmatism that governs life in this world.

Back in his isolated quarters, Pete Anderson’s growing anger and resentment boil over as he trashes the house, his pent-up rage fueled by his forced separation from the community. Spotting a set of kitchen knives, Pete’s frustration simmers into something far more dangerous, setting the stage for a deadly confrontation.

As Andrea and Spencer share a quiet meal, they are interrupted by the chilling sight of Pete walking down the street with a knife. He crashes into an argument between Douglas and Heath about whether Scott should be honored with a funeral, and the tension snaps when Pete demands Rick’s death. Rick tries to defuse the situation, but Pete, in a blind rage, slashes Regina’s throat, killing her instantly. The chaos that ensues is electrifying, and the panel where Rick points his gun at Pete’s head, with Douglas coldly giving him permission to pull the trigger, is one of the most powerful moments in the issue. Rick doesn’t hesitate, delivering justice swiftly, but this action reverberates through the community, casting a shadow over the fragile peace they had been trying to build.

As if this wasn’t enough, the issue closes on a suspenseful note: Derek and his group, who had been tracking Glenn and Heath, hear the gunshot and make their way toward Alexandria. The threat of external danger creeping into their safe haven adds yet another layer of suspense to an already fraught situation.

This issue is packed with emotional weight. The conversation between Rick and Carl is heart-wrenching. Carl’s attempt to shake Rick out of his attachment to a past that’s irretrievably lost reflects the painful maturity he’s developed. He’s a kid who’s been forced to accept harsh realities, and seeing his father’s inability to move on is tough for him. This scene really hits home as it highlights the different ways people deal with trauma and loss—Carl is ready to let go, but Rick, haunted by his guilt and memories, clings to the voice of a lost loved one. It’s a reminder that grief isn’t a linear journey, especially in a world where life and death constantly intermingle.

Scott’s death also left a mark. After all Heath and Glenn went through to get the antibiotics, seeing Scott’s life still slip away was a sad reminder of the limitations of medicine and hope in this world. Heath’s desire to give Scott a funeral reflects his empathy and respect for those around him, and I completely agree with him—honoring Scott’s memory feels like the right thing to do.

Glenn and Maggie’s relationship stands out as one of the most grounded and realistic portrayals of love in the series. Their ability to communicate openly, especially when dealing with heavy emotions like shame and guilt, is inspiring. Maggie’s journey of healing after her attempted suicide is complex, and Glenn’s unwavering support shows that their bond is built on deep respect and understanding. It’s a heartwarming reminder that, even amidst all the tragedy, love can thrive and grow.

The scene with Rick shooting Pete was incredible. The moment was intense, much like its adaptation in the TV series. Rick’s readiness to do whatever it takes to protect the community—even if it means executing someone in cold blood—underscores his shift from a man of principles to one of brutal pragmatism. It’s a visceral, raw moment, and I found myself fully immersed in the tension. The gunshot at the end of the issue leaves me on edge, as Derek and his group are now heading toward Alexandria, creating a sense of looming danger that promises even more chaos to come.

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As always, the Small Bites segment delivers some much-needed humor to lighten the intensity of the main series. This issue had me laughing out loud, especially with Douglas and Andrea’s interactions. It’s the kind of comedic relief that works well amidst the darker moments of The Walking Dead universe.

Andrea is stationed in the bell tower, keeping watch over the walker activity outside Alexandria, trying to stave off the boredom that comes with the job. Her lookout is interrupted when she spots someone surprising—Alexander Davidson, up in a treehouse, acting completely out of his mind. Davidson’s “relationship” with the squirrels he’s surrounded himself with is bizarre, bordering on absurd, and I couldn’t help but laugh at the ridiculousness of it. Andrea reports her sighting back to Douglas, but instead of concern, he nonchalantly brushes it off and even invites Andrea over for a glass of wine. Andrea, unimpressed, declines, and the scene ends with her irritation at Douglas’s persistent attempts to win her over.

I love how Small Bites manages to capture moments of absurdity in a way that feels like a breath of fresh air. The recurring dynamic between Douglas and Andrea is especially entertaining—his relentless flirting and her growing annoyance provide a nice contrast to the serious tone of the main series. This segment had me genuinely laughing, especially with Douglas’s casual response to Davidson’s eccentric behavior. Moments like these remind us that, even in a post-apocalyptic world, people are still people, complete with their quirks, bad decisions, and sense of humor.

Overall, both The Walking Dead Issue #77 and Small Bites Issue #8 deliver the perfect balance of drama, character depth, and humor. The series continues to build on its rich characters and story arcs, leaving readers with a powerful mix of emotions and a strong sense of anticipation for what comes next.
Profile Image for Kelsie.
296 reviews24 followers
June 29, 2021
Oooooo, this was a juicy one.
Carl basically tells Rick to grow the f up. I don't think Rick should have told Carl he's speaking to Lori on the phone, his son just thinks he's even more crazy now.
Scott passes, Heath's friend (frieeeeends?), I honestly forgot that that was the reason that Heath and Glenn were going to get meds. But with Scott's death, it becomes that catalyst for a bigger event later on.
Andrea cosies up to Spencer, which was riveting. Glenn gets upset that Maggie won't have sex with him (honestly this just made him look like a jerk, he could have asked how she was with out being triggered by not getting any sex from her, like dude, sit down and talk to her instead of waiting until you are drained of any action to then listen to her).
The group 'take care' of Scott when Pete comes storming in, claiming that Rick ruined everything. He can no longer abuse his wife and son. Aw poor Pete, said no one. He slashes Regina's throat with a knife 'by accident' but somehow it was Rick's fault. Okay Pete. Douglas actually gives Rick the green light to shoot Pete, which he does, which alerts zombies, which alerts another group who are looking for the place ... is it Davidson? Dun dun DUUUUUUUUN!
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Profile Image for Laina.
237 reviews2 followers
May 18, 2016
I don't think it's wise that Rick admitted to Carl, that he was talking to Lori on that phone. I'm sure that Carl's going to be afraid of his Dad now, thinking that Rick's definitely gone crazy.

I feel bad for Carl, but he doesn't need to act like a little jerk. I know he has trouble dealing with losing his mother and sister, and dealing with his emotions about that, but still.

Huh, Spencer and Andrea. I think I kinda like the idea of them becoming a couple. It's a step up for Andrea, instead of her dating old men all the time. She needs to be with someone her own age.

Aww, I feel bad that Scott died, though I'm glad that Heath was able to be with him when he died. I still don't really know or understand the nature of their relationship, but that's okay.

Also, Pete's fucking crazy. He needs to get over himself. I hope that Pete doesn't end up going after Jessie and Ron again. If he goes after Rick, at least Rick can defend himself.

Well, I'm glad that Spencer took Andrea's rejection in stride. I can see them being friends, even if they don't end up getting together or hooking up. I like the idea of them as friends.

I don't like seeing Glenn and Maggie arguing but I'm glad they're finally talking and not just ignoring the fact that Maggie tried to kill herself a while back. They've needed to talk about it since it happened.

I like that Glenn told Maggie how much he loved her, and that he didn't just brush off her insecurities like some men do. I really think he and Maggie are good together.

I'm glad that they finally cleared up the relationship between Heath and Scott. It's terrible that he lost his best friend, though I'm glad Heath was with Scott when he died.

I like the conversation between Spencer and Andrea. I really do hope they eventually get together. I could see them working out for a while, as long as they're both alive.

Also, seriously? They're just going to sit there and watch the man that Andrea saw out the window, walking around with a knife in hand? That's just fucking crazy of them.

I KNEW Pete was a fucking psycho. I can't believe he seriously told Douglas and everyone else to kill Rick, and also that HE was planning on killing Rick. The guy's seriously insane.

Regina again, needs to shut the fuck up and mind her own business. Who the hell does she think she is, butting in on Rick and Pete's conversation and telling Pete what to do when the guy has a fucking knife in his hand?

As much as I hate Pete, I also hated Regina. So I'm not sad that she's dead. The stupid bitch shouldn't have stuck her nose in again, where it didn't belong. I feel sorry for Spencer, but that's it.

Also, I'm glad that Rick was FINALLY able to kill that asshole Pete. It's about time Douglas stepped up and allowed Rick to get rid of the vile piece of shit. Pete should've died a long time ago.

Oh shit. Those are the people that were following Glenn and Heath when they were out on the supply run, to get medicine for Scott. Oh crap. I hope Rick and his group and the Alexandrians can fight these people off.
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