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The start of a new storyline, leading up to our monumental issue 100! After nearly 100 issues, Rick and the other survivors finally have "SOMETHING TO FEAR."

26 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 9, 2012

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About the author

Robert Kirkman

2,778 books6,966 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 - 17 of 17 reviews
Profile Image for Jess the Shelf-Declared Bibliophile.
2,454 reviews935 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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Profile Image for RJ - Slayer of Trolls.
992 reviews190 followers
March 31, 2017
Come on, Eugene! Don't you know the rules in The Walking Dead? Never, ever ask: "what could happen?"
December 3, 2024
Issue #97 is a tense and pivotal entry, showcasing the growing complexity of the world Rick and his group inhabit. The dynamics of leadership, survival, and the looming threat of Negan make for a gripping read. This issue balances hope with foreboding, and it’s clear that something darker is on the horizon.

The issue opens with the Alexandria Safe-Zone residents gathered in the church. Gabriel Stokes leads a prayer, emphasizing the community’s desperate hope for the safe return of Rick, Michonne, Andrea, Glenn, and Carl. It’s a somber yet hopeful moment, underscoring how much the community relies on Rick’s group for their survival. Maggie's sudden guilt over Carl’s safety adds a layer of tension, especially when she starts feeling ill. Her visit to Denise confirms it’s just a stomach ache, but there’s an undercurrent of worry—it’s hard not to feel the weight of every health scare in a world where medical resources are scarce.

Meanwhile, Abraham visits Eugene, noting his absence from the church. Their conversation about Rosita reveals lingering tension. Eugene’s pointed remark about Rosita being “better off” with him than Abraham stings, adding personal drama amid the larger survival narrative. This emotional complexity enriches the story, making every character interaction feel consequential.

The scene shifts to the van transporting Rick’s group back to Alexandria. Rick’s rare optimism is refreshing—he muses about a future where the walker threat diminishes and expresses hope that Hilltop might be the key to rebuilding some semblance of normal life. It’s a fleeting moment of hope that is shattered when a gang of men on motorcycles, claiming to represent “Negan,” blocks their path.

The encounter is tense. Rick’s refusal to submit to their demands leads to a brutal skirmish. The gang members, all claiming to be “Negan,” are swiftly killed, save for one, whom Rick spares to send a message. It’s a chilling moment. Rick’s decision to leave one alive feels dangerous—a potential mistake that could cost them dearly, as they know little about Negan’s actual power.

Back in Alexandria, the mood is lighter. Heath observes the increased decay rate of walkers, signaling a possible shift in the walker threat. The group’s return is met with joy, and Maggie’s pregnancy reveal to Glenn is a rare, heartwarming moment. Yet, it’s tinged with anxiety—Maggie’s pregnancy introduces vulnerability, especially with the shadow of Negan looming.

In a private moment, Rick and Andrea discuss their shared kiss, offering a glimpse of hope and personal connection amid the chaos. This brief reprieve is cut short when the issue ends with a foreboding twist: Eugene and Abraham leave Alexandria without telling anyone, and a group of armed men watches them from the shadows. It’s a chilling cliffhanger, leaving readers with an uneasy sense of impending danger.

This issue masterfully balances tension and optimism. Rick’s leadership is tested as he confronts the emerging threat of Negan, and his decision to let one of the gang members live feels like a tactical error that may haunt them. The reunion in Alexandria is touching, but it’s overshadowed by the looming danger.

Maggie’s pregnancy brings joy but also fear. The post-apocalyptic world is no place for a peaceful pregnancy, especially with Negan’s threat on the horizon. Abraham and Eugene’s mysterious departure adds another layer of intrigue, particularly with the unknown men observing them.

Overall, this issue leaves me skeptical and worried. Rick’s decision to engage with Negan’s men without fully understanding their strength is dangerous, and the lurking figures watching Abraham and Eugene spell trouble. This is the calm before the storm, and it’s hard to shake the feeling that everything is about to unravel.

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"Small Bites" is a delightful and absurd parody of The Walking Dead, offering much-needed comic relief. This issue leans into the randomness and chaos of its premise while maintaining the essence of the original series in a humorous way.

The plot is simple yet hilarious. As Rick and the group make their way back to Alexandria, they are confronted by “The Saviors.” The encounter, expected to be tense and ominous, takes a sudden comedic turn. Rick steps out to address the situation, fully intending to negotiate or intimidate, only for Carl to enthusiastically volunteer to join him. Glenn’s desperate attempt to hold Carl back, believing Rick can handle it, adds an amusing layer of misplaced confidence.

Rick’s solution to the standoff is hilariously abrupt—he orders Andrea and Michonne to kill the Saviors without any preamble. It’s an over-the-top, exaggerated response that perfectly parodies Rick’s usual tough-guy approach. The Saviors, who in the main series are terrifying, are reduced to hapless victims of Rick’s no-nonsense attitude, turning what should be a moment of suspense into slapstick comedy.

This issue is a perfect palate cleanser for fans of the darker Walking Dead universe. Its humor lies in its simplicity and absurdity, poking fun at the intense, often grim nature of the main series. Rick’s deadpan delivery, Carl’s eagerness to join the fray, and the complete lack of hesitation in dispatching the Saviors all contribute to the comedic tone.

The parody serves as a reminder that even in the bleakest narratives, there’s room for laughter. It’s a lighthearted take that doesn’t undermine the original but rather complements it by giving fans a chance to breathe and enjoy the absurdity of it all.
Profile Image for Kelsie.
296 reviews24 followers
January 8, 2023
Another slower issue, but we get to meet more of Negan's folks that get promptly taken out by Andrea and Michonne. Good for them.
But it's Eugene and Abraham that are probably the next two that are in danger.
x
Profile Image for Laina.
237 reviews2 followers
May 20, 2016
I'm not a very religious person by any means, but I do like that they opened the issue with a church service and a prayer for Rick, Glenn, Carl and the others who were away from Alexandria.

Oh, well I'm betting that Maggie's pregnant. With as much sex as she and Glenn had and are probably still having, I'm sure that's what is it. I hope that Glenn find out that Maggie's pregnant soon.

I like that Abraham and Eugene are kind of getting along. I also can't help but laugh at that snipe Eugene said to Abraham about Rosita being happier with him. I kinda feel like Abraham deserves it for how he treated Rosita.

Oh Eugene, good luck, hon. I hope you and Rosita eventually get together, so good luck with that. I have a feeling that it won't be any time soon, though, unfortunately, if it happens.

I like the conversation between Rick and Andrea, and I'm glad it's starting to make Andrea optimistic. Too bad Michonne isn't feeling the same. I hope something good happens that changes her mind.

Oh crap, look at those fuckers. I hope that Rick and the few people he has with them, can kill those assholes who are acting on Negan's orders. Negan and his group need someone to kick their asses.

Whoo! Go Andrea and Michonne. Kill those fucking assholes! Take them out and leave none behind to go running to Negan and spill the beans. Teach those assholes not to fuck with you and your people!

Ah, damn. Rick you're so stupid to let that guy go back to Negan and The Saviors. I'm betting the guy's going to end up following them back to Alexandria and there's gonna be a showdown between the two groups.

I'm glad that Carl seems to be coping okay with everything that's going on around him. I keep worrying that he'll end up freaking the fuck out and turning into a crier or something.

Well, I'm glad Heath and Holly had Abraham with them cleaning out the nearby zombies at the gate. Also, I'm glad that Rick and his small group got back to Alexandria okay.

Well, I'm glad that Maggie told Glenn that she's pregnant. Did she announce it to everyone? I'm not sure if she said it loud enough for everyone to hear, or if she said it in Glenn's ear.

I like that no one argued or went against Rick's decision to have the people of Alexandria help the people of the Hiltop with Negan and the Saviors. I'm sure they'll need all the help they can get.

So from Andrea's speech, I'm getting that she's finally becoming optimistic. However, I still don't get where that leaves her and Rick. Are they going to be hooking up now, or are they a couple?

Ah, shit. Only four miles away, Eugene? That's still a good bit of way away from Alexandria. Anything could happen to either of you or both of you in that time. It's just not safe to be out just the two of you.

Oh crap, those men that are hiding and listening to Eugene and Abraham, are they some more people from Negan's group the Saviors? Like I just said, those are famous last words.
Profile Image for MissAnnThrope.
561 reviews3 followers
November 6, 2012
Well, well, well ... It looks like we may have a new rat bastard in town, so this should be getting intense soon! With the escalating dangers, I think the people need to pick a new leader. Rick doesn't seem to quite think things through and he seems to be on the brink of losing it.

The cliffhanger ending gives me anxiety because Abraham is one of my favorite characters and I don't like where this is heading!

Profile Image for Yolanda Sfetsos.
Author 78 books238 followers
December 4, 2012
Ooooh, looks like there's a new bad guy in town. I think this Negan guy and his gang are going to give Rick a hard time! :/

This issue was great! I really enjoyed it. There were some really cool things going on--Maggie's pregnant, Andrea and Rick might actually be getting together, Rick, Andrea and Michonne kicked major ass, and they've got some supplies. Plus, Abraham and Eugene are headed into a lot of trouble...

What's gonna happen next? Can't wait to find out!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jeremy Muse.
222 reviews
May 22, 2012
TO help Hillside or not to help Hillside, that is the question. Of course they are going to, and now that we have seen Negel's people, I can't wait to see if we have another great Governor story line in our midst. Also, a little love on the horizon, things seem happy, guess the only question I have is whose going to die tragically?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Júlio.
29 reviews
May 26, 2012
Oh, man, WHY THERE'S ALWAYS AN ASSHOLE TO PUT EVERYONE IN DANGER? Obviously Negan's group is going to torture and kill Eugene to know everything 'bout the community. I hope Abraham can get away, he's a strong one, the group needs him. And, well, Kirkman always finds a way to keep us tunned >.<'
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Ericafoferica.
221 reviews
August 17, 2012
After reading this issue, I really hope Rick and Andrea get together sometime soon. It'll be nice to see how the gang will fight off Negan after reading the killer mini fight with some of Negan's followers.
Profile Image for Dionisia.
334 reviews32 followers
March 8, 2013
Reading this just made my day great. Nothing like the horrors of a zombie apocalypse to make your troubles seem small by comparison.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews

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