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.
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.
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.
The issue begins with a scene that sets the tone for the drama and conflict to come. Glenn, Heath, and Nicholas are engaged in a tense fight against walkers outside the Alexandria Safe-Zone. This chaotic opening sequence is a stark reminder of the dangers that still exist outside the walls, even as the group grapples with more personal issues.
The scene quickly shifts to Rick's home, where he and Andrea are talking about the Saviors and their growing concerns about the threats they face. Rick seems uncertain about how to deal with them, unsure of where to go from here. Andrea suggests that she can stay at Rick's house for the night, and Rick, ever the protector, assures her that she can stay every night. This moment of vulnerability and closeness between them is sweet, yet it highlights the emotional toll the apocalypse has taken on everyone.
When Carl walks in on them, it’s a subtle but telling moment. Carl’s reaction is more of a grin than a scowl, perhaps signaling a slight shift in his previously hardened personality. This moment shows Carl's complexity as a character, and his relationship with his father, Rick, continues to evolve in fascinating ways.
A significant emotional moment follows, as Glenn expresses to Maggie his desire to leave Alexandria and move to the Hilltop Colony. Glenn’s desire to leave is born from his frustration with the state of Alexandria, particularly the lack of safety and the continuing threat of the Saviors. Maggie, however, is hesitant, still mourning the loss of Abraham and conflicted about the future. Glenn's insistence on leaving Alexandria reflects his sense of urgency and his desire for a better, safer life for his family, even if it means venturing into the unknown.
Meanwhile, Eugene and Rosita's shared grief over Abraham’s death provides another emotional cornerstone of the issue. Rosita’s vulnerability comes to the forefront as she opens up about her past, her relationship with Abraham, and the deep pain she feels from his loss. This conversation with Eugene adds a layer of depth to Rosita’s character, showing that she is more than just a fighter—she’s a person who has loved and lost in the cruel world they inhabit. Eugene’s support for her is touching, and it’s clear that he respects her much more than he did before.
Later, we see Rick grappling with Carl’s emotional detachment. Carl is becoming more hardened and distant, and Rick is starting to question if his son is still the boy he once knew. Carl’s desire to accompany Rick on his missions signals his own growth and desire to contribute, but it also highlights his darker, more resigned view of the world. The conversation between Rick and Carl is poignant, as Rick tries to reassure his son, but it’s clear that Carl’s idealism is being replaced with a harsh pragmatism. This shift in Carl’s character adds to the overarching theme of the series—how the apocalypse has shaped and changed the next generation.
As the group prepares to leave for the Hilltop, Rick is increasingly concerned about the Saviors, but he believes they’ll have some time before another attack. The plan to head to the Hilltop and recruit more people feels like a necessary step, but it also foreshadows the impending danger. As Rick and the others drive away from Alexandria, they are unknowingly being watched by the Saviors, adding a layer of suspense and tension to the closing moments of the issue. The fact that the Saviors are waiting for the right moment to strike indicates that the group is far from safe, and this constant threat looms over them.
The emotional weight of Abraham's death continues to reverberate throughout the issue. Even though Abraham wasn’t the most emotionally available character, his death still carries immense significance, particularly for Rosita and Eugene. Their grief is raw and real, and it’s a powerful moment in the series, showcasing how loss can shape a person’s emotional journey.
Carl’s emotional state is a major point of concern for Rick. His increasingly detached attitude is both heartbreaking and understandable given the world they live in. Carl has witnessed so much death and horror that his ability to feel deeply is starting to erode, and this creates an internal struggle for Rick, who wants to protect his son but is unsure how to reach him anymore. The contrast between Rick’s protective instincts and Carl’s hardened outlook is one of the most poignant aspects of their relationship and one of the key emotional arcs of the series.
Glenn’s desire to leave Alexandria and go to the Hilltop reflects his sense of responsibility for his family’s safety. His insistence that it’s the right choice shows how far the group has come in their efforts to survive, but it also highlights the ongoing tension between the desire for stability and the necessity of movement in a world overrun by danger. It’s clear that they are not safe anywhere, and that the Saviors are always lurking in the background, waiting for the right time to strike.
The foreshadowing of an attack at the end of the issue sets the stage for the conflict to come, leaving readers with a sense of anticipation and dread. Rick’s decision to move to the Hilltop feels like a turning point, a step toward something bigger and potentially more dangerous.
The issue begins with a touch of humor that provides some much-needed relief amidst the grim, post-apocalyptic world of The Walking Dead. Heath, Rick, and the others are fighting off walkers, but instead of focusing solely on the seriousness of the situation, there’s a lighthearted banter between the characters. Rick’s reflection on the Saviors and the group's strategy adds a layer of complexity to the issue, as he continues to question his decisions and how his actions have impacted those around him. There’s a sense of self-awareness in Rick’s dialogue, acknowledging the mistakes he's made while still maintaining a firm belief in his original plans.
At Abraham’s funeral, Rick’s inner turmoil is brought to the surface. He contemplates his role in the group, and Michonne bluntly reminds him that, yes, his decisions have contributed to their current state. The raw honesty between the two reflects the ongoing tension and emotional cost of leadership, which is a recurring theme throughout the series. This moment adds depth to Rick’s character, showing that even though he is often seen as a strong and unwavering leader, he is still deeply affected by the weight of his choices.
The Saviors make their appearance in this issue, and it’s a powerful moment when they surround Rick and Michonne, signaling that the group’s past actions are coming back to haunt them. The Saviors’ threat is palpable, and the tension between them and Rick’s group is only escalating. The issue ends on a cliffhanger, leaving readers hanging in suspense, wondering what the group will do next.
The lighthearted moments in Small Bites provide a welcome contrast to the series' often heavy atmosphere. The humor doesn’t undermine the serious stakes but instead highlights the human need for connection and levity in times of crisis. The balance between these moments of levity and the looming threat of the Saviors is what makes The Walking Dead so engaging.
Rick’s internal conflict continues to evolve, and it’s clear that his leadership is beginning to take a toll on him. The scene with Michonne is a reminder that Rick is not infallible, and the consequences of his decisions will continue to reverberate through the group. The arrival of the Saviors at the end of the issue adds an additional layer of urgency to the story, leaving readers eager to see how the group will handle this new threat.
Overall, Small Bites offers a mix of humor, emotional depth, and suspense, providing an engaging experience for readers while continuing the overarching narrative of survival, leadership, and the ongoing battle for safety in a world overrun by walkers.
You know, for such a major character, Abe really just went out like that, huh? Now they're having a funeral for him. He was a lovable asshole. RIP. Maggie & Glenn want to move to Hilltop because they feel it's safer since Maggie is pregnant now, I mean it makes sense. Andrea and Rick decide to move in together because Andrea feels alone in her big ol' house (personally I'd like a big ol' house to myself but you do you, girl). As Rick's group heads out to Hilltop to give them the head's up, Negan's group is also watching them. Girl, it's getting juicy. x
I like that Rick and Andrea talk things out, when Rick tries to decide what their next move is, when they're in a dangerous situation. It sometimes makes me feel like they're equals at least for a little while.
Well, we know that Carl saw his Dad and Andrea together again. I wonder what he really thinks of them together. He hasn't said much about it, aside from the fact that he knows what sex is.
I agree with Glenn that moving to the Hiltop seems like it would be a good idea. And not just for the three of them, but for everyone that still lives in Alexandria. I think they'd do well to combine the communities and it's always good to have a lot of people.
I get that Maggie's scared of leaving behind Rick and everyone else in Alexandria, but if the Hiltop community is safer and there's a lot more people there, then they need to go there as soon as possible.
I'm glad that Rosita and Eugene had their talk about Abraham. I know they both cared about him and they both miss him now that he's dead. I know Rosita loved Abraham, and I feel like Eugene saw Abraham as a best friend.
I'm glad that a bunch of the Alexandria community members turned up for the service for Abraham. I'm also glad that Rosita was able to be kind to Holly, given that they both loved Abraham.
I'm kind of stuck on what I want to happen. On the one hand, I think it's a good idea for them to try and get some help from Hiltop. But on the other hand, I also agree that they shouldn't be leaving any time soon, that they're all needed to defend Alexandria.
I can't blame Glenn for wanting to get Maggie, Sophia, the baby, and himself to Hiltop. He's right that it's safer over there, and I think there's way more people over there, which is always good.
I agree with Carl that Rick should take him along everywhere he goes from now on. I wouldn't want Carl to be without his Dad, and Rick should want the same thing, especially after losing Lori.
So, I think that Holly really did love Abraham. Otherwise I doubt she would be standing at his grave or whatever you want to call it, praying or talking to Abraham. Not unless she really did care about him.
I'm glad that Rick wants Andrea to stay behind to defend Alexandria. I know she'll be a big help if Negan and/or his people try to attack the community again. I just hope it doesn't get her killed.
I'm TOTALLY with Glenn, when he said they should ALL move to Hiltop. Rick should take him seriously and pack everyone and everything up, and get the hell out of Alexandria as soon as possible.
Oh shit! I just KNEW those fuckers were going to attack Alexandria as soon as Rick and his small group left. I hope that Andrea and the others who stayed behind, can handle these assholes.
Aw man, I don't want Glenn to leave. He and Maggie are the heart of this series. I don't necessarily disagree with their choice, but I'll miss them so much.
Rick is arrogant in his group's safety and abilities. I'm sadly hoping for a new leader. Since my favorite choice was killed last issue, maybe Jesus will do.
This issue is setting up for something huge. I predict this new governor-esque character, Negan, will rear his ugly head in the upcoming 100th issue. Bad, bad things are coming.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Ovo je prvi puta od početka serijala da radnja gubi tempo te se priča ponavlja. . Nadam se da je to samo posljedica velikih očekivanja nametnutih izlaskom okruglog 100-tog broja i da će se stvari ponovno pokrenuti.
Nothing too much goes on this issue, but its definitely leading up to something big. Its kind of sad for Glenn and Maggie to decide they want to officially move to the Hilltop. In fact, those two seem to ALWAYS want to leave the moment a threat hits the community.
Oh, man...this can't be happening! Glenn can't really leave the group! And I'm really worried about Andrea. I mean, will she and the other ones be able to stop Negan? Please, people, don't die ;_;
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.