5 Must-Read Comics You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

The world of comics is huge and extensive. For every mainstream Marvel and DC superhero comic, there’s myriad indie, or even well established creators producing top-tier content. In this list, we shine the light on 5 must-read comics, taken from a range of genres. 

Here at Comics Bulletin, we love to shine the spotlight on lesser-known comics. There’s stacks upon stacks of hidden gems out there. In this list of 5 must-read comics, we offer you a little bit of everything. Whether you like pure fantasy, fairy-tales, post-apocalyptic horror, or even a little romance — there’s something for all to enjoy.

Behold our list below!

The Wizard’s Tale by Kurt Busiek and David Wenzel

Published in 1997, The Wizard’s Tale is a fun and whimsical fantasy tale following Bafflerog Rumplewhisker; a formerly evil wizard who’s grown tired of committing acts of evil. He might have a fearsome reputation, but he’s sweet really.

In the midst of trying to change his ways, Rumplewhisker catches wind that the Book of Worse has fallen into wrong hands. Thus begins his epic quest to reclaim the fated book and prevent it from causing chaos in the land.

This is a comic that totally transports you. It’s a rich, fully realised fantasy world — something Busiek managed to pull off in just one graphic novel.

The Wizard’s Tale isn’t as popular as Busiek’s other works. Of course, Busiek has previously written Astro City and Marvels, among other things. If there’s any way I can spread the word about this fantastic graphic novel, I will.

You can buy The Wizard’s Tale on Kindle here.

Castle Waiting by Linda Medley

As someone who absolutely adores fairy tales, when I first heard about Castle Waiting, my excitement was enormous. My previous favorite fairy tale comic was Fables by Bill Willingham, which while fantastic, was very much a twist on the fairy tale genre, taking classic characters and pitting them in a more contemporary scenario.

Castle Waiting is unashamedly and indulgently a charming, feel-good fairytale. The story takes place in Castle Waiting, a residence for outcasts, travellers, and a sanctuary for anyone who stumbles across it. Its residents include a couple of names you’ll recognise from classic stories, such as Iron Henry. Our main character is Lady Jain, a pregnant lady who seeks refuge in Castle Waiting after fleeing her abusive husband, Sir Hathmar.

I can’t recommend Castle Waiting enough. It’s one of my personal favourite comics ever and I keep going back to it. You’ll find me recommending it a lot here at Comics Bulletin. Linda Medley is currently writing another volume, but updates have been scarce for a while.

You can buy Castle Waiting here.

The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood

Chances are, you’re probably very familiar with the immense popularity of The Handmaid’s Tale. The 1985 dystopian novel by Margaret Atwood is immensely popular. Its success culminated in a beloved TV adaptation, which premiered back in 2017. However, one adaptation you’ve probably never heard of is the graphic novel version, gorgeously realised by artist Renée Nault.

If you’re unaware of the story of The Handmaid’s Tale, it takes place in a time when environmental disasters and declining birthrates have ultimately led to a Second American Civil War. In this new society, fertile women (known as Handmaids), are forced to birth children for the elite rulers they serve. It’s a deeply disturbing and harrowing vision of the future.

The story just works as a graphic novel. I got so much out of it that I didn’t get from the original novel or the TV show. The artwork by Nault is sensational. Whether you’re already familiar with the story, or if this is your first time, I can’t recommend this graphic novel enough.

You can buy The Handmaid’s Tale graphic novel on Amazon here.

Anfield Road by Chris Shepherd

When I picked up Chris Shepherd’s debut graphic novel Anfield Road, I instantly fell in love with it. Through his exquisite, detailed, and emotional artwork, the book transports you back to the city of Liverpool in the 1980s. From the local community to the immense power of football in the city, the book immerses you in the truly unique atmosphere of Liverpool in the ’80s.

The graphic novel follows teenager Conor Sterling, who grapples with the dilemma of either attending art college in London, or remaining in Liverpool to take care of his sick, but dominating grandmother. And at the same time, Conor must balance his relationship with his girlfriend, Maureen.

Anfield Road is a unique and beautiful coming-of-age book packed with heart. It’ll make you laugh and it’ll break your heart. It’s a love letter to the city of Liverpool. To learn more about Anfield Road, we recently interviewed author Chris Shepherd.

You can buy Anfield Road on Amazon here.

Empire of the Dead by George A. Romero

What initially drew me to Empire of the Dead was its author, George A. Romero, one of my all-time favorite filmmakers. Romero is the visionary director behind some of the most iconic zombie movies, including Night of the Living Dead and Dawn of the Dead. Naturally, when I discovered that he had penned his own graphic novel, I couldn’t contain my excitement.

My hype certainly paid off big time. Empire of the Dead is outstanding. Written by Romero and illustrated by Alex Maleev, it’s not just a zombie comic, but also a vampire saga. The story is set in a walled-off New York City, where humans try to survive the outbreak. But aside from zombies, there’s also a cunning society of vampires that lurk in the shadows.

The seamless blend of humans, zombies and vampires makes for a fascinating comic. It’s got plenty of action, of course, but it also dives into cultural issues and political intrigue, which is indicative of Romero’s work.

Empire of the Dead is the perfect gritty, post-apocalyptic novel for those seeking to dive a little deeper into the genre. It offers something unique, while still staying true to Romero’s signature style.

You can find Empire of the Dead on the Kindle store here.

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