The first issue of Stranger Things: Tales from Hawkins 2 takes a quieter, more atmospheric approach to storytelling, not focusing on Eleven, Hopper, or the Upside Down, but on someone far more grounded: Hawkins High science teacher Mr. Clarke.
Set shortly after the events of Season 2, the story follows Mr. Clarke as he hosts a school science lesson at a local drive-in movie theater. What starts off as an ordinary night quickly turns into something unsettling when a strange creature shows up. Whether it’s a demodog or something else, we don’t get a full answer just an increasing sense that something isn’t right.
The choice to center the story around Mr. Clarke is a good one. He’s always been a fan favorite, and this issue gives him a well-deserved spotlight. Writer Derek Fridolfs captures his curiosity and warmth perfectly, grounding the story in character rather than spectacle. We get a look at Hawkins through a more ordinary set of eyes, and that’s refreshing.
The pacing is slow and deliberate, but never boring. The story feels like a standalone short film or a chapter out of a classic sci-fi anthology. There’s tension in the air, but it simmers rather than explodes. It’s a welcome change of pace from the more chaotic energy the show is known for.
Visually, the comic is a standout. Artist Sunando C creates rich, shadowy scenes that capture the feeling of a quiet, eerie evening in small-town Indiana. The muted color palette by Dan Jackson adds to the sense of mystery without being too heavy. There’s a softness to the art that makes the scary moments feel even more uncanny.
That said, the issue may feel underwhelming for readers expecting a big reveal or major action sequence. This is more about mood and tone than plot twists. The ending leaves some ambiguity, which can be either frustrating or intriguing depending on your expectations.
Verdict
Overall, Tales from Hawkins 2 Issue 1 is a strong and confident return to the Stranger Things universe. It tells a small, personal story that adds texture to the world fans already know. If the rest of the series continues in this vein—exploring lesser-seen characters and quieter corners of Hawkins—it could end up being a real treat for longtime fans.
This issue may not blow the doors off the Upside Down, but it doesn’t have to. It’s smart, thoughtful, and just creepy enough to make you want to keep the lights on. And for Mr. Clarke fans, it’s a long-overdue moment in the spotlight.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
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