Weekend Reading Picks: Apocalypse Friendships and More

Including a New Graphic Series from a Notable Author

Imagine navigating a desolate, post-apocalyptic future landscape, and your only companions are a talkative raven and an intelligent cat. This is the peculiar yet heartwarming predicament faced by Will Collins, the protagonist in this latest tale set in 2048. Much of humanity has fallen victim to relentless diseases, leaving him among a rare few survivors over the age of thirty, residing in seclusion at a Buddhist retreat.

When a cryptic message from an old mentor arrives, urging him to carry a potential cure across the devastated remnants of America, Will embarks on a perilous journey. Along the way, he encounters harsh environmental elements, unfriendly survivors, and manages to grow his unusual circle of allies. Characterized by vivid storytelling and philosophical undertones, Will's narrative combines harsh realities with humor, offering depth that even those weary of apocalyptic genres will find delightful.

Spotlight on Comics

From the celebrated horror writer Gus Moreno, in collaboration with artist Jakub Rebelka, comes an unconventional comic series. This story focuses on an exorcist with unorthodox practices and a disgraced priest who unexpectedly becomes his student. Moreno introduced this series with enthusiasm, hinting at its nods to classic cinema iconography. Fans of Quentin Tarantino's style will find an instant connection here.

The inaugural issue sets a gripping tone right from the start, opening with dramatic elements like murder and mysterious hospital scenes, laying the groundwork for a story yet to unfold. As the plot progresses, it explores the fall from grace of Father Manuel Barrera and his transfer to Puerto Cristina to learn under Father Merrick Stygian. The artistry shines through with its captivating, often grotesque, character depictions, ensuring readers stay hooked.