Skybound Presents: Afterschool #1

Writers: Justin Benson, and Aaron Moorhead

Artist: Greg Hinkle

The first issue in a new anthology series, Skybound Presents: Afterschool, each issue sets out to tell a creepy tale. In this first issue, the first comic from the creators and writers of the horror movie "Spring," Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead, we are introduced to Nora (not to be confused with the Nora of Mind's Eye Comics!). Nora has never been good at anything, lacks confidence and is looking forward to somehow getting out of her small town, dreaming of a life with doctors without borders. One day, her parents gift her a new dog, Janie, and suddenly Nora's life seems to click into place. Where before she'd get anxious and nervous, now she suddenly had hidden skills and talents. After a man comes asking questions about where they got the dog, Nora learns a mysterious secret about Janie. 

A delightfully entertaining and creepy issue, the story is equal parts good horror and humor. I will admit I didn't see the first twist coming, which made the story unfolding that much more entertaining to read, so I'd recommend not spoiling anything for yourself before reading. Filled with quite a few twists, this issue felt extremely fresh and original, making for a quick read. The letter from the writers in the back of the issue also lets you know just how into writing this they were, which is evident while reading it also. It's not often a completely new experience hits me, as a reader of comics for over 30 years, but this was a really great experience and I'd highly recommend this issue, and this series to anyone. I will just caution that its definitely for mature audiences, as it gets a bit gory and gruesome in parts.