Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay points, the complementary comic book blog to the ODPH Podcast. The saga of Erica Slaughter continues to be a book to have in your pull list each month! Something Is Killing The Children #24 by James Tynion, Werther Dell’edera, Miquel Muerto, & Andworld Design for Boom Studios continues its’ ever engaging story. Let’s not delay any longer and jump right into the latest chapter in the current story arc, shall we?

Something Is Killing The Children #24 - On Sale June 22nd
Creative: James Tynion, Werther Dell’edera, Miquel Muerto, & Andworld Design
Credit: Boom Studios

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

The issue kicks off with a flashback sequence to the gruesome murders that started this story arc. readers get their first glance at who the culprit is behind this mess. The moment hits very hard as readers now put a visual to what happened on that day. Gabi, the lone witness to the monster, returns to the scene of the crime and runs into a unexpected ally.

Meanwhile, Riqui, a bartender that has been watching over Gabi since the killings, has a face to face with Erica Slaughter at the bar. Erica’s re-emergence has been attracting much attention and this interaction tells much of where the story is heading. A small town rocked by a horrific moment doesn’t know how to handle it. Now walks in someone asking questions and claiming to help? This conversation gives a true glimpse of the temp in the small town emotion. Factor in that Erica’s problems do not end with solving this case. There’s other forces working against her that make some more ground during this issue. Readers will have much to process with this issue.

Tynion continues the slow burn approach to this story and it’s working flawlessly. Erica’s investigation is hitting the problems as one would expect. It’s not a one-and-done ordeal. Erica has to deal with a town scared and fearful of whats happening. Her world is definitely not the same one these people live in. The conversation between Riqui and Erica spotlights this. The other strong part of this book is Erica’s growing problem of the House of Cutter. There’s a great recap segment as Erica’ story is being told to Cutter as a small intro for new readers. The dynamic of Cutter is very engaging. What is eventually going to become a HUGE issue for Erica is exciting to see develop for readers.

Dell’edera presents powerful imagery in unveiling the monster behind this story. The pages speak volumes while only showing the monster in 4 panels. There is nothing over the top with the art, but it’s staged to where the readers will develop their own conclusions of the flashback moments. Erica and Cutter also have distinct character moments in this book as well. Cutter’s story progresses enough to have readers guessing how badly does the House want her eliminated to bring in someone of her caliber?

Overall, SIKTC #24 has much within these pages to be excited to pick up at the comic shop. The creative team paint this disturbing world with excellent storytelling and art. Thee is much happening with this book, and yet, the major plots are balanced out with enough time that nothing feels forced. The story is building and the payoff will be something incredible. Make sure to sang this issue when you hit the Local Comic Shops this week. You won’t be disappointed.

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of SIKTC #24. As always, Thanks for Reading

SOMETHING IS KILLING THE CHILDREN #24 (BOOM STUDIOS)

Ken M