The long wait is finally over. It has been since November of 2024 since readers delved into the world of Erica Slaughter. Recovering from her encounter with Charlotte Cutter, SIKTC focused on Erica’s early years. This trend continues with another glimpse into a dangerous hunt from her part.
SOMETHING IS KILLING THE CHILDREN #41 by James Tynion lV, Werther Dell’edera, Miquel Muerto and Andworld Design (BOOM! STUDIOS) kickstarts a brand new arc in the award winning series.
We have waited long enough. Let’s dive into the latest chapter.
SOMETHING IS KILLING THE CHILDREN #41 by James Tynion lV, Werther Dell’edera, Miquel Muerto and Andworld Design (BOOM! STUDIOS)
*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***
Tynion plays his best hand early in this chapter. The trademark of this series is the slow burn drama. In the opening, a young Erica attends the services of a fallen victim. It is reflected in the narration a connection to a recent monster hunt. the dialogue with one of the family members depicts the emotional coldness needed for the line of work. Readers see a lengthier example of this with Jessica Slaughter.
The relationship between mentor and student is complex at best. Readers watch as Jessica is wearing down to the grind of the business. It is also noted as to the forming of Erica’s personality in this mix. Her interactions with Aaron Slaughter are prime points of this. Their dialogue ranges from playful to business. Tynion never lets the mood sway too far from the looming danger of the Order. A new assignment draws many reactions. It teases the audience long enough to hook them in. There’s no better example than the last page. Settle in for a new case with deadly overtones.
Dell’edera and Muerto start events off at a funeral. With no dialogue for two pages, they walk readers through the somber times. The mix of flashback panels to present mirror what Erica is thinking. It is a prime set-up before heading back to reality.
The interactions with Jessica and Erica feel organic with their connection. There’s a sense of “business as usual” in each panel. Erica’s acceptance of this “normal” is written on her face. This transcends to a solid two page spread. The brief panels segway to her contact with Aaron. Panel set-up moves their conversation right along to its ending place. The art sets up a tease of more dangers in their new assignment. This plays up to the last page perfectly. Like a true horror movie, the full page image jinxes itself with the dialogue. It’s a great place to pause for now and reload for what’s coming next.
OVERALL GRADE: 9
SIKTC comes back with its’ winning formula inisde of a flashback saga. Tynion puts the major players in place with the writing. Dell’edera and Muerto bring the complex relationships into the spotlight before setting off on their next job. The early days of Erica Slaughter are ones that warrant the attention of fans whenever they drop on NCBD.
Let me know in the comments below your thoughts on SOMETHING IS KILLING THE CHILDREN #41. Thanks for reading!