Deadendia: The Watcher's Test

Deadendia is a tough book to describe, but an utterly enjoyable one to read. It is about Barney, who has left home and seeks refuge (and a job) as a janitor in a horror-themed amusement park called Dead End. His boss (and friend) Norma is ornery but caring, and he is also accompanied by his faithful dog Pugsley. The beginning parts of this book read sort of like a work-centric sitcom, with petty squabbles and personal drama where Barney and Logs (the guy who runs the log flume ride) may or may not start dating. Then, things take a Buffy the Vampire Slayer type turn, and they learn that the park is actually a portal to hell.

From here, things get really weird with ghosts, demons, time-travelers, and glimpses of an apocalyptic future. I loved the twists and turns of the plot, even when things get a bit hairy and complicated. This book was a delight, because of its various fantasy adventures balanced well with strong characters and emotive moments. In particular, the sections where we learn about Barney's gender identity as well as why he is currently homeless because of his relationship with his family ground everything emotionally and in reality.

I brought up BTVS earlier, and it is one of my favorite shows ever. The highest compliment I can pay this book is that it brought up similar sensations as a read it. I liked how the trip of main characters interact, and I thought that there adventures were well balanced in terms of being entertaining but also raising real stakes. This book was an enchanting amusement, full of bold characters, vibrant artwork, fun plotting, and well designed demons and monsters.

Deadendia is the creation of Hamish Steele who first got on my radar for his hilarious and profane debut graphic novel Pantheon. He is a freelance animation director and illustrator from London, UK, and this book began as a pitch for an animated series (you can see the episode here). You can read more about his early visions of this series in this interview.

All of the reviews I have read about this book have been positive. Amanda MacGregor described it as "sweet, funny, and enjoyably, delightfully weird. " Publishers Weekly wrote, "A Steven Universe–like aesthetic and a full palette of bold, contrasting colors grace a diverse cast of characters (attendant pronouns specified), from trans haunted-house janitor Barney to hijabi carnival-attraction operator Badyah." Kirkus Reviews summed it up as "a wild ride."

Deadendia was published by NoBrow Press, and they offer a preview and more here. Those who like to read online can find the original and updated webcomics here.

Also, the second book in this series just came out. I am excited to check it out!