Comic Corner Roundup: June
Comic Corner Roundup is a bi-monthly segment that compiles mini-reviews of comics, graphic novels, and manga that I’ve read recently. Here are my reviews for June which includes a story over overcoming loss, fighting demon hunters, and a rainy island.
Ghoul by Kasey Iris (Published May 2026)
When they were little, Lyn and Meg promised to be friends forever…but now Meg is dead, and Lyn is 15 and miserable. Moving into a new condo with her family doesn’t help, especially given the gossipy neighbors. But just when Lyn needs a friend the most, a monstrous cartoon ghoul climbs out of the pages of a comic book and into her life! The bizarre duo will soon discover just how many secrets lie within the walls of Forest Court Apartments.
Review: Ghoul is a supernatural tale that mixes themes of an imaginary friend and dealing with grief. Lyn, the main character, has moved with her family to a new place away from everything she’s ever known and struggles to find her footing in the neighborhood. Her grief for the loss of her friend is powerful and she has trouble finding normalcy in a world without her. What surprises Lyn in the new friendship that is developed between her and ghoul (as she is the only one that can see them) and how it helps her to find the courage to go on.
Though this novel is heavy in topic, it does have song lighthearted moments of fun especially in the scenes with Lyn and Ghoul. There is an element of a mystery around her neighbors with secrets that are revealed through the story. I also appreciated the folklore aspects and how they tie into some of the supernatural elements of the story. The drawings and moody purple and pinks used in the artwork pays homage to comics like Emily the Strange while incorporating her own art styles. This is a solid YA graphic novel that sends an important message about loss and how to live with out the ones we love.
Final Verdict:
The Marsh Fellows by Anna-Laura Sullivan (Published May 2026)
After a nuclear war plunged the world into darkness, the last beacon of hope is the island utopia called Slumber City. In this rainy, happy town, one angst-filled urchin doesn’t see what there is to smile about. But after being taken in by the elderly Marvin and Pearl, Urchin is pulled into their quest to solve the dark, damp riddles lurking outside Slumber City—and uncover the plans of its mysterious mayor.
Review: Being a big fan of Sullivan’s art for years online, I was so excited to read her first full length story and it does not disappoint. The Marsh Fellows is a story that is full of second chances, whimsy, and adventure that is sure to delight audiences young and old. Sullivan does a great job of creating an imaginative world that is constantly raining, but never gloomy. Despite the lack of sunlight, its residents have managed to make this island their home the best they can. It was so much fun to travel through all the nooks and crannies of Slumber City. The artwork is vibrant, yet detailed in showcasing the characters and the little hidden surprises within the town.
What stood out to me the most besides how imaginative this story is, is how heartwarming it makes you feel. It reminds us that when things look bleak to find the bright side of things (an important lesson the main character, Urchin) learns and that to never give up. It also showcases how essential it is to keep our planet clean in order to keep thriving. I highly recommend this uplifting and fun graphic novel read to all!
Final Verdict:
13 Demons Dead by Adam Tierney (Author), Saspy (Illustrator) (Publishes August 2026)
Fourteen-year-old Everly “Ev” Espada is walking home one night when she spots her favorite teacher, Father Serrano, suspended in midair, choking and being ripped apart by something she can’t see. Acting on pure instinct, Ev swings a nearby pipe and shatters the illusion, exposing a monstrous demon in the middle of her school. With one lucky shot, the creature is dead. And so is Ev’s normal life.
By killing one of Earth’s Thirteen Hidden Demons, Ev has unknowingly triggered an ancient covenant. She’s been marked as the latest demon hunter, and the remaining twelve demons are already coming for her. The rules are simple and merciless: slay all thirteen within one year… or they will return more powerful, more vicious, and utterly unstoppable.
Review: If you’re looking for a fast paced, high action story then 13 Demons Dead is for you. The main character learns to grow up fast by taking over (unknowingly) the role of a demon hunter while juggling the ups and downs of high school. Through her journey she finds the power within to become more confident and tests herself against mental/physical battles. I loved Ev’s journey of self-discovery and the scenes where she faces off against fierce demons (with really cool designs I might add). It’s thrilling and suspenseful as you learn about the covenant along with Ev’s and she even breaks the fourth wall at times.
I enjoyed the manga inspired art-style and the demons/characters felt reminiscent of monster manga stories I’ve read in the past. The world building feels developed and the story has depth overall. This is a great debut from Tierney and I’m curious to see what other stories he’ll craft in the future.
Final Verdict:
What comics, graphic novels or manga have you read lately? Share your thoughts in the comment section below. If you have any recommendations, feel free to share those as well.
FTC Disclaimer: These books were sent to me by Top Shelf Productions and IDW Publishing in exchange for a fair and honest review.
