As freedom and democracy flourish, the animals work together to set up a steady stream of donations for the pound, and all seems well for a time. However, tensions build as the fairness of the current system is called into question, and when Piggy the dog decides to run for election, he does something unthinkable that shocks all of the animals to their core… Animal Pound #3 is a tragic issue as things begin to go south.

Things are going well so far as the animals begin to get their new world in order. Elections have come and with an income stream, things are looking good for the dogs, cats, and rabbits. But, we know that peace will eventually end as Animal Pound is a cautionary tale, exploring the slide from populism to fascism. Writer Tom King takes us through elections as we see things begin to crack.

While smooth at first, even the best situations can’t last forever and choices are made that are both good and bad in their results. It’s all interesting and King works through the transition from one leader to the next and what they bring, and don’t, to the table. It all is a slippery slope as we see tensions rise and leadership really fail to deal with the underlying issues. All of that leads to a shocking, cliffhanger ending. It’s also an interesting choice by King to have the slide of society really ramp up with an entertainer… almost like it’s a real world reflection…

Peter Gross‘ art is key to it all. With color by Tamra Bonvillain and lettering by Clayton Cowles, there’s a calm about it all but underneath, tension. The art delivers cuteness but at the same time an animalistic aspect. There’s s tone about the art that really fits the nature of the comic. Things are generally calm and going well but you also get the sense from the visuals this isn’t some utopian world. There’s a weariness, a worn look to it. That helps drive the slide to the end of the comic.

Animal Pound #3 is a solid issue taking us through various governments and what they bring to the table. The slide to where things go is slow but looking back, you can see the start of it all and the why of it all. Where things go next will be key and interesting but overall, the series is a wonderful new and updated take on a classic tale.

Story: Tom King Art: Peter Gross
Color: Tamra Bonvillain Letterer: Clayton Cowles
Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5 Recommendation: Buy

BOOM! Studios provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review

Story: TFAW – Zeus Comics – Kindle