On the Dark Island, the three thieves’ quest takes a shocking turn…
Against all odds, Dessa, Topper, and Fisk arrive on the legendary island of Astaroth, and Dessa sets about finding her long-lost twin brother, Jared. Instead, she discovers a bizarre world beyond anything she could have ever imagined, where three children roam under the watchful eye of a mysterious and rarely seen man they call the Toymaker. Who are these kids, and how did they get here? And, if Jared isn’t on the Dark Island, where is he?
Mad Cave Studios and King Features Syndicate have announced Flash Gordon: Two Worlds – Vol. 1, the first installment of a two-part, original graphic novel by award-winning cartoonist and 2026 Ringo nominee Scott Chantler, with colors by Eisner-nominated Kike J. Díaz.
Twenty-five years and sixteen books into his career, Chantler is taking on a major licensed character for the first time with a two-volume, standalone story that returns Flash Gordon to the mid-century visual language and pulp adventure of Alex Raymond’s original comic strip and movie serials. Entirely separate from Mad Cave Studios’ other Flash Gordon series, Two Worlds looks backward to move the character forward, pairing classic heroics and adventure with an existential take on Flash Gordon and the world around him.
In a world where Flash Gordon never flew to space to stop him, Ming the Merciless rules over a conquered and devastated Earth. There, a nameless laborer looks to the sky and dreams of the hero he might have been.
On Mongo, the Emperor’s tormented bride, Dale Arden, cannot shake the memory of a man she saw briefly on an airplane years ago. Who was he? And why does it feel like they were meant to have met?
Chantler is the creator of Two Generals, nominated for two Eisner Awards, selected for Best American Comics 2012, and named by CBC’s Canada Reads among the 40 best Canadian nonfiction books. His work also includes Northwest Passage, nominated for Eisner and Harvey Awards, and the Three Thieves series, winner of the Joe Shuster Award for Best Comic for Kids and a YALSA Great Graphic Novel for Teens. In 2015, he became the University of Windsor’s first Cartoonist-in-Residence.
Embracing the history, romance, heroics, and visual language that made the character an icon, Flash Gordon: Two Worlds – Vol. 1 finds something new within them. Rooted firmly in the Flash Gordon of the 1930s comic strip and movie serials, the standalone graphic novel is built for longtime fans while remaining accessible to readers discovering Mongo for the first time.
Flash Gordon: Two Worlds – Vol. 1 goes on sale November 10, 2026, in paperback (ISBN: 9781545834206 | $19.99) and hardcover (ISBN: 9781545834190 | $24.99) formats.
Papercutz, the kids’ imprint of Mad Cave Studios, expands its lineup of acclaimed all-ages graphic novels with seven new releases featuring fan-favorite characters, award-winning creators, and adventures spanning fantasy, science fiction, mystery, humor, and history—offering something for readers at every stage of their graphic novel journey!
Among the upcoming releases is Punk Taco Adventures Vol. 2, the latest installment of the Ringo Award-winning series created by Adam Wallenta and Makana Wallenta. Joining it are new volumes of Jackson’s Wilder Adventures, Amelia Shadows, Three Thieves, Herobear and the Kid, Double Booking, and The Extraordinary Voyages, creating a season of stories that spans friendship, fantasy, mystery, adventure, and imagination for readers of all ages.
(W/A/C/L) Sarah Davidson PB: 9781545827239 | $9.99, HC: 9781545827246 | $14.99 July 28
Jackson and his best friend Irwin are at it again—learning all about the natural world and the animals in it. This time, Irwin and Jackson learn life lessons from Emperor Penguins, Zebras, Ostriches, and more in this volume all about friendship and relationships!
Amelia Shadows and the Monster in the Box
(W/A/C/L) Matthew Dow Smith PB: 9781545827444 | $12.99, HC: 9781545827451 | $17.99 August 4
When Amelia Shadows opens a mysterious box hidden among her father’s magical artifacts, she accidentally unleashes a dangerous creature into the family mansion. Now Amelia must contain the chaos before her father—or worse, the house ghosts—discover what she’s done.
Three Thieves Vol. 6: The Dark Island
(W/A/C/L) Scott Chantler PB: 9781545833698 | $14.99, HC: 9781545833681 | $19.99 September 8
Against all odds, Dessa, Topper, and Fisk arrive on the legendary island of Astaroth, and Dessa sets about finding her long-lost twin brother, Jared. Instead, she discovers a bizarre world beyond anything she could have ever imagined, where three children roam under the watchful eye of a mysterious and rarely seen man they call the Toymaker.
Herobear and the Kid Vol. 3: Saving Time Part Deux
(W/A/C/L) Mike Kunkel PB: 9781545833773 | $19.99, HC: 9781545833766 | $29.99 September 15
Tyler and Herobear embark on their most important mission yet in Saving Time: Part Deux, traveling to a magical moment in the past where the fate of Christmas—and time itself—hangs in the balance. Perfect for fans of Herobear and the Kid, Superman for All Seasons, Calvin and Hobbes, and Back to the Future!
Double Booking Vol. 3: Fangs for the Memories
(W) Chas! Pangburn, Kim Shearer (A) Nic Touris (L) Chas! Pangburn PB: 9781545833872 | $14.99, HC: 9781545833865 | $19.99 September 29
While exploring New Orleans, Otto and Nan each uncover different pieces of a vampire musician’s long-forgotten past. Their separate adventures converge into a supernatural mystery about family, music, and second chances.
The third volume of the continuing adventures of Everett & Naomi, where the stakes are higher, the obstacles more dangerous, and the secrets revealed more shocking.
Punk Taco Adventures Vol. 2: Big Problems
(W/A) Adam Wallenta (A/C/L) Makana Wallenta & Keola Wallenta PB: 9781545835043 | $12.99, HC: 9781545835036 | $17.99 October 13
A story about friendship, compassion, empathy, and saving the world against impossible odds. Punk Taco continues his mission to spread peace, love, and music throughout the universe.
The island of Astaroth — “The Dark Island” — is a legend among sailors. It’s rumored a demon lives there, and that it holds more riches than anyone could fathom. But no one has ever laid eyes on it.
Certain that her long-lost brother is being held on the Dark Island against his will, Dessa hires a ragtag group of smugglers to take her there aboard their ship. But it’s a journey fraught with danger and treachery, and the outcome seems less and less certain with each passing moment…
Believing he has Dessa, Topper and Fisk cornered in a remote monastery, Captain Drake recalls his early days as a knight in the service of King Roderick. The idealistic young Drake quickly learns that the rest of the King’s Dragons do not share his sense of duty, preferring to take orders from the mysterious palace chamberlain, Maarten Greyfalcon.
In tracking down a stolen letter for the king, the young Drake is drawn into a web of intrigue that includes a plot against the throne and cryptic clues involving Greyfalcon and Dessa. Does the key to capturing the three thieves lie in Drake’s own dark past? Could this spell the end of Dessa’s quest to find her long-lost twin brother?
The Captive Prince is the third volume in the Three Thieves series and it is full of fast-paced excitement, daring escapes and close calls. For fans of Amulet, Mighty Jack and Zita the Space Girl, The Fugitive and Bone.
For once, the three thieves are hailed as heroes, but how long will their good luck last?
As the three thieves trek further west in search of Greyfalcon, they stumble upon a kidnapping in progress. Dess daringly rescues the victim — who turns out to be the crown prince of Medoria!
The thieves are still on the run from the Queen’s Dragons, so being openly celebrated by a neighboring kingdom might be a bad idea. But it also holds a rare opportunity. The prince — who grows more and more devoted to Dessa –– promises his help on her quest. However, he and his father, the King, may not see eye-to-eye.
Our heroes are lost. Squire and Sir Kelton have promised to get Cade to the school of wizardry. Strangely though, the path they’ve taken has brought them into a bewildering, misty forest, rife with fearsome gnolls and a boisterous rival knight. To get them out, Squire tries every trick in the book, but books don’t hold all the answers. Can he muster up his confidence, remember his duties, and find a way to escape the forest?
Story: Scott Chantler Art: Scott Chantler
Get your copy now! To find a comic shop near you, visit http://www.comicshoplocator.com or call 1-888-comicbook or digitally and online with the links below.
First Second provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links and make a purchase, we’ll receive a percentage of the sale. Graphic Policy does purchase items from this site. Making purchases through these links helps support the site
Mad Cave Studios is celebrating the 90th anniversary of Flash Gordon in a big way! The full 2024 Flash Gordon publishing program has been unveiled at ComicsPro, by Director of Marketing, Keith Davidsen.
An iconic American comic strip created and originally drawn by Alex Raymond, has become a timeless symbol of thrilling space adventures and heroic exploits. Since its debut in 1934, Flash Gordon has captured the imagination of readers worldwide with its dynamic storytelling, captivating artwork, and memorable characters.
The ew releases from Mad Cave Studios will feature a new Flash Gordon ongoing series and related works including Defenders of the Earth trade paperback (1980s reprint), an all-new Defenders of the Earth miniseries, Flash Gordon Quarterly, classic newspaper strip hardcover collections, and a Flash Gordon Adventures! all-ages book, from the publisher’s Papercutz imprint.
FLASH GORDON ONGOING SERIES
(W) Jeremy Adams (A) Will Conrad (C) Lee Loughridge (L) Taylor Esposito (CA) Dan Panosian May
Audiences will thrill with a race against time as Flash Gordon, Dale Arden, and Doctor Zarkov try to stop the villainous Ming the Merciless from using the Unraveller, a device that can unwind an object to their subatomic structure in one apocalyptic burst of energy.
This all-new series begins with Flash Gordon #0, available as a free promotional item at participating retailers worldwide on Free Comic Book Day 2024 (Saturday, May 4) and featuring cover artist Dan Panosian. The ongoing story continues in Flash Gordon #1 in July.
DEFENDERS OF THE EARTH TPB
June
Flash Gordon teams up with The Phantom, Mandrake the Magician, Lothar, and the next generation of legends! Based on the beloved 1980s cartoon series, this 96-page trade paperback collects the classic 1987 four-issue miniseries for the first time ever, featuring legendary creators: Stan Lee, Bob Harras, and Michael Higgins, with pencils by Alex Saviuk and inks by Fred Fredericks. Features a dynamic new cover by Scott Chantler (Stephen Colbert’s Tek Jansen).
DEFENDERS OF THE EARTH MINISERIES
August
The 8-issue miniseries based on the beloved 1980s cartoon. While featuring a nostalgic vibe, it’s crafted with all the energetic and engaging storytelling from today’s best comic book teams (TBA).
FLASH GORDON QUARTERLY
September
Mad Cave’s upcoming quarterly series will tell stories of Flash Gordon, Ming, and more beloved characters in wildly entertaining genres that you’d never expect. Each issue spotlights a new and unique take on the characters.
FLASH GORDON: THE COMPLETE LIBRARY OF NEWSPAPER STRIPS
October
(Tentative title) Essential reading for Flash Gordon enthusiasts. A gorgeous archival 200-page hardcover series of Alex Raymond’s Flash Gordon newspaper strips comprise legendary strips from the 1930s and throughout the decades. Solicitation begins July 2024.
FLASH GORDON ADVENTURES!
The debut Flash Gordon original graphic novel from Mad Cave Studios’ middle-grade imprint, Papercutz! Flash Gordon Adventures! will introduce the iconic space hero to the next generation through a whimsical young readers program, providing a unique opportunity to invite and engage fans of all ages into the world of Flash Gordon.
The anticipation is palpable as Guelph prepares to host the momentous 25th anniversary celebration of The Dragon, the iconic female-owned comic book and gaming store. The anniversary celebration, known as Guelph Comics Jam, will take place on September 16th from 10am to 6pm at Old Quebec Street in the heart of Downtown Guelph. The event is open to the public and free of charge and will include signings by such Canadian comic luminaries as Jeff Lemire (Sweet Tooth), Emily Carroll (A Guest in the House), Ryan North (Fantastic Four), and more.
The Dragon’s Remarkable Journey
Founded a quarter-century ago by visionary entrepreneur Jenn Haines, The Dragon has grown from humble beginnings to become internationally acclaimed as a family friendly community hub. For 25 years, The Dragon has set the standard for promoting comic books, graphic novels, manga and games for all ages. The store has enriched the lives of families and inspired similar stores worldwide to serve as nexuses for community and culture within their respective locales. The Dragon’s dedication to excellence has earned it prestigious accolades, including the esteemed Eisner and Shuster Awards for retail.
From its inception, The Dragon has fostered a multi-generational customer base, uniting comic and game enthusiasts of all ages through the power of storytelling and creativity; The Dragon not only offers a highly curated selection of books and games that engage children as well as adults, but has also offered a continuous calendar of author signings and gaming events that have been an integral part of Guelph’s cultural scene. As a proudly female-owned establishment, The Dragon has created a warm and welcoming space for all, consistently championing diversity and inclusion.
Jenn Haines: A Trailblazing Visionary
The driving force behind The Dragon’s success, Jenn Haines, has passionately dedicated her life to creating a sanctuary for comic and game enthusiasts. A single mother of two children, Haines has shattered glass ceilings while raising her family and evolving her business. She also holds the esteemed position of President of the Board of ComicsPRO, the international organization of comic book shops, further solidifying her status as a true industry leader.
Guelph Comics Jam: A Creative Extravaganza
The Guelph Comics Jam, now in its fifth year, coincides with The Dragon’s 25th anniversary celebration. This vibrant event is the pinnacle of Guelph’s comic art scene, bringing together a constellation of renowned artists, writers, and illustrators who have made indelible contributions to the world of comics.
“It’s such a privilege to be invited to Guelph Comics Jam,” said rising star comic book writer Tate Brombal. “As a Guelph native, I shopped at The Dragon as a kid and the store was such an integral part of my journey to becoming a comic book writer, I love coming back and being part of The Dragon community.”
Stellar Guests Include:
Emily Carroll: Writer and artist celebrated for works like “Through the Woods” and “When I Arrived at the Castle.”
Jeff Lemire: Renowned writer and artist behind graphic novels such as “Sweet Tooth” (now a show on Netflix) and “Essex County” (now a miniseries on CBC).
Ryan North: Bestselling writer known for “How To Invent Everything” and “Fantastic Four.”
Scott Chantler: Eisner Award-nominated cartoonist of “Bix” and “Two Generals.”
Matthew Rosenberg: Award-winning writer of “What’s The Furthest Place From Here?” and “4 Kids Walk Into a Bank.”
Tate Brombal: Award nominated writer of “Behemoth” and “The Oddly Pedestrian Life of Christopher Chaos.”
Tyler Boss: Eisner-nominated artist and cartoonist with titles like “What’s The Furthest Place From Here?” and “Dead Dog’s Bite.”
And many more!
Join the Celebration
The Guelph Comics Jam on September 16th is not just a celebration of The Dragon’s remarkable 25 years, but a celebration of the entire comic book and gaming community’s unwavering passion and creativity. During the event, proprietor Haines will unveil a 25th anniversary logo by Guelph’s own Jay Stephens, an Emmy Award winning cartoonist. All are invited to join this 25th anniversary milestone event at Old Quebec Street from 10am to 6pm to commemorate The Dragon’s legacy and the enduring magic of comics and games.
Full Guelph Comics Jam Guest List:
Emily Carroll — Writer/artist of award-winning comics such as A Guest in the House, Through the Woods, When I Arrived at the Castle, and the graphic novel adaptation of Laurie Halse Anderson’s Speak.
Jeff Lemire — Writer/artist on critically acclaimed graphic novels such as Sweet Tooth, Essex County, and Gideon Falls.
Ryan North — Bestselling writer of How To Invent Everything, Fantastic Four, and the graphic novel adaptation of Kurt Vonnegut’s Slaughterhouse-Five.
Scott Chantler — Bestselling and Eisner Award-nominated cartoonist behind such books as Bix, Two Generals, and Squire & Knight.
Matthew Rosenberg — Award-winning writer of comics such as What’s The Furthest Place From Here?, 4 Kids Walk Into a Bank, and We Can Never Go Home.
Tyler Boss — Eisner-nominated, award winning cartoonist and designer. His titles include What’s The Furthest Place From Here?, 4 Kids Walk Into a Bank, and Dead Dog’s Bite.
Tate Brombal — Award-nominated and best-selling writer of comics such as Behold, Behemoth, House of Slaughter, and The Oddly Pedestrian Life of Christopher Chaos.
Richard Pace — Critically acclaimed artist behind such comics as Second Coming, Barbaric: Axe to Grind, and Pitt.
Adriana Blake — Storyboard artist on such iconic shows as Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire, Care Bears: Unlock the Magic and Cyberchase, as well as the self-published comic series Fall-On-Me.
Andrew Wheeler — Shuster and Eisner-winning writer and editor. His credits include Cat Fight, Sins of the Black Flamingo, and the all-ages LGBTQ anthology Shout Out.
Jay Stephens – Veteran of the alt-comics scene and influential creator of such acclaimed titles as Dwellings, Jetcat, and Oddville.
Black Eye Books — Boutique publisher of alternative comics such as Dejects, Bore, and Dwellings.
Chris Sanagan — Shuster award-nominated writer of Group of 7 Comics. Non-comic book writing credits include articles for Ontario History, The American Archivist, and the Guelph Mercury Tribune.
Matt Bors — Eisner-winning comics editor, writer, artist, and political/editorial cartoonist. Best known for The Nib, as well as War is Boring, We Should Improve Society Somewhat, and the Ahoy Comics series Justice Warriors.
David J. Knight — Among other things, the owner and Editor-in-Chief of Fenylalanine Publishing, publisher of Tales of a Guelphire and The Head. His latest works include Aerosomnia: The Awakening Ear and Head & Tales.
Jason Loo — Eisner award-winning cartoonist behind such acclaimed and iconic comics such as The Pitiful Human-Lizard, Afterlift, and The All-Nighter.
Kyle J. Smith — A visual artist and comic creator. In addition to working in the Canadian Entertainment Industry, his comic book credits include Scare Tales, Weathered Spirit, and various RAID studio anthologies.
Ramón Pérez — Multiple Eisner and Harvey Award winning cartoonist known for such renowned comics as Stillwater, Jim Henson’s Tale Of Sand, and Amazing Spider-Man: Learning to Crawl.
Kalman Andrasofszky — Illustrator, comic artist, concept artist, and cover artist best known for his work on Captain Canuck, X-23, and Dungeons & Dragons.
Marcus To — Comic artist and illustrator with decades of work in comics including some lauded titles as Shang-Chi and the Ten Rings, Joyride, and The Flash.
Casey Parsons – illustrator, fine artist and comic book artist, He specializes in mixed media traditional techniques and is best known for his work for Marvel Comics, Upper Deck, & Image Comics.
Michael Walsh – Award-winning cartoonist best known for Silver Coin from Image Comics and the art on key Magic The Gathering cards.
Sam Noir – Writer, cartoonist, and toymaker known for his covers for Chapterhouse Comics Summer Special, Captain Canuck, and co-creating Sunny & Owl Girl, Victorian Four, and Major North.
Squire is brainy, bookish, and terribly under-appreciated by the brawny, inept knight Sir Kelton, who somehow always gets all the glory. So when the two mismatched heroes find themselves in a cursed village plagued by a demonic dragon, Kelton rides off to slay it and Squire stays behind to catch up on some reading. But Squire starts to notice that something isn’t quite right about this town . . . Can he uncover its strange secrets?
Story: Scott Chantler Art: Scott Chantler
Get your copy now! To find a comic shop near you, visit http://www.comicshoplocator.com or call 1-888-comicbook or digitally and online with the links below.
First Second provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links and make a purchase, we’ll receive a percentage of the sale. Graphic Policy does purchase items from this site. Making purchases through these links helps support the site
