There is a dependable need for spooky tales aimed at tweens and teens, but sadly, not enough creators are working to feed this demand. My daughters routinely pick up Goosebumps books I read while in middle school and gravitate to any frightening property appropriate for readers their age. Thankfully, I can add Armored to their reading list, as this first issue is beautifully drawn and engagingly scripted to appeal to readers both young and old looking for some horror-adventure in their reading diet.
Written by screenwriter Michael Schwartz (who relevantly wrote RL Stine’s Zombie Town) and expertly drawn by Ismael Hernandez, the introductory issue finds 13-year-old Andy placed in foster care with the Collins family, who are still grieving the loss of their son. With his investigative nature, Andy quickly becomes curious about the mysterious circumstances surrounding their son’s death, particularly linked to a nearby castle. His curiosity leads him to discover a coat of arms that summons a medieval suit of armor and the spirit of Sir William. Together, they begin navigating their new partnership, just as a dark force threatens to disrupt their lives, setting the stage for impending adventures.
Armored #1 is focused and pleasant first issue that provides a well-paced beginning to this series. Andy is likable and relatable, and the script doesn’t burden the reader with unnecessary exposition. The visuals are allowed to tell the story with some exceptional panel blocking from Hernandez. The watercolor technics used throughout the issue put this book above its competitors and make for obligatory second readings.
With issue #2 just now hitting stands, Armored’s first issue will hopefully find fans of character-driven spooky adventures. Schwartz and Hernandez are a creative team to be reckoned with the capacity of many stimulating quests to come.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login