The Walking Dead #140

By Robert Kirkman, Charlie Adlard and Cliff Rathburn

We’re 140 issues into The Walking Dead this month and Robert Kirkman has continued to make this an exciting series. It’s no secret that the TV series is a huge hit, but it should be mentioned that the book really hasn’t dipped in quality either. As we brace ourselves for the huge 150th blowout issue, we should enjoy these issues leading up to it.

The newest story arc has been a bit of a slow burn, but Robert Kirkman has always made this series about the character development. This issue continues to focus on Maggie and Jesus as they decide the fate of Gregory for attempted murder. While this arc has been a bit slower than others, Kirkman allows us to see Maggie really grow throughout and she is absolutely one of the best characters in the series. We also get our first glimpse of the Whisperers camp, and it may not be what you expect. As always, Kirkman makes the Whisperers interesting people that we want to know more about, but he only gives us a little at a time. If you’re looking for zombie killing action, this isn’t the issue for you. If you like a slow burn that builds characters up, you will enjoy this.

The art is handled by Charlie Adlard with Cliff Rathburn on the gray tones. Adlard is pretty much a stud on this title and each issue is filled with tons of reasons why. We get a full two-page spread of how the Whisperers have been living, and it looks wonderful. One of the great things about Adlard’s work is that he is very detailed. Even when objects are in the distance, he still gives them the necessary time. Cliff Rathburn is a great compliment to Charlie as his gray tones give the pencils the eerie feel they need. This is a team that knows how to make things work and they consistently do it well.

As The Walking Dead goes on, it continues to impress. This wasn’t the best issue in the series, but it was still engaging in large part to the writing and art. Robert Kirkman is a man who knows how to write good and likable characters. Charlie Adlard’s work is always amazing and one of the reasons this book is so great. The Walking Dead remains a must read every week.