Wayward #6

By Jim Zub, Steve Cummings, & Tamra Bonvillain

Wayward is back from its hiatus and introduces a new story arc. A new character comes to the forefront in this issue, leaving readers with many unanswered questions. It’s a very different direction than most new story arcs would take, especially after such an intense conclusion in the previous issue. Jim Zub knows how to build suspense and keep his audience wanting more.

Even with all the new characters and new plots, readers still wonder what happened with Rori and the others. Despite all this, Zub is able to make the new character, Emi, empathetic and interesting. The web he keeps spinning just spawns more questions and intrigue, which is one of the cornerstones of why this book is so good!

Of course with the masterful art team of Steve Cummings and Tamra Bonvillain at the helm, the story couldn’t be in better hands. Even with the ordinary, ritualized lifestyle of Japan, they are able to imbue it with vitality and an otherworldly nature. Bonvillain’s colors just enhance Cummings pencils and make every panel so bright and gorgeous. I literally could look at the panels for ages and try to describe the subtleties in this team’s work, but it’s best if it is experienced first-hand.

Not only is this an enjoyable, beautiful comic, but educational as well. The cultural essays from Zack Davisson provide fascinating, informative insight into Japanese culture and society. This is one title I was dying to see return and this creative team did not disappoint. New readers should absolutely pick up the trade paperback of the first story arc and then follow-up with this issue.