Something is Killing The Children #26 by James Tynion and Werther Dell’edera (Boom Studios)

Welcome to an all new edition of Parlay points, the comic book blog to the ODPH Podcast! For this entry, we’re picking up the pieces of the latest tale of Erica Slaughter in the pages of one of the best comics on the market! Something is Killing the Children #26 by James Tynion, Werther Dell’edera, Miquel Muerto and Andworld Design from Boom Studios ushers in a brand new status quo after last issue’s heartbreaking moment. It’s one I’m still not over after reading the issue a few times!

Before we deep dive into this issue, there’s only a few hours left to back James Tynion’s (along with PK Colinet, and Elsa Charretier)’s Kickstarter movie, “Room Service.” This should be a big hit when t’s released so don’t miss out on your chance to get on board now! That said, let’s start the review, shall we?

Something is Killing The Children #26 - on sale November 16th
Creative: James Tynion, Werther Dell’edera, Miquel Muerto and Andworld Design
Credit: Boom Studios

*** POSSIBLE SPOILER WARNING ***

Erica Slaughter’s re-emergence hasn’t gone without its fair share of problems. After re-surfacing in Tribulation, New Mexico hunting down a killing monster, Erica has been being hunted by The Order of St. George, who have sent the sadistic Cutter after her. The case hasn’t gone smoothly as the lone witness Gabi, hasn’t been very cooperative and brought Erica into the direct line of the creature. Erica barely escapes but is wounded in the process. All the while, Cutter makes the first big blow to Erica, killing her friend and confident Big Gary. The scene from last issue hit readers in all the emotions and leaves Erica in a broken state.

This issue picks up with Erica recuperating from her injuries in Riqui’s (a bartender and reluctant “guardian” of Gabi) parents place. She’s bruised and not opening up about what she encountered with the monster. While this is happening, Gabi is bonding with Riqui’s brother Johnny. The siblings clearly have issues with each other. Gabi is left by herself and is asked not to see Erica. Gabi doesn’t listen to this advice and sees more than she bargains for. Gabi overhears Erica’s assessment of current events. The future doesn’t sound so good for anyone.

Meanwhile, Sheriff Carter Thomas calls Riqui about the scene Erica and the monster left behind. While this is going on, a certain figure has made their way to Tribulation: Cutter! What she does next will set the tempo for the next round of her hunt of Erica Slaughter. Will Erica survive all the forces surrounding her now? Readers will have much to process with the new playing field set.

Tynion hits the ground running with building up the story after last issue’s epic goodbye of Big Gary. Erica is broken and latching on to whatever she can. This doesn’t come off as a good plan but Tynion showcases her dealing with grief by going head first into completing the plan. It makes for a natural emotional response to what has happened. The rest of the cast does their part to elude to more things to come but nothing outshines Erica’s dealing what’s transpired. Cutter makes a big entrance and tightening the hold she’s forming on Erica. Cutter comes off as making this job more personable that it has to be and this will work wonders for the eventual pay-off.

Dell’edera paints the picture of Erica’s pain splendidly as this new story takes over. Erica’s tough demeanor covers up the pain she’s feeling. Dell’edera’s stone-faced expressions for Erica drive that element home for readers. Cutter’s tale stands strong on its’ own as well. The encounter with Sheriff Carter made for a unique dynamic to where her story is heading. Cutter’s demeanor reflects how vicious she is about her assignment. The art portrays how much she enjoys what she’s doing and that’s a scary notion to comprehend. The other role players make their marks too but this issue belongs to Erica and the next phase of her life.

Final Point: Erica Slaughter’s road forward starts with a strong issue laying the new groundwork out. Tynion, Dell’edera, and Muerto blaze the new trail with excelling character moments along with convincing art to sell the point that Erica’s journey back is only just beginning. make sure to check this issue out at the local comic shops this week and sign up for the “Room Service” kickstarter before its too late.

Hit me up on Twitter and let me know what you thought of Something is Killing The Children #26.

Thanks for reading.

SOMETHING IS KILLING THE CHILDREN #26 (BOOM STUDIOS)

Ken M