Something is Killing the Children #38: Don’t Run with Scissors
Creative Team
writer: JAMES TYNION IV
artist: WERTHER DELL’EDERA
colorist: MIQUEL MUERTO
letterer: ANDWORLD DESIGNS
publisher: BOOM! STUDIOS
Reviewed by Seth Adrian Romo
Something is Killing the Children #38 is a one-shot story that puts an emphasis on humanity that exists within the Slaughterverse.
This entry showcases a battle-scarred Erica Slaughter asleep in a treehouse when two girls find her by accident. What follows is an unlikely interaction without turmoil or tension, but kindness in its place.
The issue begins with a woman named Darla yelling at her sister and her sister’s friend Sophie after a prank gone wrong. As the girls run off with a pair of scissors, it becomes clear that their hiding spot has an unexpected guest with an interesting backpack full of knives, medical gear, and personal items.
While the typical high stakes life or death moments are nonexistent in this issue, it doesn’t mean that it is any less enjoyable. Writer James Tynion IV crafts a small-scale story that incorporates lore of the universe and personal details about Erica’s past. It’s a welcome installment for this latest arc as new readers will appreciate how the script highlights elements of the Slaughterverse such as the masks hunters wear and the supernatural aspect of the totems (stuffed animals housing monsters).
Illustrated by Werther Dell’Edera, the art emphasizes nonverbal reactions of the two girls and adds a layer of personality to them—and a couple of humorous moments. In addition to the well-executed illustrations and page designs, the colors from Miquel Muerto add depth to the cozy vibe of the treehouse and richness of the green that surrounds the characters.
While this read will likely be enjoyable for readers, there are some elements that hold it back. For example, not all of the newly introduced characters are named—which begs the question why having three individuals in this story in addition to Erica is necessary. It’s a small issue, but may stand out to readers.
Final Verdict
Though this issue may contrast heavily from the issue prior, new and old fans are likely to appreciate the overall experience. Like the eye of a hurricane, this issue offers reprieve for the lone monster hunter amid the violence and action that constantly encircles her. This personal vignette is not to be missed as it is an enjoyable read that gives levity to the latest arc of Erica’s early days.
| Criteria | Score |
|---|---|
| Writing | 8.5 |
| Story/Plot | 9.0 |
| Art/Line Work | 9.5 |
| Colors | 9.0 |
| Final Score | 9.0/10 |