The world of comic strips was abuzz with excitement when news broke that the reclusive cartoonist, Bill Watterson, had a new graphic novel in the works. For 30 years, fans around the world had been speculating about what the creator of the beloved “Calvin & Hobbes” strip was up to. The only information that had been revealed was that Watterson was lounging in the United States and was not actively involved in the business of creating new material. Then, out of the blue, it was announced that Watterson was about to publish a graphic novel, with a release date of then-unknown.
The rumour had been confirmed: Calvin & Hobbes creator Bill Watterson was returning with a new graphic novel. But this time, it wasn’t a whimsical children’s comic, but a thoughtful and mature exploration into what it means to grow up.
The novel, titled ‘The Something and the Something Else’ is described as a “poetic exploration of life, love and the personal cost of growing up”. Watterson is known for his unique and meticulous artwork, and the graphic novel is no exception. In The Something and the Something Else, Watterson brings his iconic art style to life in an emotionally honest and impactful manner.
Fans of Calvin & Hobbes were pleasantly surprised to see that Watterson was still passionate about storytelling in his adulthood. They were also pleased to find out that he had not lost any of his enthusiasm for the craft that he first fell in love with decades ago. While his new work may not have the same cheerful tone of his previous work, its mature themes are sure to resonate with readers on a much deeper level.
It isn’t often that we see beloved cartoonists return to the medium that made them so famous, so to see Watterson breaking his long silence to bring us this grown-up graphic novel is truly a wonderful treat. It will be exciting to see how his compelling story will be received, and to speculate upon whether this could be the beginning of a new chapter in the revered cartoonist’s career.
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