Image : First Second

The Adventure Zone podcast has been delighting listeners for years with its blend of exciting fantasy storytelling and sharp comedy, and it’s moving into a new dimension with the release of a new graphic novel from First Second. Clint, Griffin, Justin, and Travis McElroy team up with artist Carey Pietsch to adapt the show’s first quest in The Adventure Zone: Here There Be Gerblins, and Pietsch’s rich animated art style imbues their characters with life, capturing the distinct personalities that were created through voice on the podcast. Taako the elf wizard, Merle the dwarf cleric, and Magnus the human warrior are searching for a man abducted by gerblins, and this journey takes them through dangerous territory that also provides ample opportunities to poke fun at the high stakes.

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This exclusive preview of The Adventure Zone: Here There Be Gerblins highlights how well this podcast translates to the page, largely thanks to how Pietsch’s artwork matche s the tone of the story. The visuals embody the madcap energy of the McElroy’s interactions on t h e show, with exaggerated expressions and bold lettering reflecting different vocal qualitie s. A vibrant color palette intensifies the action, and Pietsch is equally skilled at depicting swords-and-sorcery violence and the irreverent comedy that surrounds it. Readers can discover more of this fantasy world when the graphic nove l goes on sale July 18, and they can check out The Adventure Zone podcast if they want to get to know these characters before jumping into the comic.