Mike MignolaPhoto: Christine Mignola

Mike Mignola heard the call of Cthulhu, but he resisted it.

About a month or so ago, the comic-book writer and artist, best known for creating “Hellboy” and other dryly funny horror-themed comics, was sitting on a Tahitian beach while reading the collected works of H.P. Lovecraft. He was seeking inspiration for a book of illustrations based on the esteemed horror writer’s stories.

“That's how I take a vacation,” Mignola said in an interview earlier this month.