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The Deep
The Deep: Here Be Dragons
The Award-winning comics and graphic novels that became the major animated television series! More people have set foot on the moon than have journeyed to the very bottom of the sea – but that’s where the Nekton family dare to go. While most explorers look to space, our heroes know that an infinite number of mysteries lie deep in the darkness below. A brilliant team with advanced technology and an unquenchable thirst for discovery, the Nektons boldly explore this spectacular final frontier here at home in their immense state-of-the-art submarine, the Aronnax. Using their fantastic deep sea vehicles, specialized mech suits and other cutting-edge technology, the Nektons will discover places, artifacts and creatures that long ago vanished into myth. Secrets are rising from the depths. But why? And why now?
88 pages, Paperback
First published August 11, 2011
2 people are currently reading
149 people want to read
About the author
Tom Taylor
1,299 books1,044 followersOnce a professional juggler and fire eater, Tom Taylor is a #1 New York Times Bestselling, multi-award-winning comic book writer, playwright and screenwriter.
Well known for his work with DC Comics and Marvel, Taylor is the co-creator of NEVERLANDERS from Penguin Random House, SEVEN SECRETS from Boom Studios and the Aurealis-Award-winning graphic novel series THE DEEP. Taylor is also the Head Writer and Executive Producer of The Deep animated series, four seasons of which is broadcast in over 140 countries.
He is perhaps best known for the DC Comics series, DCEASED (Shadow Awards Winner), NIGHTWING (nominated for 5 Eisner Awards), SUPERMAN: SON OF KAL-EL (GLAAD Award Nominee), INJUSTICE: GODS AMONG US, SUICIDE SQUAD, EARTH 2 and BATMAN/SUPERMAN as well as Marvel's FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN, ALL NEW WOLVERINE, X-MEN: RED, DARK AGES and SUPERIOR IRON MAN. Taylor is also the writer of many Star Wars series, which include STAR WARS: INVASION and STAR WARS: BLOOD TIES (Stan Lee Excelsior Award winner). Taylor has written for Marvel, DC Comics, Dark Horse Comics, IDW Publishing, Boom Studios, Wildstorm, 2000 AD and Gestalt Comics.
He can be followed on twitter @TomTaylorMade.
Well known for his work with DC Comics and Marvel, Taylor is the co-creator of NEVERLANDERS from Penguin Random House, SEVEN SECRETS from Boom Studios and the Aurealis-Award-winning graphic novel series THE DEEP. Taylor is also the Head Writer and Executive Producer of The Deep animated series, four seasons of which is broadcast in over 140 countries.
He is perhaps best known for the DC Comics series, DCEASED (Shadow Awards Winner), NIGHTWING (nominated for 5 Eisner Awards), SUPERMAN: SON OF KAL-EL (GLAAD Award Nominee), INJUSTICE: GODS AMONG US, SUICIDE SQUAD, EARTH 2 and BATMAN/SUPERMAN as well as Marvel's FRIENDLY NEIGHBORHOOD SPIDER-MAN, ALL NEW WOLVERINE, X-MEN: RED, DARK AGES and SUPERIOR IRON MAN. Taylor is also the writer of many Star Wars series, which include STAR WARS: INVASION and STAR WARS: BLOOD TIES (Stan Lee Excelsior Award winner). Taylor has written for Marvel, DC Comics, Dark Horse Comics, IDW Publishing, Boom Studios, Wildstorm, 2000 AD and Gestalt Comics.
He can be followed on twitter @TomTaylorMade.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
December 17, 2021
A family of explorers in a high-tech submarine jetting about the ocean investigating weird phenomon. Basically the Robinson family from "Lost In Space" underwater. It's a pretty cute, family friendly setting that both introduces the characters and sets up a longer arc by the end of it.
The art is equally cute and fits the story well. If you're interested in an all ages adventure story that kind of hearkens back to the old school Jules Verne/H.G. Wells science fiction, check it out.
July 30, 2012
When I saw the cover for this at Oz Comic-Con I was immediately struck by the art style, and then after listening to Tom Taylor talk about his project with such passion I was sure it would be something worth reading, I just wasn't prepared for just how damn good it truly was. The Deep is easy to recommend to anyone, even those who have never jumped into the comic space before. A fun-filled adventure that actually sparks a sense of adventure within the reader, this is just one fun read that will stay in your mind for weeks to come.
September 11, 2011
Even though my daughter is now an adult I retain the habit of picking up the occasional all ages title to see 1) how it is and 2) what passes for all ages nowadays. The first installment of The Deep is enjoyable, even though it does bear some resemblance to Saturday morning cartoon shows.
Some of the resemblance is the art style which shows a definite animation influence. As this is an introductory story I am not expecting much in the way of character development.
There are some significant pluses to this title. It tries to toss in a little actual science. There is the hint of a larger story unfolding. the pacing is good, and it is nice to a multi-cultural cast, The Nekton family. I'll likely try future volumes.
Overall a good undersea adventure story. Heh, better than the average Seaquest episode.
Some of the resemblance is the art style which shows a definite animation influence. As this is an introductory story I am not expecting much in the way of character development.
There are some significant pluses to this title. It tries to toss in a little actual science. There is the hint of a larger story unfolding. the pacing is good, and it is nice to a multi-cultural cast, The Nekton family. I'll likely try future volumes.
Overall a good undersea adventure story. Heh, better than the average Seaquest episode.
May 19, 2012
What a great graphic novel! Love the artwork, love the story, and the hint of what is to follow. Fantastic stuff!
October 14, 2012
Brilliant! I can't wait to find out what happens in the next issue.
Also, I suspect Jeffrey the fish has a deep, dark past too. Haha.
Also, I suspect Jeffrey the fish has a deep, dark past too. Haha.
October 19, 2020
This is my review of The Deep, not to be confused with The Deep, The Deep, The Deep, The Deep, or The Deep.
My children enjoyed the animated version of this series so I borrowed the original print version to compare. I'm not a big fan of either format. The writing is just OK. The sibling rivalry is too much, arguably realistic but leaving a need for better role modeling. I find the discordant head sizes between the kids and adults disturbing. The dramatic poses and statements are a bit overdone, though fine for young audiences. The backgrounds are drab and empty, and the setting is under-complicated.
You can learn more about ocean life from The Octonauts.
My children enjoyed the animated version of this series so I borrowed the original print version to compare. I'm not a big fan of either format. The writing is just OK. The sibling rivalry is too much, arguably realistic but leaving a need for better role modeling. I find the discordant head sizes between the kids and adults disturbing. The dramatic poses and statements are a bit overdone, though fine for young audiences. The backgrounds are drab and empty, and the setting is under-complicated.
You can learn more about ocean life from The Octonauts.
January 20, 2012
Lyn is a judge for the Aurealis Awards. This review is the personal opinion of Lyn herself, and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of any judging panel, the judging coordinator or the Aurealis Awards management team.
I will be reviewing and rating this once the AAs are announced.
I will be reviewing and rating this once the AAs are announced.
November 8, 2018
The expressive artwork is very much like the cartoons you see on TV, something that seems rare in comics I've read. The 3-issue arc has time for a few jokes and a quick adventure, but little else. Still, it's a fun read that reminds me of the very PG-13 cartoons of my youth.
The Nektons decide to investigate an area marked dangerous on some old maps of Greenland. Each 55 years an underwater earthquake brings with it sightings of a sea monster. The Nektons use their Rover to dive into the trench formed by the earthquake to discover its secrets.
The Nektons decide to investigate an area marked dangerous on some old maps of Greenland. Each 55 years an underwater earthquake brings with it sightings of a sea monster. The Nektons use their Rover to dive into the trench formed by the earthquake to discover its secrets.
November 17, 2020
I found the Netflix animated series first. I am delighted it is a graphic series, as well. The animated series goes deeper into the story so I did enjoy that one more.
What a wonderful concept this is. I haven't had such fun in an underwater setting in years. This is assuredly an adventure for all ages. Strong story-telling with captivating illustrations makes it a perfect combination. The characters have clear personalities, and the set up for further stories is enticing. I hope there will be more.
What a wonderful concept this is. I haven't had such fun in an underwater setting in years. This is assuredly an adventure for all ages. Strong story-telling with captivating illustrations makes it a perfect combination. The characters have clear personalities, and the set up for further stories is enticing. I hope there will be more.
December 19, 2016
19 December , 2016
I really enjoyed this comic, it's about a family of aquanauts who explore the Ocean and are looking for Atlantis. I found this to be really fun and lighthearted so naturally I also had to pick up volume 2 immediately.
I really enjoyed this comic, it's about a family of aquanauts who explore the Ocean and are looking for Atlantis. I found this to be really fun and lighthearted so naturally I also had to pick up volume 2 immediately.
June 25, 2017
A fun all ages read.
August 10, 2017
A solid beginning. Curious to see where it goes and how characters continue to develop.
July 29, 2019
Fun all-ages adventure comics with an art style that lends well to animation. Shows Taylor could probably do a good FF run (not that I was doubting).
April 5, 2020
Super fun nautical fantasy adventure with a family of deep sea divers.
June 3, 2020
Reading this series off of a recommendation and I enjoyed this first installment. The artwork is beautiful! And what a cliffhanger we're left on!
July 6, 2023
Possibly a bit slight, but both amusing and tense in a way a four year old can enjoy.
February 3, 2023
.More reviews like this one on my blog Snapdragon Alcove
The art style is realistic and natural colors are used so there no select color palette where certain colors dominate over other colors. None that I can tell anyways. Dark and light colors are uses when necessary. For example, the settings that are under water there are dark colors and for above water there are light colors.
The overall story is good. Ant has so much energy that reflex how most young kids act. He brings out the personality in everyone else. I like the sibling dynamic. It felt real and how siblings will act towards each other. In fact, the whole family dynamic is great.
The pasting is not too fast or too slow. Just right in the middle to where the reader gets to know everyone and are taken right into the action.
The only thing I’m disappointed about is that there no sequel to a promising series. The story set up for Nekton family to go and find Atlantis leaving room for more story to be told.
For some strange reason I check out this graphic novel through Hoopla and it was a bind-up of Vol one and two, however it did not say it was a bind-up. Until I got on to GR and saw that it was two different volumes. Okay, what is going on here?
The art style is realistic and natural colors are used so there no select color palette where certain colors dominate over other colors. None that I can tell anyways. Dark and light colors are uses when necessary. For example, the settings that are under water there are dark colors and for above water there are light colors.
The overall story is good. Ant has so much energy that reflex how most young kids act. He brings out the personality in everyone else. I like the sibling dynamic. It felt real and how siblings will act towards each other. In fact, the whole family dynamic is great.
The pasting is not too fast or too slow. Just right in the middle to where the reader gets to know everyone and are taken right into the action.
The only thing I’m disappointed about is that there no sequel to a promising series. The story set up for Nekton family to go and find Atlantis leaving room for more story to be told.
For some strange reason I check out this graphic novel through Hoopla and it was a bind-up of Vol one and two, however it did not say it was a bind-up. Until I got on to GR and saw that it was two different volumes. Okay, what is going on here?
August 23, 2013
I'm so in love with this series. I can not wait until the second one comes to my library system. There are not enough nonwhite people starring in nonmanga comic books.
This features a very real feeling mixed-race family who happen to live in this state-of-the-art submarine in the ocean. There's a mom, a dad, a teenage daughter, and a tween-aged son. When people start telling stories about dragons in a remote part of the waters, the family is called to investigate.
I really hope this series lasts for a while. The art is stunning and in full color, and the story is told very cleanly and accessibly. The family interactions are playful and real, and I love love love the idea of an old map showing an ancient phenomenon.
Keep it love it. Wish the spine was better made (or better yet, that this was published in hardback).
My soft spot for Australian media still holds.
This features a very real feeling mixed-race family who happen to live in this state-of-the-art submarine in the ocean. There's a mom, a dad, a teenage daughter, and a tween-aged son. When people start telling stories about dragons in a remote part of the waters, the family is called to investigate.
I really hope this series lasts for a while. The art is stunning and in full color, and the story is told very cleanly and accessibly. The family interactions are playful and real, and I love love love the idea of an old map showing an ancient phenomenon.
Keep it love it. Wish the spine was better made (or better yet, that this was published in hardback).
My soft spot for Australian media still holds.
February 22, 2013
Deborah was the convenor of the Graphic Novel/Illustrated Works category for the Aurealis Awards in 2011. This review/rating is the personal opinion of Deborah herself, and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of any judging panel, the judging coordinator or the Aurealis Awards management team.
From the Aurealis Awards Judges' Report 2011:
Strong story-telling and glorious artwork in this young adult entry mark this as a professionally polished piece about a family ‘in deep water’. Sophisticated use of layout, likeable characterisation and a humourous approach invoke both the terror of deep-sea monsters and the warmth of a family that lives and works together down under.
From the Aurealis Awards Judges' Report 2011:
Strong story-telling and glorious artwork in this young adult entry mark this as a professionally polished piece about a family ‘in deep water’. Sophisticated use of layout, likeable characterisation and a humourous approach invoke both the terror of deep-sea monsters and the warmth of a family that lives and works together down under.
July 30, 2013
The art in The Deep is really fun and the writing is witty. I love seeing the underwater world through this family of explorers. They're like the Incredibles. If the Incredibles were not super and favored water to fighting super villains.
By the end, I knew I was hooked. I mean, when they revealed the big picture of what they're searching for, I wanted to read the second book. The lost city of Atlantis is one of my favorite legends and I can't wait to see the rest of this story pan out!
By the end, I knew I was hooked. I mean, when they revealed the big picture of what they're searching for, I wanted to read the second book. The lost city of Atlantis is one of my favorite legends and I can't wait to see the rest of this story pan out!
August 9, 2015
This was a really short, but well-done comic. I wish it had continued, because I really liked the characters and the art style, and the premise of it sets up really well to be a series! But it's a great, fun read if you're looking for a stand-alone comic.
November 25, 2015
This is what a YA adventure story should be! Great, clean art, entertaining characters, quick, witty dialogue, fantastic locations and a strong sense of wonder. My only complaint is that it was all over a little bit to quickly.
December 17, 2015
Brilliant!!! I can't wait to find out what happens in the next issue. (really not)
Also, I suspect Jeffrey the fish has a deep, dark past too. Haha. (I know in the deep of my heart the fish is evil xD)
Also, I suspect Jeffrey the fish has a deep, dark past too. Haha. (I know in the deep of my heart the fish is evil xD)
October 23, 2016
Excellent, accessible, witty and clever comic. Well worth your time, however old you are
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews