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Stranger Things: Graphic Novels #5
Stranger Things: The Tomb of Ybwen
It’s January 1985 the Hawkins crew survived their battle with the mind flayer, but Will and Joyce are still reeling from the recent death of Bob Newby.
Will’s friends have been too busy with their girlfriends to notice how much he is struggling. After he and Mr. Clarke discover a mysterious map Bob left in a box of old nerdy memorabilia, Will rallies the crew to investigate—but with a blizzard coming, they’re afraid to follow.
When Mike, Dustin and Lucas learn that Will has taken off into the freezing wilds alone they rush to stop him. When they all discover there may be more to this adventure than a fake treasure map, it’s too late to turn back. They have no choice but to follow the clues further into an abandoned mine shaft full of booby traps and mystery.
Join the heroes of the hit Netflix show on a new adventure full of curiosity and danger, and discover what treasure might lay in the depths of the Tomb of Ybwen.
Penned by seasoned comic writer Greg Pak(Stranger Things: Zombie Boys, Planet Hulk) with photorealistic art drawn by Diego Galindo (Stranger Things and Dungeons & Dragons).
Collects Stranger Things: Tomb of Ybwen #1–#4.
Will’s friends have been too busy with their girlfriends to notice how much he is struggling. After he and Mr. Clarke discover a mysterious map Bob left in a box of old nerdy memorabilia, Will rallies the crew to investigate—but with a blizzard coming, they’re afraid to follow.
When Mike, Dustin and Lucas learn that Will has taken off into the freezing wilds alone they rush to stop him. When they all discover there may be more to this adventure than a fake treasure map, it’s too late to turn back. They have no choice but to follow the clues further into an abandoned mine shaft full of booby traps and mystery.
Join the heroes of the hit Netflix show on a new adventure full of curiosity and danger, and discover what treasure might lay in the depths of the Tomb of Ybwen.
Penned by seasoned comic writer Greg Pak(Stranger Things: Zombie Boys, Planet Hulk) with photorealistic art drawn by Diego Galindo (Stranger Things and Dungeons & Dragons).
Collects Stranger Things: Tomb of Ybwen #1–#4.
96 pages, Paperback
First published April 26, 2022
9 people are currently reading
573 people want to read
About the author
Greg Pak
1,646 books579 followersGreg Pak is an award-winning Korean American comic book writer and filmmaker currently writing "Lawful" for BOOM and "Sam Wilson: Captain America" (with Evan Narcisse) for Marvel. Pak wrote the "Princess Who Saved Herself" children's book and the “Code Monkey Save World” graphic novel based on the songs of Jonathan Coulton and co-wrote (with Fred Van Lente) the acclaimed “Make Comics Like the Pros” how-to book. Pak's other work includes "Planet Hulk," "Darth Vader," "Mech Cadet Yu," "Ronin Island," "Action Comics," and "Magneto Testament."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
August 3, 2022
When Will talks to Mr. Clarke at school, they stumble upon some old things that used to belong to Bob Newby. Among them is a treasure map and Will immediately wants to explore it and see where it leads. At first he can't convince his friends to help, but they eventually end up following Bob's clues. Some stuff happens. It's a cute little story.
I just love these comics and wish they'd be canon.
I just love these comics and wish they'd be canon.
June 18, 2022
رویدادهای این کمیک بین فصل دو و سه سریال استرنجر ثینگز اتفاق میافتن.
خطر لو رفتن پایان فصل دو در ادامهی ریویو.
خطر لو رفتن پایان فصل دو در ادامهی ریویو.
September 2, 2023
Okkkk, I'm actually crying what?? Bob Newby, superhero indeed *sobs*
Will watching Milkvan kiss in the background... Ah yes, I see what you did there (is this another Byler proof? obviously)
Can we get more Will x Dustin plssss, they're so preciouuuuus
ALSO: I demand more Byclair DUH
Dustin x Lucas friendship ahhhhh
Mike be like akjdjjfkfgkkgj I PLANNED THIS ALL FOR HIM AND NOW HE'S NOT HERE !!! *grumpy / disappointed mode activated* while Lucas and Dustin see right through him (which isn't that hard, let's be real, he's pretty unsubtle about his feelings for Will)
WILL GRIEVING BOB'S DEATH AND FEELING RESPONSIBLE ??? AHHHH MY HEART
This volume made me go "mike wheeler i know what you are" so many times it’s not even funny anymore
Will watching Milkvan kiss in the background... Ah yes, I see what you did there (is this another Byler proof? obviously)
Can we get more Will x Dustin plssss, they're so preciouuuuus
ALSO: I demand more Byclair DUH
Dustin x Lucas friendship ahhhhh
Mike be like akjdjjfkfgkkgj I PLANNED THIS ALL FOR HIM AND NOW HE'S NOT HERE !!! *grumpy / disappointed mode activated* while Lucas and Dustin see right through him (which isn't that hard, let's be real, he's pretty unsubtle about his feelings for Will)
WILL GRIEVING BOB'S DEATH AND FEELING RESPONSIBLE ??? AHHHH MY HEART
This volume made me go "mike wheeler i know what you are" so many times it’s not even funny anymore
June 19, 2022
Stranger Things: Tomb of Ybwen collects issues 1-4 of the Dark Horse Comics series written by Greg Pak and illustrated by Diego Galindo.
Set shortly after the events of Stranger Things Season 2, Will is still reeling from the death of Bob. Science teacher Mr. Clarke gives Will a box of old trinkets that Bob had left in the AV club closet from when he was a teenager. Will discovers a treasure map left there by Bob and gathers Mike, Dustin, and Lucas’s help in finding the treasure during a major snow storm in Hawkins.
Pak decides to make this book a huge reference to Goonies (Where Sean Aston famously portrayed Mikey), and it works out pretty great. The kids are still trying to find their place in the world again after their second saving the world scenario in which they personally saw the stakes of sacrifice and death. The art is solid throughout and does a great job of capturing the likeness of each character. This was another fun read for Stranger Things comics which seems to have finally hit its stride.
Set shortly after the events of Stranger Things Season 2, Will is still reeling from the death of Bob. Science teacher Mr. Clarke gives Will a box of old trinkets that Bob had left in the AV club closet from when he was a teenager. Will discovers a treasure map left there by Bob and gathers Mike, Dustin, and Lucas’s help in finding the treasure during a major snow storm in Hawkins.
Pak decides to make this book a huge reference to Goonies (Where Sean Aston famously portrayed Mikey), and it works out pretty great. The kids are still trying to find their place in the world again after their second saving the world scenario in which they personally saw the stakes of sacrifice and death. The art is solid throughout and does a great job of capturing the likeness of each character. This was another fun read for Stranger Things comics which seems to have finally hit its stride.
December 27, 2025
Uma aventura com referências aos Goonies. Sinceramente, não estava à espera que estas bandas desenhadas fossem assim. Julguei que se limitavam a aproveitar o "filão" da série mas enganei-me. Gostei mesmo muito.
April 20, 2022
Bob Newby is dead, and for Will Byers, that loss is going to take a while to come to terms with. But when Mr. Clarke discovers an old map Bob left in the AV Club room, Will makes it his mission to find the treasure at the end, even if it means going out into the worst blizzard Hawkins has ever seen.
Like the previous volume, this Stranger Things story draws on character moments and relationships rather than worrying too much about the peril. New writer Greg Pak picks up where Jody Houser left off in that respect, crafting a tale that puts Will's grief at the centre of the story and then builds everything else around it. While it can be frustrating watching Will make all the wrong decisions, he's a teenage boy dealing with the loss of a second father figure in his life, on top of all the other trauma he's experienced, so it's no surprise that he's not thinking clearly.
The heart of the matter is Will, and while Mike, Dustin, Lucas, and Mr. Clarke all play supporting roles as they try to help him solve the mystery of Bob's final puzzle as well as the complicated emotions that he feels. It's a heartfelt story, and the ending especially made me tear up a little even though it's simple enough in practise.
Diego Gallindo steps in as artist, and he manages to be photo-realistic without tracing the characters; this is the closest everyone's looked to their TV counterparts so far, and he sells the emotions on their faces easily. The colours are also especially good, giving a real depth to the proceedings, and the use of white space in the blizzard and the dark shadows in the mines is great too.
The Tomb Of Ybwen might not have any supernatural monsters or paranormal powers in it, but it's a story that needs to be told about how to cope when you lose someone. It looks great, it has a big heart, and it makes you feel all sorts of feels, which is always a good sign.
Like the previous volume, this Stranger Things story draws on character moments and relationships rather than worrying too much about the peril. New writer Greg Pak picks up where Jody Houser left off in that respect, crafting a tale that puts Will's grief at the centre of the story and then builds everything else around it. While it can be frustrating watching Will make all the wrong decisions, he's a teenage boy dealing with the loss of a second father figure in his life, on top of all the other trauma he's experienced, so it's no surprise that he's not thinking clearly.
The heart of the matter is Will, and while Mike, Dustin, Lucas, and Mr. Clarke all play supporting roles as they try to help him solve the mystery of Bob's final puzzle as well as the complicated emotions that he feels. It's a heartfelt story, and the ending especially made me tear up a little even though it's simple enough in practise.
Diego Gallindo steps in as artist, and he manages to be photo-realistic without tracing the characters; this is the closest everyone's looked to their TV counterparts so far, and he sells the emotions on their faces easily. The colours are also especially good, giving a real depth to the proceedings, and the use of white space in the blizzard and the dark shadows in the mines is great too.
The Tomb Of Ybwen might not have any supernatural monsters or paranormal powers in it, but it's a story that needs to be told about how to cope when you lose someone. It looks great, it has a big heart, and it makes you feel all sorts of feels, which is always a good sign.
March 5, 2023
(4,5 of 5 for this TV experience invoking adventure)
What Stranger Things can do excellently is harness nostalgia. In a very non-intrusive way, depicting the world as it was that it feels like it's right now. Tomb of Ybwen is a follow-up to Will's coping with Bob's tragic demise. In a very awesome adventure. As with Erica, the story feels just enough for the pages. No filler, no waste. On top of that, it's an excellent adventure which pulled me in, with dynamic and scenography evoking the experience of watching a TV show. I feel the cold of the blizzard and darkness and heard the arguments and howling winds. So I really must appreciate, this is the experience I love in comics but it's hard to invoke. So it's surprising that comics follow up on some TV show delivered. But I must admit, for "based on" themed comics the Stranger Things ones are awesome to overall quality and the addition to the "source lore".
What Stranger Things can do excellently is harness nostalgia. In a very non-intrusive way, depicting the world as it was that it feels like it's right now. Tomb of Ybwen is a follow-up to Will's coping with Bob's tragic demise. In a very awesome adventure. As with Erica, the story feels just enough for the pages. No filler, no waste. On top of that, it's an excellent adventure which pulled me in, with dynamic and scenography evoking the experience of watching a TV show. I feel the cold of the blizzard and darkness and heard the arguments and howling winds. So I really must appreciate, this is the experience I love in comics but it's hard to invoke. So it's surprising that comics follow up on some TV show delivered. But I must admit, for "based on" themed comics the Stranger Things ones are awesome to overall quality and the addition to the "source lore".
December 14, 2025
this was so much fun
July 27, 2022
Unlike some of the other Stranger Thing tie-in media which delve more into the background of the characters, this one was a side adventure involving the main gang. Taking place after season 2, Will comes into possession of a map Bob Newby made 20 years ago and immediately sets out to find what lays at the "X" despite an impending blizzard coming. The rest of the boys are forced to go look for him before something bad happens and surprised to find an actual mystery exists. This was a light, entertaining story and fun to see the kids on their mini-adventure.
May 26, 2022
Bob :')
January 25, 2022
trigger warning
Mr. Clarke shows the grieving Will stuff Bob would have wanted to have him - Bob was the founder of the school's AV club and left some things. Among them: A treasure map.
I know I am repearting myself, but these comics add a lot of character depth to the series and I really like the exploration of grief and trauma in terms that would be suitable for children, with the caveat that not every child is going to like or be okay with the horror elements.
This adventure brings the old gang back together, neither El nor Max are in here and the plot plays out within one day. It doesn't feel new, even the solution is something I already read somewhere else - but I enjoyed the ride. So, again, basically business as usual. Nothing new but packaged in a way that makes it fun.
If you can ignore that the friends have had previous adventures, you could read this one without prior knowledge and the plot is contained in this one volume.
The arc was provided by the publisher.
Mr. Clarke shows the grieving Will stuff Bob would have wanted to have him - Bob was the founder of the school's AV club and left some things. Among them: A treasure map.
I know I am repearting myself, but these comics add a lot of character depth to the series and I really like the exploration of grief and trauma in terms that would be suitable for children, with the caveat that not every child is going to like or be okay with the horror elements.
This adventure brings the old gang back together, neither El nor Max are in here and the plot plays out within one day. It doesn't feel new, even the solution is something I already read somewhere else - but I enjoyed the ride. So, again, basically business as usual. Nothing new but packaged in a way that makes it fun.
If you can ignore that the friends have had previous adventures, you could read this one without prior knowledge and the plot is contained in this one volume.
The arc was provided by the publisher.
April 15, 2024
*4.5
(spoilers for ST season 2 ahead)
Now THIS is what I want from ST graphic novels!
I've found this series to be quite the mixed bag - you have great stories that perfectly fill in the missing gaps from the TV show, and then you have unnecessary ones about characters no one cares for. But this, this might be my favorite of the bunch. Although Stranger Things: The Other Side was pretty good, too. And that short one at the end of Stranger Things: Science Camp with Erica and Robin and Steve and Dustin.
This graphic novel takes place after ST season 2, with Bob Newby dead and Will trying to cope. This poor kid never gets a break - but when he discovers an old map left by a young Bob, he chases after it to find an answer to his loneliness - and his friends aren't far behind.
The writing was surprisingly good in here. The whole story fits in beautifully with season 2, and it's a great send-off to Bob. He was a favorite character of mine, and you get to see Joyce mourn him in season 3 - but never Will. I really like that this book acknowledged Will's connection with Bob and let him cope with Bob's death in his own way.
Also, the return of the original gang! I loved that the core four (Will, Mike, Dustin, Lucas) were the central characters in here. I do like the dynamics El and Max bring to the team, but given the context of this story, it worked for it to be a return for form for these boys. Also, Mr. Clarke has a main role here too! I just wish they'd give him something like this to do in the show!
The ending actually made me emotional. I loved this book so much more than I expected - and now it's making me crave season 5 even harder. I really do wish the show itself would showcase these fantastic moments that seem to happen in the background - especially by giving Will more attention. But hey, apparently that's what we're getting in the upcoming final season - so we'll see how everything will play out for the last time!
4.5/5 stars!
(spoilers for ST season 2 ahead)
Now THIS is what I want from ST graphic novels!
I've found this series to be quite the mixed bag - you have great stories that perfectly fill in the missing gaps from the TV show, and then you have unnecessary ones about characters no one cares for. But this, this might be my favorite of the bunch. Although Stranger Things: The Other Side was pretty good, too. And that short one at the end of Stranger Things: Science Camp with Erica and Robin and Steve and Dustin.
This graphic novel takes place after ST season 2, with Bob Newby dead and Will trying to cope. This poor kid never gets a break - but when he discovers an old map left by a young Bob, he chases after it to find an answer to his loneliness - and his friends aren't far behind.
The writing was surprisingly good in here. The whole story fits in beautifully with season 2, and it's a great send-off to Bob. He was a favorite character of mine, and you get to see Joyce mourn him in season 3 - but never Will. I really like that this book acknowledged Will's connection with Bob and let him cope with Bob's death in his own way.
Also, the return of the original gang! I loved that the core four (Will, Mike, Dustin, Lucas) were the central characters in here. I do like the dynamics El and Max bring to the team, but given the context of this story, it worked for it to be a return for form for these boys. Also, Mr. Clarke has a main role here too! I just wish they'd give him something like this to do in the show!
The ending actually made me emotional. I loved this book so much more than I expected - and now it's making me crave season 5 even harder. I really do wish the show itself would showcase these fantastic moments that seem to happen in the background - especially by giving Will more attention. But hey, apparently that's what we're getting in the upcoming final season - so we'll see how everything will play out for the last time!
4.5/5 stars!
August 26, 2024
Qué cómic tan chulo. Tras la muerte de Bob, Will descubre un mapa del tesoro hecho por él cuando estaba en el instituto y decide ir a buscarlo a pesar de las fuertes nevadas que están asolando Hawkins. Es un precioso homenaje a Los Goonies con una pizquita de El señor de los anillos (recordemos que el actor que interpreta a Bob era el prota de la primera y también Sam en la segunda). No hay nada de terror, no aparecen Eleven ni el demogorgon ni nada sobrenatural pero no hace falta porque lo importante es contar una sencilla y dulce historia de amistad y búsquedas del tesoro. Y además es muy fiel a la serie original porque tanto Will como Mike siguen siendo igual de insoportables. Muy chulo, de verdad.
February 10, 2023
Najlepszy komiks z tej serii (kocham Willa <333)
November 21, 2023
I enjoyed this adventure featuring our favorite fellowship of nerds. 😍
July 10, 2024
3,5 🌟
May 24, 2025
Bob i miss you too😔😔
July 31, 2025
Aww, fun story inspired by the Goonies, with Bob Newby at its heart, it even made me tear up.
September 16, 2022
I love how in a snow storm, Will goes out into the forrest without a hat. I'd like to think this is canonically because his bowl cut is so ostentatious that it perfectly protects his ears and head like a stocking cap.
Proably my favorite (or at least second favorite) of the Stranger Things graphic novels thus far. Has both a very meaniful message and wholesome story, while giving Mr. Clarke a chance to shine and giving those awesome friendship/treasure hunts vibes.
Proably my favorite (or at least second favorite) of the Stranger Things graphic novels thus far. Has both a very meaniful message and wholesome story, while giving Mr. Clarke a chance to shine and giving those awesome friendship/treasure hunts vibes.
May 11, 2025
This takes place *I believe* between Season 2 and Season 3 of Stranger Things, but it's been a minute since I binged the ENTIRE SHOW (at the time), so I'm a bit hazy on what happened when. Eleven is normally a good indicator of approximately what season it is, but she isn't in this volume.
The main story is Will is still not over Bob Newby's death by Demogorgon, and how he struggles to comes to terms with his guilt over it. Mr. Clarke, the science teacher and the main characters' confidante, notices Will's state and gives him a gift: Bob had left behind a "treasure" map, from his days as a student. Will finds renewed life in trying to find Bob's treasure, that—even though the map and treasure were planted long before the main characters had even been born—he hopes to get some kind of closure from it.
The quest itself would be, frankly, dull, but AS IT HAPPENS, there is a dangerous blizzard hitting, which doesn't stop Will. Even after his friends realise what's going on and go to find him, Will keeps going, despite Dustin's potential frostbite and every assurance that the treasure would still be there AFTER the blizzard passes. Even Mr. Clarke gets in on it, because of course he does—his walkie picks up their cries for help—and they all keep at it on the hunt for the treasure.
The ending is a little flat, but it feels very normal that way, too. Like, it wouldn't have been Viking treasure or what have you, it was set up by a high school (or middle school?) kid looking for friends. The most jarring part is Will's reaction, though, but that's also an element of grief, also normal.
The best part is the artwork, which is so amazingly photorealistic (for the characters in particular) that it's hard to believe it's not just a filter or tracings of actual photographs. I mean, it could be? But that feels like it would require the actual actors to essentially film more of the show, then have the stills traced/filtered, which doesn't seem cost-effective. I don't know. I prefer to believe in the amazing artistry than just naturally assume everything is A.I.-generated now (though a sadly large number of things are).
I've read a few of these spin-off titles, and what always comes to mind is a friend's comment once that he had no interest in the "extra" material from a series, because it would always be disposable as far as the "main" series is concerned—otherwise, it would have been included in the main series. I feel like that's both unfair AND true, that the inherent problem of a spin-off is it can't do anything that would contradict the main story, AND it can't be anything important to the main story that would be detrimental to readers/viewers who are ONLY following the main story if they don't also follow the spin-off.
But it's a great "more of the same" for fans of the series, even if it's generally sort of obnoxious having to follow up in a completely different medium from the original. (Ask me why I don't answer my phone or instant messages from the people I have to e-mail for work. Besides that my boss said don't.)
The main story is Will is still not over Bob Newby's death by Demogorgon, and how he struggles to comes to terms with his guilt over it. Mr. Clarke, the science teacher and the main characters' confidante, notices Will's state and gives him a gift: Bob had left behind a "treasure" map, from his days as a student. Will finds renewed life in trying to find Bob's treasure, that—even though the map and treasure were planted long before the main characters had even been born—he hopes to get some kind of closure from it.
The quest itself would be, frankly, dull, but AS IT HAPPENS, there is a dangerous blizzard hitting, which doesn't stop Will. Even after his friends realise what's going on and go to find him, Will keeps going, despite Dustin's potential frostbite and every assurance that the treasure would still be there AFTER the blizzard passes. Even Mr. Clarke gets in on it, because of course he does—his walkie picks up their cries for help—and they all keep at it on the hunt for the treasure.
The ending is a little flat, but it feels very normal that way, too. Like, it wouldn't have been Viking treasure or what have you, it was set up by a high school (or middle school?) kid looking for friends. The most jarring part is Will's reaction, though, but that's also an element of grief, also normal.
The best part is the artwork, which is so amazingly photorealistic (for the characters in particular) that it's hard to believe it's not just a filter or tracings of actual photographs. I mean, it could be? But that feels like it would require the actual actors to essentially film more of the show, then have the stills traced/filtered, which doesn't seem cost-effective. I don't know. I prefer to believe in the amazing artistry than just naturally assume everything is A.I.-generated now (though a sadly large number of things are).
I've read a few of these spin-off titles, and what always comes to mind is a friend's comment once that he had no interest in the "extra" material from a series, because it would always be disposable as far as the "main" series is concerned—otherwise, it would have been included in the main series. I feel like that's both unfair AND true, that the inherent problem of a spin-off is it can't do anything that would contradict the main story, AND it can't be anything important to the main story that would be detrimental to readers/viewers who are ONLY following the main story if they don't also follow the spin-off.
But it's a great "more of the same" for fans of the series, even if it's generally sort of obnoxious having to follow up in a completely different medium from the original. (Ask me why I don't answer my phone or instant messages from the people I have to e-mail for work. Besides that my boss said don't.)
January 6, 2023
I'm not sure I would consider these graphic novels "Cannon," but I wouldn't go as far as to call them "Fan Fiction" either. Think... Monster of the Week rather than Mythology. Except without the actual monsters (aside: In a probably unpopular opinion, I always loved the MOTW best anyway). At least, not Monsters in the literal sense.
Aaaaaand that comparison reference just outed me as the Nerd I am. But if you picked up on it and know what I'm talking about, you're likely a Nerd too. Elsewise, you probably wouldn't have clicked on this book or be reading this review. I'm in good company.
But I am seriously enjoying these books so far. They're fun and funny and lighthearted and the author(s) seem to have great deal of respect for the source material. Which is a good thing. I'd have discredited them if the situation was anything other than what it is.
This is the second Stranger Things graphic I've picked up so far. The first was the Science Camp one. You know, the one where Dusty-Bun met Suzie-Poo and they, along with some fellow Science Camp Nerds, solved a "murder" mystery, Scooby-Doo style. Because the villain would have gotten away with it, too, if not for those meddling kids. That volume made me so happy to read. Like...GEEKishly happy. Except... The authors were wrong (
But I digress... I picked up Tomb of Ybwen because the cover (as well as the plot synopsis) gave off a Goonies vibe, and I adore The Goonies. Will finds a treasure map drawn by Bob (R.I.P.) when Bob was a nerdy teen, and decides to follow it. Of course he does this, solo-mission style, during the biggest blizzard in 10 years, forcing the rest of the Fellowship (or at least the core four) to follow and, ultimately, come to his rescue. Which was good. I mean, Mikey would never have found One-Eyed Willie alone. Ditto for Frodo's chances of reaching Mount Doom by himself. That little Hobbit would likely have been eaten by Orcs before he left the borders of the Shire. Even Atreyu had Artax, and then Falcour, despite being informed he must "go it alone". Point being, it's never good to embark on an Epic Quest by yourself. You need good friends to have your back.
Tomb of Ybwen was cute, though. All about friendship and fellowship and adventure outside of the Upside Down. However, the end was kind of... I'm not crying, you're crying!
Seriously, I wish the Duffers would quit killing off the super-likable side characters. Because what happened to Bob...and also Dart... It was as heartbreaking as when a certain butthead author (Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named) so heartlessly disposed of a completely harmless little elfish character and a long-beloved animal sidekick in the same series finale. At least Eddie's demise was Metal. Ozzy would have approved.
Anyway, I gotta read me more of these! Emotions be damned!
Aaaaaand that comparison reference just outed me as the Nerd I am. But if you picked up on it and know what I'm talking about, you're likely a Nerd too. Elsewise, you probably wouldn't have clicked on this book or be reading this review. I'm in good company.
But I am seriously enjoying these books so far. They're fun and funny and lighthearted and the author(s) seem to have great deal of respect for the source material. Which is a good thing. I'd have discredited them if the situation was anything other than what it is.
This is the second Stranger Things graphic I've picked up so far. The first was the Science Camp one. You know, the one where Dusty-Bun met Suzie-Poo and they, along with some fellow Science Camp Nerds, solved a "murder" mystery, Scooby-Doo style. Because the villain would have gotten away with it, too, if not for those meddling kids. That volume made me so happy to read. Like...GEEKishly happy. Except... The authors were wrong (
But I digress... I picked up Tomb of Ybwen because the cover (as well as the plot synopsis) gave off a Goonies vibe, and I adore The Goonies. Will finds a treasure map drawn by Bob (R.I.P.) when Bob was a nerdy teen, and decides to follow it. Of course he does this, solo-mission style, during the biggest blizzard in 10 years, forcing the rest of the Fellowship (or at least the core four) to follow and, ultimately, come to his rescue. Which was good. I mean, Mikey would never have found One-Eyed Willie alone. Ditto for Frodo's chances of reaching Mount Doom by himself. That little Hobbit would likely have been eaten by Orcs before he left the borders of the Shire. Even Atreyu had Artax, and then Falcour, despite being informed he must "go it alone". Point being, it's never good to embark on an Epic Quest by yourself. You need good friends to have your back.
Tomb of Ybwen was cute, though. All about friendship and fellowship and adventure outside of the Upside Down. However, the end was kind of... I'm not crying, you're crying!
Seriously, I wish the Duffers would quit killing off the super-likable side characters. Because what happened to Bob...and also Dart... It was as heartbreaking as when a certain butthead author (Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named) so heartlessly disposed of a completely harmless little elfish character and a long-beloved animal sidekick in the same series finale. At least Eddie's demise was Metal. Ozzy would have approved.
Anyway, I gotta read me more of these! Emotions be damned!
July 22, 2022
This little gem is an ode to “Bob Newby, superhero”. Set after the heroic act and heartbreaking demise of Bob at the Hawkins Laboratory, Joyce is still grieving but trying to keep it together for her son who was just exorcised from the all-pervading clutches of the Mind Flayer. But a traumatized Will misses the wholesome, nerdy, father-figure too. Moreover, an expected distance seems to be yawning within the party too as young hormones take precedence over Dragons & Dungeons and Will is feeling more and more lost.
And so, when their favorite science teacher Mr.Clarke hands over some of Bob’s early nerdy memorabilia to Will and it just happens to have a mysterious treasure map, Will is intrigued.. As he pursues the clues alone on a stormy blizzard night, he will rediscover friendship, the thrill of adventure and an unexpected treasure at the end of the perilous search.
This was an emotionally stirring read. If you love Stranger Things and are a fan of unexpected heroes Bob Newby and Mr.Clarke, this book hits all the comforting buttons. Beautifully drawn, sensitive yet steeped in the ST trope of a band of nerdy friends dealing with the unknown and a stead storyline makes this a great read.
And so, when their favorite science teacher Mr.Clarke hands over some of Bob’s early nerdy memorabilia to Will and it just happens to have a mysterious treasure map, Will is intrigued.. As he pursues the clues alone on a stormy blizzard night, he will rediscover friendship, the thrill of adventure and an unexpected treasure at the end of the perilous search.
This was an emotionally stirring read. If you love Stranger Things and are a fan of unexpected heroes Bob Newby and Mr.Clarke, this book hits all the comforting buttons. Beautifully drawn, sensitive yet steeped in the ST trope of a band of nerdy friends dealing with the unknown and a stead storyline makes this a great read.
October 1, 2022
I'm pretty sure that the Stranger Things comics are just getting better.
"Tomb of Ybwen" tells an original, self-contained story that fits right in with the Stranger Things universe. We get to see familiar characters in a new narrative, spend some time with characters who aren't featured as much in the main series, and pay tribute to a favorite who had far too little time on stage in the TV series episodes. And all with only a slight reference to the Upside Down and psychic powers.
The art style is feeling more confident than previous iterations, too, with characters looking more like their on-screen counterparts in their unique facial expressions. The world they move through, whether lost in a blizzard or exploring a long-forgotten cave, feels real and believable.
The Stranger Things comics had a somewhat wobbly start, with stories that were too beholden to the show itself and art that was serviceable but less than great. As they continue, at least in "Tomb of Ybwen," I'm happy to say that they are getting more original and more adventurous - both things that I love about the show itself.
"Tomb of Ybwen" tells an original, self-contained story that fits right in with the Stranger Things universe. We get to see familiar characters in a new narrative, spend some time with characters who aren't featured as much in the main series, and pay tribute to a favorite who had far too little time on stage in the TV series episodes. And all with only a slight reference to the Upside Down and psychic powers.
The art style is feeling more confident than previous iterations, too, with characters looking more like their on-screen counterparts in their unique facial expressions. The world they move through, whether lost in a blizzard or exploring a long-forgotten cave, feels real and believable.
The Stranger Things comics had a somewhat wobbly start, with stories that were too beholden to the show itself and art that was serviceable but less than great. As they continue, at least in "Tomb of Ybwen," I'm happy to say that they are getting more original and more adventurous - both things that I love about the show itself.
October 24, 2024
As if Bob’s story wasn’t sad enough. Holy hell. And I gotta say, that science teacher is such a good sport. If you’re reading this series like I am to keep hanging out with the gang of the Stranger Universe and fill in the blanks, you’re in for a sadistic treat —as we delve deeper into the ever more depressing history of Bob’s life. I for one hope that Bob’s story doesn’t truly end. I hope Bob will continue to haunt the town pulling pranks on the muggles while the magical kids keep saving the world… repeatedly. Not gonna lie, I’m pretty mad, but not like Will was. I’m sure that extra A/V budget could have gone to a decent “treasure.” This trade was so Poe, I nearly answered the knock at my chamber door. Get ready for a sob fest if you were Bob’s friend. Dammit Bob, this wasn’t the adventure you were supposed to go on. But you couldn’t resist… could you Bob? Rude.
December 28, 2025
This book was kinda sweet! Not really a mind blowing side story or does it bring anything new to Stranger Things, but it did feel like a nice love letter to The Goonies with the story being a treasure hunt and a tribute to Bob’s characters played by Goonies alum Sean Astin in the show. This comic did make me like and appreciate his character, but I feel I didn’t necessarily need a whole book to remind me of that. I already fell in love with this character in Season 2, but even though I do feel it ended on a bit of an underwhelming note, I do still feel a little warmth for how endearing of a character he was.
April 6, 2023
Bob Newby. Hero.
Still making me weep even after all this time.
This is definitely my favorite installment so far in the Stranger Things graphic novel universe. And it has some of my favorite artwork! There's a really cool re-imagining of the crew hanging from a giant stalactite kind of like the OG Goonies poster and that's awesome because this issue is essentially one giant Goonies adventure... created by Sean Astin aka Bob via clues, letters, maps, etc! It's wonderful. And I also love seeing Hawkins covered in snow.
BEST ISSUE YET.
Still making me weep even after all this time.
This is definitely my favorite installment so far in the Stranger Things graphic novel universe. And it has some of my favorite artwork! There's a really cool re-imagining of the crew hanging from a giant stalactite kind of like the OG Goonies poster and that's awesome because this issue is essentially one giant Goonies adventure... created by Sean Astin aka Bob via clues, letters, maps, etc! It's wonderful. And I also love seeing Hawkins covered in snow.
BEST ISSUE YET.
August 30, 2023
Another one of these kind of fluff Stranger Things minis. This one takes place after Season 2. Will is still sad about what happened to Bob. He finds an old map to a "treasure" that Bob created as a teenager and the boys go to find it. Will is acting kind of obsessed over it. It's another by the numbers story. I wish they'd let authors cut loose on this series. Surely, there's a meaningful story that could be put in between the seasons here that doesn't affect the main storyline. Other licenses do this kind of thing all the time.
June 16, 2024
"Stranger Things: The Tomb of Ybwen" is a disappointing attempt to cash in on the beloved series. The plot is weak and uninspired, lacking the depth and creativity fans expect. The characters are mere shadows of their on-screen selves, with contrived and unconvincing interactions. While the artwork captures the nostalgic 1980s atmosphere, it can't compensate for the poor storytelling. Overall, this graphic novel fails to deliver a compelling narrative, making it a letdown for Stranger Things fans.
July 21, 2022
This was a wonderful story of our foursome of friends going on another adventure, however, the best part was so much about Bob. Bob was such a sweet, kind and brave character and he left the show as a hero. I do miss how sweet he was, not only with Will and Jonathan and their mom, but with all of Will's friends. He was one of the few adults that the kids could actually talk to and he trusted them and believed them with all the crazy goings on in Hawkins.
September 7, 2022
I'm rating this one because it was the cutest little story. I loved seeing the kids between seasons 2 and 3, Will dealing with Bob and the others starting to 'couple up'. This was just super heart warming and gave me a little boost for the day.
I recommend to any secret Mr Clarke fans too, it's a fun ride!
(Also all the Lord of the Rings references were funny considering they're looking for treasure from Samwise himself ;) )
I recommend to any secret Mr Clarke fans too, it's a fun ride!
(Also all the Lord of the Rings references were funny considering they're looking for treasure from Samwise himself ;) )
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