The Walking Dead discussion

I have seen AMC's The Walking Dead and played both Walking Dead games, but I haven't read the graphic novels yet (unable to find a copy until just recently). My favorite character is Daryl Dixon. I know that he is only in the show and one of the games, so I have a few questions.

Is the graphic novel's story still good without him?

Is his absence annoying/extremely noticeable?

Does his character fit in with the tone of the graphic novel (does he cause major changes to the feel of the story)?

Thanks to any responses.

The graphic novel really focuses on the character development and these intense emotional moments. The Story varies a lot (one not so big spoiler is they in the book they never attempt to go to the CDC as in season 1 of the show). While we can see how Daryl isn't a hardshell like it originally started out as, he definitely works well on camera. I think with the way the story is different makes it hard to compare. I read the 1st compendium after the 1st season so I can't say I missed his character.

But if you like (or dislike) other characters then you may find it interesting how they differ in the book (like Andrea's and Dale's and Shane's stories vary greatly than in in the show) and especially if you get a copy of the extras on the DVDs that explains the reasons the writers changed the story for the show. The book is extremely fast paced the entire season 2 on the farm is only about 1 or 2 comics.

I really liked the graphic novel and I was upset originally watching season 2 and 3 and how the changed them from the story but I still enjoyed the show just as well. To be honest you can't really compare them even though its the same basic story and characters. If you are reallllly into the show though you might just hate the book so much.

Being that you've watched so much of the show and how a character like Daryl as changed since season one you might really miss him but like I said I read the book before Daryl really mattered so I didn't really notice his absence. I think the story in the graphic novel is really strong I never saw it lacking as I did the show (I felt season 2 was pretty boring). There's still a lot of action and violence and intense emotions in the book.

Honestly, I would suggest you wait to read the graphic novels... I've been reading along and I'm known for a very good memory BUT there are so many things and people different between the two, you'll probably get mixed up and even disappointed. One example is that I appreciate tv's Governor much more than the gn.

I really do believe you won't be able to keep disappointment at bay, and that would alter your appreciation of either.

If you wait, then read them as "alternate universes" of the same story, you'll be able to enjoy both.

I'm not trying to coerce you, I'm only trying to help :D

I first read the graphic novel so for me that wins over. Like Kasandra, I was a bit upset about the changes the TV show made to the book, but I'm at peace with it now. I just enjoy each for what they are. Definitely, Darryl is the big plus addition to the TV version and it wouldn't be the same without him, but the characters in the book are much more well drawn out that you won't miss him. Most of the characters in the book are far more likable than they were in the TV show (namely, Andrea and Dale).

I don't think you should put off reading the book. It's the foundation for the show. You just have to keep in mind that there will be differences in sequence, characters and events, but these differences work in the unfolding of the book as well as the unfolding of the TV show.

I read Compendium I way after watching season 4. I just treat the show and the graphic novels as separate stories and I have no trouble enjoying both.

Interesting points. I have only seen the tv passed series 5. The GNs are great - but I've not read as many. Different universes - yes indeed. Darrly is Fab!
I enjoy both too!

Yes fortunately this comic book series is full of strong characters. As far as I know there has yet been a debut appearance in this form of media (though there are always rumors he might show up!) and because of Robert Kirkman's writing talents his absence is not at all noticeable.

I started reading the comics recently and love the book's grim but modest style as well as the characters within (I have a feeling the series in both the books and tv show don't really focus on the "walkers" but more of the human aspect at its core) so does that answer your third question?

I know people posted answers already just putting in my two cents.

The book is far more graphic and dark. That being said you have to understand that the tv show, especially being on AMC, had to make certain changes or it could never have been made. I have read all of the comics (though I tend to read the comics either in TPB or 3 to 4 issues at a time) and it doesn't really affect my views on the show. Much like HBO's Game of Thrones-there will be differences between the written word and the visual medium. Both are good in different ways. So, while I too am a big Daryl fan-the comics do not suffer from his absence. Biggest difference is book Carl is way better than the whiny pest of a tv show Carl.