How the World Ends: Should You Be Reading ‘The Spread’?

With Should I Be Reading… ?, ComicsAlliance hopes to offer you a guide to some of the best original ongoing comics being published today.

Launching in 2014, Spread is a post-apocalyptic horror series that follows the aftermath of a devastating illness that destroys all life and changes everything it touches. It’s like The Walking Dead, but better!

WHAT'S IT ABOUT?

The Spread takes place in a world devastated by a creature/organism/virus named the Spread --- one of the goriest creations in all of comics --- and explores how the world changes around it. Most of the world has fallen apart into somewhat typical post apocalyptic communities, only instead of this story being set in an arid desert, it takes place in forests and the snow --- already setting it apart from most of its compatriots.

The Spread centers on a man who finds a baby named Hope who can destroy the Spread by touch. One baby versus the apocalypse? It’s dark, horrifying, and outrageous fun.

WHO'S IT BY?

The series is written by Justin Jordan, who is perhaps best known for his work with Tradd Moore on The Strange Talents of Luther Strode, and for co-creating Deep State. Artist John Bivens previously worked on Comic Book Tattoo and Dark Engine. The original series artist was Kyle Strahm, who still provides the covers.

WHAT MAKES IT SPECIAL?

The characters are fun, the setting is unlike anything else in comics --- but the thing that sets this series apart is the Spread itself. The creatures, the design, the horror and uniqueness is stunning. No-one could possibly get through an issue without staring in awe at the stunning horror, the disgustingly gross visuals, the monstrous blood and gore everywhere. It’s like a Sistine Chapel of blood.

WHO SHOULD READ IT?

People who miss Garth Ennis’ really gory stuff. Anyone who loves post-apocalyptic fiction but has lost interest in The Walking Dead. Anyone who wants to see some of the most creative creature creations since John Carpenter’s The Thing. Horror fans, one and all.

WHERE CAN I BUY IT?

You can start by picking up Volume One on Amazon and in better book stores; volumes two and three are also available. You can find the single issues on Comixology, and wherever comic books are sold. Find your nearest comic store here!