Image Comics is captivating comic readers with intriguing novels. The first word that comes to mind when discussing comics is superheroes. Superhero comics are cool, but there are so many other glorious comics to read that don’t have the appearance of Batman. One such comic that I’m loving right now is Papergirls. Image as you may have noted published this series. The random references to the 80’s, pterodactyl like creatures flying around Cleveland and female teenagers kicking ass makes Papergirls a must-read for 2017.

Image taken from Image Comics website

Papergirls starts the story of young Erin Tieng waking up in the early hours of the morning to deliver newspapers. After being harassed by some local boys, she is defended by Mackenzie, KJ and Tiffany. The quartet notices some pretty strange occurrences including locating an alien capsule, ninjas from outer space and flying pterodactyl like creatures. These four are the only hope that Cleveland has in preventing the destruction of planet Earth.

I will purchase any comic with mostly all female characters. Zodiac Starforce, Rat Queens and now Papergirls have all starred female ensembles and they’re awesome comics. I can’t choose a favorite character because they all add to the story and further the adventure. I have also heard that if you watched Stranger Things on Netflix you will love this story. I’m the opposite as I have never watched Stranger Things, but read Papergirls first.

This first volume mostly takes place in the 80’s, so there are numerous references. On one panel is a Bush 88′ sign outside the window whereas the dialogue references the AIDS epidemic and another reference to E.T. Reading through this, I feel that I missed out by not being alive in the 80’s.

I cannot rave enough how much I liked both of these paperbacks. I’m anxiously awaiting the release of the third paperback. Image Comics is a force to be reckoned with in the comic universe and if you’re looking for a series that doesn’t include superheroes, Papergirls should be your next read.