If you’re interested in checking out one of the most decorated and praised comics in recent history, but can’t quite make the jump to comic books, this might be just the ticket for you. Bill Willingham has written a prose novel set in the world of “Fables“, his multiple Eisner Award-winning comic series. The book entitled “Peter & Max” features illustrations by “Fables” inker Steve Leialoha and is slated to be released in October.
However, Vertigo has posted the first chapter on their new blog, Graphic Content. The novel tells the story of Peter Piper and his brother Max, the Pied Piper of Hamelin. The story references events and characters from the Fables comic book, but knowledge of the comic isn’t necessary to enjoy “Peter and Max.”
Comic Book Resources also has an interview with Willingham, in which he discusses “Peter & Max” as well as “Fables”.
If you like the sample chapter and can’t wait until October, I highly recommend picking up the collected versions of “Fables”. Remember all the fairy tales and legends you grew up hearing? Well, the characters from them are all real and living in the modern world while they plot to retake the home worlds they were driven out of by a mysterious adversary. You can read the first issue online here. Or venture down to the local (comic) book store and pick it up.