Orphans, Vol. 1: The Beginning

An explosive, apocalyptic opening introduces this enthralling military sci-fi series where the action and emotional beats never let up. After an alien weapon devastates Earth, the survivors are willing to do anything to take the fight to the enemy, including training orphaned children to become elite soldiers. The central child squad includes six members: Ringo, Jonas, Juno, Rey, Felix, and Sam. The child troops, grouped by the region where they were found, are thrown into survival tests and pushed to their limits, even unto death, as they are formed into war machines. Those who live through it emerge with unshakable bonds, determined to defeat the mysterious alien antagonists. The program’s unethical nature is never downplayed or glossed over, but the story follows how the children grow and develop within it as they cope with anger, grief, love, and what it means to be trained killers. Reminiscent of Rucka’s Lazarus series, the narrative is drawn with detailed, expressive art that captures the distinctive personalities of its ensemble cast. Visually appealing, emotionally satisfying, and full of fight, this fast-paced adventure will have broad appeal to fans of science fiction, postapocalyptic futures, and elite warrior narratives. (June)