Dynamite, Curiosity Ink Media Partner to Launch Indigenous Graphic Novel Series

Grom Social Enterprises and its Curiosity Ink Media unit are partnering with comics publisher Dynamite Entertainment to launch Thunderous, a graphic novel series embracing Indigenous culture, to be co-written by former Montana poet-laureate M.L. Smoker and poet Natalie Peeterse.

The original graphic novel series will be co-written by Smoker, a member of the Nakoda, Dakota, and Lakota tribes in Montana, and Peeterse, a poet and independent publisher, with art by Dale Deforest. Cover art on the first book is by Oriol Vidal. The first volume in the Thunderous series will be published on April 30 in conjunction with Independent Bookstore Day.

The graphic novel series is among a slate of original works in different media that will be released as part of Grom’s mission to identify and share authentic stories and voices. Thunderous is the story Aiyana, a modern South Dakota teenage girl who does not connect her contemporary life with the traditional indigenous culture of her family, creating tension with her grandmother, who represents the family’s proud historical legacy. But when Aiyana is accidentally transported to a new and unfamiliar world, she begins to realize that understanding traditional Lakota culture and its teachings and stories are the key to her survival and ability to return home.

Curiosity Ink Media executive vp & publisher, Jon Rosenberg, said, “Forming alliances with indigenous cultural leaders allows us to share stories that are routinely overlooked in popular culture and have the potential to be transformative for young readers. M.L. Smoker brings an unparalleled authenticity and artistry to storytelling that will bring richness, heart and soul to this new franchise.” 

Smoker, who was co-poet laureate of Montana from 2019-2021, said “the importance of new narratives that are formed from the creativity, resilience and power of Native American communities are necessary to correct the pervasive and damaging stereotypes, misconceptions and ideas that exist in this country about us.” She said she hopes, “Native youth will see themselves reflected in literature and believe they can be their own authors, painters, musicians, and creators in the future. Because representation matters.”

Smoker currently works at Education Northwest as a practice expert in Indian Education. She received a regional Emmy award for her work as a writer/consultant on the PBS documentary Indian Relay.

Dynamite CEO and publisher Nick Barrucci said “Dynamite is proud to work with so many writers, artists and partners from diverse backgrounds, as our primary goal is to help facilitate and deliver unique compelling stories across all media to fans.”