Free Comic Book day took place this past Saturday (also Star Wars day) and from what I saw, its safe to say that comics are making a huge comeback. Partially due to the abundance of comic and graphic novel based movies and partially due to “geek culture” becoming more mainstream (for better or worse). But needless to say, its a good time to be a comic publisher.
That being said IDW is doing pretty damn well. In addition to being the 4th largest American comics publlisher (alongside Marvel, DC and Dark Horse respectively) they are also the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund’s newest Corporate Member.
April was a very strong month for them showing a 7.5% domestic market share which is incredible for a smaller imprint. That number will only rise in the coming months, especially with a new editor on board. Which will lead to more comics, quicker.
Jumping on board is Sarah Gaydos. Gaydos is no newcomer to the comic scene earning her stripes spending six years on board at Willdstorm and DC comics with titles like Batman: Li’l Gotham, Django Unchained, Young Justice, and Smallville under her belt.
“We’re very pleased Sarah’s joining the team,” said Chris Ryall, IDW’s Chief Creative Officer/Editor-in-Chief. “Sarah is gonna hit the ground running and work on both big, established properties as well as develop new projects, and I know that her work experience and positive attitude will benefit those titles and the company as a whole, too.”
The excitement flows from both ends of the acquisition.
“I’m very excited to join the IDW team! Working at WildStorm studios in La Jolla was the best comics education anyone could ask for,” said Gaydos. “I learned from some of the best editors around, and was able to run down the hall to watch top artists and production artists hard at work. I’m grateful for the time I spent there, and am absolutely looking forward to using these skills at IDW in my new position as Editor. I’m eager to work with awesome talent on exceptional titles.”
IDW is definitely something you want to keep an eye on. The current line up is well ranged from the stuff you grew up on (Transformers, The Rocketeer, Rocky and Bullwinkle) to everything the cool kids are into these days (Star Trek, Dr. Who, MLP:Friendship is Magic, True Blood)
That being said check out whats going on at IDW (http://www.idwpublishing.com/), tell us what titles you’re curious about and maybe we can give you a sneak peek before you enter the outside world to hunt down these treasures!