Book Review: The Walking Dead TP 22: A New Beginning by Robert Kirkman et al.

The Walking Dead Volume 22: A New Beginning by Robert Kirkman, Charlie Adlard, Steffano Gaudiano, and Cliff Rathburn

A small band of survivors is on the run when they are almost overrun by a massive herd of zombies. Turns out Rick's people were diverting the herd away from their home base of Alexandria. They invite the survivors to come and live at Alexandria. Rick is now an established (and semi-legendary) ruler who interviews them to see if they'll fit in. The tables have been turned as this story is a new beginning for the familiar characters.

Alexandria is expanding. The munitions factory is turning out lots of ammo and a windmill is grinding out flour--bread is becoming available once again. Carl is ready to have his own career but Rick is reluctant to let him go. Domestic issues parallel the problem of the newcomers--creating trust is a two-way street and requires a lot of work and some faith. People need not only the physical expansion to accommodate more people but also personal expansion to accept more people.

Meanwhile, a new hazard in the form of talking zombies is a threat with its own intriguing possibilities. Kirkman and company have found a way to continue the story without it just being re-runs of people eking out a living in the post-apocalyptic world. Well done!