Calista Brill at First Second has acquired S.C.R.A.M.: The Society of Creatures Real and Magical, a middle grade graphic novel by Rory Lucey, artist of Bad Sister, about three young friends—one of whom is visibly a troll—who become interested in tracking down magical creatures.

“Drawing on the infusion of heart and humor in those sources, Lucey made sure his drawings reflected well on what Harper laid out in her story. It was a creative process fueled by the distinct lack of distractions, since COVID forced a majority of Americans to stave off the boredom of quarantine.”

“In bubbly, bright hues with loose outlines, Lucey’s comics convey thoughtfulness in form, placement, and perspective. Chapter introduction panels that look like Polaroids and the use of Ben-Day dots (like those typically found in newspaper funnies) add to the retro scrapbook-like feel.”

Check out the star reviews of “Bad Sister” from Kirkus, School Library Journal, and The Horn Book.

“Wickedly funny, wrenchingly remorseful graphic memoir…perfectly matched with the kinetic, retro, comic-strip-style art of Rory Lucey.”

“This memoir offers an honest—and ultimately hopeful—look at sibling conflict and family dynamics. From rough play that leads to physical and emotional wounds to parental behavior that exacerbates a tenuous and ambivalent relationship, the graphic format is an ideal way to express the emotional intensity of these episodes from the popular author’s childhood.”

“Paired with Lucey’s playful Sunday comics–style illustrations, the story takes a resonant dive into the insular world of children, especially siblings.”

Coming in 2021 from Charise Harper & Rory Lucey!, First Second Books reveals the cover for “Bad Sister”.

A stunning collection of art inspired by Ridley Scott’s 1979 sci-fi horror tale includes artwork from Rory Lucey.

Calista Brill at First Second has bought Bad Sister, Charise Mericle Harper and Rory Lucey's middle grade graphic novel memoir, in which Harper comes to realize that she is a "bad sister," and experiences a crisis of conscience. Publication is scheduled for 2021.

Rory Lucey is among the 40 artists and filmmakers invited to contribute a piece of original art to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Alien in 2019.

“Best part: this book is made for everyone, cat fans, Alienfans, and those with a cat-like curiosity.”

“Jonesy is a darkly humorous look at the Alien franchise, and a definite must read if you love one brave orange space cat.”

“Cat Getting Out Of A Bag mashed up with Alien and served in a cute colour kitty bowl of joy…”

“Lucey’s unique philosophy and style of expression on display in new book and beyond…”

The story is just as fun to read in one sitting as it is to visit again and again, and at a price this low, it really is a steal of a deal, especially for the Alien fan(s) in your life.

We spoke with Mr. Lucey recently about the genesis behind Jonesy, how being a cat dad himself aided the storytelling process, how he worked to get the tones of the story just right, and Jonesy’s curiosity about the rest of the crew and the Xenomorph itself.

Jonesy was released earlier this week, and you can pick up a copy if there are any kids that you want to indoctrinate into being horror movie fans -- or even any adults who were unable to finish Alien because they ran out of clean underwear.

Wednesdays tend to be terrible days for everyone, so to get you through the week, we’re going to focus on cats. Namely Jonesy the cat, heroic survivor of Alien.

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