J&K

Not the most original comics I’ve ever read – the stories collected here are mostly sort of a modern take on the classic buddy comics (Nancy & Sluggo / Little Lulu & Tubby), an approach that has been explored many times before in recent decades, but it’s still enjoyable.The artwork is a real standout feature. The “Look Inside” function on Amazon doesn’t do justice to how beautifully vibrant the color is throughout the book. Pham’s limited palette brings to mind the cheap color one used to see in imported Japanese weekly anthologies, but not as limited, with a strangely nice airbrushed effect. The characters are drawn in a simple, humorous, and a little odd style, that I found mostly appealing.In a series of relatively short comics, an approach that again emphasizes the feeling of a collection of classic comics (as opposed to a standard graphic novel, generally made from just one long story), the book explores the friendship between J & K as they wander the landscape of their weird suburban world of malls and parks. The final selection of strips in the book - a series of two page long stories, are both the funniest and most surprising in the book.

What can I say? John Pham is a master of the medium in every aspect. This book is immaculately crafted with little pockets in the endpages full of treats and goodies includin a 5" vinyl record.The perfect mix of light hearted and melancholy. I would say J&k could attain Calvin and Hobbes level perfection. I pray this universe is continued. Although certain events in the book point to it being over. No spoilers.This is book of the year so far for me. My only gripe is I wish it never ended.<3

J & K is a sight for sore eyes. Rich, vibrant colors all with a satisfying riso print texture. On the inside of the gorgeous covers are built in pockets with easter eggs including a mini zine, a sticker sheet, a mini poster/game walkthrough, 4 dog park trading cards, and an actual vinyl single.Pham’s humor is earthy and real, and while J & K is unconventional by most standards, it seems approachable from a wide range of backgrounds. Technical art, dynamic compositions, and great world building throughout. How can I live here?

I found a review of this book on a comics website, bought it and loved it, it is one of the best pieces in my collection.

This book is beautiful, funny and it puts a smile on my face. All the unique little goodies inside are to die for too!

Gorgeous visuals and a hilarious narrative. I recommend this book to any comic fans. Loaded with cute fun extras also.

This book is phenomenal. One of the best cartoonists and printmakers working today. And a musician. I loved the included recorded and all the other little extras. It’s all great, the dude is a genius, I hope there is more “gaseous nebula“ tracks coming in the future.