📖 Overview
Two high school students meet in detention and discover they share a connection to UFO sightings from when they were younger. Malcolm studies mysterious incidents, while Becky carries trauma from her father's disappearance during a UFO encounter in her childhood.
The story follows their investigation into strange phenomena in their small Michigan town, including unexplained lights and a secret government research facility. Their amateur detective work leads them into increasingly dangerous territory as they uncover layers of conspiracy.
The narrative combines elements of science fiction, teen drama, and horror while exploring themes of trauma, belief, and the power of shared experiences. Through its mix of supernatural mystery and coming-of-age story, UFOlogy examines how people cope with unexplainable events and the bonds formed in the search for truth.
👀 Reviews
Readers describe UFOlogy as a mystery comic with strong coming-of-age themes, though many note the story feels incomplete and ends abruptly.
Readers appreciated:
- The art style and colors, particularly in cosmic and night scenes
- The friendship between main characters Malcolm and Becky
- The grounded, personal approach to small-town supernatural events
- Character development of the teenage protagonists
Common criticisms:
- Unresolved plot threads and rushed ending
- Story loses focus in later issues
- Supporting characters lack development
- Pacing issues in the middle chapters
Ratings across platforms:
Goodreads: 3.7/5 (300+ ratings)
Amazon: 4.1/5 (40+ ratings)
ComicBookRoundUp: 7.2/10 (8 critic reviews)
"The characters feel real but the plot leaves too many questions," notes one Goodreads reviewer. Another states: "Great build-up that unfortunately doesn't stick the landing, but worth reading for the art and character moments."
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Barrier by Brian K. Vaughan A Texas rancher and a Mexican immigrant find themselves abducted by aliens, leading to a story of communication, borders, and extraterrestrial contact.
The Department of Truth by James Tynion IV A secret government organization works to prevent conspiracy theories from becoming reality in a world where belief shapes truth.
Black Science by Rick Remender A scientist and his team traverse multiple dimensions using forbidden technology while confronting otherworldly beings and personal demons.
Nameless by Grant Morrison An occult expert joins a mission to stop a massive asteroid containing ancient alien intelligence from destroying Earth.
🤔 Interesting facts
🛸 Before writing UFOlogy, James Tynion IV gained recognition for his work on Batman comics at DC, including being a protégé of comics legend Scott Snyder.
🔍 The book explores real Wisconsin UFO folklore and local legends, weaving them into its fictional narrative to create a more authentic atmosphere.
📚 UFOlogy combines two distinct genres - coming-of-age teen drama and science fiction conspiracy thriller - creating a unique hybrid storytelling approach.
🎨 The series features art by Matthew Fox, whose sketchy, atmospheric style was specifically chosen to capture both the mundane reality of small-town life and otherworldly elements.
🌎 The story takes place in Mukwonago, Wisconsin - a real town with actual historical connections to Native American spiritual sites and reported paranormal activity.