Webcomics: A Pandemic's Fantasy

"Words and pictures are yin and yang. Married, they produce a progeny more interesting than either parent." ~ Dr. Seuss.

It is difficult to find even the smallest bit of stability and comfort during a time of uncertainty. However, throughout all of this pandemic, one thing has remained stable and reliable as a source of happiness. That one thing is webcomics.

So, what exactly are webcomics? Well, they are very much how they sound. They are online comics typically created through digital means. Webcomics have devoted authors who often have hundreds of chapters or even the entire story completed before uploading onto the internet in case of an emergency. In addition, their authors and artists place all of their blood, sweat, tears, and even their own health and well-being into the comics they create for their readers. Making the experience often enjoyable due to all of the details and emotions they can convey. Through rain or shine, webcomic artists are by our side better than Nationwide could ever try (Okay, perhaps that was a bit too punny).

During a period where comics are impossible to buy, and books can only come through the form of Amazon, frequently having delayed dates, Web Comics have become the hero we never knew we needed. Webcomic authors/artists have dedicated their time to their uploads, helping to keep thousands distracted during this struggling time. Webtoons even had artists/authors collaborate together to create a large comic of how to protect yourself during the pandemic called "Staying Healthy Together" (www.webtoons.com/en/tiptoon/staying-healthy-together/list?title_no=1963).

Overall, webcomics have brought a wave of comfort and stability as the creators post their webcomics on a weekly basis. I would highly suggest supporting these creators and checking out some webcomics for yourself! If you're new to the realm, I'll suggest a few that I personally like below, or feel free to explore on websites like Webtoons (or using Google to search out the ".com" webcomics, which are spectacular as well).

Suggested Webcomics:

Ava's Demon (avasdemon.com) - An Ongoing Otherworldly Fantasy (that updates periodically [Not every Thursday as the site claims]). Ava is a young girl who has been bullied for most of her life, stuck with a nagging voice inside her head that is constantly mocking her. However, that voice is a demon who wants to strike a deal with Ava after the planet her classmates and her resided on is destroyed. With a promise that she can live a long life, Ava agrees and returns the payment to the demon by giving her something very sacred and agreeing to help her complete her mission.

Webtoons.com

SubZero (https://www.webtoons.com/en/romance/subzero/list?title_no=1468)- An Ongoing Dramatic Romance that updates every Monday. The story follows a Princess and Prince forced into an arranged marriage to end a bloody war that has lasted for years. Through their interactions, uncover their weaknesses and their individual battles to protect their own families and each other.

Lore Olympus (https://www.webtoons.com/en/romance/lore-olympus/list?title_no=1320) - An Ongoing Greek Mythology Based Romance that updates every Sunday. This story takes a few liberties as it portrays the cute but modernistic story of Persephone and Hades' romance.

Midnight Poppyland (https://www.webtoons.com/en/romance/midnight-poppy-land/list?title_no=1798) - An Ongoing Romance Thriller that updates every Saturday. Follow the story of a cute small-town editor as she accidentally ends up attracting the attention of the mafia. Perfect for lovers of the "cinnamon roll that could kill you / bad boy" love interests.

The Doctors Are Out (https://www.webtoons.com/en/romance/the-doctors-are-out/list?title_no=1910) - An Ongoing LGBT+ Romance that updates on Mondays. Watch the blossoming love-hate relationship between a vet and a medical doctor with practically the same name on their practices.

Freaking Romance (https://www.webtoons.com/en/romance/freaking-romance/list?title_no=1467) - An Ongoing Romance that updates on Sundays. What would you do if there was suddenly someone in your apartment? Let alone the opposite sex! Watch as the two try to figure out how they live in the same apartment and the romance that begins to spark.

My Deepest Secret (https://www.webtoons.com/en/thriller/my-deepest-secret/list?title_no=1580) - An Ongoing Thriller Romance that updates every Tuesday. A blossoming relationship is one of the cutest and most adorable things that romance has to offer. However, what if the male pursuing you has a dark secret? Follow the path of discovery to truly find out if the love interest is actually a serial killer.

unTouchable (https://www.webtoons.com/en/romance/untouchable/list?title_no=79) - A Completed Romance about a vampire. What if vampires did not suck blood but rather stole energy? Follow the cute romance between this vampire and her "chicken" male interest who lives next door. Will he find out who she truly is?

Orange Marmalade (https://www.webtoons.com/en/romance/orange-marmalade/list?title_no=97) - A Completed Romance with its own completed live drama about a vampire. In a world where vampires suppress their powers in return to live in the sunlight and live day-to-day lives, what happens when a girl suddenly finds one of her classmates irresistible?

SIDEKICKS (https://www.webtoons.com/en/super-hero/sidekicks/list?title_no=92) - A completed Superhero story about sidekicks finally getting the chance they deserve! Follow the story of a young man and a young woman as they struggle with their powers to prove their worth as not just a sidekick but as a full-fledged superhero. Watch as they not only fight to prove themselves but fight to stay true to being heroes and not falling to the "dark side."