Image Comics is celebrating a major milestone for a beloved series with the new Paper Girls Backpack Edition, announced just in time for the iconic comic’s 10th anniversary. This five-time Eisner Award-winning series, created by the legendary team of writer Brian K. Vaughan and artist Cliff Chiang, is getting a fresh, portable format that’s perfect for a new generation of readers and longtime fans alike. This announcement is a fantastic reason to either jump into the story for the first time or experience its twists and turns all over again.
For ten years, Paper Girls has captivated readers with its unique blend of 80s nostalgia, science fiction mystery, and heartfelt coming-of-age drama. The series stands as a testament to the creative power of its publisher, Image Comics, a company known for fostering creator-owned hits. Now, this new format promises to make the series more accessible than ever.
What to Expect in the Paper Girls Backpack Edition
The newly announced Paper Girls Backpack Edition is designed with portability and style in mind. These compact editions will measure 6×9 inches, making them the perfect size to slip into a bag for reading on the go. In addition to the convenient trim size, artist Cliff Chiang is providing stunning new cover artwork for the collection, giving it a distinct and modern feel that still honors the series’ retro roots.
The first volume will collect issues #1-10 of the original series, offering a substantial entry point into the story. It follows the harrowing journey of four 12-year-old newspaper delivery girls—Erin, KJ, Mac, and Tiffany—who, in the early hours after Halloween in 1988, stumble upon a story that is literally out of this world. It’s a compelling start that hooks you from the very first page.
A Modern Classic Reborn
Paper Girls is often described as Stand By Me meets Lost, and the comparison is perfect. The story perfectly captures the fragile, funny, and often frightening last days of childhood. Vaughan’s writing masterfully balances character-driven moments with high-concept science fiction, exploring themes of friendship, fate, and growing up. It’s a beloved tale that has resonated with countless readers and was even adapted into a television series for Amazon Prime.
The full creative team is a powerhouse of talent:
- Writer: Brian K. Vaughan
- Artist: Cliff Chiang
- Colorist: Matt Wilson
- Letterer: Jared K. Fletcher
Brian K. Vaughan is, of course, a giant in the industry, also known for his work on the critically acclaimed series Saga. Meanwhile, Cliff Chiang’s dynamic and expressive art, which was recently celebrated in Catwoman: Lonely City, brings the world of 1988 and its bizarre future shocks to life. Matt Wilson’s vibrant, neon-soaked colors are a crucial part of the series’ aesthetic, perfectly capturing the era while also defining its otherworldly elements. Together, this team created a visually stunning and emotionally resonant adventure that continues to earn praise.
Release Dates and San Diego Comic-Con News
For all the comic book fans eagerly awaiting this release, Paper Girls Backpack Edition Volume One will arrive at local comic shops on Wednesday, October 29, 2025. It will then be available at major bookstores, both online and in-person, on Tuesday, November 11, 2025. A second volume is already confirmed to be hitting shelves in 2026, ensuring the complete saga will be available in this new format.
In other exciting news, Brian K. Vaughan will be at San Diego Comic-Con next week. Fans can catch his Spotlight panel on Saturday, July 26, from 10-11 a.m. in Room 28DE, where he’ll be discussing more of his upcoming new comics.
In conclusion, the announcement of the Paper Girls Backpack Edition is wonderful news. It provides a fantastic, affordable, and beautifully designed new way to experience one of the best comics of the last decade. Whether you’re a longtime follower or a curious new reader, this edition is the perfect excuse to join Erin, Mac, KJ, and Tiffany on their unforgettable ride through time.
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