Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 9: Library Edition, Vol. 1
Written by Joss Whedon, Andrew Chambliss, Jane Espenson, and Scott Allie
Illustrated by Georges Jeanty, Karl Moline, and Cliff Richards
Colored by Michelle Madsen
Cover by Steve Morris
Dark Horse Comics
Release Date: January 14, 2015
Cover Price: $29.99

The classic slayer wit and charm returns in Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 9: Library Edition, Volume 1. After an epic, yet fairly disappointing story-arc in season 8, Joss Whedon, Andrew Chambliss, Georges Jeanty, and a small group of other talented writers and artists have recaptured the allure and excitement that made Buffy, well…Buffy!

Season 9 has been available for a while now — with season 10 already in the middle of its run — but if you haven’t had the chance to check it out yet, the Library Edition, Volume 1 is the perfect place to start. Collecting the first and second volumes of the ninth season, as well as a couple of one-shots, there is a plethora of scoobie mischief to take a stab at all at once.

Whedon kicks off the first story with his signature snarky humor and mystery. Chambliss picks up writing duties on issue 3, but you would never know. The transition is seamless and the story progresses nicely, with great payoff at the end of the arc and plenty of hints of what’s to come. The writers have crafted a beautiful story that is utterly human, in the midst of the supernatural. With damaged relationships, difficult choices, and of course, vampires, it’s hard to read this collection without feeling as though you’re right back in your living room, watching the characters you know and love on the small screen.

While the story is great, it would be wrong not to mention Jeanty’s equally important artwork. Though cartoony in style, he captures the mannerisms and body language of the cast perfectly. His use of perspective and close-up shots help drive the story.

Additionally, there are some fun extras at the end of the Library Edition, Volume 1 — including variant covers and sketches with descriptions — that can, at times, show a different side to the story itself. I would highly recommend this collection and can’t wait for volume 2! Did I mention there are over 300 pages to enjoy?