Some of the funniest, most insightful comics artists these days publish their work online first. Webcomics are rich with diversity in story, characters, creators, and formats. One of my favorite formats for a quick punch of so-true-it-hurts humor is the one-shot comic. Even if you're not a tumblr devotee, where most of this style originates, you may have seen some of these comics shared elsewhere online. And now, some of the top comics are making their way to library shelves in collected volumes for your enjoyment!
British artist Gemma Correll illustrates a variety of subjects from animals to pop culture with a distinctive style—bold black lines and pops of monochromatic color, often red. Her humor often relies on sight gags or slice-of-life commentary. This particular collection of comics focuses on "advice for the anxiety ridden" that is smartly both lighthearted and incisive.
Sarah Andersen, the artist behind Sarah's Scribbles, is a young American artist. She primarily creates simple black and white autobiographical comics that perfectly capture the anxieties and ennui of 20-something life. This volume collects the best of her webcomics.
Illustrator Fran Krause created the Deep Dark Fears series to illustrate people's most secret fears, most of which are submitted by followers of the blog. These comics are hauntingly simple watercolors with a muted color palette. While it's a stretch to call them hilarious, the way the fears cut to your core provides a darkly humorous insight into the human condition. The book collects comics from online, as well as some originals for the print volume.
