We here at Multiversity get pretty excited about the holidays, and this year we’re sharing that excitement with the rest of you as we celebrate that wonder of wonders: THE HOLIDAY COMIC!
Each day for the next twenty-five days, and in no particular order, we’ll be featuring one yuletide yarn set to the tune of tidings of comfort and joy, and today’s entry features fairy tales colliding with reality in a way that Fables can only handle.
Hit the jump and enjoy the true story of Santa Claus!
Day #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10, #11, #12, #13, #14, #15, #16, #17, #18, #19, #2, #21
Who did it? As per usual with Fables, this tale comes from writer Bill Willingham and artist Mark Buckingham.
What is it about? The central thread of the story is about the idea that Santa Claus isn’t just real, but he’s a fable like all of the rest of the primary characters in this comic. Not only that, but if you stay awake to see him, you can ask one question him and get the answer, but at the cost of any present you may have received during that year.
This leads to varying stories, like Jack Horner’s futile attempts to steal the naughty/nice list, Ambrose’s conversation with Santa, Rose and Blue figure out flying carpets, the beginning of Flycatcher’s grand changes, and the revelation as to how Santa really guards his naughty/nice lists after Jack kept trying.
Is it holiday friendly? First off, I have to say I had completely forgotten how great this issue was. Even if you just thought of this issue as a throwaway one where Santa is introduced to this world we know and love, you’d be wrong. This issue – particularly in the Flycatcher business – sets up a number of really important things. So it’s great AND important, which is definitely a big deal.
As for holiday spirit, this issue stars Santa Claus in one of the better and more original ways I’ve seen. I mean, that idea of trading presents for answers to questions from Santa is a genius one, and Ambrose’s innocence in his question really shows his honor as a kid and the spirit of the holiday at the same time.
It’s a pretty brilliant issue, both in it’s ho-ho-ho-ness and in terms of just being a rockin’ book.
