Random House Children's Books
Dead Boy
Dead Boy
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                        ABOUT
                      
                    Fans of Neil Gaiman’s The Graveyard Book will embrace this darkly funny novel!
Crow isn't like the other kids. He stinks. He’s got maggots. His body parts fall off at inopportune moments. (His mom always sews them back on, though.) And he hasn’t been able to sleep in years. Not since waking up from death. 
 
But worse than the maggots is how lonely Crow feels. When Melody Plympton moves in next door, Crow can’t resist the chance to finally make a friend. With Melody around he may even have a shot at getting his life back from the mysterious wish-granting creature living in the park. But first there are tests to pass. And it will mean risking the only friend he’s had in years.
 
Debut author Laurel Gale’s story about friendship fulfilled may be the most moving—and most macabre—yet.
 
Praise for Dead Boy
“A stinky, creepy tale for anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider.” —Kirkus Reviews
 
“Gale takes readers on a dark and surprisingly funny journey. . . . A great recommendation to middle grade fans of dark humor.” —School Library Journal
                      
                      
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                        STANDARD, PRIMARY, DM AND VARIANT COVERS
                      
                    Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.
In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.
The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.
                      
                      
                        PRODUCT TYPES
                      
                    Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories. 
Here's a brief overview of the main types:
Omnibus
- Large, hardcover collections
 - Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
 - Typically 800-1000+ pages
 - Higher price point, often €100-€150
 
Oversized Hardcover (OHC)
- Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
 - Collect shorter runs or story arcs
 - Usually 300-600 pages
 - Priced between €30-€50
 
Hardcover (HC)
- Standard-sized hardcover books
 - Collect 6-12 issues typically
 - Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
 - Priced around €25-€35
 
Trade Paperback (TP)
- Softcover collections
 - Standard comic book size
 - Usually collect 4-6 issues
 - Most affordable option, typically €15-€25
 
Other Formats
- Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
 - Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
 - Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues
 
The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs