Stranger Things: The First Shadow--An Adaptation (Graphic Novel)

A graphic novel adaptation of the five-time Tony Award®–winning Broadway play, which explores a terrifying mystery that consumed Hawkins, Indiana in 1959.

It’s 1959 in Hawkins, Indiana. Joyce Byers, Jim Hopper, and Bob Newby are students at Hawkins High School. Henry Creel is the new kid in town, looking for a chance to start over. He thinks he’s found it when he meets Patty Newby and the two fall for each other. But it isn’t long before Henry’s troubled past catches up to him, ensnaring the town in a terrifying mystery. Hawkins is about to become a very strange place indeed . . .

This thrilling prequel to the hit TV show faithfully adapts the hit play Stranger Things: The First Shadow from Netflix and multi-award-winning Broadway producer Sonia Friedman Productions, directed by three-time Tony Award® winner Stephen Daldry alongside Justin Martin. It has been adapted by author Rachel Pinnelas (I Know What You Did Last Crisis, Creepshow) and illustrated by Jake Bartok (Star Wars, Star Trek). The First Shadow Broadway production is being called “a jaw-dropping, must-see theatrical marvel” (Entertainment Weekly) and won the most Tony Awards® of any play in 2025. This graphic novel brings the stage to the page for all to enjoy.

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.

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