The Etherington Brothers

The Dangerous adventures of Von Doogan - The Nine Locks

2012-01-30T07:35:00.001Z

So, those of you out there who are already subscribing to The Phoenix will know that issue 4 came out on Saturday, and what a Doozey it is! To celebrate, here's little behind-the-scenes artwork from Von Doogan, my on-going-mind-bending puzzle adventure series.

More soon!

Lorenzo!

Long Gone Don Fanart all the way from New Zealand!

2012-01-27T08:54:00.000Z

Check this out! A great piece of Long Gone Don art by top fan George Shiers, who lives all the way on the other side of the world in New Zealand. Cheers pal!

If you live somewhere unusual (or somewhere very ordinary) and want to see your Etherington Brothers fan art up here, then by all means, send it through!

Lorenzo!

Baggage gets great review in Scribbler magazine!

2012-01-24T07:44:00.000Z

"Baggage is another well-written, well-illustrated masterpiece from the Etherington Brothers. Marvel at the brilliant drawings and laugh out loud at Randall's hilarious mishaps. This book is sure to excite and thrill any age!"

The latest issue of the excellent magazine for children, SCRIBBLER has just come out, and I'm delighted to say it contains a great review of Baggage! Scribbler is a fantastic publication which encourages children to take their reading and writing skills to the next step, and gives informed advice about quality books for 7-11 year olds.

Lorenzo!

Long Gone Don cover art!

2012-01-23T08:07:00.001Z

Well, issue 3 of The Phoenix came out on Saturday, with a cover adorned by none other than Long Gone Don!

Here is the original artwork for the cover, before all the typographical bells and whistles went on...

Lorenzo!

Watch out AFRICA - here come the Etheringtons!

2012-01-18T09:29:00.000Z

Okay, well, here comes ONE Etherington ... but the impact is sure to be the same!

We're off to the beautiful country of Rwanda to visit friends, see the mountain gorillas in the wild (and maybe even the mist) and, best of all, bring the adventures of Monkey Nuts and Baggage to a nation without comics.

And children with a flag this cool deserve comics!

The kind folk at Random House have given me a big pile of our books to gift to the schools I shall be visiting, but I cannot imagine that what reaction the ridiculous tales of Sid, Rivet and Randall are going to have.

Love? Hate? Complete and utter confusion???

Sharing our experiences with any child is a privilege, but to teach children who may never have seen a comic before, and for whom English was only adopted as a national language two years ago, is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

I shall try and blog from Kigali - the capital city - but failing that, I'll be sure to share all the wonders of the trip upon my return.

- Robin!

Fantastic review of Phoenix issues 1 and 2 on Forbidden Planet!

2012-01-18T08:40:00.001Z

Those fine folks over on the Forbidden Planet blog have posted an enthusiastic thumbs up to the Phoenix in the form of THIS awesome review. Plus, you get to see ANOTHER full page of Long Gone Don! Go read it!

Lorenzo!

TWEET!

2012-01-17T07:56:00.000Z

You can now follow us on twitter, if you want, right HERE

Pianos, Knives and Ladders - more from Long Gone Don!

2012-01-16T07:40:00.001Z

A page here from the second episode of Long Gone Don, featuring all manner of weird objects being spat at our heroes by some giant unknown nasty! You can read Long Gone Don every week, only in The Phoenix!

To grab a teaser (five issue), three month, six month or year subscription, click HERE! You won't be disappointed.

Lorenzo!

Lorenzo Illustrates John Dickinson's New Novel!

2012-01-12T10:14:00.000Z

Muddle and Win: the Battle of Sally Jones is now available for pre-order from Amazon. The book features a full wrap cover by yours truly!

Muddle and Win is written by the critically acclaimed author John Dickinson, and is his first new book since the fantastic WE.

I'll be posting a big break-down of the cover design process a bit closer to the launch date, but for now, GO HERE for a sneaky peek at how the book will look!

Lorenzo!

Comic Creator Magazine feature!

2012-01-10T07:59:00.000Z

Comic Creator Magazine is an exciting new title focusing on inspirational comic and graphic art which will be launching this year. Run by the excellent Matt Wieman, this is a mag that's going to be right up the street of budding artists, professionals, and fans alike. I'm very pleased to say that I'll be featured in issue one, and will tell you more about it as we get closer to the release date.

In the meantime, you can see some of my art in a mini-feature on the awesome new Comic Creator Magazine website HERE! The site is just coming together, so be sure to re-visit regularly to see all the new stuff going up!

Lorenzo!

Phoenix Launch Party at The Story Museum!

2012-01-09T11:02:00.001Z

On Saturday, my wife Mimi and I (Lorenzo was chained to the desk - poor thing) spent an exceptionally enjoyable afternoon in sunny Oxford surrounded by dozens of the most creative people with which I've ever had the pleasure of working. I am, of course, talking about the owners, editors, designers, marketing gurus, writers and artists of the brand new Phoenix Comic!

Those wonderful folk at The Story Museum (a venue we've previously performed at - see HERE for details) hosted a superb party with more treats than we could possibly consume. Just look at the spread!

I ate least thirty scones with cream and jam. And I'm proud of that.

The next three hours whizzed by as we attempted to chat to James Turner, John Aggs, Patrice Aggs, Jamie Littler, Emma Vieceli, Kate Brown, Andrew Wildman, Dan Hartwell, Woodrow Phoenix, Philip Pullman, Ted Dewan, Warwick Johnson-Cadwell, Sarah McIntyre (whose photos I've pinched!) Gary Northfield, Neill Cameron, Ben Sharpe, Laurence Beck, Matt Baxter, Ross Fraser, David, Tom, Will, Caro and the entire Fickling gang, and all respective partners, co-creators, friends and wunderkinds. Speeches were given (David, Caro and Ben each utilizing fine voice and finer words to great effect), toasts were made, plans were concocted and a new comic for children was ushered into the world with deserved fanfare.

(Why do Emma, Andrew and Mimi look like they're having their picture taken with a cardboard cutout?)

Best of all there were LOADS of children present! I spent as much time chatting to young readers and fans as I did munching cakes (it was a close run thing, then I skipped an eclair). Now, we can wax lyrical about the quality of our comic product all day long but the real test comes when it's thrust into the hands of a critical reader. Thankfully the verdict from all concerned was .... AWESOME!

Oliver, seen above, knew how to play the game. He managed to acquire signatures and sketches from EVERY artist and writer in the room!

After the party had wrapped the grownups (in age if not intelligence) adjourned to a nearby pub and continued making merry till the small hours.

Many thanks to everyone who made Saturday possible, and the many MANY more who have helped launch this bold creative enterprise. Our nation's children need great comics and as the Phoenix takes to sky the future looks that much brighter.

You can pick up a subscription (in four varieties: 5-issue taster, 3-month, 6-month or 1 year bundles) HERE!

- Robin!

The Phoenix issue one - read some reviews!

2012-01-09T08:03:00.000Z

There have been a few reviews of issue one of the phoenix going up around the ole' web over the past few days, and I wanted to share them with you! Images courtesy of Lew Stringer!

Go HERE for the mighty Lew Stringer's thoughts on the title!

And HERE for Jeremy Briggs' article!

And meet the team behind the comic in This Article from the Oxford Mail!

Lorenzo!

The Phoenix flies... tomorrow!

2012-01-06T09:17:00.003Z

Nothing more to say except, SUBSCRIBE TO THE PHOENIX!

Here's the intro to Long Gone Don from issue Zero (click it to see it BIG!), the adventure proper starts tomorrow!

Lorenzo!

New Forbidden Planet Interview

2012-01-05T22:33:00.000Z

Due to the crazy pre-Christmas rush, I accidentally forgot to share this great feature. In a creative move, the lovely team at Forbidden Planet approached us for an interview with a twist - all the questions were composed by children (thankfully they seemed to like our books!).

The result was an amusing and informative session with some genuinely original questions about our past and future work, and our creative process.

To read the interview in full (recommended), simply click HERE!

Thanks to Mia and Owen (both in Year 6) for being so darned professional! A future in journalism beckons.

- Robin

New Year ... New Comics!

2012-01-03T12:52:00.001Z

Happy New Year to you all!

2012 may only be three days old but it already looks like it's going to be something truly special, with new comics, new books and lots of exciting new multimedia projects in the works. Rest assured we'll be dropping teasers, snippets and cold, hard information on all these developments as soon as we can, but in the meantime here's something you can get your hands on RIGHT NOW.

The very latest Transformers action from Titan's monthly PRIME comic!

The New Year starts with a little mind-altering mayhem as Raf falls foul of a cunning Decepticon plan in Tinker, Tailer, GAMER, Spy!.

Darid Brizuela provides the fantastic art, while I provide the really-rather-fun-if-i-say-so-myself script.

You can find a copy at your nearest newsagent or order a subscription HERE!

- Robin!

Competition Time with Von Doogan!

2012-01-03T07:24:00.000Z

The Phoenix is currently running a competition utilising the last of my Waitrose mini Von Doogan puzzles! Why not have a go? You can enter it HERE!

Lorenzo!

New Year's Eve special: Long Gon Don original cast character designs

2011-12-31T08:41:00.000Z

Last day of 2011! I hope you're all enjoying the festive holidays, and are fired up for a big NYE jamboree! For those of you who know that the REAL big event happens on the 7th January, with the Launch of The Phoenix, today's post will be of particular interest. I present below the original cast designs for our epic new comic series LONG GON DON.

LOTS more in the New Year, see you for 2012!

Enjoy!

Lorenzo!

Free Holiday Puzzles!

2011-12-23T10:20:00.000Z

Well, 2011 was quite a year, in which we appeared in the pages of the mighty Dandy almost every week with our sword and sorcery series series YORE! and my perplexing puzzle page Professor Popalop! Although we stopped working on both series a good few months ago (to begin work on Long Gone Don), the last of the puzzles has only just seen print. For those of you who enjoy a brain-teaser, I therefore present three of my favorite mind manglers from the series.

And don't forget, if you like puzzles with a twist, then my series of Von Doogan minis is still running each week in the mighty Waitrose Weekend paper, and the main event begins on January 7th in the PHOENIX!

So in the meantime, settle down by the fire, make yourself a mug of Dr Coco's Famously Filling Hot Chocolate, and get puzzling!

Lorenzo!

Ink Dot Print Exhibition featuring STRANSKI - photos!

2011-12-22T10:55:00.002Z

Some snaps here of the spectacular Ink-Dot resolution show, which runs in Colston Hall, Bristol, until the start of Jan. The show features my brand new Stranski print amongst all the other awesome offerings from the cream of Bristol's creatives. Go get some!

Lorenzo!

Waterstone's - a big thank you!

2011-12-22T10:49:00.001Z

A HUGE thank you to the staff at Waterstone's Bristol city centre, and to all those folks who dropped by our signing stand and picked up copies of Baggage and Monkey Nuts on Saturday. We had such a great time and the books fairly flew off the table, leaving just enough for us to sign up some stock for the store! Roll on next Christmas!

Lorenzo!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-20T12:01:00.005Z

Dearest readers, friends and fellow adventurers! We Etheringtons would like to wish you the absolute Merriest of Christmases! Thank you all for following and supporting our exploits this year, we hope you have a wonderful yuletide holiday!

2012 is just around the corner, and it's looking like it's going to be a rather exciting year, but before any of that kicks off let's wrap our prezzies and share some warm fuzzy sentimental love!

Robin and Lorenzo!

ComiX Factor Winners Announced!

2011-12-15T10:57:00.001Z

A fortnight ago I had the pleasure of spending some quality time at the National Literacy Trust headquarters in London. The purpose of my visit? To judge the Primary and Secondary school finalists in the national ComiX Factor comic-creating competition. You may remember when we first announced this challenge (HERE), but for those who missed that post, Primary school entries had to create a best friend or side-kick for our hero, Dorko, while Secondary school entries were given the first panel for a comic strip and had to create the rest of the story themselves.

So, here I am, judging away, thinking seriously, ably assisted by the NLT's Susie Musgrove, and Renaissance Learning's Gareth Andrews...

Thinking seriously? Wait a minute ... this stuff is FUNNY!

Lorenzo (who couldn't be there on the day but cast his personal votes over the phone) and I were blown away by the volume of entries .... over 1200 from all over the country!!! The standard of drawing and writing was incredibly high.

Of course, there can only be one winner (and two runners up) in each category, so without further ado here are the best of the best for your viewing pleasure.

Primary School Winner - Max from Horsendale Primary in Nottingham, with his brilliant sidekick, 'Okrod'

My verdict:

"Among the sea of excellent entries, Okrod genuinely stood out. As a character he was well drawn, and most importantly, original. We absolutely loved his back story, the trick with reversing Dorko's name, and the genuine sense of fun and friendship that flowed through the writing. A worthy winner!"

Runners up

- Krishan from Thomas Russell Junior School with 'Mr Purple Pancake'

- Eleanor from Longford Primary School with 'Kitty Katherine'

Secondary School Winner - Niamh from the Sweyne Park School in Essex, with her fantastic comic strip, 'Journey to the centre of the Turlet'

My verdict:

"This category was extremely hard to judge, but Niamh's comic strip managed to contain every single element of great comic story telling. Consistent characters, variation in the comedy, playful dialogue, great use of colour, action, environments and sound effects ... and on top of all that it was beautifully drawn. Congratulations!"

Runners up

- Leanna from Oban High School with 'Dorko and the Gnome'

- Danny from Cheame High School with 'Dorko and the Roman Rampage'

To read all the shortlisted entries and marvel at the art, go HERE!

Well done to everyone who sent in their brilliant characters and stories and strips. You're ALL winners in our book ... but, er... some of you just happen to be the ACTUAL winners.

Baggage lands in the Emerald Isle!

2011-12-12T10:07:00.000Z

Christmas is approaching and Randall's exploits are spreading to new corners of the globe!

Yesterday our plucky hero crossed the Irish Sea and landed in a clover field of joy as the Irish Independent Newspaper chose our latest graphic novel in their 'Christmas Treats for Young Adults' roundup!

And the verdict?

"The Etherington Brothers' Baggage displays a witty, engaged, interplay between text and pictures and a strong quest plot."

Great stuff! If you're STILL wondering why a book about lost luggage is causing such a hoo-ha, go HERE and treat yourself ... treat a friend ... a loved one ... heck, treat EVERYONE!

Best Books For Christmas ... the sequel!

2011-12-09T09:39:00.000Z

Following on from the Guardian's broadsheet feature last Saturday (which you can enjoy HERE), in which Baggage was picked as a top ten great gift for children aged 9+, we are extremely pleased to share the news that our latest graphic novel has been included in a Guardian/Observer shortlist entitled 'Best Children's Books for Christmas.'

The real treat here is that not only do the seventeen books selected include some SERIOUSLY big-hitting authors (Michael Morpurgo, Anthony Horowitz, Francesca Simon and Jacqueline Wilson) but they've also been chosen by a variety of critics.

To be included in such venerable company is, quite frankly, brilliant!

I beg your pardon? You're yet to find out what all the fuss is about? Well then, my friend, simply visit your local bookshop or go HERE to grab a copy of Baggage and begin the adventure.

We're signing at Waterstone's Bristol on Saturday December 17th!

2011-12-08T08:07:00.001Z

Hey folks! Still looking for that perfect Christmas gift, and want to give something EXTRA personal? Then why not come down the Bristol Galleries branch of Waterstone's on Saturday December 17th and get a copy of Baggage or Monkey Nuts dedicated to your nearest and dearest (or yourself!). I'll be doing a sketch in every copy, and Robin will be writing his typically amusing dedications! Come down, chat to us, and have a jolly old time!

See you there!

Lorenzo!

Super-sneaky peek at a couple more panels from Long Gone Don!

2011-12-07T09:02:00.004Z

Yesterday we off in London having meetings and things, which meant we couldn't tell you that day six of The Phoenix Comic's Awesome Advent Calendar of Awesomeness featured a very sneaky-peek at a couple more little panels from Long Gone Don! See 'em HERE! Now that's a BIG bowl of soup!

Lorenzo!

The Process

2011-12-07T08:54:00.000Z

A little visual step-by-step today, for those of you who like to geek out on how things are done. Scroll down for a break-down of my process in painting the Stranski Resolved print, that is now available from Ink-dot HERE!

Will Megatron REALLY spoil Christmas?

2011-12-07T08:47:00.000Z

It's surprising to note, but the opportunities to write Christmas-themed comic strips do not pop up that often (once a year, yes I know, but that's not my point!). In fact, I've only previously written one for Monkey Nuts. I was overjoyed therefore, to be given the chance to bring some winter flair to the latest issue of Titan's Transformers PRIME comic, which hits the shelves this week.

In "Ice Breaker", Megatron and Starscream hijack a nuclear-powered vessel as part of their latest diabolical scheme. While Optimus, Ratchet and Bumblebee head to Antarctica to confront the menace, Bulkhead and Arcee are left to look after the base and keep the Christmas spirit alive ... which is likely to be a challenge as they can't agree on ANYTHING!

Jeremy Tiongson is back on art duties and delivers some great pages.

Grab your copy when it hits the news stand, or better still, place a subscription HERE, and never miss an issue again!

Comic Buzz gives Baggage the thumbs up for Christmas!

2011-12-06T10:05:00.000Z

Finding age-appropriate comics for children (and GOOD comics, at that) can sometimes be tricky, but thankfully the good folk over at Comic Buzz have put together a perfect Gift Guide for 2011.

And guess which library of comic books makes the cut? THE DFC! HOORAY!

For comedy, action, adventure and FUN, look no further than the DFC winter collection.

You can buy all three of the titles listed above at any good bookshop or online retailer.

Long Gone Don ... tiny tease review...

2011-12-06T09:53:00.001Z

Forbidden Planet International have this to say about the two-page Long Gone Don teaser included in the ultra-special-edition-free-for-everyone-Issue-Zero copy of the Phoenix:

"There’s a sense of typically huge, manic action the Etheringtons always seem to deliver."

If you want to see what's got them all excited, click HERE, enter your details and the special code 'PHOENIX1' and receive your very own copy ... for FREE!

Did we mention it was free?

For tons more fun visit the Phoenix Comic website!

Christmas gifts for all!

2011-12-05T10:52:00.003Z

I'm very proud to announce that my wife Esther Curtis (no blog yet - naughty!), together with good pal Alys Paterson (needs to update her blog more than three times a year!) will be selling their awesome work at the big Tobacco Factory Christmas Market here in Bristol this coming Sunday! If you like beautiful illustration and you're short of a christmas gift or two (or just want to treat yourself) than get down there! Read the flyer attached, and then scroll down for some sneak-previews of just a few of the myriad of treats on offer!

See you there!

Lorenzo!

Baggage chosen by the Guardian as one of its Children's books of 2011!

2011-12-03T16:10:00.002Z

Saturday mornings do not get much better than today.
Over coffee and fried eggs we discovered that our latest comic adventure, Baggage, had been selected as one of the Guardian newspaper's top ten Best Children's Books to give for Christmas.

Seriously ... how cool???

If you have time to grab a copy, or have already purchased one, we can be found on page 18 of the review section. If you missed the Saturday paper, you can read the full article ONLINE but here's that all important review summary:

"With its strong sense of pace and drama, Baggage shows the Etherington Brothers' reputation as creators of great comic stories, told equally skillfully in words and pictures, going from strength to strength."

Wow.

2011 has been an absolutely phenomenal year for our little studio, with more projects lined up, more fans met (young and old, longtime and new) and more positive feedback garnered, than ever before. But to round it out with a top pick from the Guardian ... the paper that first introduced the world to Monkey Nuts back in early 2008 ... well, that's just about the best present anyone could hope for!

If you're still looking for that elusive gift, and this feature has piqued your interest, you can buy the gift of giggles for any/all members of your family/friends HERE!

Just in for Christmas! Brand New Stranski Print!

2011-12-02T07:37:00.000Z

Hey folks! My brand new Stranski print from Ink-Dot and Hello Blue is now available for purchase through our store! Go HERE and scroll down the prints section on the right to check it out and purchase!

Lorenzo!

A Free comic for EVERYONE!

2011-12-01T07:41:00.000Z

Yes that's right! The free issues of The Phoenix issue ZERO are now available for you to get your greedy mitts on! All you have to do is visit thephoenixcomic.co.uk/waitrose enter your address details and the Waitrose Offer Code - PHOENIX1 - and a FREE copy of the comic will be posted to your home!

Of course, the big deal for us in issue zero is that it contains the world's first glimpse of our new comic book EPIC, Long Gone Don. Here, to whet your appetite is a SERIOUSLY sneaky peek at how that's going to look!

But don't waste any time - there are only limited stocks of this bonus, exclusive, one-of-a-kind preview and they're going FAST!

Lorenzo!

Baggage chosen as "Recommended Read" by Young Writers!

2011-11-29T09:49:00.000Z

Young Writers is one of the many wonderful organisations that aim to promote reading and creative writing for pleasure. After twenty years of hosting workshops, publishing magazines (Scribbler! among them) and providing schools with countless resources, the good folk at Young Writers certainly know their stuff.

All of which should demonstrate why a reading recommendation from them is a serious honour!

"Our favourite brothers are back again with yet another thrilling comic story ... Baggage is without doubt another well-written, well-illustrated comic masterpiece from the talented Etherington brothers. Marvel at the brilliant drawings, cower over the sometimes dangerous characters and laugh out loud at Randall's hilarious mishaps. This book is sure to excite and thrill any age!"

Now that IS a recommendation! And with less than a month to Christmas, now is a good time to grab your copy.

Live Action Baggage Teaser!

2011-11-28T09:46:00.000Z

Slightly misleading title perhaps, but entirely truthful. The video that follows is a live action (not animated) teaser (in as much as it's just an excerpt) from our book Baggage (Baggage).

The fact that it's ME reading from the book and not Bruce Willis in a Randall costume running around New York holding a suitcase ... well ... you obviously have a VERY active imagination!

You may remember we posted a link to the teaser for this teaser (so much teasing!) a while ago. The video was recorded as part of Renaissance Learning's fantastic project, Read to a Million Kids, which aims to promote literacy through finding new ways to excite children about books.

Let's see if it works shall we?

Ahem. Ridiculous.

Hopefully this little slice of nonsense made you grin, and if your curiousity has been suitably aroused and you just HAVE to know what happens next (who wouldn't?) then grab yourself a copy of the ultimate christmas present HERE! Treat yourself, treat your friends!

- Robin!

A Tip Top Baggage Review Finale - Five Stars from Comic Heroes!

2011-11-25T09:31:00.001Z

Hip-hip-HOORAY, it's Friday ('Black Friday' in the States - a bit like Boxing day, it's their busiest shopping day of the year).

Time to celebrate the passing of another week in style, and what better way than to round up our triple-bill review-a-thon. We've heard from online review sites and young readers, and now it's time to turn our attention to the cream of British print review magazines, Comic Heroes!

This bi-monthly title launched last year and has rapidly become a firm favourite among UK comic fans. Issue (number 9) was a super-sized Spiderman special.
Packaged in a card slipcase, the magazine focuses on all aspects of the comic medium, from the latest releases, movie and game adaptations, international events and, naturally, REVIEWS!!!

Imagine our delight, when we learnt that Baggage had made its way into the pages of this fine periodical.
There was some whooping, especially when we spotted those five all important little red stars!

It appears, although I may be reading between the lines, that reviewer James Lovegrove rather enjoyed our second comic outing.

"Robin Etherington's script deftly orchestrates the chaos. Not a single plot element is wasted. Events occurring in the opening pages have ramifications right through the book. This is nothing less than sublime comics storytelling."

Oh, James ... you go too far!

"And his brother Lorenzo's art is a dream. He makes a funny-animal world utterly believable, peppering his panels with sight gags and humorous detail."

You really shouldn't ... but do go on...

"Baggage could have come from the pens of Goscinny and Uderzo (creators of Asterix) in their prime. It really is that good. Kids will love it, and if you're an adult it will make you feel like a kid again, in all the right ways."

I'll be honest with you, folks, it doesn't get much better than that.
Thank you James and all the team at Comic Heroes for featuring our work among the big titles and popular series.

To read the full review, visit your local newsagent now, or go HERE to buy an online subscription!

Happy Birthday bro!

2011-11-25T06:56:00.002Z

It's William's birthday!! Happy birthday bro, hope you have an awesome day, and that you stuff your face with with food and fizzy pop!!

Tons of love!

Lorenzo and Robin!

Lorenzo's The Dangerous Adventures of Von Doogan launches in Waitrose Magazine!

2011-11-24T10:21:00.002Z

Just as Monkey Nuts was launched in the Guardian before it landed in the DFC, so too is my new puzzle adventure series The Dangerous Adventures of Von Doogan making a mini debut in Waitrose Weekend. That's right! Every week from now until Christmas you'll be able to indulge in a little befuddling puzzling in a Lorenzo stylee by dropping into your local Waitrose and picking up a copy of their FREE weekly paper. On the puzzle page of each issue you'll find a mini Von Doogan puzzle to get your brain warmed up for the main event in the Phoenix! Happy Solving!

Lorenzo!

A Trio of Top Baggage Reviews - Part 2!

2011-11-24T09:32:00.000Z

A second helping of fun today, as we journey to the Forbidden Planet International blog where Mia (a year 6 pupil) has generously shared her thoughts on Baggage in an exclusive review.

So what does our youngest critic (to date) have to say about Randall's tall tale?

"Once he (Randall) gets the case he starts looking at it for clues for who it belongs to, which starts us off on a really funny, really silly, but very good adventure."

Well now, this sounds positive!

"I liked this book because I found it funny. My favourite bit was when he was in the sweet shop and the old lady was making rude things out of liquorice!"

Ha, that was MY favourite bit too! So tell me, Mia, who do you think will enjoy our book?

"I would recommend Baggage to all readers because I really enjoyed it and I think that anyone else would like it as well!"

You can't say fairer than that. Children know what they like, and this young adventurer just gave us the thumbs up - HOORAY!

To read the full review, go HERE!

A Trio of Top Baggage Reviews - Part 1!

2011-11-23T10:35:00.000Z

Good morning (thought depending on where you are and when you read this blog it might be good afternoon or good evening).

To accompany Lorenzo's invite to the latest Inkdot show (if you can make it, do so - it's going to be great) today we have the first of three great Baggage reviews to share.

Probably best to tackle them in order so here's what Andy Oliver from the ever superb Broken Frontier site had to say about our latest comic escapade.

"With each splendid new offering from The Etherington Brothers the sense that we are seeing creators destined to be regarded as one of the all-time great teams of British children’s comics only increases. However hyperbolic that claim may sound, the reality is that there’s something very special about the Etheringtons’ empathic relationship with their target audience."

Wow. Erm, thank you Andy, thank you very much indeed! And there's more:

"Lorenzo Etherington’s visuals are absolutely crammed to bursting with jokes, sight gags and intricate details."

My word. This is fine praise indeed ... but there's MORE:

"This is the closest you’ll ever come to seeing animation on the printed page."

Right, well, that review pretty much made our year!
To read the full article go HERE and don't forget to join us tomorrow when we'll be sharing an online review from a MUCH younger critic.

Ink Dot Exhibition opening night invite - December 1st!

2011-11-23T10:01:00.000Z

I have a brand new Stranski print in the Ink-Dot RESOLUTION exhibition at Colston Hall this December, and I wanted to invite you all to the opening night art-and-booze-and-live-music-jamboree on Thursday December 1st! Details are on the flyer above, it'd be great to see you there, and feel free to bring as many friends/family/pets as you wish!

See you on the night!

Lorenzo!

Tour Report - Leeds!

2011-11-22T10:44:00.001Z

Last week we packed our bags and headed North to Leeds for a four-day tour. It is fair to say we had an absolute ball.

The fun began on Thursday with a full day of comic workshops at St John the Evangelist Primary School in neighbouring Bradford. The pupils in years 3-6 proved, once again, that the only quality you need to unlock genuine creativity is a willingness to say something silly. The number and variety of amusing and original ideas flying around the classrooms had Lorenzo and I in hysterics. Many thanks to Sam Waugh for organising the trip.

Then it was back to Leeds to check in at The Met, our rather swanky looking hotel.

Despite the grandness of the entrance (and it was grand) we were most impressed by the giant Christmas tree in the foyer! Here I can be seen posing as a fairy ... or perhaps a bauble.

We rose early on Friday in order to make the most of the buffet breakfast (that's just good sense) and, as is traditional on this blog, our camera was primed to capture our selections. I opted for a classic platter.

Lorenzo ... yes ... well...

He did eat a lot of pizza the night before, but still ... that is pathetic!

Friday was all about the Young People's Graphic Novel Awards, in which Monkey Nuts had been nominated. The event, organised by Deborah Moody, took place in the Art Gallery exhibition space in Leeds Central Library (a wonderful labyrinthine building filled with hidden rooms and staircases). A packed audience was treated to presentations from three of the shortlisted titles, as Sarah McIntyre, Sandra Marrs and John Chalmers (the Metaphrog team) and we Etheringtons took to the stage. Afterwards, Dave Shelton (last year's champ) announced the winner - many congratulations to fellow DFC Library contributor Sarah for scooping the title - a raffle was held (with the shortlisted books making for VERY popular prizes), and we then spent an enjoyable hour signing books and sketches and chatting with the audience.

Oh, and look at this lovely etched crystal paperweight we were given - cool!

That night Lorenzo and I found a superb Mexican restaurant near the Corn Exchange, called Neon Cactus. If you're ever in Leeds, we urge you to visit. GREAT food and good times all round!

Which all brings us to day three and four - the big one. Our debut appearance at the Thought Bubble Comic Festival. Nicely timed, I might add, to the show growing from a one day event to a full weekend of panels, signings and more comics than you can handle.

And here we are in action!

We'd been looking forward to meeting lots of new readers but we never realised how many there would be. Our entire stock of Baggage, Monkey Nuts, El Sketchbook Lorenzo Deluxe Collection and Malcolm Magic was feverishly snapped up by Sunday lunchtime, leaving Lorenzo and I with little to do but purchase comics, grin and finally, head home. We came, we sketched, we comiked!

Many thanks to everyone who helped to make our first trip to Leeds such a success. We had an incredible time and we can't wait to return.

Grab your FREE copy of the Phoenix - TODAY!

2011-11-21T12:03:00.000Z

The word FREE is almost as delightful as the word COMIC. Today we're giving every reader the chance to enjoy them both.

While we were away on tour in Leeds (full report tomorrow), the Phoenix Comic roared into life, firstly by launching their brand new website, and secondly with an amazing deal - in conjunction with Waitrose - for children all over the country.

If you were lucky enough to get your mitts on a copy of the free Waitrose Weekend magazine (seen above and still available, so if you have a Waitrose in your town, run out and snare yourself a copy) you will have discovered a four-page section dedicated to the Phoenix comic. You can see sneak peeks of loads of strips and characters and best of all? ... every reader gets a chance to claim an ultra-special Issue 0!

All you have to do is visit thephoenixcomic.co.uk/waitrose enter your address details and the Waitrose Offer Code - PHOENIX1 - and a FREE copy of the comic will be posted to your home!

But don't waste any time - there are only limited stocks of this bonus, exclusive, one-of-a-kind preview and they're going FAST!

The Lost and Found Tour continues...

2011-11-16T09:48:00.001Z

It's all go at the moment - with a multitude of exciting projects stacking up neatly like the most incredible Jenga tower ever - but we've still found time for the next leg of our Lost and Found tour.

This week we'll be taking Baggage and Monkey Nuts up north, to the mighty metropolis of Leeds for a four day celebration of comics. And the party has already begun as this live snapshot from the city centre clearly shows.

On Thursday 17th we'll be visiting neighbouring Bradford to host a trio of workshops in a local school.

On Friday 18th we'll be sharing our trade secrets at the Leeds Graphic Novel Awards, where Monkey Nuts has been nominated (keep those fingers crossed).

And on Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th you'll find us at the Thought Bubble Comic Con in the Royal Armouries Hall. We'll be around all weekend, so come down, find our stand, say hi and grab a signed copy of Baggage, Monkey Nuts, Malcolm Magic or Lorenzo's magnificent 600 page Sketchbook Deluxe!

It's going to be excellent - full report coming soon.

Brand new Stranski print on the way!

2011-11-15T08:11:00.001Z

Return to Cybertron...

2011-11-14T09:27:00.000Z

Let's start the week with something fun - a brand new issue of Transformers!

This month's comic is a little different. I'd wanted to show a different side to Megatron for a while, especially (if you know your Transformers lore) as the Decepticon commander was once a charismatic leader capable of dividing a nation.

In War Story therefore we return to the Cybertronian warrior's homeworld and witness a desperate battle that might have changed the course of history. Horacio Dimingues provides the tasty art - here's a sneak peak!

Visit your nearest stockist to grab your copy today!

The ultimate Christmas Special Offer!

2011-11-10T07:40:00.004Z

I know it's a little while to Christmas yet, but when it comes to ordering gifts online, you really do need to plan ahead! So, for all those of you who know someone (or ARE someone) who wants to spend Christmas day rifling through literally thousands of illustrations, concepts, roughs, design sheets unseen artwork and more from my work in the comic, book and animation industries, then this is the deal for you!

From now until the 20TH NOVEMBER you can get a whopping 20% of the mighty El Sketchbook Lorenzo SIX HUNDRED PAGE sketch book!

Simply go HERE, (where there is now a NEW updated preview the book), add a copy to your basket, and at checkout enter the code NOVBOOKS11 and claim your money off!

Happy reading!

Lorenzo!

P.S. You can also use this code with the Malcolm Magic Big Kahuna Collection!

On November 24th Robin will attempt to read to a MILLION kids!

2011-11-09T09:49:00.001Z

Wednesday is not traditionally a typical day for BIG news, but we Etheringtons like to do things a little differently. In fact, the more different, the better. Which is why, when the wonderful folks over at Renaissance Learning asked me to perform a live reading of Baggage, I happily agreed.

Live reading from a comic book? What could beat that challenge?
Well, how about attempting to read to a MILLION children?

Ridiculous ... but TRUE! Here's the official explanation:

"Read to a Million Kids is Renaissance Learning's campaign to read, quite literally, to 1,000,000 children through a series of exciting online activities, resources and live reading events featuring some of the most popular children's authors!"

"One of the best ways of achieving this is through storytelling, which can have a significant effect on children of all ages and abilities. By first encountering a book in this way, many children go on to pick up, read and enjoy books in their own time. We hope that our growing video collection of popular children’s authors will appeal to and motivate children of all ages and abilities to read for pleasure."

Brilliant stuff, I think you'll agree. And now for an extra special teaser of what's to come later this month...

This is a truly worthy initiative, so get out there and spread the good word.

Oh, and TEACHERS can find a host of excellent classroom resources HERE!

Let's make this happen, people!

- Robin

World War Weird: THREE

2011-11-02T08:08:00.001Z

More One Eye Stereo Vision from World War Weird...

Lorenzo!

Happy Halloween! Have a free Baggage comic on us!

2011-10-31T07:59:00.000Z

Yes, you lucky things! Here is the Baggage Halloween special that appeared in the Times newspaper last week! Click it to read it!!

Oh, and as an extra treat, Baggage is currently on sale at almost HALF PRICE on Amazon HERE!

Lorenzo!

Baggage Exclusive in the Times Newspaper - TODAY!

2011-10-27T14:58:00.000+01:00

Sorry for the last minute posting of this but we only just found out the news! If you live in the UK and can get to a newsagent today, you can feast your eyes on a brand new half-page exclusive Baggage comic strip commissioned specially by the Times!

On page 17 (the Young Times special section) Randall finds himself in a little undead pickle as he attempts to reunite a vampire with his coffin.

Remember, this strip does NOT appear in the book - it's as rare as Leprechaun gold - so be sure to grab your copy!

It's official - Baggage is a "...visual delight!"

2011-10-27T11:03:00.000+01:00

Those knowledgeable souls over at Downthetubes.net recently swept their critical gaze over our latest graphic novel with (thankfully) delightful results.

Jeremy Briggs delivers a thoughtful review of Baggage and finds a lot of love:

"...the plot is never going to be predictable or even, for that matter, straightforward. But that is to the book's benefit as what could have been a simple quest storyline swerves constantly between increasingly bizarre situations. Lorenzo's artwork is beautiful, dynamic when it needs to be and intensely detailed in the quieter sections..."

Oh, and how's THIS for a conclusion?

"Baggage is a visual delight that works just as well for adults as it does for children. With Christmas coming up this is one book that could just as easily be on your own 'wants' list as well as being on the list of presents to be given out to others."

You heard the man, so what are you waiting for? Those stockings won't fill themselves!

Click HERE to read the full review.

Archive footage of Robin Etherington on Drums!

2011-10-26T08:52:00.002+01:00

Well, today is a very special day here at Etherington Towers, as it's Robin's birthday!! While you know him as a writer of comics and children's fiction, you may NOT know that he's also an exceptionally talented drummer.

Robin doing his classic "cymbal gum stop" at a benefit gig in 1996.

Having begun his musical career in the mid 90's cover-band-boom, he soon began working on his own material, and formed a long and fruitful musical alliance with "the green man". Here he is in a rare public interview with said bandmate in the fall of 2002:

My bro continued to push the boundaries of acceptable behavior on the stage throughout the noughties, and became known affectionately as "The Party Animal", later shortened to "Party Animal", and eventually, perhaps regretably, to just "Animal".

Robin on his Honeymoon in Las Vegas last year.

Robin regularly worked with female singers, and while these collaborations were, for the most part, extremely successful, there were times when the juxtaposition of a singer's sultry laid back performance could be at odds with my brother's natural rhythmic tendencies.

The following infamous performance, filmed in the hot summer of 2005 at the fashionable Sewer Pipe Club in London's hip Shoreditch borough, has become something of a legend...

Happy birthday bro, keep bangin' them drums!

Lorenzo!

Big Mysterious Monday News!

2011-10-24T11:08:00.000+01:00

There are some projects on the Etherington horizon that we can show you, some we can tease you with openly, and others that can only be whispered about in secret behind LARGE locked doors.
Our latest outing most assuredly falls into the LAST camp.

All we can say is that we've recently signed a development contract with a TV production company!

Sorry folks, that's it. We know it's not much but it's all we're currently allowed to share. Keep watching this space for more info!

El Sketchbook Lorenzo Deluxe Collection number ONE on Lulu!

2011-10-23T17:12:00.004+01:00

I'm very pleased to say my 600 page El Sketchbook Lorenzo Deluxe Collection once again topped the charts in the comics and graphic novels section of Lulu last week! The book also currently stands at number 22 in the all-time best sellers in said category on the site. Thanks to all you guys who have bought, enjoyed, and spread the word about this massive art book, and for those of you who haven't got your paws on a copy yet, Christmas is just around the corner!

Preview and buy the book HERE!

Lorenzo!

Another Cracking Baggage Review!

2011-10-22T12:56:00.000+01:00

Over at the Bear Alley comic site, reviewer Steve Holland has just posted a new Baggage review. Last year, in his assessment of Monkey Nuts, Steve described our debut novel in these flattering terms:

"Rich in detail and colour, you'll want to go back again and again over every page to see what you missed the first and second time around ... it's pacy, it's funny and it deserves a place on your shelves."

Lovely stuff but how did Baggage compare?

In Steve's own words.

"Lorenzo's artwork is jam-packed with intricate design and detail; it's a book that will pay re-reading..."

And there's good news for parents all over the world with THIS recommendation.

"With all the energy of an animated cartoon, Baggage has enough craziness to entertain even the most hyperactive kid. You shouldn't have any problem getting them to settle down and read for a change."

High praise indeed! To enjoy the full review and learn even more about the adventure, click HERE!

The Etherington Strikes Back!

2011-10-21T11:23:00.000+01:00

Finding new puns for the titles of our Star Wars posts is ridiculously easy and remarkably pleasurable.
But it is no way NEAR as pleasurable as seeing another one of our stories turned into a slice of comic action!

Yes, indeedy - the latest issue of Titan's monthly Clone Wars comic has just gone on sale and it features one of my favourite tales.

In 'The Only Good Clanker', Obi-Wan Kenobi and Commander Cody are faced with their most puzzling opponent yet - a Battle Droid named Coppertop who has managed to override his programming and save the life of a Clone trooper. As Kenobi attempts to unravel the mystery, a host of new enemies arrive on the scene, desperate to claim Coppertop for their own. But what makes this Droid so important?...

I am joined on creative duties by Will Sliney who brings the story to vivid life.

Some stories are fun for the action, others their comedy, and sometimes because I get to explore an aspect of the Star Wars universe that's always fascinated me. This tale is definitely one for the fans. If you've watched Revenge of the Sith and you remember how the Jedi were betrayed, then this little adventure will be of particular interest.

Grab your copy from any good newsagent in the UK, France or the US, or you can set up a subscription online HERE!

Etheringtons Headline Cheltenham Festival!

2011-10-21T09:48:00.000+01:00

While the title for this post is not strictly true (we were not, surprisingly, the main attraction at the Cheltenham Literature Festival), we did have the pleasure of performing as the last act on the last day of the fest to an extremely enthusiastic audience.

After enjoying a delightful lunch in the artists room (gooooooooooooood food) we took to the stage and, with the use of DUEL projector screens, visual monitors and all manner of gizmos, introduced Baggage and the Lost and Found workshop to a host of new readers.

And then we did a little signing!

Lorenzo, in a rare moment of madness, even agreed to draw Sid as a toilet for one young fan. Odd, but amusing!

Many thanks to Matilda Johnson and all the staff of both Waterstone's and the Chelthenham festival for supporting us and helping to make the event such a success. Oh, and for providing the cream tea! LOVELY!

Our first Baggage fan art!

2011-10-20T18:43:00.000+01:00

There are few higher compliments than when a fellow creator turns their artistic hand to your own characters in order to deliver a piece of fan art, and there are few creators more capable of capturing Lorenzo's energy than the ever-talented Zak Simmonds-Hurn.

Just look at his picture of Randall! WOW!

I was lucky enough to previously work with Zak on a strip called 'The Strange Strange World of Weird' for the DFC comic, where I discovered that not only are his cartooning skills immense, but that he's a REALLY nice guy. One of the best. Many thanks, Zak, for this awesome pic.

And remember, folks, we LOVE fan art, so please feel free to mail us your creations! Blog exposure guaranteed!

- Robin

The Big Issue asks us a VERY important question...

2011-10-19T11:53:00.000+01:00

We've had a flurry of exciting press bits and pieces lately (and there's some amazing stuff coming in the next few months) but few were as much fun as being asked by The Big Issue to list the five books that I thought every child should read before they hit their eleventh birthday.

Just FIVE, Big Issue???? Oooo - that's a tough one ...

To find out what gems made my personal list, grab a copy from your local Big Issue salesman (every copy sold gives £1 to the seller, who is either homeless or housed in a vulnerable place). We'll try and source a digital copy of the article for you international readers soon!

- Robin

The Phoenix and the Etheringtons Unite ... Round 2!

2011-10-18T16:27:00.001+01:00

Something is coming. Something big. Something beautiful. Something magnificent.

In 2012 The Phoenix shall rise...

Reuniting many of the creative talents behind the late DFC, The Phoenix will be bringing a healthy dose of weekly wow to the UK's comic-reading kids.

As we've previously announced, Lorenzo will be twisting minds with his brain-squeezing puzzle series, The Dangerous Adventures of Von Doogan, but we've got something even bigger in the works for our main story-telling event.

Ladies and Gentleman, prepare yourself for the epic underworld exploits of...

(drum roooooooooooooooooooooooooll)

WOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Now, those lucky readers who've already subscribed to the Phoenix newsletter (and if you haven't, go HERE and do so at once) will have seen the first sneaky teaser for Long Gone Don, so it seems only fair to give our fans something brand new.

Who, we wonder, is THIS guy?

Nope. That's not Don. But that's all the info you're getting!

We'll be bringing more and more exclusives for the Phoenix throughout the year as we lead up to the January launch, so be sure to keep your eyes glued to our blog for the latest and greatest news.

Panel Borders & Resonance FM present: The Etherington Brothers!

2011-10-17T11:05:00.000+01:00

Last Thursday, immediately prior to our Baggage Launch in London, we had the pleasure of being interviewed by Alex Fitch from Panelborders.

It was a great chat and Alex quizzed us on pretty much every aspect of our past/present and future career and our personal approach to the creative process. If you REALLY want to get to know us Etherington Brothers, then THIS is the podcast for you!

But wait - there are even MORE ways to listen! Click HERE to find yourself whisked away to the Panelborders Etherington page. The grey arrow opens the streamed interview above, but you also have the option to download an mp3 version, or open the podcast in itunes or facebook.

- Robin

Ooooo ... it's The Big Bold Baggage Launch Report!

2011-10-15T12:44:00.001+01:00

We Etheringtons love to throw a party, and there are few better reasons to do so than the release of a brand new book. And not just any old book but BAGGAGE, our first graphic novel adventure to appear in its entirety without anyone having read a single page.

So it was with immense joy that last Thursday night we arrived at the Holland Park branch of Daunt Books and discovered this...

A tasteful display, an elegant presentation ... and, most importantly, it filled the entire window!

More fun was to be found inside in the form of booooooooooooooooooooooks...

...and our wonderful wives, Esther and Mimi, here seen making our banner look incredibly shabby in comparison to their pure glamour!

Before any of the action took place we were interviewed by Alex Fitch from Panelborders. Alex had brought a big bag of great questions with him and we discussed everything from Malcolm Magic to our future projects, why our stories always feature characters falling, how Lorenzo's approach to art has developed and a whole bunch of other gubbins. As soon as the interview is online we'll post a link.

Then it was time for a glass of wine and some quality chitchat with the horde of friends, fans, family and Ficklings who had turned out in force to have fun.

In a DFC Library moment of WOW, Sarah McIntyre (creator of the beautiful Vern and Lettuce), James Turner (creator of the action comedy Super Animal Adventure Squad) John Aggs (writer on The Boss and artist on Philip Pullman's John Blake) and our very own Chief Tuft, David Fickling join us in a single picture. Remarkable!

The crowd await our big stage entrance as dancing girls gyrate and "Eye of the Tiger" plays in the background (some of our blog facts are fiction).

A gaggle of awesomeness caught in one shot - Kirsten Armstrong (editor supreme), Laurence Beck (Phoenix comic designer and all round nice guy) and two more Ficklings, Rose (daughter) and Caro (Mother and the brains controlling the Phoenix machine).

Andie Tong (artist on Tron, Spiderman and Thor to name but a few) smiles while Lorenzo tries out his "stern" face. Or is it his "smelt something funny" face?

Here I stand with the wonderful Tilda Johnson and Kirsten - the duel power behind the unfathomable organisational and editorial book process. So many beautiful ladies, so much wine ... sigh ... great times!

Will Fickling (editor on Monkey Nuts and our brand new project - news of that coming soon) and John Aggs hang around looking cooler than us. Thanks a bunch, guys.

In a rare moment of cruelty we mistake our best friend in the publishing world, the ever-awesome Lauren Bennett (who we couldn't live without) for a leaning post. The rabbit punches to the kidneys we received shortly afterwards stand as a reminder to NEVER do this again. EVER.

These events often offer a chance to catch up with friends you haven't seen for ages, and uber-talented mates Kris Dyer (one half of the writing team behind the magnificent Radio 4 series 'On the Blog') and James Gillingham (award-winning playwright) are just such a pair. Here they are seen helping me promote spectacles as THE must-have accessory for the truly discerning artist.

Just ... Just ... SO MANY LOVELY PEOPLE!!!

Wow ... anyway, after enough wine and twiglets and peanuts and grapes and sweets had been consumed, David Fickling took to the floor and gave a memorable turn as compere before I babbled on about cornfields, the sophomore slump and explained the finer points of our creative process: "Lorenzo no likey, Lorenzo no drawey."

Then it was on to the signing ... which was, quite simply IMMENSE! When a book shop kicks you out and there're STILL folks wanting to get their books daubed, you know you've had a good launch. In fact, poor Lorenzo's drawing hand has been in a sling ever since!

For some (the sensible) the night ended there, and for others it was just getting warmed up (ahem).

We wish to thank everyone who made this evening possible - David, as ever, for publishing and championing our work, Lauren for working tirelessly to bring all the action together (sorry again for leaning on you), Daunt Books for having us, our wives for putting up with us, and each and every one of you wonderful people who turned up to celebrate.

Transformers Prime Issue 1 on sale NOW!

2011-10-15T10:21:00.000+01:00

Welcome to "double post Saturday" - that unique phenomenon that only occurs when we've got too much news to share and not enough time to share it in!

First up, I am thrilled to be able to tell you all about the latest incarnation of Titan's Transformers Comic. With the Michael Bay movie era receding slowly into the background it's time to shake things up in the land of Cybertronian conflict.

And what better way than to celebrate than the latest incarnation of Transformers goodiness - the PRIME cartoon series!

TAADAA!

It is, as the cover states, PRIME TIME!

I've been having an absolute ball bringing all the fun and action of the TV series to life in comic form and I'm lucky to be joined on art duties by the superbly talented Jeremy Tiongson. His mechanical rendering of Prime is fantastic. But don't take my word for it; here's a couple of sample art-only pages for your eyeballs to enjoy!

You can pick up a copy of the comic at any good newsagent or comic shop.

And for those of you who prefer your cartooning paper free, you can now order a digital subscription HERE.

- Robin

The Lost and Found Tour heads to Cheltenham!

2011-10-14T15:36:00.000+01:00

Last night we were partying in London at the Daunt Books launch of Baggage (full report with pictures and details of all the action coming soon) and this SUNDAY you can catch us at the Cheltenham Literature festival.

There are only a few tickets left (if you've already booked your place, you're in for a TREAT) but even if our show sells out you'll still be able to catch us afterwards when we'll be signing copies of Baggage and Monkey Nuts in the Waterstone's bookshop tent.

The fun starts at 16:45 and you can grab one of the last remaining golden tickets HERE!

Professor Popalop Ep 11 in the Dandy this week!

2011-10-14T12:31:00.001+01:00

Well, what a fun time we had at the Baggage launch last night! And not only that, did you hear about what was announced a couple of days ago?! No? Well, stay tuned, there'll be more on both things from Robin next week.

In the meantime, want to stretch your brain-muscles? Well, why not pick up a copy of this week's DANDY featuring episode 11 of my professor Popalop series, in which you have to BUILD a ROBOT! Sounds simple, huh? HA! Just you wait and see...!

Lorenzo!

TONIGHT! It's the Baggage LONDON book launch!

2011-10-13T10:10:00.000+01:00

See you there!

Lorenzo!

National Literacy Trust Interview

2011-10-11T17:28:00.000+01:00

Last month we were interviewed by those wonderful folks over at the NLT in connection with the ComiX Competition we helped them launch. The full transcript from the interview is now available to read online!

Here's a couple of excerpts to whet your appetite:

Within your comics you always construct such vibrant original worlds. What inspires your creations?

"World building is something that we consider vital to our work. The joy of the comic page is that you can go anywhere and do anything. It’s the bridge between straight prose and animation, and as such comic artists have to shoulder a real visual responsibility. A lot of comic creators rely on suggestion as a shortcut to design, but there is nothing better than watching your characters actually step into somewhere fantastic, where every nut, bolt and leaf can be seen. We take inspiration for our environments from real life and fiction in equal measure. In Baggage we frequently blend eastern and western architectural details, while adding another layer of pure imagination. That’s the greatest way to create something that feels both familiar to the reader and yet original."

Do you think that blogs, and the internet in general are now so popular that they threaten more traditional forms of reading?

"It’s important to remember that radio, cinema and television were all seen as the potential death of traditional reading at one time or another, but the pleasure and the uniqueness of the reading experience continues to survive and thrive. The internet, Kindles, iPads and readers all essentially serve the purpose of promoting literature. If the Kindle is Amazon’s bestselling product, then (self-publishing arguments aside) it is a good news story for books in general. The trick for writers/readers, and the industry in general, is to utilise the strength of these tools.

We spend a lot of time ensuring that our blog is an environment that promotes the joy of creating and reading in equal measure. Oh, and it’s fun. And filled with awesome pictures."

If we do say so ourselves! And there's a LOT more where that came from.
To read the full interview simply click HERE!

Great review of Baggage over at Forbidden Planet

2011-10-10T11:12:00.000+01:00

" It’s a hugely satisfying, very silly, very funny quest meets chase story, and when you’re that satisfying, that silly and that funny, all rolled into one, you manage clever by holding it all together so very well."

Those fine folks over on the mighty Forbidden Planet blog have put up a very nice review of Baggage, and we thought you all may like to read it! The review also includes many EXCLUSIVE peeks at pages from the book which have not been seen anywhere online before. So what are you waiting for? GO HERE and read the full review!

Lorenzo!

Cookies and Comics at Foyles!

2011-10-09T12:26:00.001+01:00

Is there anything better than seeing your book in a shop window? Yes, as it happens - seeing a giant BANNER for your book in a shop window! Now that is nice.

I know, right? Neat.

Our Bristol Baggage launch was an absolute hoot from start to finish. Foyles laid on a delightful platter of biscuits and cakes and cookies and soft drinks for all the children and parents who attended. These were rabidly consumed while we entertained the audience with our new workshop, in the store's fantastic event space. Afterwards we held a signing session and chatted to all our readers - new and established, young and old.

Many thanks to Dave Lawrence and the rest of the lovely staff who helped make our event such a success.
We look forward to returning with new treats in the new year.

And for all you London-based readers, remember: Thursday 13th is YOUR time to shine.
Daunts Books, Holland Park, 6:30-8:30pm ... round two ... ding ding!

Bristol Book Launch of Baggage is TODAY!

2011-10-08T08:14:00.000+01:00

Yes! If you're in or around Bristol today, why not pop into the Foyles bookstore in Cabot circus and see us! We'll be doing a FREE all-ages comic-making workshop from 2-3pm, and then signing and sketching in copies of Baggage (and Monkey Nuts!) from 3pm onwards. It'd be great to see you there, so please do drop by, and bring friends/family/pets too! Details on the flyer below, and don't worry about booking your free tickets for the workshop via email at this stage - just turn up!

Be one of the first to own a signed copy of our BAGGAGE!

Lorenzo!

World War Weird: TWO

2011-10-07T09:13:00.000+01:00

FINALLY! The WAIT is OVER...!

2011-10-06T07:47:00.001+01:00

New Professor Popalop TODAY!

2011-10-05T08:41:00.000+01:00

Make like Fangles, and run down to your newsagents, it's DANDY DAY! Look at his little legs going!

Lorenzo!

Bath Festival Fun!

2011-10-04T13:52:00.000+01:00

Last Sunday Lorenzo and I packed our travelling bags and heading for the glorious city of Bath.
The primary mission? To showcase our brand new workshop on the first leg of the Lost and Found tour.
The secondary mission? To sell the very first copies of Baggage available ANYWHERE in the world! This was a very special event as the book is not even released till the 6th, and we had a BLAST!

So the great big tour is finally underway and growing daily, as more festivals and schools join in the action.

If you would like us to bring our workshops to your classroom, contact Trevor Wilson via info@authorsabroad.com.

If you would like to book us for a festival or event, contact us directly via theetheringtonbrothers@hotmail.co.uk.

Next up - our Foyle's Book Launch event in Bristol on Saturday 8th October.

See you there!

It's nearly HERE!

2011-10-03T08:12:00.003+01:00

YES! The launch of Baggage is drawing closer and closer! Whoop! And that of course means our big Original Art auction on ebay is drawing closer to an end! Click the link HERE to check out all the awesome stuff you could win! The clock is TICKING!!!

Good luck!

Lorenzo!

Moving IN!

2011-10-01T16:40:00.000+01:00

It's a beautiful sunny day here in Bristol, and Bobby's on the move! Whoop! Welcome to your new home, bro!

Lorenzo!

Shake your FUZZY BOTTOMS!

2011-09-30T10:35:00.001+01:00

Not got this week's Dandy yet? Well HURRY! 'Cos it's got a perlexing puzzle in it by yours truly featuring none other than dear ole' FANGLES!!

Look at his little fuzzy dance moves!

Lorenzo!

Pesky humans...

2011-09-29T19:06:00.000+01:00

Another month, another bout of Autobot vs. Decepticon delight!

Issue 3.4 of Titan's ongoing Transformers comic has just hit the shelves! HURRAH!

What's that? You want it to include free toys, free posters and an all-action strip featuring Ratchet, Ironhide, Starscream and Barricade? And you want ME to write the story?

Well, alright then - your wish is granted!

Head to your nearest newsagent today to grab your copy, or place a subscription online HERE, and never miss another Cybertronian smackdown again!

- Robin!

Baggage: Exclusive peek inside the book!

2011-09-28T08:49:00.001+01:00

Right, here you go, you lucky things! An exclusive peek between the covers of Baggage, which goes on sale everywhere in just EIGHT day's time!

Which also means of course that there's just 8 days for you to BAG the ultimate prize and win an original page of art from the book HERE!

Oh, and don't foget, you and all your friends/family/pets are all welcome to come join the celebrations at our London and Bristol book launches! Details below!

Lorenzo!

Brand New Art: World War Weird: One

2011-09-27T14:23:00.002+01:00

Ain't sayin' NUTHIN'!

Lorenzo!

Original Art auction is live NOW on Ebay!

2011-09-26T13:48:00.001+01:00

Okay folks, you now have just TEN DAYS to get your bids in on the ultimate comic art auction!

CLICK HERE TO GO CHECK OUT THE AUCTION ON EBAY!

PLEASE NOTE: THIS AUCTION IS AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE! WE WILL DELIVER TO ANY LOCATION ON THE PLANET FOR FREE!

Okay, here we go! To celebrate the launch of our new book, BAGGAGE, we're giving you the chance to scoop yourself not only an original page of Lorenzo's comic art from the book itself, but also a whole heap of super-rare Etherington Brothers swag! If you're a fan, or you know someone for whom these goodies would make the BEST Christmas present EVER, then read on, 'cos we're only going to do this ONCE!

The artwork itself is the original inked page which appears as page 9 in the UK hardback edition of Baggage (Released the day this auction ends!). It is the FIRST and ONLY page of original comic art Lorenzo has ever sold.

But that's not all!!

The lucky winner will also be bagging themselves a seriously tasty bunch of additional "rare as hen's teeth"swag from the Etherington's own archives, including:

1) An original "Chunky Robot" Sketch by Lorenzo!
2) A signed and numbered (from the original run of 30) copy of the gloriously glossy MOON! WORKSHOP print.
3) A signed and numbered (from the original run of 20) copy of the gloriously glossy MALCOLM MAGIC IN THE MIDDLE print.
4) A copy of issue 22 of the DFC comic featuring the VERY RARE "Galleonpocalypse" Monkey Nuts cover.
5) The original PROOF copy of the discontinued El Sketchbook Lorenzo Volume 5.
6) An ink-dot ESCAPE postcard (seriously RARE! Never released!).
7) Your very own Malcolm Magic sketchbook to draw your doodles in (V, V, V RARE! only ten ever made!)
8) A signed copy of the 11th MOON! mini sketchbook, only available at the Birmingham comic con in 2007. The final MOON! sketchbook we made.

Whew!

But wait! It just gets better! As this is an auction for YOU, the fans, there is NO Start price, NO reserve, and we will deliver the prize ANYWHERE in the world POST FREE!!

Happy bidding, and may the best fan win!

The Etherington Brothers

Find Baggage at a Festival Near YOU!

2011-09-24T09:52:00.001+01:00

As we enter the exciting Autumn season (sorry Summer, but you had your shot) we're delighted to announce the first dates on our Lost and Found Baggage tour. We'll be taking to the road and visiting as many schools as possible over the next 12 months but there will be plenty of public shows open to ... er ... the public!

And here are the first THREE, with details on where/how to get your ticket.

Sunday October 2nd - Bath Festival of Children's Literature (3-4pm Workshop and book signing)

Grab your ticket HERE! If the show sells out you can catch us afterwards when we'll be selling/signing the very first copies of Baggage available ANYWHERE in the world!

Sunday October 16th - Cheltenham Literature Festival (4:45-5:45pm Workshop and book signing)

Grab your ticket to the show HERE!

Saturday-Sunday, 19-20th November - 'Thought Bubble' Comic Show, Leeds (signing ALL weekend)

If you're an adult you can buy your tickets HERE, but the best news is that all young readers under 12 get to go to the convention for FREE!

To keep track of where we'll be appearing next, simply click on our CALENDER link in the right hand sidebar.

See you on the road!

Happy Bitrthday Ma!

2011-09-23T09:05:00.000+01:00

Just coming in to wish our Ma a very very happy birthday!

Hope you're having an awesome day!!

Lorenzo!

Baggage goes on Tour!

2011-09-22T09:34:00.000+01:00

We're going to be touring Baggage around the country (and maybe even abroad - stay tuned!) for the next 12 months or so, and along with all the ka-zillion school visits we're doing, dates are going in the diary of various public events around the country where you can come and meet us, have a chat and get your book signed and sketched. Just GO HERE to see where we'll be, and when! New dates will be added each month throughout the year to come!

Lorenzo!

Exclusive Art Auction includes mystery bonus!

2011-09-20T08:40:00.002+01:00

With under a week until the beginning of the online auction for an original page from Baggage, I can now announce that the winner of the auction will also win a special mystery package of super rare Etherington Brothers goodies! Ooooh!

Stay tuned for more!

Lorenzo!

Baggage: sneak peek!

2011-09-19T08:50:00.000+01:00

17 days to go until the release of BAGGAGE!

Lorenzo!

Professor Popalop Ep 7!

2011-09-16T11:06:00.000+01:00

Well, okay, so I'm two days late, but we have so much to blog at the moment, things are getting on top of me. But ANYWAY, the current issue of the Dandy (No 3552) features episode 7 of Professor Popalop's Brain-Jellifying Puzzles! Enjoy!

Lorenzo!

Brand New Art: STRANSKI dime novel

2011-09-16T07:48:00.002+01:00

Something new from the world of Stranski today, my friends! Hope all your Fridays are starting out well! Lots to come very soon, including news of that auction, more sneak-peeks at Baggage, and some VERY new and exclusive art! Stay tuuuuuuuuuuuuned!

Lorenzo!

Baggage Launch Day is a DOUBLE Bonanza!

2011-09-15T10:00:00.000+01:00

This is the one you've all been waiting for (I hope!) ... THE BIG BAGGAGE BOOK LAUNCH!!!

Last year's Monkey Nuts event at the Kew Bookshop (see pics here and here) was an absolutely huge success and a fantastic night. But like all followup projects we felt it vital to try something new, and so October will see not ONE but TWO book launches, in not ONE but TWO cities, featuring not ONE but TWO Etherington Brothers (...er...naturally).

BRISTOL - Saturday October 8th
"Young Readers ROCK!" Day Event

Join us in the brand new and swanky Foyles Bookshop for an afternoon of comic-creating delight.

From 2-3pm, Lorenzo and I will be running a FREE workshop session, where children and families can discover the hints and tricks we use to bring our stories to life. You can secure your place(s) HERE.

Click the flyer below for all the details!

LONDON - Thursday October 13th
"Adults Rock Too!" Evening Event

The world is comprised of both younger and older comic book fans. This is a GOOD thing and it is important to provide a forum for adults to stand around drinking wine, talking nonsense and discussing the finer merits of cartooning. Thursday 13th IS that forum!

PLEASE join us at the Daunt Books Holland Park store, for a night of fun, frippery and friends.
The launch will run from 6:30-8:30pm. Be sure to arrive early to secure your copy!

Click the flyer below for all the details!

We look forward to seeing you all in October!

Stranski heads down to Exeter in Phoenix Exhibition

2011-09-15T08:07:00.001+01:00

Ink-dot, the team behind the fantastic print exhibitions I've been lucky enough to be involved in over the past few years, have just opened a retrospective show of some of their favorite works in the wonderful Exeter Phoenix art space. You may remember this is the same venue I had a solo exhibition in a few years ago. I'm proud to say that one of my prints has made the grade, and is showing alongside a selection of truly awesome works form a selection of Bristol's finest.

GO HERE to learn more about the show!

Lorenzo!

And now for something ... SILLY!

2011-09-14T10:10:00.000+01:00

You've really got to love the internet. I mean, where else would you discover THIS!

What a treat for a Wednesday!

Brand New Art: AMBUSH

2011-09-13T09:39:00.000+01:00

As you may well know, Robin and I are currently waist-deep in an Epic New Series. The complexity of the world in said series is throwing up lots of exciting new art challenges, and so I'm simultaneously creating technical experiment sketches, which allow me to tackle new and unusual textures/lighting/materials etc before I approach them on the page. Here is one of them. It will appear in the next one of these.

Lorenzo!

The Telegraph's Culture Editor reports on the Big Blog Story!

2011-09-13T07:38:00.001+01:00

More (digital) broadsheet ink this week! Martin Chilton, digital culture editor for the Telegraph, has been reporting on the Big Blog Story project we're involved in. You can read his article HERE, and then learn even more and join the adventure LIVE as it happens all this week HERE!

Lorenzo!

The Guardian's Book Doctor recommends you take a dose of Monkey Nuts!

2011-09-12T16:20:00.001+01:00

A lovely recommendation by the Guardian's Children's books editor Julia Eccleshare that Monkey Nuts is well suited to those who enjoy their stories funny and visually exciting. Read the article HERE, and check out the other great books she reccomends in the article, they're all absolutely spiffing!

Lorenzo!

One Time only: Own a page of original Etherington Brothers' comic art!

2011-09-12T12:07:00.001+01:00

Here's something we've never done before/may never do again (click the image to read the details)...

The Big Blog Story Chapter TWO!

2011-09-10T10:14:00.001+01:00

As part of the upcoming Bath Festival of Children's Literature (which we're appearing at on Sunday 2nd October with Baggage!) we were asked to write a chapter for a remarkable children's story that is being created live, day-to-day, by 20 fantastic authors. Each chapter will appear on a different blog, so you have to follow the links to read the entire magical story.

CLICK HERE to read Chapter ONE ... then read on for our installment!

The boy on the hillside was called Scribble. This may sound like a peculiar name but then Scribble was a bit peculiar, and he wore his name proudly like a shiny gold medal.

When he was born, the doctors discovered that (a) he was covered in blue fur, and (b) he was unable to make a single sound - from his lips came not a scream, nor a squeak. But the blue furry boy was simply bursting with wonder at the world he saw around him, and so one day (when he was only six months old!) he picked up a pencil and started to write.

He wrote all day by the light of sun, and he wrote all night by the light of the moon and before too long everyone (including his parents) had begun to call him Scribble. His real name was quickly forgotten … just like the poor moon. But Scribble had watched her tumble into the ocean and he knew this was a VERY BAD THING.
He ran down the hillside and skidded onto the small wooden jetty that belonged to old Mr Catch, the legendary fisherman, who was busy writing his catch of the day on a large chalkboard.

...croaked Mr Catch, with a voice as crusty as stale bread, “is something the matter?”
Scribble grabbed the chalk from his hand, wrote HELP! in giant letters on the board, and pointed out towards the sea. Mr Catch followed his finger and stared across the waves that he had known and sailed upon his whole life … waves that were now glowing, like a torch held up beneath a sheet.

“Well, well. There’s something you don’t see every day,” said Mr Catch. This was not the reaction Scribble was expecting but Mr Catch was rather old and had probably seen a lot of odd things in his time.

...said Mr Catch, “so let’s see who we can find!”
And with that, the pair set off for town in search of a moon-saving crew.

CLICK HERE, to read Chapter THREE of the story, which will appear on Annabel Pitcher's on the 12th September!

YORE! The FINAL Episode!

2011-09-09T10:24:00.000+01:00

Well, 'tis true, this week's Dandy (no. 3551) features the last EVER* episode of YORE! We actually stopped work on YORE! quite a few months ago, so it's nice to see the adventure finally come to a (sort of) conclusion in print,

But while we all wait for October 6th (and indeed, January 7th ) you'll still be able to get a little Etherington fun on a weekly basis, as I have THREE MONTHS worth of Professor Popalop puzzles coming up in the Dandy soon. So keep reading!

Lorenzo!

*Technically, we did complete two additional YORE! episodes before we had to quit the series for other work, but as they relate to the beginning of the forth adventure, and don't really stand alone, I doubt you'll see 'em in the comic!

Found in Translation!

2011-09-09T09:37:00.001+01:00

Holidaying in France is always a pleasure. It's a country crammed full of great scenery, great food, great drink, and more great comic books than you count on a LOT of fingers. As a devout lover of Asterix and Tintin and all things bande dessinée, it has been a lifelong dream of mine to see an Etherington tale translated into French. But I was not expecting to fulfill that dream in a sleepy fishing village in Brittany.

Imagine therefore, the emotional rollercoaster I experienced as I opened a copy of the French Star Wars Magazine (published by Delcourt) and found my own work staring back at me. Actually, dear readers, you don't HAVE to imagine it, as the moment was caught on film.

First came shock...

...then unbridled joy...

...and finally a strange sort of combination of the two. But it might just have been trapped wind.

Sacrebleu! C'est incroyable!

And things only got better when I discovered this month's BD contained a DOUBLE helping of Etherington action. 'Les Canons de Nar Hekka' (formally The Guns of Nar Hekka) and 'Espions et Epices' (originally Spices and Spies) were both illustrated by the ever-wonderful Tanya Roberts.

What a blast. Be sure to follow all the Clone Wars action here in the UK by grabbing a subscription to the monthly comic HERE!