SDCC 2019: Dark Horse Comics Announces Jia and the Nian Monster OGN

San Diego Comic-Con is still a couple weeks away, but publishers are already getting ahead of the news rush. Dark Horse Comics has announced Jia and the Nian Monster, a new all-ages original graphic novel from writer Mike Richardson and artist Megan Huang. It’s based on an ancient Chinese legend that blends fantasy, fable, and the invention of gunpowder into a story of courage and friendship.

Writer Mike Richardson says:

I’m pleased to work with artist Megan Huang to bring this Chinese legend to life for readers of all ages. I’ve always been interested in Chinese lore and hope to impart that interest on a new generation of readers.

Jia and the Nina Monster is set in a mountain village that is marked by a monster’s attack every year. This time around, young Jia and her friend Deshi have had enough. They’re going to fight back. Deshi sees this as the grand adventure he’s always dreamed of while Jia wants revenge against the monster who took her mother five years ago. They’re going to need more than pluck and courage to stop the beast. That’s where the mysterious stranger comes in…
Artist Megan Huang adds:

Jia and the Nian Monster has been a pleasure to work on. With this being my first original graphic novel, the pressure was on, but everyone involved has been so lovely and helpful. I’ve really pushed myself throughout the past few months to do Mike’s script justice and make the team proud. The honor really has been all mine, and I hope readers can see the passion that we all put into it.

Jia and the Nina Monster clocks in at 80 pages and will retail for $12.99. It will be available in comic shops on March 18th, 2020 and in bookstores and Amazon on March 31st, 2020. It is currently available for pre-order.