In Gargoyles: Here in Manhattan, writer and Gargoyles creator Greg Weisman continues the story he began in the 1994-1997 Disney animated series Gargoyles. Only the first two seasons and first episode of the third season are considered canon. Further, this references Weisman’s earlier 2007-2008 comics continuation from SLG, “Clan-Building” volumes one and two as well as “Bad Guys: Redemption,” in which Brooklyn traveled through time and started a family of his own. This volume collects the first six issues of the current series from Dynamite Comics illustrated by George Kambadais with colors by Kambadais, Guilia Giacomino, Giovanna La Pietra, Andrea Izzo, and Josh Rodriguez; letters by Jeff Eckleberry; and the hardcover collection cover by Amanda Conner.

As the story begins, the public are aware of the Gargoyles’ existence following the events of the season 3 opener and “Clan-Building.” Meanwhile, the various New York gangs are preparing to go to war. Further complicating matters, Thailog, the evil clone of Goliath, makes plans with Sevarius to kidnap Maggie and Talon’s child. Goliath and NYPD Detective Elisa Maza find themselves under added scrutiny due to their working and personal relationships and connection to Talon. Meanwhile, Brooklyn and the other Gargoyles adapt to Brooklyn’s added experience from when he was timedancing. He finds himself thrust into the position of leadership after the gang war lands Goliath in prison. These events set up the public’s acceptance of the Gargoyles in subsequent issues, part of the larger narrative that Weisman is building in this sequel series and the prequel series, Dark Ages.

Having Conner illustrate the hardcover collection is an especially nice touch given her work on the 1990s Marvel comics, which are fun even if they’re not considered canon (Weisman himself acknowledges this in his introduction to this volume). They don’t contradict the show, so they may as well be enjoyed just the same as the first two seasons. Further, Conner’s style is perfect for people and Gargoyles alike. The story works as a reintroduction for fans as more than a decade passed since the last official Gargoyles continuation. It reminds them of what made the series such a source of joy while pointing the way towards a future. ( )