Postal (comics)

Postal is a comic book series that debuted in 2015, created by Matt Hawkins and Bryan Hill, with art by Isaac Goodhart. The series is published by Top Cow Productions and has been noted for its unique blend of crime, drama, and mystery elements, set against the backdrop of a small town with a dark secret.

Plot

The story of Postal revolves around the fictional town of Eden, Wyoming. Eden is a unique place, serving as a sanctuary for people with a criminal past looking for a second chance at life. The town is governed by a strict set of rules designed to keep its inhabitants in line and the outside world oblivious to its existence. The protagonist of the series is Mark Shiffron, the postman of Eden, who has Asperger's syndrome. Mark's mother, Laura Shiffron, is the town's mayor and enforces its rules with an iron fist. The narrative explores Mark's journey as he uncovers the town's secrets and confronts its morally ambiguous inhabitants, all while dealing with his personal challenges.

Characters

• Mark Shiffron: The central character of the series, Mark is Eden's postman and has a unique perspective on the town due to his Asperger's syndrome.
• Laura Shiffron: Mark's mother and the mayor of Eden. She is a powerful and often ruthless leader who is dedicated to maintaining the town's secrecy and order.
• Maggie: A skilled forensic pathologist who becomes Mark's love interest. She plays a crucial role in helping him solve the town's mysteries.

Themes

Postal delves into themes of redemption, morality, and the nature of evil. The series challenges the notion of whether people can truly change and what it means to seek forgiveness. It also explores the complexities of family dynamics and the struggle for power within a closed community.

Reception

The series has been praised for its compelling storytelling, complex characters, and the way it tackles heavy themes. Isaac Goodhart's artwork has also received acclaim for its detailed depiction of Eden and its inhabitants. Postal has garnered a dedicated fan base and has been considered a standout title in the crime and mystery genres within the comic book industry.

Publication

Since its launch, Postal has been collected into several trade paperback volumes, making it accessible to a broad audience. The series has also spawned a few spin-offs and one-shots, expanding the universe of Eden and exploring the backgrounds of its key characters.