Teether: The Big Bite by David Hutchison (Antarctic Press) delivers a chilling, blood-soaked tale across its four issues (released between 2017-20). Set in the small town of Carol Hill, Indiana, the story follows Dillon Brown, who befriends new transfer student Lilly Quist. But when the grisly remains of local kids surface, Dillon begins to suspect Lilly harbors a dark, horrifying secret. What starts as a friendship quickly unravels into a battle against an ancient, insatiable hunger—manifested in the form of a seemingly innocent 10-year-old girl. This series blends visceral horror with hauntingly detailed art for a truly unforgettable read.

Story:

The story is a solid and chilling addition to the horror genre. The pacing is excellent, with the violence and stakes steadily escalating as the story unfolds. Fans of eldritch horror will appreciate the unsettling tone and creeping dread that permeates the narrative. The characters are well-crafted, and the group of preteens feels refreshingly authentic—they act and speak like real kids, which grounds the story in a sense of realism amid the horror. Lilly Quist is undoubtedly the star, stealing every scene with her dual role as both victim and villain. While her backstory could have been clearer, her character exudes a haunting presence that keeps you hooked. Overall, this is a blood-soaked, tension-filled tale that fans of gore and eldritch horror won’t want to miss.

While the story doesn’t allow for much character development, the dynamic between Dillon and Lilly serves as a strong emotional anchor. Dillon’s desperation to save his friend and Lilly’s internal struggle as both victim and villain create compelling tension. Dove is another standout character—brutal and unrelenting—adding to the chaos and carnage. The story also explores deeper themes, such as the idea that humans can be just as monstrous as the supernatural threats, as seen with Dillon’s friends. While the narrative feels complete, an additional issue or two could have further enriched the characters and world.

Rating: 3 out of 5

Production:

Teether: The Big Bite by David Hutchison is a gripping dive into small-town horror that scratches that familiar itch for fans of dark, claustrophobic tales. Hutchison’s writing is solid, effectively capturing the eerie tone of a town overwhelmed by unimaginable terror. The dialogue feels natural, particularly for the group of preteens, giving the story a hint of a Stranger Things aesthetic—though this tale is far bloodier and darker. The pacing is well-managed, with the story ramping up its violence and intensity at just the right moments.

The art, however, is the true standout. Hutchison’s style perfectly complements the grim atmosphere, with detailed character designs and richly textured backgrounds. The blood and gore are unapologetically brutal, emphasizing the savagery of the kills, while Lilly’s diverse and grotesque transformations keep the horror fresh and unsettling. The paneling is clean and purposeful, guiding the reader through the chaos with ease and enhancing the storytelling flow. The shading and coloring further heighten the mood, drawing out the story’s dark undertones.

Rating: 4 out of 5

The Verdict:

In the end, Teether: The Big Bite delivers a chilling, gore-filled journey into small-town horror. Its strengths lie in its solid pacing, visceral violence, and haunting art that amplifies the story’s grim tone. The authentic dialogue and believable preteen dynamics ground the supernatural terror, while Lilly Quist’s dual role as both victim and villain creates compelling tension. However, the limited character development and slightly unclear backstory for Lilly leave room for more depth. Despite these minor flaws, the series offers a memorable blend of eldritch horror and relentless brutality. Teether: The Big Bite gets 3 out of 5.