Review: Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 9 #6

On Your Own

Words: Andrew Chambliss

Pencils: Georges Jeanty

Covers: Phil Noto/Georges Jeanty with Dexter Vines

Published by: Dark Horse Comics

In its sixth issue Buffy Season 9 begins a new story arc to follow on from the unexpected events of last month’s issue. Struggling to come to terms with her unexpected pregnancy and the question of how she should deal with it, Buffy turns to former Sunnydale High principal Robin Wood for advice. The son of a slayer, Wood is in the best position to tell Buffy what it’s like to grow up the child of the Chosen One…

After reading issue five last month I felt a sense of growing dismay at how events were unfolding. Although part of me remained convinced that Buffy’s pregnancy was of mystical or demon origin and there would never actually be a baby, part of me was very nervous about the ramifications for the series if the pregnancy turned out to be genuine. However, I’m beginning to feel after reading this issue that I have judged the writers unfairly. This is a sensitive and complex issue that will have to be written with care and thought, no matter what happens, but I think the creative team are up to the challenge. This series is poised now on the verge of a big step: Will Buffy go ahead with the pregnancy? Will she decide to adopt or terminate? The slayer now faces possibly her most difficult decision of all.

Georges Jeanty is back this month on pencils after taking a break last issue. Given the subject matter dealt with here I found the limitations of character expression in his work somewhat disappointing. Phil Noto provides cover art that might at first seem out of place on this issue but after reading makes total sense and underscores the complex reality of Buffy’s life.

This makes me look forward to next month and seeing how things play out for Buffy. 7/10

Bernice Watson