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Zubby Newsletter #120: Eye of the Storm

Posted by Jim Zub on July 22, 2025 No comments

Here I am again, luggage packed before I fly to San Diego for Comic Con and then immediately head to Gen Con in Indianapolis – a five day show and then a four day show – the infamous Nerd Prom Twin Terror™©. As ridiculous as that will be, I’m also pretty damn excited. After being home for the past four and a half weeks busting away on writing deadlines I’m looking forward to seeing industry friends and celebrating another year making comics. Even after all these years, it’s hard to believe this is my job.

I had an industry pro reach out this morning to let me know that this would be their first SDCC and ask for advice. At first I wasn’t sure what to suggest, and then next thing I knew I’d sent them a list of industry parties, meet-up spots, food recommendations, great vendors, and places to escape the hustle-bustle. I don’t know exactly when I became a veteran of these Comic-Con-flicts, but it’s happened, so I’m heading into SDCC 2025 with a sense of zen about it all – The show will be a whirlwind and I’ll try to be the calm eye of the storm.

Obviously the consistency of Conan helps bolster my confidence. Keeping this Hyborian adventure going and commemorating another year on the series with our team is going to be wonderful.

Zub at SDCC 2025

When I’m not doing panels, signings or meetings, I’ll be at Artist Alley Table GG-07 with the Comic Sketch Art team.

In a separate post on my website there is an extensive rundown – panel details, show-exclusive variant covers, giveaways and more. I’ll be sure to keep that post up to date in case anything changes.

The Big 25 Arrives in October

CONAN THE BARBARIAN #25, arriving in October, is going to be extra-special – a 48-page issue fully painted by Alex Horley! Solicits and preview pages are making the rounds and it’s so nice to be able to show people some of the jaw-dropping work I’ve been staring in awe at since Alex and I started working on this epic back in September of last year.

This issue is my first King Conan story, it’s a self-contained adventure, and it’s a fist-pumping sword-swinging celebration of our series – past, present, and future. Make sure you pre-order, if you haven’t already!

And just as a reminder – Conan the Barbarian will keep going after issue #25! I know a lot of current comic series seem to be getting cancelled or constantly relaunched, but we are going strong and our latest issues have defied typical attrition patterns and are going up in sales. There are many more adventures to come as long as readers and retailers keep supporting the series the way they have so far.

Pre-SDCC Stream With Near Mint

I was a guest on the Near Mint Condition livestream, and chatted with Omar all about how Conan the Barbarian is going, San Diego Comic Con memories, answering online questions, screen sharing old photos and artwork, and a whole lot more. It was a ton of fun, so please check it out!

Writing and Role-Play

I spoke to Anton Kromoff at Comicon.com all about the writing process for Conan the Barbarian – research, collaboration, role-play and more. It covers quite a bit, so check it out!

Current + Upcoming Releases

Conan the Barbarian #21 – released June 11th.

Savage Sword of Conan vol. 2 – released June 17th.

Conan the Barbarian #22 – released July 9th.

Conan the Barbarian #23 – releases August 13th.

Conan the Barbarian vol. 5: Twisting Loyalties – releases August 20th.

Swords & Larceny – releases September 2nd.

Savage Sword of Conan #10 – releases September 3rd.

Conan the Barbarian vol.1-3 Slipcase Set – releases September 10th.

Predator: Black, White & Blood #3 – releases September 10th.

Conan the Barbarian #24 – releases September 10th.

Conan the Barbarian vol. 1: Bound in Black Stone Deluxe HC – releases September 16th.

Conan: Scourge of the Serpent #1 – releases September 24th.

Upcoming Appearances

Thrilled to announce that I’m a special guest at this year’s Thought Bubble Comic Festival in Harrogate, happening right after my stint at D&D in a Castle.

Jul 23-27, 2025	San Diego Comic Con – Table GG-07	San Diego, CA, USA
Jul 31-Aug 3, 2025	Gen Con Indy – Booth 1349	Indianapolis, IN, USA
Aug 13-17, 2025	World Con	Seattle, WA, USA
Aug 21-24, 2025	Fan Expo Canada	Toronto, ON, CANADA
Aug 28-Sep 1, 2025	Dragon Con	Atlanta, GA, USA
Sep 27-28, 2025	Chattanooga Comic Con	Chattanooga, TN, USA
Oct 16-19, 2025	Gamehole Con XII	Madison, WI, USA
Nov 3-14, 2025	D&D in a Castle	Newcastle, UK
Nov 15-16, 2025	Thought Bubble	Harrogate, UK

Zubby Newsletter #119: Super Saturday

Posted by Jim Zub on July 14, 2025 1 comment

*The theater didn’t have a Superman set-up in the lobby, so we just snapped a quick photo outside.*

Saw SUPERMAN on Saturday with Stacy and my Father-in-law.

No spoilers!

I thought it was an absolute blast and a much-needed shot in the arm to both the DC Universe and superhero films in general. There is a ton happening, but the plot and emotional throughline manages to hold it all together. Really impressive.

The movie leans into some Silver Age Superman comic trappings and gives you the feeling you’ve been dropped into the midst of a larger world and ongoing story, but not in a way I found confusing. If anything, it reminded me of being a kid and picking up a random issue of a superhero comic. I didn’t need to know every facet of every character’s back story to quickly understand their current motivations and get pulled into the unfolding drama and action happening on the page. With that in mind, the film wisely sprinted past retelling Superman’s origin story for the umpteenth time and instead dove into broader ideas around responsibility, heroism, and humanity. The heightened classic comic elements are unabashedly up there on the screen but the film still manages to ground them with just enough ‘now’ that it felt contemporary yet idealistic, hopeful but not naive. It’s one hell of a high wire act, narratively speaking.

Is it perfect? Of course not. With so much going on, some elements were glossed over that I would have preferred to see receive more focus and the final act leaves some questions that, if not answered in future films, could become jarring plot holes, but on the whole Superman delivered far beyond my expectations. Kudos to the movie team and congrats to so many of my friends doing wonderful work at DC right now. I really hope the movie’s success creates a powerful and much-deserved ripple effect on the publishing line.

A Quick Hunt in September

The solicit has dropped so now I can reveal I have a story in PREDATOR: BLACK, WHITE & BLOOD #3 arriving in September!

It’s my first time playing in the 20th Century Fox sandbox. A short story this time, but hopefully there will be more to come.

Having a Blast

CONAN THE BARBARIAN #22 really hit the spot with our readers. We received a torrent of positive feedback and top notch reviews.

I know I sound like a broken record, but THANK YOU for the support, buying each issue and telling others that we earn that cover price each and every month.

I genuinely believe that CONAN THE BARBARIAN #23 (in stores August 13th) is Fernando’s best issue yet, with absolutely jaw-dropping visuals that are going to knock you OUT. I don’t want to spoil the action, so here’s a tiny teaser of our Cimmerian struggling against – well, that would be telling now wouldn’t it? 😉

*CONAN THE BARBARIAN #23 art by Fernando Dagnino. Colors by Diego Rodriguez.*

The Final Diamond Previews

Speaking of CONAN THE BARBARIAN #23, the cover art for that issue by the always-amazing Dan Panosian graces the cover of what will apparently be the last issue of the Diamond Previews catalogue.

When Conan the Barbarian #1 was featured on the cover in April 2023, it meant we were a highly anticipated launch in a jam-packed catalogue. Two years later, it feels weird to be cover featured again as publishers flee and Diamond ignobly burns to the ground, damaging the industry it once dominated.

Publishers screwed over with millions of dollars of product being liquidated without their permission. Retailers left in the dark and scrambling to find new solutions to keep their shelves stocked. So many people thought that without Diamond there wouldn’t be a North American comic industry, but now it feels like dead weight that has to be cut loose to get somewhere/anywhere better.

Still a Few Seats Left!

I’m Dungeon Mastering a double dose of D&D in a Castle this Fall. My November 3-7 table is SOLD OUT, but there are a few seats left for the November 10-14 campaign, so snap those up if you want a memorable tabletop adventure in a lavish setting, jam-packed with fun and camaraderie.

After DMing at the castle for my first time last year, I wrote an extensive newsletter all about it you can read up on right HERE.

Current + Upcoming Releases

Conan the Barbarian #21 – released June 11th.

Savage Sword of Conan vol. 2 – released June 17th.

Conan the Barbarian #22 – released July 9th.

Conan the Barbarian #23 – releases August 13th.

Conan the Barbarian vol. 5: Twisting Loyalties – releases August 20th.

Swords & Larceny – releases September 2nd.

Savage Sword of Conan #10 – releases September 3rd.

Conan the Barbarian vol.1-3 Slipcase Set – releases September 10th.

Predator: Black, White & Blood #3 – releases September 10th.

Conan the Barbarian #24 – releases September 10th.

Conan the Barbarian vol. 1: Bound in Black Stone Deluxe HC – releases September 16th.

Conan: Scourge of the Serpent #1 – releases September 24th.

Upcoming Appearances

Fan Expo Canada here in Toronto has finally been confirmed, which means late July through August is going to be a wild one for Zub events – 5 shows in 6 weeks.

Jul 23-27, 2025	San Diego Comic Con	San Diego, CA, USA
Jul 31-Aug 3, 2025	Gen Con Indy – Booth 1349	Indianapolis, IN, USA
Aug 13-17, 2025	World Con	Seattle, WA, USA
Aug 21-24, 2025	Fan Expo Canada	Toronto, ON, CANADA
Aug 28-Sep 1, 2025	Dragon Con	Atlanta, GA, USA
Sep 27-28, 2025	Chattanooga Comic Con	Chattanooga, TN, USA
Oct 16-19, 2025	Gamehole Con XII	Madison, WI, USA
Nov 3-14, 2025	D&D in a Castle	Castle Lumley, Newcastle, UK

Zubby Newsletter #118: Home Body

Posted by Jim Zub on July 4, 2025 No comments

**Conan the Barbarian #22** artwork by Fernando Dagnino and Diego Rodriguez.

It’s nice to be home and enjoy some summertime weather here in Toronto, even if the humidity can be intense at times.

In my studio I’ve been knocking down writing deadlines, working to deliver all my July and August deliverables this month so I won’t have to write much on the road when I start sprinting through five events in six weeks from late July through to the end of August.

Next week sees the release of CONAN THE BARBARIAN #22, the second part of our Nest of Serpents story arc that ties into the Scourge of the Serpent event happening this Fall. With each issue I think Fernando Dagnino‘s already amazing artwork improves, which is really something to see, especially when it’s enhanced by Diego Rodriguez‘s top-notch coloring.

A Boxing Story This September

Here’s a sneak peek from the SAILOR STEVE COSTIGAN story coming in Savage Sword of Conan #10 (in stores in September, so pre-order now).

Rob De La Torre‘s black & white art is a dream and I’m having the best time channeling Robert E. Howard‘s punchy pulpy narrative style.

Still a Few Seats Left!

B. Dave Walters gets interviewed at the summer session of D&D in a Castle and, as expected, has some great insights into why this deluxe vacation gaming experience works so well.

After DMing at the castle for my first time last year, I wrote an extensive newsletter all about it you can read up on right HERE.

More Industry Insights at NRI

The second half of my interview with the NRI podcast covers practical advice I’ve learned over years of creating comics and attending conventions, the pitfalls of AI, networking, and more.

Before We Go

Daniel Meyer at the Before We Go Blog interviewed me about working on Conan the Barbarian – influences, thought processes, and more.

Current + Upcoming Releases

Conan the Barbarian #21 – released June 11th.

Savage Sword of Conan vol. 2 – released June 17th.

Conan the Barbarian #22 – releases July 9th.

Conan the Barbarian #23 – releases August 13th.

Conan the Barbarian vol. 5: Twisting Loyalties – releases August 20th.

Swords & Larceny – releases September 2nd.

Savage Sword of Conan #10 – releases September 3rd.

Conan the Barbarian vol.1-3 Slipcase Set – releases September 10th.

Conan the Barbarian #24 – releases September 10th.

Conan the Barbarian vol. 1: Bound in Black Stone Deluxe HC – releases September 16th.

Conan: Scourge of the Serpent #1 – releases September 24th.

Upcoming Appearances

Dragon Con in Atlanta, Georgia has been added to my list to cap off the summer convention season and there are a couple more event announcements in the coming weeks.

Jul 23-27, 2025	San Diego Comic Con	San Diego, CA, USA
Jul 31-Aug 3, 2025	Gen Con Indy – Booth 1349	Indianapolis, IN, USA
Aug 13-17, 2025	World Con	Seattle, WA, USA
Aug 28-Sep 1, 2025	Dragon Con	Atlanta, GA, USA
Sep 27-28, 2025	Chattanooga Comic Con	Chattanooga, TN, USA
Oct 16-19, 2025	Gamehole Con XII	Madison, WI, USA
Nov 3-14, 2025	D&D in a Castle	Castle Lumley, Newcastle, UK

A Quick Cut To Save Some Money

Adulthood is getting excited about grocery store deals. This boneless pork loin was $2 per pound ($4.41 per kg)! Here’s some Chez Zub’s food and freezer prep-

In my early 20’s, I worked as a butcher’s assistant for a summer, so I already knew how to break down sections of meat, but there are lots of videos online showing how easy it is and the savings can be substantial.

I broke the loin down into:
• dinner cuts for the grill
• thicker cuts for tonkatsu
• cubed meat trimmings for stir fry
• extra fat trimmings I’ll render down to use for cooking

Stacy and I will probably get eight meals out of that $13 worth of meat, and the whole prep process took about 15 minutes.

Zubby Newsletter #117: Ten Day Tornado

Posted by Jim Zub on June 23, 2025 No comments

My luggage is packed and I’m finally ready to fly home after 10 days and 3 events that took me from Las Vegas to Columbus, Ohio, and back to Vegas again. It’s been a ridiculous and amazing time, but I’ve gotta get back to Toronto and slow this merry-go-round for a bit before the next crash of conventions hits in late July.

*With Erik and Josh in Vegas at the Glass Cannon 10 Year Celebration*

The Glass Cannon 10 year celebration in Vegas was an absolute blast. Around 100 fans stayed at the Linq Hotel and gamed up a storm with members of the Glass Cannon Network and cast members from various liveplays they’ve done over the past decade. I game mastered three sessions on the schedule and added a last minute pick up game when there was a ton of interest in the Mothership RPG.

In between those sessions and a killer blast of karaoke, I hung out a lot with Erik Mona and Josh Dinges, doing our best to avoid the absolute scorching heat that hit the Vegas strip that weekend.

*Unexpectedly with Zack and Miyuki in Vegas*

On the Monday after that wrapped up, I had a day and a half of downtime where I did a bit of work and then wandered Vegas, people watching and rolling story ideas around in my head. I thought I was going to have a quiet night, but discovered that Zack Davisson (who newsletter readers will probably know from the cultural essays in Wayward or his current work on Ultimate X-Men) and his wife Miyuki were also in Vegas at the same time, celebrating their wedding anniversary. Ten minutes after I saw his “Wait, you’re in Vegas?!” message, we met up and had a great little visit that capped off Vegas Part 1 quite well.

From there I flew to Columbus for the Origins Game Fair, one of the biggest and longest running tabletop game conventions in North America (50 years and still going strong). Jim Demonakos (founder of Emerald City Comic Con and the Lightbox Expo) and I had business stuff there but managed to work in some gaming and social time as well, which was great.

When I went back to check my photos I was shocked to realize it had been literally 20 years since I’d last attended Origins. The show had been formative to me near the start of my comic + gaming career, solidifying my spot at the UDON studio when I met a bunch of art directors and editors and brought in a slew of extra TTRPG work for the UDON artists. Dizzying to think how quickly that time has gone by.

*With Nareesa and Zeshan at Origins 2025.*

Also at Origins this year were Nareesa and Zeshan, two of my players from D&D in a Castle back in November! It was heartwarming seeing them again and waxing nostalgic about our time at the castle. They were instrumental in me quickly getting the lay of the land at Origins this year and their enthusiasm was infectious.

*With Kandrix and Lindsay back in Vegas, wrapping it all up.*

Finally, I ricocheted back to Vegas to check in at MagicCon, a huge Magic the Gathering event, and spend time with my dear friends Kandrix and Lindsay. They’re foodies and basketball fans, so we hit up quite a few of their favorite restaurants and took in a WNBA game before finally getting to NOW.

*whew*

These friendships, personal or professional, are at the heart of all these amazing experiences and opportunities, and I cannot believe how many there have been so far in 2025, only halfway through the year.

Good fun and great food, but I’m extra-ready to return to Toronto, hug Stacy tight, and hunker down at home for the next month.

The Scourge Begins in September!

Cimmerian September brings the busiest Conan month since we relaunched the series at Titan almost two years ago!

I have three new releases – CONAN: SCOURGE OF THE SERPENT #1, CONAN THE BARBARIAN #24, and SAVAGE SWORD OF CONAN #10, plus a deluxe oversized hardcover collection of the first story arc in the relaunch, BOUND IN BLACK STONE. So many incredible covers and interior artwork that’s just as strong.

It’s a big bold release month jam-packed with the best action and adventure in the business and I hope you’re following along.

Talking at Titan HQ

Speaking of the Cimmerian, when I was at the Titan Books office last month, Chief Stride and I recorded a quick interview discussing the amazing Conan stuff coming up. Give it a watch for some more details on Scourge of the Serpent and our special 25th issue of Conan the Barbarian.

In Depth With NRI

I was a guest on the NRI Podcast, chatting at length about my career, writing comics, working on iconic characters, conventions and a whole lot more.

Current + Upcoming Releases

FCBD Conan: Scourge of the Serpent – Prelude – released May 3rd.

Conan the Barbarian #21 – released June 11th.

Savage Sword of Conan vol. 2 – released June 17th.

Street Fighter Masters: Elena one-shot – releases June 25th.

Conan the Barbarian #22 – releases July 9th.

Conan the Barbarian #23 – releases August 13th.

Conan the Barbarian vol. 5: Twisting Loyalties – releases August 20th.

Upcoming Appearances

A few eagle-eyed readers caught my name on the Worldcon panelist list. It’s true – Stacy and I are heading to Seattle in August for World Con, our first time attending one of the longest running science fiction and fantasy conventions! More details as we get closer to the dates.

Jun 28, 2025	Gotham Central – Signing Noon-2pm	Toronto, ON, CANADA
Jul 23-27, 2025	San Diego Comic Con	San Diego, CA, USA
Jul 31-Aug 3, 2025	Gen Con Indy – Booth 1349	Indianapolis, IN, USA
Aug 13-17, 2025	World Con	Seattle, WA, USA
Sep 27-28, 2025	Chattanooga Comic Con	Chattanooga, TN, USA
Oct 16-19, 2025	Gamehole Con XII	Madison, WI, USA
Nov 3-14, 2025	D&D in a Castle	Castle Lumley, Newcastle, UK

Howard Days Links

While I was bouncing between events, Robert E. Howard Days happened in Cross Plains, Texas. I wasn’t able to make it to the event this year, but it was heartwarming to see and hear how well it all went:

• Scholar Jeff Shanks did a tight 3-part series showing Howard Days highlights – Part 1 – Part 2 – Part 3

• Stygian Dogs has a couple great Howard Days videos on his channel, including extensive interviews and a casual wind down.

• Lion from the Sword & Sorcery Book Club gives a rundown on Robert E. Howard Days 2025, including little interviews with visitors.

• Sean Korsgaard recorded the ‘What’s Up With REH?’ panel from the event and has uploaded it to YouTube.

Next year is the 40th anniversary of Howard Days, so I expect it’ll be the biggest one yet. Pencil it on your calendar and I hope to see you there!
Jim

Zubby Newsletter #116: Slay Those Snakes

Posted by Jim Zub on June 10, 2025 1 comment

Another burst of writing work and errands getting done before I fly to Las Vegas on Thursday for the Glass Cannon celebration, where I’ll be running sessions of Conan: The Hyborian Age, Mothership, and Shadowdark alongside an all-star crew of glorious gamers. It’s go time in the summertime!

*A sample of interior art from CONAN THE BARBARIAN #21.*

This week, CONAN THE BARBARIAN #21 finally arrives in stores, kicking off a new story arc that will take our hero to the heart of Stygia and set him against the forces of the Great Serpent!

Fernando Dagnino and Diego Rodriguez deliver stellar artwork, the action is intense, and the world’s biggest and best sword & sorcery hero is ready to slay some snakes!

I was thrilled to hear that sales on issues #21 are up from previous issues, defying the typical sales attrition most series have. We’re picking up new monthly readers 20+ issues deep into the run while changing distributors, which is a testament to good word of mouth and retailer support!

Here’s the new Skullkickers cover art by Edwin Huang!

SKULLKICKERS Returns As “Compact Attack Editions” at Oni Press!

After the Zoop campaign wrapped up I mentioned we’d have more exciting Skullkickers announcements coming, and here we are – The new Skullkickers compact editions will be available everywhere in Spring 2026 thanks to Oni Press!

Here’s the press release:

The Harvey Award-Nominated Sword-and-Sorcery Sensation Arrives in Digest Form in Spring 2026!

Oni Press is proud to invite you back into the world of SKULLKICKERS in all-new, compact digest format recollecting the entirety of Jim Zub (Dungeons & Dragons, Conan the Barbarian) and Edwin Huang’s (Street Fighter) beloved, Harvey Award-nominated fantasy-action sensation! Presenting the entirety of the series’ acclaimed 34-issue run across three, 5.5 x 8.5 digest volumes arriving in stores in spring 2026, the all-new SKULLKICKERS: COMPACT ATTACK EDITIONS from Oni Press are the perfect bingeable format for the busy paladin on the go – or new readers who want to discover the landmark, RPG-inspired series that Publishers’ Weekly calls “bombastic chaos…[like] a sword and sorcery buddy movie”!

If you love swords, sassery, and a touch of black-hearted violence, then SKULLKICKERS is the book for you! A trio of hard-headed mercenaries kill monsters and cause havoc in their endless search for money, fame, and adventure from the lauded and ludicrous team of Jim Zub and Edwin Huang—now in a book-friendly perfect format!

“When Skullkickers was originally published in 2010, fantasy comics and D&D culture were a glimmer compared to the glittering pop culture explosion we’ve seen since then and we were 6 years from Deadpool’s fourth wall-breaking antics on the big screen,” said Zub. “Skullkickers was ‘Deadpool by way of D&D’ before that was even a thing. Skullkickers knew that sword & sorcery storytelling was amazing and ridiculous, because it’s always been amazing and ridiculous.”

“Without Skullkickers, I wouldn’t have worked on Pathfinder, Samurai Jack, Dungeons & Dragons, Conan the Barbarian, and a dozen other titles,” continued Zub. “It’s the mischievous magic spell that changed my life, and I’m so proud of what the book was and is. Now, partnering with Oni and their killer new compact publishing line, we can grab a whole new generation of comic collectors, sword and sorcery stalwarts, RPG advocates, and manga maniacs. LET’S KICK SKULLS!”

“With all of its trademark style, swagger, and humor, SKULLKICKERS was one of the upstart series that redefined the metrics of how independent comics looked, sounded, and felt in the 2010s – throwing forward a ton of energy and momentum that still resounds with readers today,” said Oni Press President & Publisher Hunter Gorinson. “It’s an immense honor to bring Jim and Edwin’s much beloved and wildly acclaimed series to Oni Press in an all-new format for a brand-new generation of readers. For anyone who loves comics, fantasy, or role-playing games, this is one of the definitive series of the past decade that needs to be on your shelf.”

SKULLKICKERS: COMPACT ATTACK EDITION – VOLUME 1
Collects issues #1–11
On sale February 18th, 2026

SKULLKICKERS: COMPACT ATTACK EDITION – VOLUME 2
Collects issues #12–23
On sale March 18th, 2028

SKULLKICKERS: COMPACT ATTACK EDITION – VOLUME 3
Collects issues #24-34
On sale April 22nd, 2026

An Icon In Unexpected Places

Colorist Jão Canola (who colored Conan: Battle of the Black Stone and is currently working on Scourge of the Serpent) sent our creative team an anecdote this week and it was so great I asked him if it was okay to share it here in my newsletter. Enjoy!

I needed to make some changes to my office and called an electrician. I was coloring Conan pages while he was working, and I noticed he was curious as he asked me “What are you doing?”

I explained that I work on comic books, that I’m a colorist, and I explained the process of creating a comic.

His eyes lit up! He couldn’t believe someone from Jaú (where I live) works on Conan, and he told me his story with the character. He is currently 61 years old. He discovered Conan in the 80s, and at the time he and a friend would take turns buying the magazine: one month he would buy it, the next month his friend would buy it. The magazines would stay at his friend’s house because his father wouldn’t let him have comics at home.

So, I gave him the collection with all four issues of Conan: Battle of the Black Stone as a gift, and he went home very happy.

A few weeks later, he came back to finish the job. I asked if he liked the magazine, and at that very moment, I remembered it was in English. I’d completely forgotten about that when I gave him the gift. But that’s where the coolest part of the story comes in. 🙂

“I loved it! I had a lot of fun. On Sunday, I woke up very early, turned on the radio with the music really low, opened a Coke and read the magazine.”

“Do you read English?” I asked.

“No, but I understood everything perfectly from the pictures. The artist is very good! I was able to understand.”

Then, he told me his version of the story. Obviously, it wasn’t exactly the story we made — he imagined several different things. But, Jim, I’m sorry – his version was so cool to him that I just agreed…I didn’t have the courage to correct him!

And that’s it. Conan is an icon. A 61-year-old man remembered his adolescence and, even without knowing English, really enjoyed our work. He thought it was incredible that someone from his own city works on this. That’s what comic books are all about, right? I’m so grateful to work in comics with such cool people like all of you.

Pop Culture Philosophers Talks Conan 1982

Last night, I was on the Pop Culture Philosopher’s livestream movie review of CONAN THE BARBARIAN from 1982 and we dove into all kinds of aspects of the film and had lots of laughs.

Thanks to Rockin’ Robbie Billz for bringing me on board!

Current + Upcoming Releases

Conan: Battle of the Black Stone TPB – released April 1st.

Rick and Morty VS Cthulhu – Deluxe Edition – released April 1st.

Conan the Barbarian #20 – released April 16th.

FCBD Conan: Scourge of the Serpent – Prelude – released May 3rd.

Conan the Barbarian #21 – releases June 11th.

Savage Sword of Conan vol. 2 – releases June 17th.

Street Fighter Masters: Elena one-shot – releases June 25th.

Conan the Barbarian #22 – releases July 9th.

Conan the Barbarian #23 – releases August 13th.

Conan the Barbarian vol. 5: Twisting Loyalties – releases August 20th.

Upcoming Appearances

A last minute opportunity to attend the 50th anniversary of the Origins Game Fair in Columbus came my way, so I’ll be attending the GAMA Trade Day on Wednesday and then wandering Origins and taking meetings on Thursday and Friday! If you’re headed to Origins, feel free to reach out as I haven’t been to the show in twenty years, and I’m eager to see people there and also see what’s changed over the years.

Other events added to my schedule: Signing at Gotham Central Comics in Mississauga on June 28th and confirmation that I will be back at San Diego Comic Con in late July!

Jun 12-15, 2025	Glass Cannon Retreat	Las Vegas, NV, USA
Jun 18-20, 2025	Origins Game Fair	Columbus, OH, USA
Jun 28, 2025	Gotham Central – Signing Noon-2pm	Toronto, ON, CANADA
Jul 23-Jul 27, 2025	San Diego Comic Con	San Diego, CA, USA
Jul 31-Aug 3, 2025	Gen Con Indy – Booth 1349	Indianapolis, IN, USA
Sep 27-28, 2025	Chattanooga Comic Con	Chattanooga, TN, USA
Oct 16-19, 2025	Gamehole Con XII	Madison, WI, USA
Nov 3-14, 2025	D&D in a Castle	Castle Lumley, Newcastle, UK

Zubby Newsletter #115: Sprinting Through Spain

Posted by Jim Zub on June 2, 2025 No comments

*After our signing at Arte 9 in Madrid. From left: Alberto Alburquerque, me, Fernando Dagnino, Ivan Gil.*

Stacy and I are at our hotel in Madrid, easing our way through the morning as we finish packing our luggage and then head to the airport. I wanted to send out a newsletter four days ago after we finished the London leg of it all, but it’s been too busy for me to carve out the time to get it done until now.

Man oh man, what a trip. MCM London Comic Con was bustling, the store signings I’ve done have been hopping, and there’s been a steady drumbeat of go-go-go punctuating almost every day. Even our ‘break’ days have been intense as we packed in visits with old friends and a couple business meetings as well. It wasn’t until yesterday, when we took a day trip to Segovia with Ivan Gil and his wife Luda, that things seemed to slow down enough to realize how quick it’s all been going.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s been really fun. Among the many highlights:

• Being set up at the convention between Mark Brooks and Stanley ‘Artgerm’ Lau, watching both of them absolutely crush it in terms of sketches for fans.

• Dinner with Sean Gordon Murphy and his crew, talking about broader industry trends and weathering the storm of publishing highs and lows.

• Catching up with Alex Trowers, Leanne and their amazing kids after the show wrapped up on Sunday.

• Wandering London with them, Gabrielle Kent, Satish and their little one, including a foray into the British Museum.

• A big pizza dinner with so many of our England friends, including the wonderful Rhianna Pratchett, to cap off our time in London.

• Stopping by the Titan Books office to discuss future Conan the Barbarian plans.

• Stacy and I gallery and museum’ed it up in both cities, with visits to the British National Gallery, the Prado, the Reina Sofia, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza museums. So much art, an overflowing blast of inspiration.

• Both signings in Madrid were amazing! So many Spanish readers came out and quite a few of them brought stacks of my books to sign. The staff at Arte 9 and Omega Center were so incredibly welcoming and stocked deep on titles as well.

• A bunch of Spanish comic creators came out for dinner after the Omega Center signing on Saturday, including my friend Pepe Larraz, who is the current artist of Amazing Spider-Man.

*Deep stock of Spanish language Zub comics at Omega Center.*

Getting face time with Spanish creators, especially the wonderful artists I’m currently working with, was incredibly special. As much as we all try to stay in touch, via email or Zoom, nothing can replace that in-person experience. We really are a creative team, and the stronger that bond can be, the better. I want my collaborators to know how much I value their efforts, month after month.

As tired as I feel sprinting through the past nine days, my mind is sparking with electricity because of the great interactions I’ve had with everyone here overseas. In a year already packed with amazing experiences, this trip has been an unexpected high point…

(…and we’ll be back in the UK again in November for a double dose of D&D in a Castle!)

Current + Upcoming Releases

Conan: Battle of the Black Stone TPB – released April 1st.

Rick and Morty VS Cthulhu – Deluxe Edition – released April 1st.

Conan the Barbarian #20 – released April 16th.

FCBD Conan: Scourge of the Serpent – Prelude – released May 3rd.

Conan the Barbarian #21 – releases June 11th.

Street Fighter Masters: Elena one-shot – releases June 25th.

Conan the Barbarian #22 – releases July 9th.

Upcoming Appearances

I’m a surprise guest at the Glass Cannon Retreat happening in Las Vegas in a couple weeks! I’ll be running TTRPG sessions and playing a few NPCs during the festivities and it’s going to be awesome.

June 12-15, 2025	Glass Cannon Retreat	Las Vegas, NV, USA
Jul 31-Aug 3, 2025	Gen Con Indy – Booth 1349	Indianapolis, IN, USA
Sep 27-28, 2025	Chattanooga Comic Con	Chattanooga, TN, USA
Oct 16-19, 2025	Gamehole Con XII	Madison, WI, USA
Nov 3-14, 2025	D&D in a Castle	Castle Lumley, Newcastle, UK

Zubby Newsletter #114: Forty Nine

Posted by Jim Zub on May 19, 2025 No comments

Yesterday was my birthday. 49.

A year ago, Stacy and I were in Japan. Two years ago, we were in England. Despite the excitement of being on the road for my birthday, it was nice to be home instead this time, even though we are sprinting to get ready for almost two weeks of travel starting in a couple days – off to England again and then Spain for the first time.

For this birthday we had a lazy Sunday with an ‘open house’ format. Friends stopped by to say “Hi”, we played some video games and board games, and then ordered in pizza for dinner. Nice and simple. A lot of people were away for the long weekend, but everyone who made it out brought a lot of good cheer.

There was some chatter about next year – what we might do for the big 5-0. Hard to say right now, but we certainly have more flexibility if we want to make a trip out of it.

It’s been a transformative year and shows no signs of slowing down. I am so incredibly thankful for family, friends, and even strangers reading here who care enough to stay on top of what I’m doing and offer kind words and support. Thank you!

Casual Conversation, Big Information

I was a guest on Gary B, the Casual Comic Guy’s livestream on Saturday, and it ended up being a surprisingly in-depth talk about my work on Conan the Barbarian loaded with info and anecdotes – What it’s like writing the character, working with so many amazing artists, trying to honor what’s come before while also building new things, and much more.

Edith Finch

Thanks to the power of Steam sales, I’ve been digging into a variety of older video games at bargain prices. Amongst several I recently picked up and enjoyed is What Remains of Edith Finch. Unlike many other titles I gravite towards, this one is not an action or strategy game at all, it’s an atmospheric first-person narrative with environments you explore packed with melancholy ambience as strange and somber stories of an odd family unfold before you.

Edith Finch can be ‘completed’ in less than three hours, but the way it’s told and the questions it raises stick around long after that play time is complete. It caught me at just the right time – I was in a contemplative mood in the lead up to my birthday and was thoroughly impressed with how polished and engaing this was. If you want a very different kind of gaming experience, a slow and deliberate journey that’s reflective and charming, I recommend adding it to your Wish List.

Current + Upcoming Releases

Conan: Battle of the Black Stone TPB – released April 1st.

Rick and Morty VS Cthulhu – Deluxe Edition – released April 1st.

Conan the Barbarian #20 – released April 16th.

FCBD Conan: Scourge of the Serpent – Prelude – released May 3rd.

Conan the Barbarian #21 – releases June 11th.

Street Fighter Masters: Elena one-shot – releases June 25th.

Conan the Barbarian #22 – releases July 9th.

Upcoming Appearances

Another signing has been added to our Spain trip so if you live near Madrid, or know any comic fans who do, please let them know. Gen Con Indianapolis is also now officially on the schedule for August.

Incredibly, a few more shows are getting finalized, so expect more appearance announcements coming up!

May 23-25, 2025	London MCM Comic Con	London, UK
May 26, 2025	Forbidden Planet – Signing 2-3pm	London, UK
May 30, 2025	Arte 9 – Signing 6:30-8pm	Madrid, SPAIN
May 31, 2025	Omega Center – Signing 7-8pm	Madrid, SPAIN
Jul 31-Aug 3, 2025	Gen Con Indy – Booth 1349	Indianapolis, IN, USA
Sep 27-28, 2025	Chattanooga Comic Con	Chattanooga, TN, USA
Oct 16-19, 2025	Gamehole Con XII	Madison, WI, USA
Nov 3-14, 2025	D&D in a Castle	Castle Lumley, Newcastle, UK

Zubby Newsletter #113: Free For Thee

Posted by Jim Zub on May 14, 2025 No comments

Last weekend, our neighborhood hosted a ‘Flee or Free’ event in one of the local parks, a chance to giveaway or sell stuff to the community. Stacy and I used it as motivation to clear out old and rarely used kitchen gadgets and cutlery, including some pots and plates I’d been carting around since college. Some of the stuff we gave away and that’s okay – better to have things being used by strangers over just taking up shelf or drawer space gathering dust. Getting to know people who live nearby and petting some happy dogs in the park was worth more than the few bucks we might have haggled for.

That concept of “Spring cleaning” is on my mind a lot lately, trying to clear out tired objects and unwanted thoughts kept well past their due date along with other old baggage and bad habits. I know how intense things will get as convention season really kicks into gear, so a bit of tidying up and reorganizing is good to keep in mind, inside and out.

Speaking of fine freebies, the 2025 CONAN THE BARBARIAN Free Comic Book Day issue is now FREE everywhere!

Grab the digital release on the Titan website and Kindle right HERE, so please share that link far and wide!

Poetry Reading

Savage Sword of Conan #8 arrived in stores two weeks ago and inside that issue I have a new poem, inspired by the Cimmerian and his brothers-in-arms. Like I did with the poem in issue #3, I did a short reading you can check out on my YouTube channel.

The Warriors & Wizards Compendium Arrives in November!

A new hardcover collection for the D&D Young Adventurer’s Guide series arrives in November-
The Warriors & Wizards Compendium!

Collecting and updating material from our character-centric volumes, it’s the perfect way to introduce new people to character creation and worlds of adventure!

Splash Pages

I was a guest on Splash Pages alongside four bombastic hosts, and we chatted all about sword & sorcery, gaming, and comics, including some deep cuts to projects I’ve almost never talked about before.

Current + Upcoming Releases

Conan the Barbarian #19 – released March 19th.

Conan: Battle of the Black Stone TPB – released April 1st.

Rick and Morty VS Cthulhu – Deluxe Edition – released April 1st.

Conan the Barbarian #20 – released April 16th.

FCBD Conan: Scourge of the Serpent – Prelude – released May 3rd.

Conan the Barbarian #21 – releases June 11th.

Street Fighter Masters: Elena one-shot – releases June 25th.

Conan the Barbarian #22 – releases July 9th.

Upcoming Appearances

I received news that my first table at D&D In a Castle in November is now SOLD OUT, but there are still a few seats available for group 2, happening from November 10-14. Find out more about what I’m planning for the game by watching this stream interview.

Despite my original plan to stay home through most of June, I’m talking about a couple exciting event possibilities – more details may be coming soon…

May 23-25, 2025	London MCM Comic Con	London, UK
May 26, 2025	Forbidden Planet – Signing 2-3pm	London, UK
May 31, 2025	Omega Center – Signing 7-8pm	Madrid, SPAIN
Jul 31-Aug 3, 2025	Gen Con Indy	Indianapolis, IN, USA
Sep 27-28, 2025	Chattanooga Comic Con	Chattanooga, TN, USA
Oct 16-19, 2025	Gamehole Con XII	Madison, WI, USA
Nov 3-14, 2025	D&D in a Castle	Castle Lumley, Newcastle, UK

Zubby Newsletter #112: Eyes Thrice Open

Posted by Jim Zub on May 5, 2025 No comments

*Free Comic Book Day 2025 at Third Eye.*

Two years ago, the new Conan the Barbarian series launched on Free Comic Book Day with our special promotional zero issue and I signed at Third Eye Comics in Annapolis, Maryland. This past weekend, I was back there again with a new FCBD issue as we rocket toward the third year of the series. Longtime friend Ray Fawkes, comic newcomer Jason Shaw, and I had a 3-hour whirlwind signing at the flagship store and easily signed over 800 books apiece. It was exhausting and invigorating. What a rush.

*With writers **Ray Fawkes** (The Phantom) and **Jason Shaw** (Snow Monkey).*

This was my fifth signing at Third Eye (wait, maybe my sixth – Is it good that I’m not sure?) and, each and every time, I leave with a warm feeling that, no matter how tumultuous publishing comics can be, things are going to be okay.

I’ve told many comic professionals this, but it’s well worth repeating as loud and wide as possible – If there was a shop like Third Eye Comics in every state in the U.S., the North American comic book industry would be in a completely different place – a much better place.

What Steve and Trish have managed to accomplish over the past 17 years is absolutely incredible. They have taken the buzz around pop culture – comics, superheroes, anime, manga, games, music, horror, sci-fi, alt culture – and built incredibly well curated stores that celebrate and sell on a scale I have rarely seen before. Most importantly, their staff are knowledgeable, friendly, exuberant, patient, motivated, and – wait for it – well taken care of (solid base pay, health insurance, retirement benefits) and in turn they deliver a customer experience that is top tier. That, in turn, has built a phenomenally loyal customer base that trusts their recommendations and comes out in droves for their events. It’s the kind of vibrant pop culture ecosystem that people in this business dream about, located a short drive from Baltimore and Washington DC.

Hardcore collectors, casual readers, and kids are all well served. Whatever you are into, Third Eye has it – stocked deep and sold with a sincere smile. Until you see it, it’s hard to describe.

Comic publishers, distributors, and other retailers could learn a hell of a lot from those people and their stores. I learn something new about this business every single time I visit, and you can bet I’ll be back whenever they want me there to promote my work.

Want a Signed Copy?

Speaking of well stocked, Third Eye has a limited number of extra signed copies of the CONAN: SCOURGE OF THE SERPENT Prelude and PHANTOM #0 set aside for people who couldn’t make it to their shop, and they do mail order as well, so if you want a copy for your collection, don’t miss out.

The Serpent Revealed!

*Line art by Ivan Gil. Colors by João Canola.*

Now that the Scourge of the Serpent Prelude issue has been released (and don’t worry, the free digital version will be arriving online soon), it’s time to start revealing some of our secrets!

Over on the official Conan website I dug in deep with Lo Terry, talking at length about my grand plan for the story and how we’re weaving three different Robert E. Howard tales together into one swirling sword & sorcery tale.

It’s ambitious, audacious even, but man oh man, it’s also a lot of fun. Ivan and João are delivering glorious artwork, sweeping readers across time, space, and sanity. The twinkle in my eye for this story has become so much more thanks to our team and I’m incredibly grateful.

D&D in a Castle Deep Dive

Hopper the Devoted and I were on a livestream last week reminiscing about D&D in a Castle and chatting about what’s coming up in November for my players headed to Castle Lumley.

One of my two tables are already sold out, but there are still seats available for my November 10-14 adventure!

Current + Upcoming Releases

Conan the Barbarian #19 – released March 19th.

Conan: Battle of the Black Stone TPB – released April 1st.

Rick and Morty VS Cthulhu – Deluxe Edition – released April 1st.

Conan the Barbarian #20 – released April 16th.

FCBD Conan: Scourge of the Serpent – Prelude – released May 3rd.

Conan the Barbarian #21 – releases June 11th.

Street Fighter Masters: Elena one-shot – releases June 25th.

Conan the Barbarian #22 – releases July 9th.

Upcoming Appearances

Stacy and I are headed to England later this month for MCM Comic Con London, but the adventure doesn’t stop there – We’re hopping over to Spain for a few days so I can meet some of the amazing artists I’m working with and will be signing with Fernando Dagnino and Ivan Gil on May 31st at 7pm at the Omega Center comic shop in Madrid!

May 23-25, 2025	London MCM Comic Con	London, UK
May 26, 2025	Forbidden Planet – Signing 2-3pm	London, UK
May 31, 2025	Omega Center – Signing 7-8pm	Madrid, SPAIN
Sep 27-28, 2025	Chattanooga Comic Con	Chattanooga, TN, USA
Oct 16-19, 2025	Gamehole Con XII	Madison, WI, USA
Nov 3-14, 2025	D&D in a Castle	Castle Lumley, Newcastle, UK

Zubby Newsletter #111: Annual Adventures

Posted by Jim Zub on April 29, 2025 No comments

*With the legendary Frank Miller at this year’s Calgary Expo.*

There have been 18 Calgary Comic Expos so far and I’ve been to 17 of them for good reason. Every year, it’s a fun celebration of pop culture and creators in a city that proves, time and time again, that they love comics and art…and getting to see old friends and former students is icing on top of a really wonderful cake.

This year’s show included a surreal surprise. On Friday night, our crew had dinner with Frank Miller and I ended up sitting next to the man himself. Over a couple hours we talked about all kinds of things, including Robert E. Howard, pulp stories, and legacy characters. We also talked about lyricism and poetry, and when I mentioned I’d written a poem in the new Savage Sword of Conan #3, Frank wanted to see it.

He carefully read it, line by line, and told me it “felt like Howard by way of Tennyson”, a massive compliment. I have a new poem arriving in Savage Sword of Conan #8, in stores this week, and he told me to send it to him once I got home.

The next morning, Frank came by to get a copy of the new Conan the Barbarian series and we chatted long enough that he was late for his first signing of the day. I know people were waiting, but it really did feel amazing to spend that extra time and go through parts of the book with him as he lavished praise on our team-

“When the story comes from somewhere real, you can feel it. I see the passion you guys are putting on the page. This looks great.”

It’s the kind of interaction you always hope for when it comes to industry legends, but not something you can ever expect or plan for, and it certainly made my weekend extra special.

*A couple sketches from Calgary – Batman and Minsc + Boo.*

Outside of that, panels and hangout time with other pros at the show was a delight. I lived in Calgary over 20 years ago, and seeing how the city has grown while still being able to recommend some old spots and shops makes it feel like it wasn’t all that long ago.

I’m seeing friends for a couple extra days, and then touching base back home long enough to check mail and do laundry before I zip over to Maryland for a big Free Comic Book Day signing at Third Eye Comics alongside my friend Ray Fawkes. If you live in the Annapolis, Baltimore, or Washington DC area, make sure you come on out to Third Eye – it’s going to be awesome!

On The Homestretch

*With Chris dela Torre from CBC Radio’s Homestretch show.*

I was interviewed by CBC Radio’s Homestretch show at the 11 minute mark of this section of their Calgary Expo live broadcast. Give it a listen!

At the Corner of Story & Games

It’s always a blast talking with Gerald at The Corner of Story & Games. This time we cover writing craft, navigating creative industries, working with existing IPs, and things I wish I’d known when I was starting out. Check it out!

Current + Upcoming Releases

Thunderbolts: Winter Soldiers – released March 4th.

Conan the Barbarian #19 – released March 19th.

Conan: Battle of the Black Stone TPB – released April 1st.

Rick and Morty VS Cthulhu – Deluxe Edition – released April 1st.

Conan the Barbarian #20 – released April 16th.

FCBD Conan: Scourge of the Serpent – Prelude – releases May 3rd.

Conan the Barbarian #21 – releases June 11th.

Street Fighter Masters: Elena one-shot – releases June 25th.

Conan the Barbarian #22 – releases July 9th.

Upcoming Appearances

May 3, 2025	Third Eye Comics – Signing 9am-Noon	Annapolis, MD, USA
May 23-25, 2025	London MCM Comic Con	London, UK
May 26, 2025	Forbidden Planet – Signing 2-3pm	London, UK
Oct 16-19, 2025	Gamehole Con XII	Madison, WI, USA
Nov 3-14, 2025	D&D in a Castle	Castle Lumley, Newcastle, UK