Step into the vibrant world of Giant Days, where university life gets a hilarious, heartfelt twist! This award-winning comic series by John Allison follows three unforgettable friends—Esther, Susan, and Daisy—as they navigate the chaos of Sheffield University. Think quirky humor, fierce feminism, and the messy magic of growing up, all wrapped in a binge-worthy package.
From epic dorm-room dramas to awkward romances, Giant Days captures the rollercoaster of early adulthood with a wink and a laugh. Whether you’re a comic newbie or a seasoned reader, this series hooks you with its witty dialogue and lovable trio. Ready to meet your new best friends?
How Giant Days Began
It all started with John Allison, a British webcomic wizard known for Scary Go Round and Bad Machinery. Giant Days kicked off as a spin-off featuring Esther de Groot, a fan-favorite goth from Scary Go Round. Allison first self-published three short tales, but the real magic happened in 2015 when Boom! Studios picked it up, pairing his sharp scripts with artists Lissa Treiman and Max Sarin.
Inspired by his own university days and a love for slice-of-life comedy, Allison crafted a world that’s less about capes and more about cap-and-gown struggles. What began as a quirky webcomic blossomed into a 54-issue hit, proving that everyday adventures can pack a punch.
The Heart of Giant Days
The series shines in its 14-volume run, with standouts like Giant Days Vol. 1, where the trio bonds over flu season and frat-boy nonsense. Vol. 3 dives into holiday chaos and heartbreak, while Vol. 8 tests their friendship with love and leaky roofs. The finale, Giant Days: As Time Goes By, wraps their journey with a bittersweet graduation glow.
Themes of friendship, identity, and resilience pulse through every page. Esther’s dramatic flair, Susan’s dry wit, and Daisy’s wide-eyed charm clash and complement in a Sheffield setting that’s equal parts cozy and chaotic. Allison’s humor—think Monty Python meets Gilmore Girls—pairs with vibrant art to make every misadventure pop.
It’s not just funny; it’s feminist without preaching, tackling sexism, self-discovery, and queer inclusivity with a light touch. Whether they’re dodging creepy exes or acing exams, these women feel real—flawed, fierce, and totally relatable.
Why Giant Days Resonates
Giant Days nabbed two Eisner Awards—Best Continuing Series and Best Humor Publication in 2019—for a reason. It fills a gap in comics, giving college-aged women a spotlight with humor that’s sharp yet warm. Fans adore its authenticity; it’s like reliving your own uni days, minus the mystery mold.
Its legacy? A cult following that still raves about its charm years after issue #54. It’s a testament to how everyday stories, told with heart and wit, can leave a mark. For anyone craving a break from superhero overload, Giant Days is a refreshing, timeless gem.
- About Giant Days:
- Published: 2015–2019
- Total Volumes: 14 (plus extras like Early Registration)
- Awards: 2 Eisner Awards, 4 Harvey Award nominations
Grab Giant Days Vol. 1 and dive into a world of laughter, friendship, and uni mayhem. Esther, Susan, and Daisy are waiting—don’t miss out!