Loren James Wheale
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The funeral
I’ve wanted to draw this page for a year. I’ve got this whole bible of Kitt Frost and its world mechanics, like some PhD thesis. This story sat in the bible for a long time. I’d come back to it every few months, look at it, write a paragraph next to it, then close the…
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KPB Comics Reviews Otherkin #3 — and It’s the Strongest Issue Yet
Otherkin #3 Gets a 9/10 from KPB Comics 9 / 10 Press Coverage · February 2026 KPB Comics Reviews Otherkin #3 — and It’s the Strongest Issue Yet Reviewed by Stan West · KPB Comics We’re incredibly proud to share that Otherkin #3 received a glowing 9/10 review from KPB Comics, written by reviewer Stan…
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Letting the Art Breathe
As I admittedly procrastinate on Issue Five, the final chapter that closes out this first Kitt Frost arc, I’ve found myself doing something equally important: setting the look and feel for what comes next. This pause hasn’t been idle. It’s been exploratory. While the story waits, the art keeps moving. A Shift in Visual Language…
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Finding Kitt Frost
The Evolution of Kitt: Eight Months of Finding the Right Shape When I first invented Kitt on April 22nd, I had a fairly clear idea of who he was, but not yet what he needed to become. Today is December 22nd. Eight months later, Kitt looks very different from that first version. Not just visually,…
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Otherkin Kickstarter goal reached!
Congratulations to the entire Otherkin team! We at Derry Comics are absolutely thrilled to celebrate this major milestone with you. Hitting your campaign goal is not just an achievement – it’s a testament to the passion, creativity, and perseverance behind this incredible project. If you would like to support this project, you still have the…
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The Official Launch of DerryComics.com
The shadows have lifted. Today, on October 1st, Derry Comics is officially live. We are here to bring you creator-owned comics that push boundaries, blend genres, and haunt your imagination long after the final panel. 🩸 Out Now All are in stock now! 👁️ Coming Soon Welcome to Derry Comics This is just the beginning.…
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Dravok’s Leadership & Teamwork Lessons
Dravok says: Lead with Honor! Being a leader doesn’t mean bossing people around — it means helping others succeed. True heroes lift others up, play fair, and set a good example. Why it matters: Try these free resources: Challenge: Next time you play a game with friends, let someone else go first. Notice how good…
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Penny’s Reading & Discovery Adventures
Penny says: Discover Your World through Books & Science! Books are like rockets for your imagination — they can take you anywhere! And science is the key to unlocking the mysteries of the world around you, from the stars in the sky to the bugs in your backyard. Why it matters: Try these free resources:…
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Kitt’s Martial Arts Fitness Tips
Kitt says: Be a Hero by Staying Strong! Moving your body is the first step toward being your best self. Martial arts like Karate, Taekwondo, or Jiu-Jitsu don’t just build strong muscles — they build confidence, focus, and self-control. Why it matters: Try this free resource: Challenge: Try 10 jumping jacks, 10 squats, and 10…
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From Self-Publishing to Publishing House
Kitt Frost is officially in print! A 52-page black-and-white introduction that marks his first step into the world. We’ve already shared a handful of early copies, and the feedback has been incredible. Readers are connecting with the story, the pacing, and the energy of the universe, and that response is fueling us forward. We’ll be…
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Closing in on Kitt Frost: Issue One
I’m nearing the finish line on the first major issue of Kitt Frost, and it’s a big one – around 50 pages of story, worldbuilding, and character introductions. In truth, it’s more like three issues in one, but I felt it was important to start strong and give readers a full understanding of the worlds,…
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Developing Kitt Frost
A Personal Journey into Action, Adventure, and Imagination Creating Kitt Frost has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my artistic life. At its heart, it’s a cartoon in my mind, and that’s what makes it such a blast. Letting go of the pressure to make everything as real as possible has opened a…
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Launch readiness
Bringing Kitt Frost to life has been nothing short of a blast. From the earliest sketches to holding a painted 3D figure in my hand, the journey has been a wild blend of creativity, experimentation, and joy. I’ve been elbows-deep in everything: Designing characters, writing lore, sculpting side stories, and even planning a game mechanic…
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Stealth mode (Musings)
Even though we may crouch low, fluff our feathers, and mimic the cluck of a chicken, we remain, undeniably, a bear. In life, we often disguise ourselves to fit expectations, to avoid conflict, or to feel belonging, adopting mannerisms and masks that are not our own. But pretending to be something we’re not doesn’t change…
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Guest artist – Safe
Guest artist series. Publication 1. By blackjackrabbit30 A silent comic about hunger, curiosity, and canned consequences. Guided by a hand-drawn map, a lone traveler reaches a house marked “Safe.” Inside: forgotten boxes, flickering lights, and something with claws that doesn’t like to share. What begins as quiet exploration twists into a surreal chase through vaults…
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At the Crossroads Again
The past month and a half has been a time of real movement for me — both creatively and personally. Since the end of March, I’ve published 17 pages across Psychological Horror and Teo’s Journey, averaging about a page every three days. It’s been a rewarding cadence, and I’ve found a real groove in a…
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Psychological horror – Ep. 7 – Bear-ries
A stroll. A question. An apple.What grows in the woods… might be you. A three-page psychological horror comic.Cute. Creepy. Absolutely rotten. Read it now—before the owl finds you first.
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Psychological horror – Ep. 6 –Hunger Wakes at Sunset
When the sun sets over the woods, an ancient hunger stirs. In this bold new episode of Derry Bears, a shadowy figure emerges through a portal of flame, armed with a wooden stake and fierce determination. What follows is a suspenseful hunt, a heart-pounding confrontation, and a dramatic showdown with a creature of the night.…
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Psychological horror – Ep. 5 – Atzi, He Whispered
In the quiet heart of the forest, a Father bear sits alone, stitching life into something small and strange. With one final pull of thread and a whispered name, a creature stirs—and bolts into the unknown. What was meant to be a moment of connection to his murdered daughter turns into a heartbreaking loss, leaving…
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Psychological horror – Ep. 4 – I Keep The One
A group of adventurous young bears sneaks out during a slumber party—what starts as harmless mischief turns into chaos when one of them is dragged into a cabin by a monstrous, unseen force. Panic spreads. Fear takes hold. And now, someone has to go back in. This episode delivers real suspense with clean, expressive art…
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Teo’s Journey #4
In the shadows of the old mill, something sinister awaits… Teo has encountered an eerie force unlike any he’s faced before. Captured, alone, and fighting for his life, he discovers the haunting legend of MollKhata—a being bound to the dark corners of Derry’s past, whose hunger is unending. Trapped and desperate, Teo must navigate the…
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Full steam ahead!
I’ve been doing a lot of studies for the next chapter of Teo’s Journey. Recently, I shared a reflection on whether to revisit and refine previous work or to boldly push ahead. It became clear that my indecision was precisely what held me back, creating an invisible barrier against the very progress I aimed to…
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Philosophy of Progress
Two prevailing philosophies shape how comic artists approach their work: At first glance, these seem contradictory. The first urges creators to dive in, embrace imperfection, and let experience be the teacher. The second warns against revisiting the past, urging continuous forward motion rather than getting trapped in a loop of endless revision. Both ideas have…
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Psychological horror – Ep. 3 – Glow of the Damned
Step into the eerie world of Derry Bears: Glow of the Damned, a dark yet whimsical journey through the haunted forests of Eversands Derry. When an innocent traveler accepts a mysterious lantern from a hooded figure, they embark on a path filled with lurking shadows, spectral figures, and unsettling whispers in the trees. As the…
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Teo: The Unintended Protagonist and the Weight of Becoming
Teo’s journey was always meant to dance along the edge of something darker, something unsettling. His innocence, his supposed cuteness, is not a shield but a contrast—a lens through which the creeping weight of his reality becomes more pronounced. I never expected to invest so much into him, and yet, here he stands, commanding more…
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Psychological horror – Ep. 2 – Jobu’s game
What starts as an innocent game of catch quickly warps into something far more sinister in Derry Bears: Jobu’s Game. Beneath the charming, cartoonish exterior lies a creeping dread—an unsettling realization that this is no ordinary competition. The stakes? Identity, willpower, and survival. As a young innocent Derry Bear enters the game unwittingly, only to…
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Reflections on the Journey by a comic artist
The beginning of any journey is often an enigma, an unfolding narrative that seems to have always existed in the periphery of thought. My journey with the Derry Bears was no different. The idea took root on October 17th, my wedding day, when my wife’s simple yet profound suggestion – “write about what you don’t…
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Teo’s Journey #3
Our fearless Derry Bear has braved the storm, ventured into the unknown, and found shelter in Taylor’s Mill. But the real adventure is just beginning!
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How it defines us?
As I expand the lore of Derry Bears and venture beyond the wholesome realm of a children’s cartoon, I find myself drawn to an unexpected duality—one that some fans seem eager to explore. There’s a peculiar fascination with the juxtaposition of innocence against adversity, of something pure and endearing facing impossible odds or even existential…
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Psychological horror – Ep. 1 – Creator’s Requiem.
Step into the eerie psychological horror where the thin line between creator and creation blurs into oblivion. In this chilling first episode, journey to the haunting Derry Forest of Eversands—a realm where reality and imagination lurks in the shadows. A lone Derry Bear confronts the eerie whispers of his past creations, faceless figures that demand…
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Teo’s Journey: From Curious Bear to Stoic Enchanter
When I develop a character, I like to start at the end—who they become, their traits, demeanor, and how they respond to the world. Then, I work backward to shape their starting point. How would they react to a situation now? How would they have reacted at the beginning of the story? And what key…
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Teo’s Journey #2
Embark on an epic adventure with Teo, the lovable and determined Derry Bear, ventures deep into the heart of Ballard Pond, a mysterious and treacherous realm filled with dark forces and hidden wonders. Armed with his enchanted wand and unshakable spirit, Teo faces a formidable foe lurking beneath the surface, as wellas, encounters mystical allies,…
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Snow Angel (Comic 8)
This comic holds a special place in my heart because it brings back memories of a snowy trip to Oregon with my children. We were pulling a 28-foot travel trailer through the snow—a challenging but exciting adventure. Along the way, we would stop in Walmart parking lots, and the kids would draw massive pictures in…
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Navigating Reddit and Embracing the Creative Process
As I approach month two of my journey as a comic book writer and artist, I find myself navigating new waters, particularly the world of Reddit. It’s an interesting space, to say the least. Everyone here is incredibly opinionated—and I don’t mean that negatively at all. In fact, I’ve come to realize that Reddit is…
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Ballard Forest Vole (Illustration 5)
Exploring the forests of Derry with family is an experience steeped in wonder and connection. Wandering through the lush woodlands, you might spot groundhogs lazily sunbathing near their burrows or tiny voles darting across the forest floor. The cheerful chirps of birds and the rustling of leaves in the wind create a calming symphony of…
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The Brave Little Bear (Musings)
The light often feels like a comforting veil, a reassurance that what is visible can be trusted, while the dark becomes the embodiment of uncertainty and fear. Yet, the truth is more complex. The light does not guarantee safety any more than darkness promises danger. Both are environments shaped by our perception, not their inherent…
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Teo’s Journey #1
Embark on an enchanting adventure with “Teo’s Journey #1,” the inaugural comic from DerryBears. Follow Teo, a courageous bear, as he ventures through the picturesque landscapes of Derry, New Hampshire, encountering captivating characters and overcoming thrilling challenges. This beautifully illustrated tale is perfect for readers of all ages, blending heartwarming storytelling with the rich history…
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Snow Flakes Choice (Musings)
The question of choice, if extended to the snow, becomes a reflection of human nature itself. Would we, like snowflakes, embrace the grounding inevitability of change, where our presence shapes the earth, however briefly? Or would we yearn for the ethereal comfort of the clouds, where we remain untouched but distant from the world below?…
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Snowflake’s Journey (Musings)
The snowflake’s journey, like life itself, is a delicate dance of purpose and chance. Each flake drifts, shaped by unseen forces, destined to land where it may. The question of whether its journey is sad or fulfilled mirrors our own search for meaning—do we find purpose in the act of striving, or in the place…
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Ice fishing 2 of 2 (Comic 7)
About There’s something profound about the balance between introducing children to new experiences and their natural resistance, especially when those activities seem slow or uneventful. It speaks to the universal challenge of cultivating patience and presence in a world that often prioritizes instant gratification. These moments of perceived “boredom” offer a lens into how children…
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Winter’s flight (Musings)
What is the nature of belonging? The snow falls gently, each flake a traveler from the clouds, finding a fleeting home upon the earth. Yet, if given a choice, would the snow embrace its temporary grounding, blending into the world below, or yearn to return to the sky, where it was once part of something…
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Ice fishing 1 of 2 (Comic 6)
About The lakes of Derry, NH, transform into vibrant hubs of activity during the winter season. Unlike my experiences growing up in California, where lakes like Tahoe are renowned but lack that intimate, communal buzz, the lakes here seem to embody a seasonal culture of their own. Whether it’s ice fishing, skating, or snowmobiling, the…
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Stillness of snow (Musings)
In the stillness of a snowy landscape, where sound is muffled by the gentle embrace of winter’s blanket, we are reminded of the profound paradox of silence. It is in these quiet moments that the world’s true voice is heard—not in the clamor of noise, but in the whisper of falling snow, the rhythm of…
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Christmas morning 2024 (Comic)
About Christmas is a season where magic comes to life, filling homes and hearts with wonder. For children, the thrill of Santa’s visit, marked by half-eaten cookies and reindeer nibbles on the porch, creates a world where the impossible feels real. The evidence left behind—crumbs, an empty glass, and chewed carrot bits—is more than a…
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Night Before Christmas 2024 (Comic)
About Every year, our three children eagerly prepare for Santa’s arrival, their excitement bubbling over like a perfectly warm cup of cocoa. The cookies are set with care, the milk chilled just right, and the stockings wait patiently by the fireplace. With eyes wide and hopeful, they whisper that this year will be different—they’ll stay…
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Forest’s memory (Musings)
As Mik gazes back into the heart of the forest, he is caught in the quiet tension between belonging and becoming. The trees that once whispered his name, the paths he carved with curious steps, and the shadows that stretched with his laughter seem alive with memory. Yet, he wonders: does the forest hold its…
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Perfect Tree (Comic 5)
About Every year, my family makes a special trip to Noel Tree Farms in Litchfield, NH to find our perfect Christmas tree. It’s become a cherished tradition since we moved to New Hampshire three years ago, bringing joy, warmth, and plenty of laughter to the holiday season. Before moving, we lived in California, where “cut-your-own”…
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Reflections of a Comic Strip Artist
I’m not a comic strip artist by trade. By day, I’m an enterprise software architect. But in truth, I’ve spent my life torn between two loves: coding and art. From the time I could hold a crayon, I was drawing. By age eight, I was writing my first lines of code on the single computer…
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A Quiet Kind Of Joy (Illustration 4)
Take Heart. Sometimes, sitting in stillness with yourself—without the noise of expectations, without needing to perform happiness—can bring the quiet kind of joy that heals the soul. It’s okay to pause. To not always have the energy for others. To let yourself simply be. There’s strength in allowing the messiness to exist without judgment. For…
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Little masterpieces (Illustration 3)
About The smudges on car windows have always been a source of mild annoyance for me, but they also hold a special kind of magic. When my children were younger, they loved leaving little messages on the inside of the car windows. Back in California, they’d need a little help to fog up the glass—blowing…
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A Very Derry Bear Christmas (Book 1)
Page 1 In the snowy town of Derry, where the trees grow so tall,Mik was bouncing down the trail, “It’s the BEST time of all!”“Cookies, lights, and Christmas cheer—I can’t wait to see!”Nik laughed and said,“Let’s hurry now; it’s almost time to light the great Christmas tree.” Through the woods, they walked so fast, their…
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Polar plunge (Comic 4)
About New Hampshire winters bring with them a world of frozen possibilities, and one of the most fascinating traditions I’ve learned about since moving to Derry is how the community embraces the ice-covered lakes. My daughter’s friend, an avid snowmobiler, often talks about his adventures gliding across frozen lakes—a concept that’s thrilling and a little…
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Derry Bears Introduction (Book)
The story of DerryBears started with Mik and Nik which began with a leap of faith and a journey to a new chapter in life. After moving from the bustling SF Bay Area in California to the quaint and historic town of Derry, New Hampshire, my family and I found ourselves embracing the charm of…
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Tree swing mishap (Illustration 2)
About Mik’s mischievous nature has gotten the best of him again! In this hilariously tangled moment, the playful Derry Bear finds himself in quite the predicament. What began as an innocent swing has turned into a full-fledged knot of chaos, with Mik dangling upside down, his paws gripping the ropes while his fluffy tail wags…
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DerryBear anatomy (Illustration 1)
About The “Anatomy of a Derry Bear” illustration is a heartwarming homage to family moments and playful creativity, steeped in both humor and local charm. It began as a fun spark of inspiration when my wife sent me a meme that combined cuteness and comedy. That simple gesture—a shared laugh—was the catalyst for adapting the…
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The Great Maple Swing (Comic 3)
About Just outside our kitchen window stands a magnificent maple tree, its sturdy branches reaching high above and its roots planted firmly in the soil of history. Attached to this tree is a swing—a simple but timeless fixture that has graced the yard for generations. As I sip my coffee in the morning, I often…
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A Friend For Life (Comic 2)
About Seeing the world through my children’s eyes has been one of the most profound experiences of my life. There’s something magical about the way they bring new light to the simplest things—things I once took for granted or thought I had long outgrown. It’s as if the past folds into the present, and those…
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Syrup Shenanigans (Comic 1)
About Mik, the little Derry Bear, owes his whimsical existence to the wooded area in my backyard. Moving from California to New Hampshire, I was unfamiliar with the rich tradition of New Hampshire maple syrup. When my children started attending Pinkerton Academy and I heard about the forestry program, I discovered their incredible sugar shack,…
