Eightfold Path

In the graphic novel anthology The Eightfold Path, Charles Johnson and Steven Barnes present interconnected Afrofuturistic parables inspired by the teachings of Buddha. The travelers are trapped in a cave and share morality tales representing the aspects of final enlightenment, such as horror, dystopia, high adventure, cyberpunk, and urban fantasy. The collection remixes classic social narratives through an edgy, contemporary, and spiritually centered lens, emphasizing the importance of heeding the lessons given in each story.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 26 October 2023
Publisher: Abrams

From the acclaimed minds of Charles Johnson and Steven Barnes, comes a captivating graphic novel anthology, weaving together interconnected Afrofuturistic parables inspired by the profound teachings of Buddha. Now available in paperback, this extraordinary collection unfolds as eight strangers embark on a journey to seek enlightenment from an ancient spiritual teacher, finding themselves trapped in a cave nestled high in the mountains on their way to his temple. As a fierce snowstorm rages outside the caves entrance, one of the teacher's acolytes guides them to share stories that will enlighten and inspire them during their wait. Little do they know, each story they tell is a profound morality tale, representing one of the essential aspects of ultimate enlightenment as imparted in Buddhism.

As the wind howls through the night, the travelers weave symbolic tales of horror, dystopia, high adventure, cyberpunk, and urban fantasy. Each story serves as a spoke on the symbolic Dharma wheel, drawing the group closer to their ultimate destiny: unveiling the future of the entire human race. This remarkable collection pays homage to the traditions of pop culture morality anthology series like The Twilight Zone, The Outer Limits, Night Gallery, Lovecraft Country, and the works of E.C. Comics. Drawing heavy inspiration from the science fiction pulps of the 1950s and 1960s, this brilliant collection remixes classic social narratives, such as Plato's Allegory of the Cave, Chaucer's The Canterbury Tales, and The Arabian Nights, through a contemporary, yet spiritually centered lens.

In The Eightfold Path, our destinies lie in embracing the lessons imparted in every enchanting tale. Through this remarkable anthology, Johnson and Barnes invite readers to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and enlightenment, as they explore the profound interconnectedness of our lives and the boundless possibilities that await us when we heed the call of the Dharma.

Weight: 550g
Dimension: 154 x 229 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781419744488