The Books of Magic #22

Published by DC Comics under the Vertigo imprint in 1995, The Books of Magic #22 serves as a pivotal entry in the ongoing series created by Neil Gaiman. The series was designed to explore the darker, more mature corners of the DC magical universe, following the young protagonist Timothy Hunter as he navigates the complex lore of wizardry. This specific issue features the creative work of writer John Ney Rieber and artist Peter Gross, who continued to develop the series' characteristic blend of contemporary urban fantasy and mystical tradition.

The visual direction of this era in the series leaned into the moody, intricate aesthetic established by the Vertigo brand, aiming for a literary depth that distinguished it from traditional superhero fare. By the time issue #22 arrived, the title had been well-received for its expansion of Gaiman's original premise, earning praise for its character-driven narrative and its ability to maintain a consistent, atmospheric tone throughout the transition from established lore to independent adventures.