Crooked Dog Comics - Now Open!

Posted on May 17

The perfect spot for any comic book fan!

Owners Chris & Jessica, Crooked Dog Comics

Whether you geek out over comics, love to play Dungeons and Dragons, or can't wait to get your hands on a new fantasy novel, this new shop has something for you. Come check out Crooked Dog Comics in Middletown, Ohio.

Creating the Shop

Crooked Dog Comics opened on May 4th, 2024 celebrating both May the Fourth (Star Wars Day) and Free Comic Book Day. Owners Jessica and Christopher wanted to fill a niche in Middletown while also providing a family-centered space.

“We’re really filling a need," Jessica says. "A lot of people are so happy that we’re here and that we cater to families— not just comic book collectors.”

Crooked Dog Comic’s slogan is "Welcome Home," a nod to the solace comic books brought Christopher as a kid.

“The comic book shop was a place where he felt at home, and he could engage with the owners about comic books,” Jessica says. “So that’s what our store is like; we want people to feel at home.”

Developing the Store

Christopher spent his career as an Air Traffic Controller. When he began to near retirement, Jessica asked him what he would do if he could do anything. His answer? Open a comic book store. Over the next few years, the dream came to fruition.

The couple visited over 75 comic shops in four different countries to figure out what they did and did not like. When it came time to find a space of their own, Jessica and Christopher only looked at one other space before landing on their location in downtown Middletown, located next to Jessica's photography studio. The shop even features a rare Silver Surfer statue— one of only five other statues showcased around the country.

“We wanted to be a part of the downtown Middletown community," Jessica says. "When there’s an event, we’re a space that’s family-orientated."

The name Crooked Dog comes from the couple's beloved boxer. When Christopher and Jessica got married, Christopher had a boxer wgo they say had a crooked face. "Crooked Dog Comics — it's unique," Jessica said. "Our logo is based off our dog. While, he's no longer with us, he lives on through the shop."

Comic Selection

Crooked Dog Comics boasts an impressive selection of comics from Indie and Manga to big selections of DC and Marvel. Outside of comic books, the store carries sci-fi and fantasy novels - many of which you would find on TikTok's #BookTok - as well as merchandise and snacks.

There is also a variety of merchandise like Pokemon Cards, movie memorabilia, and of course— superhero themed dog leashes and collars.

"We want this to be a destination for everybody," Jessica says.

People of all ages can find enjoy the shop. Crooked Dog Comics sells a selection of kid's books and comics, sorted into age categories. Littles can even find an entire rack dedicated to Bluey!

Game Room + Events

The back of the shop is home to the Lord of the Rings themed game room, available for friends and groups to reserve for a game night.

Jessica's mom is an electrician by trade. She proved instrumental in transforming the back room into a medieval dungeon, complete with dimmable lights, a custom gaming table, and seating for up to eight players.

Lord of the Rings Game Room, Crooked Dog Comics

"We wanted it to be an immersive experience for people to play games like Dungeons and Dragons," Jessica says. "My mom brought this to life."

Eventually, Crooked Dog Comics will be hosting regular family story times. Additionally, the comic book shop will host Magic the Gathering open play every other Friday night. Keep an eye out for future events and collaborations hosted by Crooked Dog Comics!