X-Men: Elsewhen (Volume 1 of 3) by John Byrne

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Book Name: X-Men: Elsewhen (Volume 1 of 3)

Author: John Byrne

Comic Series: X-Men

Original Story, Adaptation, or Something Else: Original Story

Published Date: June 23, 2026

Official Synopsis: Legendary comic book creator John Byrne returns to the title he first drew 50 years ago, Uncanny X-Men, with this one-of-a-kind new graphic novel series, X-Men: Elsewhen. This three-volume graphic novel series picks up the story from Byrne’s original run, taking the characters in new and unexpected directions. In Volume 1 of X-Men: Elsewhen, the Dark Phoenix Saga is over and Phoenix is . . . alive?! Diverging from the epic finale of the original storyline from 1984, X-Men: Elsewhen presents a universe where Jean Grey’s powers and intellect have been greatly reduced, and from there, everything you thought you know about the X-Men is forever changed. John Byrne’s monumental return to the X-Men heads in entirely new and surprising directions, as the X-Men head back to the Savage Land, face their climactic adventure with the Sentinels, and contend with special guest–stars such as the Avengers and the Fantastic Four along the way. X-Men: Elsewhen is a three-volume graphic novel series in the Marvel Arts line that sees the return of acclaimed X-Men artist Byrne decades after his last work on the series. Byrne has written and penciled every page and inked multiple chapters, all of which pick up the story from where his first go–round ended, taking this beloved lineup of characters—and his fans—in exciting new directions.

Review: John Byrne is back on the X-Men. For a certain segment of comic fans, this is about as exciting as comic news can get. Originally crafted as fan fiction on his website, Elsewhen has made his original work official and given it the full treatment. The art is crisp, the colors are bright, and the story is classic X-Men goodness of the likes that has not been seen in decades.

The stories in this collection take you from the Savage Land to a large-scale battle with the Sentinels in New York City, with appearances by some of Marvel's biggest superheroes and teams making appearances. There are also classic X-Men elements included, like the trip to town that goes wrong, interpersonal relationships playing a serious role, legendary uniforms, a teenage Kitty Pryde going by Sprite, the Danger Room, and more.

I was impressed by both the art and the storytelling in Elsewhen. I went in just hoping to see art that was both nostalgic and fresh-feeling; what I also gained was a reminder that this was the writer of the classic Superman and Fantastic Four runs.

What Works: The way the Sentinels are turned into scary villains capable of fighting the X-Men, Avengers, and Fantastic Four. They posed an ominous threat in this collection.

What Doesn’t: I wasn't the biggest fan of the way Jean Grey was handled, but I am curious to see what it builds to.

Final Thoughts: It's John Byrne back on the X-Men, 'nuff said!

Rating: 5 out of 5 brown Wolverine uniforms



MISC

Version Read: Electronic

How Acquired: Advance Readers Copy from NetGalley

Special Notes: This was an Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley. My opinions are my own.

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