FCBD-2011_The-Dark-CrystalMedia Release -- Archaia is pleased to reveal the final covers to its 2011 Free Comic Book Day flipbook issue, which will contain two original stories from Mouse Guard, the critically acclaimed, NY Times bestselling fantasy series, and The Dark Crystal, based on the classic Henson film. The issue will be distributed for free on May 7, 2011 at a local, participating comic book shop near you. To find your nearest comic book shop, visit ComicShopLocator.com or call 1-888-COMIC-BOOK.

Here is the issue's solicitation information:

FCBD-2011_Mouse-Guard.jpgMOUSE GUARD/THE DARK CRYSTAL Free Comic Book Day Flipbook
Retail Price: Free
Page Count: 32 pages
Format: saddle bound, 8" x 8", full color
Release Date: May 7, 2011
(W) David Petersen and Brian Holguin
(A) David Petersen and Alex Sheikman
(Cov) The Dark Crystal – Brian Froud; Mouse Guard – David Petersen

Archaia presents two, amazing, all-new stories in one fantastic flipbook—David Petersen's Eisner Award-winning MOUSE GUARD and Jim Henson's beloved THE DARK CRYSTAL share the spotlight on Free Comic Book day! On one side of the book, a brand-new tale of the fan-favorite MOUSE GUARD, elite warrior mice tasked with protecting common mice from predators, the elements and other dangers. It's the perfect introduction to MOUSE GUARD for new fans, and a rewarding treat for existing ones! On the other side of the book, Archaia Entertainment is proud to present an exclusive prelude to its forthcoming series of THE DARK CRYSTAL graphic novels, featuring covers, art direction and concepts by Brian Froud, conceptual designer of the original film! This prelude begins the epic creation story of the world of Thra, and explores the origins of the world of THE DARK CRYSTAL!

As a bonus, the issue will also contain a sneak peek of Jim McCann and Janet Lee's TIME OF THE DAPPER MEN, a sequel to the critically acclaimed RETURN OF THE DAPPER MEN, coming this fall. Additionally, fans of Jim Henson will also get an advance look at TALE OF SAND, an original graphic novel coming in September based on a never-before-seen screenplay written by Henson and Jerry Juhl!

For more information on Free Comic Book Day, visit the official website.