FCBD Interview: Greg Grunberg & Lucas Turnbloom Talk About Dream Jumper

Dream Jumper is absolutely unique. It is written by actor Greg Grunberg (Heroes, Alias, Felicity, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Star Trek Beyond) and drawn by artist Lucas Turnbloom. 

Published by Scholastic/Graphix, this all ages book follows Ben, a boy who can jump into other people's dreams. 

Dream Jumper is available absolutely free at comic shops on Free Comic Book Day!

We talked with creators Greg Grunberg and Lucas Turnbloom about to book and FCBD 2016!

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Free Comic Book Day: For those who might be new to your comic book, give us a quick rundown of the story?

Greg Grunberg: Dream Jumper is a series that follows Ben, a young boy who discovers very quickly that he has the power to jump in and out of his friends dreams and nightmares and help them battle their worst fears. 

Free Comic Book Day: What has been your favorite part of the book or character to tackle?

Greg Grunberg: Since this came out of an actual nightmare that my son Ben had, it's been amazing exploring all of the places that this can go. We have taken some of the most relatable fears that not only children have, but adults have as well, and personified them in the form of evil Warlords and Minions that try to control us while we sleep.  

Lucas Turnbloom: My favorite part of working on Dream Jumper was knowing we could do anything. This is the dream world after all. Anything is possible. And of course, working with Greg. His energy and creativity has been truly inspiring. This has been a dream project for me, no pun intended.

Free Comic Book Day: What initially got you interested in comics?

Greg Grunberg: I've been a fan of Scholastic Books & comics since I was a kid. I've also been fortunate to act in some of the biggest franchises in this genre, Star Trek, Heroes, Star Wars, etc.

Lucas Turnbloom: I’ve been interested in comics since I can remember. I’m a very visual person. I think what attracted me to comics initially was the artwork. One of the first comics I remember picking up was a Batman back in the 80s. There were very few words on the cover, but there was so much story being told in the image. That intrigued me. The visual element. It still does.

Free Comic Book Day: What other titles would you compare to yours? “If a comic reader likes _______ , they should pick up my title"?

Lucas Turnbloom: I honestly can’t think of any comics like ours. I truly believe we have something really special, and unique. But at the same time, I feel it’s accessable to anyone who loves comics -- boys and girls, children and adults. I would recommend it to those who enjoy “Bone,” “Amulet,” or “Smile.” But also to those who love “Superman,” “The Walking Dead,” or “Star Wars.” Anyone who enjoys a good story, will love Dream Jumper. 

Free Comic Book Day: Tell fans why they should pick your book first on Free Comic Book Day!

Greg Grunberg: We all have dreams, and they have always been mysterious and something that we have been trying to understand. This is a peek into the dreamworld that Lucas and I have created. Don't miss your chance to understand what scares you. 

Lucas Turnbloom: Greg and I have been waiting many, many years to share this story with the world. I think people should get Dream Jumper first to see what all the fuss is about. They won’t be disappointed.

Free Comic Book Day: What is your favorite part about Free Comic Book Day?

Greg Grunberg: I would say the word "free" is my favorite part of Free Comic Book Day. It enables you to take a chance on a title that you may not want to spend money on without hearing about first. 

Lucas Turnbloom: The best part about Free Comic Book Day is getting out to the brick and mortar stores, and discovering new titles. That’s how I discovered Mouseguard – one of my favorite comics. 
 

Find a comic shop near you to celebrate Free Comic Book Day 2016!