From Sidekicks to Spotlight: Bud & Lou Get Their Due

Written and Illustrated by: Ben Hed

Cover Artist: Kendall Goode

Letterer: Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou

Published by: DC Comics

Release Date: March 4, 2025

Format: Middle Grade Graphic Novel

“Harley Quinn’s infamous hyenas get the spotlight in this hilarious and heartfelt graphic novel from the creator of the webcomic sensation Pixie and Brutus!

When Harley’s hyenas, Bud & Lou, are framed with stealing the lasso of truth they’re forced to team up with two members of the Super-pets, Ace & Jumpa, to find the culprits. The unlikely team sets off on an adventure that leads them from Oswald Cobblepot’s penguins to Mr. Freeze’s polar bears. At the chance of being reunited with their beloved Harley, will Bud and Lou save the day and be the good guys for a change? If they aren’t careful, the lasso of truth might reveal how they really feel about being heroes!

Ben Hed brings his signature charm and humor to DC in this family-friendly graphic novel perfect for fans of Pixie and Brutus!”

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I cannot stress this enough: I adored this book. Not just in the “Oh, that was a fun read” kind of way – no. I loved it. Harley Quinn’s Bud and Lou: Trouble Times Two, written and illustrated by Ben Hed, completely captured my heart. As a long-time Harley fan (especially of her hyenas), this graphic novel felt like it was made just for me – and for every other fan who’s ever loved Bud and Lou.

It’s the perfect mix of hilarious hijinks, heartfelt moments, and chaotic Harley energy – designed for younger readers but genuinely enjoyable for fans of all ages. Honestly? I’m already wondering who I need to email at DC to request a sequel. Or maybe four.

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Why It Works

Ben Hed is best known for his Pixie and Brutus series—that’s where I first discovered his work, and I’ve been a fan ever since. So when Bud and Lou: Trouble Times Two was announced, I already knew it would be beautifully illustrated and cleverly written. But I had no idea just how hard I’d fall for this book.

The tone Hed brings to Bud and Lou matches Harley’s vibes perfectly. They’re goofy, but not dumb. Mischievous, but not malicious. Like Harley herself, they walk that chaotic line between villain and hero-especially when they team up with some other familiar furry faces: Ace the Bat-Hound (a personal fave!) and Wonder Woman’s loyal Kanga companion, Jumpa. Their antics hit that sweet spot of heart and humor, wrapped in the perfect flair for Harley’s world.

Even though Bud and Lou are obviously close and similar, each hyena has a distinct personality. And let me just say: Lou stole my heart. I won’t spoil anything – but prepare yourself for some serious feels.

This is a Harley Quinn fan must-read – especially if, like me, you’ve got a soft spot for her beloved babies. Trouble Times Two is a heartwarming, hilarious, and beautifully illustrated story that delivers on every level. It’s perfect for all ages: totally accessible for younger readers, but still packed with charm, wit, and emotional depth that longtime Harley fans will absolutely adore.