New Ballard Street cartoon brilliance is back, and this review dives headfirst into the wacky world of Jerry Van Amerongen’s suburban oddballs. Known for their quirky neighbors, eccentric pets, and the kind of surreal humor that sneaks up on you, these comics are equal parts bizarre and relatable. If you’ve ever lived in a quiet neighborhood that wasn’t actually all that quiet, you’ll feel right at home. Let’s walk through twenty side-splitting panels that prove once again why Ballard Street remains one of the funniest cartoon universes in print.
About the Artis
Jerry Van Amerongen, the mastermind behind Ballard Street, has been delighting readers for decades with his offbeat sense of humor. After first creating The Neighborhood, Van Amerongen launched Ballard Street in 1991, instantly setting himself apart with eccentric characters and visual gags that feel both surreal and oddly familiar. His work has appeared in newspapers nationwide, earning him loyal fans and a reputation for sharp, absurdist wit. Signature themes include the joys and absurdities of middle-class life, mischievous pets, and surreal situations that blur the line between reality and imagination. His art style—quirky linework paired with expressive exaggeration—makes even the most ordinary moment look hilariously extraordinary.
#1 The Blessings of Gary
When Gary waves from his porch like a robe-clad pope, the neighbors can’t help but feel blessed. This is small-town divinity at its quirkiest.
#2 Lawrence Gets Philosophical
“Thinking about things” has never sounded so profound—or so hilariously pointless. A true Ballard Street moment of deep non-thought.
#3 Sock Thief on the Loose
Allen loses his sock to a raccoon in a business suit showdown. Only in this cartoon world can Wall Street meet wildlife crime.
#4 Neal vs. Control
Neal’s existential crisis is drawn perfectly across his furrowed brow. Sometimes losing control is the only way to gain clarity.
#5 Beware the Falling Squirrel
Apparently, squirrels have learned their lesson. The slapstick timing in this panel is pure comedy gold.
#6 Rusty the Itch Meister
This dog scratching like he’s competing in the Olympics is every pet owner’s reality—only funnier.
#7 Fan Mail and a Dog
Marriage goals? A happy pup, a few fan letters, and a partner who keeps you grounded. The humor here is subtle but sharp.
#8 Squirrel Training Gone Wrong
Who hasn’t dreamed of training wildlife? This Ballard Street panel makes sure you never, ever try.
#9 Backyard Trampoline Theater
A man, his popcorn, and a flying dog—cheap entertainment has never been this good.
#10 Tony’s Big Goal
“Set a goal!” she says, while Tony lounges with a cigar. Spoiler: Tony isn’t moving an inch.
#11 Coil Trouble with the Dog
That spring-loaded contraption plus the terrified dog? Chaos and comedy wrapped in one image.
#12 Bug Neighbors Bring Drama
Giant insects in the backyard? Naturally, the Swensons are more concerned about their property value.
#13 Mr. Winslow’s Big Nose
A neighbor’s nose poking through the doggy door makes this gag peak Ballard Street absurdity.
#14 Martini Meltdown
Kenny face-down in his martini glass says everything. Sometimes happy hour is one drink too far.
#15 Giraffe Brothers in the Living Room
Nothing unsettles an evening quite like giraffes reading the newspaper on your sofa.
#16 Neal Finds Freedom
With one triumphant leap, Neal discovers not everything is his fault. Midlife liberation in cartoon form.
#17 Insomniac’s Construction Project
Can’t sleep? Try lifting your partner’s foot with a toy bulldozer. Ballard Street proves bedtime boredom breeds invention.
#18 Scooter’s Social Media Limit
Even the dog knows when it’s time to log off. Brad might not get it, but Scooter sure does.
#19 Earl the Birdman
What starts as a birdcall hobby escalates into full costume chaos. Earl is living his feathery dream.
#20 Gene’s Hair Hack
With barrettes and ear hair doubling as a toupee, Gene proves ingenuity trumps vanity.
Closing Thoughts
The New Ballard Street cartoon collection once again shows why Jerry Van Amerongen remains a master of eccentric, offbeat humor. From bizarre suburban mishaps to pets with more personality than their owners, each panel strikes a perfect balance between surrealism and sharp social observation. These comics make us laugh because, deep down, we recognize ourselves—or our neighbors—in their absurdity.
Credit: All comics are the brilliant work of Jerry Van Amerongen. You can explore more of his art on the official GoComics Ballard Street page. His unique style and humor continue to bring joy to readers everywhere.
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