Comic books have been capturing the vivid imagination of children and adults alike since the 1930s. In recent years though, video games have coincided with comic books to create a massive and powerful following all across the globe. More and more children are being introduced to video games and comics through their siblings, classmates and movies

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Comic books lead to opening doors and vistas into the minds of children and young adults. Comic books introduce a wide range of literary elements (like plot, narrative, character, etc.) and artistic fundamentals (like color, theme, illustration, etc.). If your kids aren’t reading books, perhaps comic books will inspire an interest in reading that will help them open a door to comprehension skills, which may otherwise be difficult to grasp.

Many kids find comic books interesting for the literature and the pictures. Graphic novels have also increased in their popularity recently and made a widespread reemergence in the public sphere. Comic books provide a source of entertainment and education for kids. Comic books often deal with moral and everyday themes of life that will help children grow both independently and in society.

The important thing is comic books have a certain quality video games lack. Video games and comic books are both active and participatory in the sense that they involve the one on one interaction with a user. But comic books expand the use of the mind and thinking and work the brain that video games do not. Video games are a temporal forma of entertainment that do not make a lasting impression on the mind. Comic books, like other types of books, provide the user with a source of critical thinking, deductive reasoning and incorporates the reader’s own ideas into the digestion of the material. Further, children are learning and in the process makes comic books education whereas video games are not. There are many reasons why comic books can be useful, education and fun for kids.

Think about introducing your kids to classic comic books and modern graphic novels and watch them enjoy a great reading experience. They’ll have a fun time reading, and those comic books may end up being worth than just their value as a collectible. Comic books open up a world of literature for children, disguised in superhero costumes while conveying all the wonders of imaginary lands. First come comic books, then come novels. Better grades, better understanding of the world awaits.

Author Byline: Bryan is a blogger for 1Up Collectibles, an onine comic book shop and subscriptions service.

Comic Review - 9/19 Zeros, Heroes, and Zombies

What's going on 1upers! Its another week of reviews and this week we got 2 DC zero issues, 2 paranormal indy books, and the Avengers. So without standing on ceremony, lets go!!!

The Avengers #30

The first book this week is another issue by Mr. Bendis aaaaand it was nothing special.  The issue centers around Spider-Woman and Hawkeye and a lovers quarrel during a break-in to a government facility.  The dialogue/banter between the two characters is but not much else. It's suppose to be taking place while the Avengers are fighting the X-Men , but it chronologically does't make sense.This is suppose to be during the big fight at Utopia and Hawkeye was suppose to be severely burned. How is this suppose to work? Did I miss something? The payoff feels like something good is coming down the line but it could have been a one page set up in a future story.  Pass on this issue it serves no purpose and the art is by Walt Simonson, who is a legend in his rite, just wasn't done justice by the inker.  I have seen some great work by him, but this really was not good.

Story - 1/5
Art - 2/5

The Walking Dead #102

Well this is my first time writing about the Walking Dead and by all means I am going to avoid spoilers so this going to be a shorter more vague review. This like others has Rick struggling with leading the group and what he has to do to protect them.  There is a big event that is being set up in this issue and its the very beginning of this.  There are events in the past that have lead them to do this.  This is a very consistent story that is always a great page turner and very consistent art.  Pick this issue up if you are already head long into the series, if you aren't reading this then pick up the Compendium Vol.1 and let you mind be blown.  If you think you have seen The Walking Dead, you really haven't until you read it as well.  Do your self a solid and start now!

Story - 4/5
Art - 3/5

Red Hood and The Outlaws #0

This was an issue that isn't on my normal pulls, so I picked it up on the recommendation.  I have to say I wasn't impressed.  The story is about Jason Todd's life and how he became the Red Hood. The way the story is told is the best part about it. It is paced well and make allusions to Jason's history while making necessary flash backs and flash forwards. The story itself doesn't make me care at all about Jason, yes he had a tough life but he isn't even grateful he was alive...TWICE! The twist and revelations made feel more like a gimmick in the second story. I feel like the second story was written first and they wanted a way to build up to make more dramatic. The art in the first story felt like it wasn't rendered/developed enough and the second story felt like it was too developed.  There were too many lines in the work that just clutters faces and is too distracting to a reader. Read this book if you are into the craft of writing and content doesn't matter or if you like Jason Todd, other than that you aren't missing much.

Story - 2/5
Art - 2/5

Revival #3

PICK OF THE WEEK
This is was my favorite book of the week. This story about a small town in Wisconsin has got me hooked. Tim Seeley does a great job in arranging the story so it foreshadows the events to come. Since this is a new series its doing a good job of character development and good a slowly adding new characters.  There is something great from a story aspect where the dead that comeback aren't completely brain dead and they live like regular people. There is a great scene with an eldery woman at a funeral home that really speaks to complications that arise from these not so dead zombies. Also the art in this book is beautifully illustrated by Mike Norton whose art doesn't dip one bit in all 3 issues. So do yourself a favor and pic this up! Start reading now! Go! why are you still reading this! Get to the Choppa!!!!

Story 4/5
Art - 4/5

Justice League #0

This should be called Shazam #0 because that's all there is here.  It tells the story of how Billy Batson became Shazam, the new 52 way. Yes he is a 12 year old boy but he is not pure of heart but is given the power of Shazam for the potential to do good. WTF? I think it would be more shocking if they gave the kid an alternative history. I don't understand why they just won't veer far from their roots...well they did in the wrong way. The kids a puck that needs to be set straight, not given powers. He gets the powers and wrecks his neighbor's car. I would much rather see this kid have a troubled past and refuse to turn bad and do whats wrong, and when he gets the powers he has the power to face the people that have done him wrong. But that may be too obvious. Oh well. The art is good by Gary Frank, it makes the story play out very well and allows for the action to play out and the story to progress. Only read this if you care about Shazam.

Story - 2/5
Art - 3/5

Comic Reviews - 8/2: Bad art and Booty calls.

Hey all you 1uppers!

Here is another round of reviews by me Chris Z. Lets get to work! 

Avenging Spider-Man #11 - $3.99 - Digital Copy - T+

So this is an ode to the 50th Anniversary of Peter Parker/Spider-Man.  It's a touching story between Aunt May and Peter rehashing the importance of Uncle Ben to the both of them.  The story by Zeb Wells is a decent for the touching tribute type, but nothing ground breaking.  The art which is done by Steve Dillion,  is really bad. Now I am not going to blame Steve, no not because I have a framed sketch by him up on my wall, but because he is consistent in everything he has done. I set the blame squarely on the Frank Martin Jr.  Now Dillions work is still and not very stylish but it has a certain charm that Martin has seem to hinder in this issue.  Every panel looks pixelated and out of focus, and the color pallet is meh at best. Read this story for the Uncle Ben tribute and by all means avoid the art.  If you are looking for good Dillion art work try The Punisher: Welcome Back Frank or any of the Garth Ennis line.

Story - 3/5
Art - 1/5

Justice League #12 - $3.99 - T

Superman and Wonder Woman, sitting on a roof. K-I-S-S-I-N-G....I'm just messing with you. So this is the issue that caused all the hoopla. The League was forced to confront the deceased loved ones.  Then we find out it was all a disillusions created by David Graves to get revenge on the League for losing his family.  This causes a rift in the League. The Green Lantern leaves, Superman and Wonder Woman make out and commiserate, and the League is falling apart.  This issue was a good setup for what's to come and I can't wait to see what comes next. But WTF is TMZ in there for? No other creditable sources available?  The collaborative art is great by Jim Lee, Ivan Reis, and Joe Prado.  The three compliment one another's art so well that it isn't that noticeable when the art shifts in style.

Story - 3/5
Art - 3/5

AVX: VS #5 - $3.99 - Digital Copy - T+

Again this is one of my guilty pleasure, because there is no purpose for the book other than see heroes knock the crap out of each other.  The first pits a fight between Hawkeye and Angel. This was a very good fight that shows the strengths and weaknesses of each character which was good to use against one another. Hawkeye wins by being his cunning self and knowing he is out manned and out numbered, her shoots Angel with an arrow after they beat the ever loving crap out of one another.  The second fight is a nice marital fight between Storm and Black Panther.  Now your saying why would they fight? Because according to the book they had a weak marriage, which is crap we really know it's because they both bought into what their superiors are saying.  That being said Storm is giving up on her husband because of Cyclops? WTF? So Storm attacks Black Panther the entire time and all he does is defend himself, which were also pretty lame cop outs.  In the end Storm blindsides Black Panther then takes her ring off and that's the end.  The entire fight was meh the first fight by Jason Aaron was pretty good but not enough to save it.  The art was good, better then most of the regular AVX art.

Story - 2/5
Art - 3/5

Detective Comics Annual #1 - $4.99 - T

PICK OF THE WEEK
The best comic I read this week.  This issue deals with Black Mask escaping from Arkham and trying to locate all the masks from the False Face Society.  Its a great crime drama that plays out like every other cop drama, but it is done well. Criminal escapes, they extort a cohort, and main character chases down bad and solves mystery.  In the end they discover that this was an elaborate set up by Jarvis Tetch to collect all the masks in order to have hypnotics and mind control of the masks to take over the world!  It's also a great testament to the Black Mask's dependency for his mask and the power it has over others. In the end Batman kicks Black Mask square in the jaw which cracks the mask rendering it useless. They put both guys in prison and were able to recover the Masks which are being held, and Mr. Sionis is locked up again.   The art is amazing in this issue it fits the Dective Comics perfectly.  My favorite panel is when Batman, who is on fire, has his palmed by False Face Society strongman. It is great.  I highly recommend giving it a read, even if it is the N-teenth time the story has been told.

Story - 3/5
Art - 4/5

Green Lantern Annual #1 - $4.99 - T

First off, best cover of the week! Second, this was another great issue that dealt with The Guardians and their questionable ethics to remove chaos from the universe. Hal and Sinestro were both buried by Black Hand, and while they both escape and battle Black Hand.  The Guardians don't know any other way to stop to chaos other then create a Third Army lead by the first lantern, which remains a mystery as to who that is. There is a great scene that switches between Hal / Sinster and the Guradians fighting one another as  Hal and Sinestro are reciting the Green Lantern oath.  This angle where the Guardians are pulling out all the stops is an interesting one, because they charge up Black Hand so it will destroy Hal and Sinestro. As they are getting sucked into a vortex their rings merge into one and left to find the next Green Lantern. There are so many questions to answer as the Third Army rises.

This is just like the Green Lantern for me, multiple storylines intertwining and finally coming to a head and leading to a new story.  This is something Geoff Johns is great at and it works to lead to issue #0 of the Green Lanten. The art is by Ethan Van Sciver who is still in full stried and hasn't missed a beat.  It's a great issue, but I feel Batman edges it out in entertainment value for me and it was a complete story. Both are great reads so please pick them up or flip through them at least.

Story - 3/5
Art - 4/5


That's all folks. Until next week. Same Bat-Time, Same Bat-Blog.

Also if you wanna Tweet at me hit me up @Zennie87

Geoff Johns, David Finch, Justice League of America,February

Hello People of the Internets...



Just wanted to let you know...

Supposedly starting in February, along with Geoff Johns, David Finch will be joining Justice League of America.  David Finch is great on artist duties.  It will be sad to see Jim Lee not be there, (but, not really so he can draw some other book) Finch is an easy replacement due to his high quality art action.  He will not be on Dark Knight at all (maybe covers, not interior or writing).  If this is going to be his only book on his plate expect to see fireworks!  When Finch is at the top of his game it is phenomenal.  Anyways just throwing this info out there. 

Discuss...

I added some Finch-Work to Gaze Upon...

 

Thanks for Reading and Thanks for stopping by. 

Ten Comics You Should be Reading, If You're Not Doing So

Hello People of the Internets! 

Johnny Worthless coming at you with some goodies, some old some new, but they're all tasty treats.  If you are already reading any of these books, way to go, if not give one or two a try, you won't be disappointed.  Unless you want lots of puppies and kittens, there isn't really anything for you here...


 Let's begin. 

First we have Robert Kirkman's The Walking Dead.  I came to this book through the TV show (like many others) I'd known of it before, but hadn't ever read a full issue.  Two words... Zombie Apocalypse.  Check out this book, it's a No-Brainer!  (Ha! Zombie Jokes)  Also a heads up (Ha!), this one is not for kids. As in the book consists of a lot of violence, gore, and profanity.  I haven't ever heard or seen a "colored" version of this book.  It's black and white which adds to the 'outsider' feel of the series.  Recently Kirkman and crew reached 100 issues, this is the longest running series on the list but don't let that discourage you.  And although it shares many things with it's TV counterpart they definitely have there differences.  The volumes of past issues are put together very well and you can get your hands on these trades very easily.

 For Fans Of:  AMC's Walking Dead, Robert Kirkman, Zombies, Decapitations

Next we have from BOOM! Studios, Valen the Outcast (which was originally titled 'Outcast', but I'm guessing Big Boi and Andre 3000 weren't fans).  My main love for this book comes from my recent lack of roleplaying.  It completely reminds me of adventures my buddies would run back in the day.  (mainly Mikee D)  The premise here is a king gets turned into an 'Undead Abomanation' and he's now trying to get revenge and reclaim all he has lost.  Along for the ride are a drunk and a hot chic, what's there not to love?  Sometimes hokey, always fun, this is a solid book.  So, I just found out this book will be ending with issue 8.  That sucks, but you still can get the issues from your local, just ask for a special order.  From what I gather there might be another book coming out with the same characters or at least in the same world... We shall see. 

For Fans Of:  Sword and Sorcery, Conanary, Throw'n Dice in White-Shoes' Basement with Mikee D

 Marvel Comics makes it debut on the list with Scarlet Spider.  Just saying the name out loud makes him edgier then ole' Petey Parker.  I'm really busy, I wanted to add this to my comic pull way before it came out, it never happened.  Starring Kaine (if you don't know him look him up, short version is he's a clone) under the Spider-Specs.  As the tag line says..."All the Power, None of the Responsibility"  Everyone I asked about this book only had good things to say.  It takes place in Houston.  Christopher Yost is on writing duties so far, he's got chops.  At the shop the other day I was told referring to  Scarlet Spider, "he's a boss".  I thought that summed up this book nicely. 

For Fans Of:  Kaine, Alliteration, Boss-like Activities, Christopher Yost

DC's Aquaman has been great from the word go.  (More like the start of the new 52)  From 'The Trench' through 'The Others' Geoff Johns is killing it.  This is one of the New 52 books that has really brought the goods with each issue.  (overall)  Still think Aquaman is worthless?  Issue one will change your mind about that.  Ivan Reis has been doing a bang-up job on his art duties.  With #12 and it's #0 issues coming out soon now is a good time to board the HMS Aquaman.  Or Aquaman DSV?  Whichever you prefer. 

For Fans Of:  Fishsticks, Atlantis, Oceans, Geoff Johns, Tridents

From IDW, Star Trek (Ongoing)  This book has been a home run from the start.  Well, the art was a little "off" in the beginning.  Though it never impeded the story.  This book follows the exploits of the Enterprise crew from the J. J. Abrams film universe.  The premise is to take that crew and put them in situations that originally happened to the OG crew from the 60's TV show.  (pretty awesome if you ask me)  There are also there own stories being told, and at the moment the series is taking place between the first film and the sequel which is set to premiere May 17, 2013.  So if you want to see what the crew has been up to between the films here it is.  Top Notch. 

For Fans Of:  New Star Trek Film, Old Fashioned Fun Science Fiction, Zoe Saldana

This book is so good you should be buying two copies at a time, Saga from Image.  Brought to you by Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples.  Definitely not for kids.  I'm a huge fan of the look of this book.  Great panel work.  The art isn't always perfect (it's hits and misses) although this adds to the allure of it all.  This  series has a lot of heart and is quite charming at times.  I completely teared up in a room full of people at the end of issue 1.  (I have kids)  If you have never heard about this book, think Whacked-Out Star Wars.  (Kinda, I don't want to put this one in a box...)  It reminds me of so many things, but it is wholly it's own beast.  BKV (as he's known on the streets) writes an awesome "letter column" at the end of each issue.  I lost track of how many times I laughed out loud while reading.  ( I read issues one through four back to back)  To tell you the truth, if I had to pick one of these there ten books to read I'd be pick'n this'n.  (pardner)  Fiona Staples covers are all painted and wicked sweet, I had to put up two because I could decide between them.  Highest recommendation for this book.  I just want to know where I can sign up for the Saga Fan Club. 

For Fans Of:  Robot Sex?, Lying Cats, Space Operas

Also from Image, written by Ed "Everything Marvel" Brubaker and art by Sean Phillips, Fatale.  First off this book is not for kids, Second it's great.  This book reads like an old paperback you can't put down.  Hard Boiled, a bit convoluted (at the beginning) and many layered (but layered well).  Brubaker's writing is stellar so far on this book.  Dave Stewart's colors are great.  Talk about setting moods.  He is a modern day master.  Fantastic read, I want more.  See the FFO below to see if this one's for you.  I've said too much already. 

For Fans Of:  The Occult, Detective Novels, NOIR, Dames

Haunt, named for it's title character, was brought to my attention due to Greg Capullo's work on it.   I hadn't known of him until he started on Batman (I later realized I had seen his work on some Spawn-like titles back-in -the-day)  Yet another Image comic on the list, this series has been ongoing since '09.  Originally created by Todd McFarlane and Robert Kirkman (from issue 19 on it is the new team of Joe Casey and Nathan Fox).  The premise here is two brothers that were at odds with each other "come together" to solve a murder.  ( I'm being vague on purpose)  This book is sometimes a little over the top, but has constantly been a good read.  It's a roller coaster ride. 

For Fans Of:  Monsters, Spawn, ACTION!

Everyone keeps telling me to read this next book, Chew.  The problem was no one would tell me what it was about.  If you don't want to know, stop reading now.  I'm going to tell you.  Chew is written by John Layman (who will be writing Detective starting next month) I know him from Thundercats: Enemy's Pride and Dogs of War.  Both of which I thoroughly enjoyed.  I don't really know Rob Guillory except from his work on this book.  Tony Chu is the main character he is a Cibopathic, which means that when he eats something, live or dead, he gets a psychic impression, WOW.  ( It's magical )  Everyone I know that is reading this book adores it.  My favorite thing I've heard was, "The best thing ever with a killer cyborg chicken!"  I still haven't read an entire issue, but I promise I will one of these days. 


For Fans Of:  Jokes, Weirdness, Chicken

The final book on the list Thief of Thieves.  This is the third book here from fan fave Robert Kirkman.  I was asked a couple of months ago about this one, I told my friend I'd heard good things and I'd look into it for him.  The interior art is better then the covers, not that the covers are bad, the interiors are just way better.  This book completely reads like a TV show or a Hollywood Blockbuster.  The whole package is very 'slick'.  Kirkman's got another winner here, he has 'story' credits, think of him as a Producer on this book.  It reminds me of shows like Prisonbreak, but more intelligent.  Definitely worth checking out.  Well Papoose, there you have it. 

For Fans Of:  Theft, Cop-Dramas, Heist Films, Things that look cool

Sidebar:  'Face Off' on the SyFy channel is an awesome show, check it out. 

Anyways, give a chance to something new... you can be the first of your friends to read one of these books, enjoy. 

Thanks for Reading and Thanks for Stopping by...

Comic Reviews - 8/8 What Did I Just Read?!? Comics Loses a Legend

Hey all their 1uppers! It's that time again, but this week was a little light so I will throw in some filler in here.

So lets get down to brass taxes, but first a shameless plug.  Buy your books at 1up Collectibles!

Gambit #1  -  $2.99  -  T+

What the hell did I just read, let alone see.  I had high hopes for this one, because I grew up loving Gambit.  I thought it would be this intense, high action, very stylized, theft story. Instead we got a look warm but that barely has any action, some theft, whose art was barely in focus.  Everything was not right about this book at all.  This was James Asmus. It starts out with Gambit at his apartment in NYC where he is apparently is retired from being a thief, which is funny because I always just assumed Gambit stole crap when you weren't looking.  So he is going to this charity event at the never been heard of before Mr. Cich, who apparently gives out loans to bad guys. So let me get this right an evil bank roller moonlights by having charity events held at his mansion? Makes sense if you don't think about it. Okay so Gambit is going to his place to steal something, so he manages to gain his finger prints, a copy of his retinas, and a copy of him saying his name allowed so Gambit can access Cich's vault of repo'd villain weapons. Which is apparently hidden on the third floor and resembles Mary Poppin's endless bag. After creating a distraction Gambit has 15 minutes to sneak off steal what he needs too which is totally unclear.  So Gambit gets in and a kinetic shock makes the thing explode? Then sets off its internal security which is a sentinel and we know how reliable they are but seriously he did this all in 15 minutes? Sure whatever suspension of disbelief. Whatever. Then the big WTF moment happens back in Gambit's room, where the thing that shocked him, which apparently didn't explode(?) shocks him again then a star fish comes out of nowhere.  Then the starfish enters Gambit, through his chest.  WTF did i just see, let alone how could I, because the art has no clarity and no depth to it. Granted the pencils might have been muddled by the colorist but the shading is way off, so any respectable colorist would have been able to color it properly.

I will give this one more issue just to find out about that damn starfish.

Story  -  1/5
Art  - 2/5

Batman #12  -  $3.99  -  T

This was a great story written by Scott Snyder, about bullying and standing up for what is right. It's told from the point of Harper Row, who is a Gotham electrical grid worker.  She lives with her bother who is being bullied by neighborhood boys for being gay.  Their building is scheduled to be renovated by the Waynes. When she returns home, she finds her brother Cullen on the floor with a derogatory term shaved into his head. So Harper does the same thing to her hair to prove to the bullies that they aren't scared.  As the Rows were walking home the bullies attack and Batman saves them, effectively ending the bullying.  As Harper becomes sort of obsessed with Batman and figures how she can help him,  As she is down the sewer helping fix Batman's electrical grid, Batman is fighting Tiger Shark on a boat that Harper helps ground.  While at work Batman comes for a visit and tells Harper she didn't help him with the grid and she is finished.  Harper now lives by a variation of the words Batman told her, "Harper Row, you're not finished, no way."  A very emotional issue dealing with a very real problem. The Art is alright, it switches styles half way through which is distracting to me because they are two very different styles, but are both respectively well done. 

Story  -  4/5
Art  - 3/5

Captain America #16  -  $3.99  - Digital Copy  - T

This was an issue written by Ed Brubaker who has been writing you this new series from the start and in this arc Brubaker has been using the power of the media as a weapon. A weapon against heroes.the issue takes off from where the last one ended.  There is a political "talking head" if you will named Reed Braxton, who spins everything the heroes into something negative against humans. That they would rather save aliens then humans.  This a very political statement made about the importance of media and how it essentially sculpts the opinions of people. So as Cap is fighting the Discordians in DC, Braxton is playing arm chair QB and pointing out everything that is wrong.  As this is going on Agent 13 and Dum Dum Dugan are breaking into Braxton's HQ to find out who is behind all of this because in the previous issue we saw he is a clone.  As they break into the production area where we found out he is hypnotizing his audience. So then Braxton makes an announcement that they are being censored and yatty yatta.  The two are then being chased but not before Agent 13 punches one and they find out he is robot and Dugan takes his head. The comic ends with Captain America being beaten by average Americans.  This was an interesting to say the least and am very curious to see how the new Hydra plays a role in this TV News anchor ploy. The art hs been good but there was a few missteps in the story telling in some ares but overall a good issue.


Story  -  3/5
Art  - 2/5





Over this passed week the comic world took a huge blow, we lost Joe Kubert.  An amazing artist and teacher.  Long known for his art in DC Comics with titles such as Srgt. Rock, Tor, and Hawkman.  He also had a Joe Kubert School in NJ where he and two of his sons Adam and Andy, would teach aspiring comic artists the fundamentals to the most advanced elements of comic art.  Some of his lesser mainstream works that you should definitely read are,  Fax from Sarajevo, Jew Gangster, and GI Combat. He was a true icon and legend. He was a hero to me and some many others. His legacy and life will long out live us all. Thank you Joe for everything you have done.

Rest In Piece

Joe Kubert

1926-2012

Comic Reviews - August 1st

Howdy ya'll! It's that time again! Get your books here!

Let's do this!

Avengers vs X-Men #9  -  Digital Copy  -  $3.99  - T+

Finally, an issue I could enjoy a little.  Jason Aaron writes Spider-man very well. It starts off with a great first person narration, then we "Tarantino" it and go to how we got to the point. The first person narration and Spider-Man talking to Hope about that time where every Avenger has their moment to be needed.  Spider-Man has his time to shine, and he does his Uncle Ben proud.  But with that being said, that was a pretty weak ending.  Without spoiling anything, it was a great build up to disappointment. I feel like this part of the story was out of Aaron's hands. The art by Adam Kubert, this time around it was great, leaps and bounds better then issue #7.

Story - 3/5 - Only because of the ending
Art - 4/5 

Animal Man #12  - $2.99  -  T+

Rot World Part 1, this is the first part of a cross over with Swamp Thing written by both Scott Snyder and Jeff Lemire.  This issue picks up right were #11 left off, leaving Buddy Baker and his family to find Swamp Thing and Abby. Each used their respective Green and Red to find one another. While this is happening, a possessed Cliff pulls a Carl and runs off from his grandmother.  Ellen for most of the issue is a Debby Downer talking about being able to see Buddy again and how there aren't any safe places in the world anymore.  So Animal Man and Swamp thing go in and fight the rot leaving a vine from Swamp thing to the connected world, so they can find their way back. Then they enter the rot, which I have high hopes for. This seems like a great idea of the Red and Green teaming up. It's interesting to see how this continues...

Story - 4/5
Art - 3/5

Swamp Thing #12  -  $2.99  -  T+

In part 2! After Buddy and Alec enter the Rot, only Alec can use his powers because of his connection/tether to the outside world. This tether is cut fairly quickly by Anton Arcane. Abby closes the portal but after the tether is cut the it spells out Abby a sign that she needs to act. In what I feel it was a great way to bring Anton back which was by explaining that Alec broke the rules that when a Avatar dies they don't come back but he did, so the Rot brought back Anton. Since Maxine is the new Red avatar, she will have to be careful but also protect her brother and mom. In an interesting and graphic twist Anton sends to what we believe is the real world, in ruins. The art on this book is great and unique especially with the way the comic panels have been used as artistic touch.

Story  -  4/5
Art  -  4/5

Action Comics #12  -  $2.99  -  T

I love Grant Morrison, and this issue is why it's a mix of great story telling and the super absurd.  We learn Captain Comet's back story and how his life was the opposite that of Superman's.  As Lois is dying from her wounds Superman gets thrown into a building, and in great symbolism Superman rises from the rubble as the firefighters declare John Clark dead.  Then hysterically Captain Comet threatens Superman with I kid you not Psychic Bullets, but Susie blocks his vision.  Then Captain Comet fades away as warning that he was there to save them.  Another funny moment was when Superman learns 8 years worth of medical knowledge from books in seconds, then preforms surgery on Lois to save her life.  Kind of a cop out but also really funny.  In the end Clark Kent comes back and the first person to find out is his landlord, who turns out be Nyxlygsptlnz the girlfriend of Mxyzptlk, who is seen on the last page of the comic.  Rags Morales also gives another consistent out with his art work.

Story  -  3/5
Art  -  3/5

Detective Comics #12  -  $2.99  - T

In Tony Daniel's final issue for the series, he reveals that Mr. Toxic and Hugh Marder were going to be joined in one as they use the particle collider.  They wan't to do this in hopes of becoming immortal, but Batman averts a crisis when he throws a special Batarang into the mutation that Mr. Toxic caused himself.  Batman at the beginning of the issue came into contact with the same chemicals, so he came to the conclusion that heat will stop the mutation from spreading and saving Mr. Toxic's life. I feel like this is a good way to go out for Daniel, not a to heavy or light storyline open and closed. The art is some of the better I have seen from him. I hope the best for ya Tony, but now with that being said I am very excited for John Layman to start writing a Batman story!

Story  -  3/5
Art - 4/5

Quickshots

These are some issues that I just go the chance to read from previous weeks.

Uncanny X-Men #16 

This was fun, the art wasn't good, but it has exploding X-Men clones and exploding cows. Its worth a flip through.

Justice League #11

Big fight among each other but then at the end they see their dead loved ones, guess that's whats so new about the New 52 is everyone has an Uncle Ben. Good story, great art.

BONUS ROUND

I was just watching the Batman & Robin movie on TV, so here's Seal...

I know its from Batman Forever but deal with it and embrace it.


Till Next time. Same Bat-Time, Same Bat-Blog?

Comic Reviews - July 18th & 25th

Welcome to another installment of my reviews. Lets Go!

Also don't forget to buy your books here!

Captain America #15 - $3.99 - Digital Copy - T

A great story written by Ed Brubaker who has Captain America protecting New York from an attack.  We find out it is an elaborate plan by the Hydra Queen to turn the public against Captain America when they clone a TV news talking head and have him twist everything that Cap has done. There is also a power struggle among the supervillians, which I hope leads to a plot device in a later issue. At the end of the issue Cap faces fighting the Discordians. This issue deals much more then a physical attack on Cap but a psychological one by attacking him publicly to turn the people he fights for, against him.  The art by Scot Eaton is solid. It is good at telling the story and good at illustrating the action. I just would like to see a little more flare/personal touch in the art.


Story - 4/5
Art - 3/5

Amazing Spider-Man #690 - $3.99 -  Digital Copy - T

"No Turning Back" continues...into nothing. This issue was meh at best. Morbius was caught by Spidey.  Connors makes everyone into Lizards and isn't sure he wants to be turned back.  The best part about this story by Dan Slott was when Connors has to keep cutting off his arm because the serum finally worked and he had to keep up his crippled appearance. This issue can be skipped, unless you were a fan of the art before.


Story - 2/5
Art - 3/5

AVX #8 - $3.99 - Digital Copy - T+

Round 8: This has been booooring. Seriously all that happens is the Avengers get Hope to K'un Lun.  They defeat Namor with a joint effort and Scarlet Witch.  Namor losses his powers after he "falls" (lame) and they get transferred to the Phoenix four.  Scott won't listen to Professor X. End.  My theory is Scott or Emma get all the power and it goes straight to their head. The story was written by Bendis and the art was by Adam Kubert, but this is one of the worst outings I have seen by him.  The style isn't consistent the mechanics just aren't all there.  In one panel you can see the out line of Captain America that looks like it was forgotten to be erased then inked.  This is one big let down.


Story - 2/5
Art - 2/5

Deadpool #58 - $2.99 - Parental Advisory

The most entertaining book this week, not because it avant guarde but because it knows what it is, and thats where I take it from. It is a slap stick tongue in cheek book. The writer Daniel Way, doesn't try to make any high concepts from it. Deadpool doesn't have powers, so villains are trying to kill him.  Its a quick read but it has great art work by Salva Espin that matches with the wackiness perfectly. The best part of the story involves an explosive toilet and an anti-ballistic shower curtain. If you wan't some great immature fun, read this.


Story - 4/5
Art - 4/5 

Saga #5 - $2.99 - Not Rated

If you aren't reading this, why aren't you? The story written by Brian K Vaughan. Right at the start Robot IV finds out he will be a father.  Mean while Marko saves Alana and Hazel from IV's men where he breaks his rule not to hurt anyone. The Will saves the 6 year old from Sextillion but gets taken back. While there a contact calls The Will and explains she is on the trail of Marko and Alana. His contact, Stealth, is then shot by Robot IV in a haunting final page. This is a great twist to the beginning of this series. The art by Fiona Staples is good for the story it has it's own style and never deviates from it. The splash pages are great and can illustrate some good action. I can't wait to see the repercussions of the final page.


Story - 4/5
Art - 3/5

Green Lantern #11 - $2.99 - T

This series I enjoyed before the reboot, and this issue is more of the same from Geoff Johns.  This issue was a stepping stone into revealing the New 52 Green Lantern mythos.  Indigos made a strong construct ring for Hal Jordan, so he can use it on Sinestro. Foreshadowing?  While they were preoccupied, Black hand escaped and resurrects his family and in a great scene of him sitting around a table with zombies.  While retrieving the Book of the Black, they open it reveling some characters and are transported to the Black Hand and his family. TBC! The art was done by Doug Mahnke who has always had great art style that demonstrates a consistent art style through most of DC. It's great but just lacks a definitive uniqueness that other artists have today.


Story - 4/5
Art - 3/5

Ramblings:

One thing that i noticed about the DC New 52, is that it was suppose to be a place for the casual fan/new fan to pick up and understand whats going on. We are almost a year on and I feel like I am going to look up characters and have to refer to previous issues or Wikipedia.


Let me know what you guys think of the titles I reviewed!

Previews August 2012

Hello everyone, 


Just was flipping through the latest copy of Previews that is available at 1up Collectibles this past Wednesday.


For those of the unaware of what Previews is, it is a monthly Magazine oh what is going to be available in the near future.  It is usually a look at 3 months into the future, so don't expect to see any of the products in the store right away.(common misconception)  Anything that is in the magazine is available for pre-order through the order form located in the book. You must then take the form to 1up where they will place the order for you and then you are guaranteed the item unless it is canceled. In that case any money deposited towards it can be transferred or refunded.


So now that the long drawn out explanation is out of the way lets get to the goods.

Marvel

A+X # 1 - $3.99 - Digital Copy Included - T

So this is part of the Marvel Now series and it looks like will include some pretty writers Like Jeff Loeb and Warren Ellis.  The series is going to entail two stories per issue, with team-ups featuring members of the X-Men and Avengers. This looks like it might be another way for writers to tell funny one-off stories.  The thing that caught me eye about the art work was DOOP! I am hoping for a Doop / Spider-Man team up. So this should just be a fun guilty pleasure for most.

Thanos: Son of Titan # 1 (of 5) - $2.99 - T+

This looks like it will be giving more history to Thanos, everyones favorite cameo from the Avengers. From the bullet points it sounds like it will tie into the Marvel Movie universe or maybe it will more likely be able to wet peoples appetite while answering, who is Thanos? Series is going to be written by Joe Keatinge of Glory and Hell Yeah comics, so if you like those stories check out his first work for Marvel.

According to IGN this series was canceled

Punisher: War Zone #1 (of 5)

This is a series written by current Punisher writer Greg Rucka, who is writing a pretty well consistently.  It looks like it will be everyones favorite Anti-Hero vs the Avengers. And no it has nothing to do with the last movie. I wonder if this has t do with the End of an Era (see below) story arch.

Dexter #1 (of 5)

This is a limited series based on forensic scientist, Dexter Morgan, who is also a vigilante serieal killer. Written by the New York Times Best Selling author Jeff Lindsay (Dexter book series.) This looks like all new material of Dexter at his High School Reunion. Sounds like it should be fun if your a fan of the series or the macabre.

FINAL ISSUE WARNING!!!

These issues are listed as their last issues under the heading of End of An Era. There are special Variants being offered for all final issues except for New Mutants, if that's you kind of thing. Curious to see why this is happening.

Incredible Hulk #15
Uncanny X-Men #20X-Men Legacy #275
Captain America #19
Mighty Thor #22
Invincible Iron Man #527
Fantastic Four #611
FF #23
New Mutants #50
You have been warned.

Quick Shots!

Marvel Universe Vs. The Avengers #1 (of 4)

Minimum Carnage: Alpha #1 

Red She-Hulk #58

Daredevil: End of Days #1 (of 8)

SUSAN G. KOMEN FOR THE CURE VARIENT COVERS

While flipping through Marvel Previews, I saw this pink page which made me stop to read it. Marvel Entrainment is going Pink this October in a month long campaign to support Susan G. Komen for the Cure. This is during breast cancer awareness month and select titles will come with variant Pink covers to purches. Each cover will have special redesigned costumes and all issues this month will feature special 1 page inserts to inform readers about breast cancer. For more info please visit Komen.org

DC

DC Universe Presents #13 - $2.99 - T

This is the first New 52 introduction of Black Lightning and Blue Devil and they are teaming up.  Written by Marc Andreyko (Manhunter) this should be an interesting story arch just because its two C maybe even D list characters for DC and with the reboot there should be nothing held back.

Action Comics #13 - $3.99 - T

Grant Morrison is bringing Krypto back, but not without a major change to Action Comics. I can't wait to see what happens, but hopefully nothing to the Kryptonian pooch.  The art is going to be by Travel Foreman (Animal Man.)

Batman #13 - $3.99 - T

The Joker is back in a story arch entitled "Death of the Family."  Written by perennial home run hitter Scott Snyder, this is the first time since before the reboot that the Snyder has gotten to use such a demented character, so this should be brutal and delightful. Come for the Joker, stay for the anarchy!

Detective Comics #13 - $3.99 - T

This is something I have been looking forward to, the issue where John Layman takes over!  Layman is best known for his creation Chew, if you haven't heard of it go pick up the first trade for $10. Why are you still here? Go! ... Okay now that your back this new story has Emperor Penguin and guest stars Nightwing.

Just Imagine Stan Lee Creating The DC Universe Omnibus HC - $75.00

The series is back in print! I know this maybe a lot of money for some people but if you enjoyed it the first time around but didn't have all of them here is your chance to buy them all in one shot.  Its a set of stories from 2001 that what if Stan Lee made the DC characters. So Batman may resemble Man Bat and Green Lantern would look more like Dr. Manhattan. Its in interesting concept written and illustrated by some of DC's top talent.

Quick Shots!

Green Lantern #13

Flash #13

Animal Man #13

Joe Kubert Presents #1

INDY's (Independents)

IDW

Gil Kane's Amazing Spider-Man Artist's Edition - TBD

This is an artist's edition, that means these are the comic art pages from the comics with no color. It's inks and texts. It is as close to the original art as possible. The book is the size of the art panels 12" x 17" so its a nice piece for an art aficionado.  This encompasses art from issues 96 - 102 & 121, which includes the non Comics Code approved issue and the six armed Spidey. Others were around the $125 price range so look for this to be no exception.

IMAGE

Bedlam #1 - $3.50 - Mature

This is by Nick Spencer (Morning Glories) about a homicidal maniac who used to terrorize the town of Bedlam, but now is better. Now this is what happens next. My assumption is either its going to be a reason to show chaos and carnage or its going to be a decent psychologic character study. 

The Walking Dead #103

Another issue into the tale of the survivors and Rick Grimes. The description was a little lack lust and made it sound like its just trudging along. Hopefully its because they don;t want to ruin the story.

The Walking Dead: Michonne Special

If you have been watching the TV show and wondered who the lady is with the two zombies on chains well this is her and her story. This features a reprint of issue #19 and whats was originally published in Playboy about her backstory. So if you like me and don't buy smut or download comics illegally then pick this up. This should be out around the time of the show so buy it to show all your friends, who watch the show and don't read comics, where she came from.

Saga Vol. 1 TPB

If you haven't read Saga yet or couldn't find the issues because you were late to the party then pick this up. The story of saga has been described as Lord of the Rings meets Star Wars. It is written by Brian K Vaughan( Lost, Y the Last Man, Ex Machina) and drawn by Fiona Staples whose artwork is pretty phenomenal.

Quick Shots

The Walking Dead Compendium Vol. 2 TP - IMAGE (Finally!!!)

Happy #2(of 4) - IMAGE (Grant Morrison)

Ex Sanguine #1 - Dark Horse (Tim Seeley)
Ghost #1

Action Figures

Justice League New 52 7-Pack - DC Direct - $99.99

This box set is going to include Superman, Batman, Aquaman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, Cyborg, and Flash. 10% of the every set bought goes to Save the Children International to help feed kids in need all around the world.

Statues

Batman Black and White: Batman Beyond - DC Direct - $79.99

This is one I know fans have been waiting for so its good to see it finally being made. It will be about 8" x 4.5" x 4.5" and designed byDustin Nguyen.

Deadpool Mini-Bust - Gentle Giant - $89.00

This statue features the Merc with a Mouth with gun drawn. The bust is 1/6th scale so it should be about 6 - 8" tall.

Hawkeye Mini-Bust - Gentle Giant - $89.00

This bust feature Clint Barton with arrow at the ready. This bust is also 1/6th scale as well so it should be around 6-8" tall.

Batman: Arkham City - Batarang Full Size Replica - TriForce - TBD

This is a full size scale replica of Batman's forearm and hand holding a batarang. This is from one of the best selling comic video games of all time.  It will be 22" in height and 20 pounds heavy with full working LEDs on the base. The batarang itself is fully detachable. only 750 are going to be produced. This could very well fetch a $300-400 $750 price tag. Shipping December 2012.