Tag Archives: jughead

Around the Tubes

Just one more day until New York Comic Con! Until then, here’s some comic news and reviews from around the web in our morning roundup.

Around the Tubes

Variety – Women Quietly Become a Force in Comic Book World – Not sure I’d call it really quiet. Its kind of been a fight.

 

Around the Tubes Reviews

CBR – All-New, All-Different Marvel Point One #1

Newsarama – All-New, All-Different Marvel Point One #1

CBR – Avengers #0

Newsarama – Doctor Strange #1

Comic Vine – Doctor Strange #1

Newsarama – Invincible Iron Man #1

Comic Vine – Invincible Iron Man #1

Newsarama – Jughead #1

CBR – Jughead #1

Nothing But Comics – The Steam Man #1

Comicsgirl – Three quick reviews of Harlequin manga titles

Graphic Policy’s Top Comic Picks this Week!

PaperGirls01_CoverWednesdays are new comic book day! Each week hundreds of comics are released, and that can be pretty daunting to go over and choose what to buy. That’s where we come in!

We’re bringing back something we haven’t done for a while, what the team thinks. Our contributors are choosing up to five books each week and why they’re choosing the books.

Find out what folks think below, and what comics you should be looking out for this Wednesday.

Alex

Top Pick: Old Man Logan #5 (Marvel) – I loved the first Old Man Logan, it remains to this day one of the best Wolverine stories told in the last fifteen years. This sequel doesn’t quiet measure up to those lofty heights, but I never expected it too. This story is a fun exploration of a character that has been missing from our comics for a long time, and I’m enjoying every page.

Detective Comics #45 (DC Comics) – Honestly, if it wasn’t for the possibility of more Harvey Bullock, this comic wouln’t be on my list at all. Who doesn’t love Harvey Bullock?

 

Brett

Top Pick: Drawn Onward (Big Planet Comics/Retrofit) – I picked up a copy of this small press indie book a while ago, and seriously it’s one of the best comics I’ve read this year. A comic that looks at a relationship from two perspectives, you need to read the comic front to back, and then back to front to get the full experience. Absolutely brilliant. You can read my review here.

Captain Canuck #4 (Chapterhouse Comics) – Remember when superheroes were supposed to be fun? This comic series follows Canada’s champion and is exactly that, fun with lots of action!

Cyborg #3 (DC Comics) – A comic that has parts superhero and part reflection, Cyborg’s solo series has been a breath of fresh air in many ways, especially since its tackled so many issues such as race and disabilities head on.

Jughead #1 (Archie Comics) – Archie’s relaunch of their titles have been amazing so far. Chip Zdarsky and Erica Henderson are masters at what they do, and the fact they’re on this comic has me beyond excited.

Southern Bastards #11 (Image Comics) – The best ongoing comic being produced hands down, no question.

 

Elana

Top Pick: Paper Girls #1 (Image Comics) – The writer of Saga (aka the comic even my Dad will read) and the artist of Wonder Woman team up for some 1988 newspaper girl badassness.

Top Pick: Jughead #1 (Archie Comics) – I never read Archie till the relaunch and boy does this one look like fun. Zdarsky and Henderson are aces at comedy without being mean spirited. Both are zany and oddball talents, making them the most Jughead-worthy team ever.

8House: Yorris Part 1 (Image Comics) – 8House is always something interesting and new. I’d suggest getting all #1 of the 8House mini imprint if you’re hungry from something unique and strange. This book has a euro-comic feel shared by many of the 8House stories.

Cyborg #3 (DC Comics) – A seriously smart comic about disability and race. It’s also great as pure sci-fi. Because those are things good sci-fi is supposed to do.

Doctor Strange #1 (Marvel) – I’ve wanted a new Doctor Strange book for a long time. Jason Aaron’s pitch is a strong one: “Who do you call when things are coming out of your dreams and trying to kill you? He’s the only person standing between us and the forces of darkness, but has he been paying his tab?” –  The mildly de-aged Doctor sounds like he could be the Marvel version of John Constantine. But I’d prefer if it goes its own way since Constantine is winning at Constantine-ing (boy do I love that comic).

The Humans #8 (Image Comics) – Serious shit went down last issue in my favorite historical-fiction/funny-animal/ape-sploitation comic. Now, the biker gang’s old ladies are on the cover of this month’s issue with semi-automatic weapons pointed. That’s all I’m saying.

 

Kenny

Top Pick: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #50 (IDW Publishing) – Shredder vs. the Turtles. 90% of my childhood was built around this rivalry and time has made me no less excited to see these mortal enemies go at it again.

Doctor Strange #1 (Marvel) – I have always had a special place in my heart for comic book characters that are so far on the fringe of their own universe that people with outrageous super powers rarely dare to go into their realm and Doctor Strange personifies this better than almost anyone.

The Omega Men #5 (DC Comics) – After all the push back resulting from DC attempting to end this series at issue 6 I had to check out what all the fuss was about and I have yet to be disappointed.

What If? Infinity – Thanos (Marvel) – Anyone who has ever heard a story has always wondered “What if?”. And I always get a kick out of Marvel trying to answer these questions. Especially, ones I never thought to ask like how Thanos joining the Avengers would turn out.

 

Paul

Top Pick: Siege #4 (Marvel) – This has been a fantastic Secret Wars tie in, and I am very excited for this issue….Thanos has arrived!  Can Abigail and the defenders of The Shield survive?  Can’t wait to find out!

Avengers #0 (Marvel) – A slew of new Avengers titles coming down the line, and this issue #0 gives us a look at the new teams.  Very excited to get inside the teams we’ve only seen teaser pics about; the rosters, their missions…and apparently someone is keeping a close eye on these Avengers.  Can’t wait!

Contest of Champions #1 (Marvel) – Heroes fighting in a cosmic game of chess, to see who can wield incredible power.  Yeah, it’s been done before, but with different versions of heroes and villains to pull from?  Ok, I’m interested.

 

Pharoah

Top Pick: Doctor Strange #1 (Marvel) – Jason Aaron tackles another iconic Marvel property, and I got a feeling, he is about make this legend, even more relevant and exciting than ever!!!

Amazing Spider-Man #1 (Marvel)- any storyline that brings back Peter Parker and Mary Jane Watson into the Spiderverse, is one at least finding out why, which is only part of the fun.

Batman and Robin Eternal #1 (DC Comics) – The reintroduction of Dick Grayson into Batman’s world??/ I cannot wait to read this, as Dick revisits a case when he was Robin.

Contest of Champions #1 (Marvel) – a classic showdown between Thanos, Maestro, Venom Gamora, and a host of others battle it out

Paper Girls #1 (Image) – I love Brian K.Vaughn’s work , as he truly has the Midas touch when it comes to series, especially when it original series , and this one is right up his alley and he teams up Cliff Chang of Batman fame for this one.

Archie Comics in December 2015

THE BLACK HOOD #8

“The Lonely Crusade, Part 2” The Black Hood has tracked down the “Crusaders”—a mysterious group of vigilantes who have vowed to clean the “scum” off the streets of Philadelphia. But their first encounter leaves our man beaten, humbled… and hungry for payback. The Crusaders, however, have some payback of their own in mind. Especially when they stumble upon the Hood’s real identity…

Script: Duane Swierczynski
Art: Michael Gaydos, Kelly Fitzpatrick, Rachel Deering
The Black Hood #8 CVR A Reg: Francesco Francavilla
The Black Hood #8 CVR B Variant: David Mack
On Sale Date: 12/23
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

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THE HANGMAN #3

“Damned, Part 3” From the very depths of Hell… a new Hangman arises! Can this newest incarnation of the urban legend do what it takes to save his soul—or will be walk the Earth forever unredeemed? He will if the demon Azmodeus has anything to say about it!

Script: Frank Tieri
Art: Felix Ruiz
The Hangman #3 CVR A Reg: Tim Bradstreet
The Hangman #3 CVR B Variant: Peter G. Krause
On Sale Date: 12/30
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

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THE SHIELD #4

“Daughter of the Revolution, Part 4” She has served her country well, fighting for US interests the world over. But when the Shield’s next mission ends in tragedy on American soil—a tragedy televised live to every home in the country—the true nature of Black Seven is revealed as the superhero the world has been waiting generations for becomes… Public Enemy Number 1!

Script: Adam Christopher and Chuck Wendig
Art: Drew Johnson, Rachel Deering, Kelly Fitzpatrick
The Shield #4 CVR A Reg: Drew Johnson
The Shield #4 CVR B Variant: Andrew Robinson
On Sale Date: 12/16
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

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ARCHIE: COLLECTOR’S EDITION

This direct market-only, 80-page special collects the first three issues of the landmark new Archie series. Familiar faces return in new and unexpected ways with a new school year, new changes, new questions and new storylines for the teens of Riverdale. Take another look at all of the gorgeous artwork by the incomparable Fiona Staples in this must-have collector special! And if you haven’t experienced the historical, groundbreaking new Riverdale yet, now is your chance to get in on the ground floor! This collector’s edition contains special features you won’t want to miss out on!

Script: Mark Waid
Art: Fiona Staples, Andre Szymanowicz, Jack Morelli
Cover: Fiona Staples
On Sale Date: 12/16
80-page, full color comic
$9.99 U.S.

ArchieCollectEd

ARCHIE #5

The biggest comic series of the year presses on! Betty and Jughead have declared war on Veronica over the heart and soul of Archie Andrews!  Who should you be rooting for? You might just be surprised by the answer! Rising star comics artist Veronica Fish (Pirates of Mars, the RIVERDALE CW promo image) joins the legendary Mark Waid on creative duties for this brand new issue!

Script: Mark Waid
Art: Veronica Fish, Andre Szymanowicz, Jack Morelli
Archie #5 CVR A Reg Cover: Veronica Fish
Archie #5 CVR B Variant: Thomas Pitilli
Archie #5 CVR C Variant: David Williams
On Sale Date: 1/6
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

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JUGHEAD #3

Zdarsky and Henderson are back with another out-of-this-world issue of the all-new Jughead! Drones? Explosives? A firing range? Science class under the new regime of Principal Stanger has taken a turn for the dangerous. And who do you call when danger is about? I guess, uh, 9-1-1? But if THEY can’t help? You call Jones. Jughead Jones.

Script: Chip Zdarsky
Art: Erica Henderson
Jughead #3 CVR A Reg Cover: Erica Henderson
Jughead #3 CVR B Variant: Khary Randolph
Jughead #3 CVR C Variant: Ty Templeton
On Sale Date: 12/30
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

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ARCHIE WINTER ANNUAL #266

Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching and Archie and Reggie aren’t feeling the love! It’s been a non-stop fight between the two over Veronica’s affection! But Veronica’s got some plans of her own with a secret Valentine—and it looks like Archie and Reggie may need to team up to find out who their mutual competition is! See if they can win Veronica’s heart without losing their minds in “Love at First Fight,” the fun lead story to this special winter annual, featuring even more pages of frosty fun!

Script: Angelo DeCesare
Art: Fernando Ruiz
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 12/30
192-page, full color comic
$5.99 U.S.

ARCHIEComDig#266

ARCHIE GIANT COMICS JACKPOT

Archie fans old and new will hit the JACKPOT with this lot of awesome Archie Comics stories! This volume collects 480 more pages of iconic and amusing tales! Follow America’s favorite red-head as he navigates the pressures of the American teenager in the awkward, charming and hilarious way you’ve come to know and love!

Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover: Jeff Shultz, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
978-1-62738-802-3
$7.99/$8.99 CAN
4 7/8 x 6 9/16″
TR
480 pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-Sale Date: 12/30

AGC_jackpot

BETTY & VERONICA COMICS DOUBLE DIGEST #239

In this installment of “the Many Loves of Archie Andrews,” The Archies and Josie & the Pussycats are teaming up once more for a special Valentine’s Day Concert! And we think Archie might already have a special someone in mind for his VAL-entine! But when Archie and Valerie go missing right before the big show, panic ensues as the bands figure out their show will go on! Will Archie and Valerie get there in time to make musical memories, or will the lovebirds be left out? Find out in “That’s Some VAL-entine!” the fun lead story to this comics double digest!

Script: Dan Parent
Art: Dan Parent
Cover: Parent, Rich Koslowski, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 12/23
160-page, full color comic
$4.99 U.S.

B&VDDigest#239

JUGHEAD AND ARCHIE WINTER ANNUAL #18

Jughead has devised the perfect winter prank—and Archie can’t wait to team up with him and get as many people as they can! But with Veronica as their first victim, will they successfully pull off their winter tricks, or will it snowball out of control and make the pranksters the prankees? Find out in “Snow Struck,” the hilarious lead story to this comics double digest featuring even more pages of winter fun!

Script: Craig Boldman
Art: Pat and Tim Kennedy
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 1/6
192-page, full color comic
$5.99 U.S.

Jug&ArchieComAnn#18

SONIC SUPER DIGEST #15

Sonic Comic Origins continues this month with an ALL-NEW story featuring Razor the Shark! This never-before-seen tale showcases an EXCLUSIVE back-story to the underwater side of the new Sonic Comic universe with one of the most popular new characters to debut in the series! It’s a real splash this month in Sonic Super Digest! Plus, don’t miss all the classic fun and adventure you love in stories from the comics’ 20+ year history as Sonic and his friends embark on daring adventures, face evil villains and save the day one chili dog at a time! Race into the fun that only Archie Comics and Sonic Super Digest can bring! Featuring super duper cover art from Tyson Hesse and story & art from the biggest names in Sonic comics history!

Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Adam Bryce Thomas, Rick Bryant, Jack Morelli, Matt Herms & Various
Cover: Tyson Hesse
On Sale Date: 1/13
128-page, full color comic
$4.99 U.S.

SONICSuperDig#15

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #280

SONIC’S WORLD TOUR CONTINUES in, “Keys to Victory”: Sonic, Tails and Chip head to the Efrikan settlement of Mazuri to find the next set of Gaia Keys—but they’ll have to go through the tough and menacing Axel, the Egg Boss of the Efrika Egg Army, to find them!  While deep in the heart of the Gaia Temple, Chip finds something incredible—but you’ll just have to wait and see what it is! Then, in “A Special Occasion,” Sally and Rotor are one girl’s only hope in a family emergency! Featuring awesome cover art by jamming Jamal Peppers and an “Altered Beast” variant by the exquisite Erik Ly!

Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Jamal Peppers, Jennifer Hernandez, Terry Austin, John Workman & Gabriel Cassata
Sonic the Hedgehog #280 CVR A Reg: Jamal Peppers, Terry Austin & Ben Hunzeker
Sonic the Hedgehog #280 CVR B Variant: Erik Ly
On Sale Date: 1/13
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

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SONIC UNIVERSE #83

EGGMAN’S BASE is UNDER ATTACK in, “Eggman’s Dozen” Part One: Dr. Eggman’s plans for controlling the shattered world were going perfectly—until now!  The wizard warlords—the Naugus Twins—have taken over Eggman’s base and Dr. Eggman’s source of Dark Gaia energy!  No mere robots will do for this mission—the doctor’s going to need ALL his Egg Bosses! Featuring cover art by Mr. Sonic comics himself, Tracy Yardley, and an “Evil Genius” variant by CG artist supreme, Rafa Knight!

Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli & Matt Herms
Sonic Universe #83 CVR A Reg: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash & Matt Herms
Sonic Universe #83 CVR B Variant: Rafa Knight
On Sale Date: 12/23
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

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WORLD OF ARCHIE JUMBO COMICS DIGEST #55

It’s time for the Riverdale High School Winter Dance and Archie needs a date! Unfortunately for him, every girl in school has already been wooed by different guys’ over-the-top ways of asking their dates to the dance! Archie decides he’s going to ask Betty to the dance and he’s going to do it in the biggest, most elaborate way EVER—he’s going to build a giant cake that he can jump out of with his guitar and play Betty a song inviting her to the dance! Will Archie’s pastry plan work, or will his sophisticated scheme have him going stag to the biggest event of the season? Find out in “Take Your Cake and Beat It Too!” the hilarious lead story to this JUMBO-SIZED comics digest!

Script: Fernando Ruiz
Art: Fernando Ruiz
Cover: Dan Parent, Rich Koslowski, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 12/16
256-page, full color comic
$6.99 U.S.

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Archie Comics in November 2015

THE BLACK HOOD #7

“The Lonely Crusade, Part 1” Greg Hettinger returns to Philadelphia and promises his closest friend, Jessie Dupree, that his hood-wearing vigilante days are over. But it’s a promise he’s going to struggle to keep—especially when a gang calling themselves “The Crusaders” are prowling the City of Brotherly Love, scooping up “undesirables” and asking if they want to be saved…    The second action-packed arc of The Black Hood begins here!

Script: Duane Swierczynski
Art: Michael Gaydos, Jesus Aburto, Rachel Deering
Cover: Francesco Francavilla
Variant Cover: David Mack
On Sale Date: 11/25
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

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THE HANGMAN #2

Join us as we embark on the highway to Hell—and a meet and greet with its overlord, the devil himself! Who will be the one ultimately taking this horrifying trip? Find out as we learn the truth about who and what the Hangman actually is… and the shocking legacy that accompanies him.

Script: Frank Tieri
Art: Felix Ruiz
Cover: Tim Bradstreet
Variant Cover: Mike Huddleston
On Sale Date: 12/2
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

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THE SHIELD #3

NEW ONGOING SERIES FROM DARK CIRCLE! “Daughter of the Revolution, Part 3”
Captured by Walter Chase, the Shield is made a surprising offer—an invitation to join his government organization, protecting the country as she was born to do. But as her new missions take her well beyond national borders, the truth slowly dawns and the Shield must face the ultimate question: does she serve the United States of America… or its people?

Script: Adam Christopher and Chuck Wendig
Art: Drew Johnson, Rachel Deering, Kelly Fitzpatrick
Cover: David Williams
Variant Covers: Joe Eisma, Ron Salas, Wilfredo Torres
On Sale Date: 11/18
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

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ARCHIE #4

The biggest comic series of the year continues! What was the “lipstick incident” that pushed Archie and Betty apart? And can the smartest boy in Riverdale fix it? The spotlight is on Dilton and Moose as, together, they show what friendship is really all about! We’re pleased to welcome ANNIE WU (BLACK CANARY, HAWKEYE) to Riverdale, as she takes over art duties in this brand new issue!

Script: Mark Waid
Art: Annie Wu
Cover: Annie Wu
Variant Covers: Mahmud Asrar, Francesco Francavilla, Jaime Hernandez with Rosario “Tito” Peña, Joe Quinones, Paul Renaud
On Sale Date: 11/25
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

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JUGHEAD #2

Zdarsky and Henderson return with the next issue of the all-new Jughead! Things continue to be amiss at Riverdale High as Coach Clayton gets replaced by a tough-as-nails, take-no-prisoner Phys-Ed teacher! Can he be stopped or will Jughead have to become… physically active? The answer lies in the far future…

Script: Chip Zdarsky
Art: Erica Henderson
Cover: Erica Henderson
Variant Covers: Veronica Fish, Francesco Francavilla, Robert Hack with Steve Downer, Les McClaine with Steve Downer
On Sale Date: 11/18
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

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ARCHIE COMICS DOUBLE DIGEST #266

The town leaders are planning a dazzling holiday show right in the center of Riverdale Square! Unfortunately, the Christmas spectacular turns into holiday havoc when they experience unforeseen technical difficulties! It’s up to Archie and his friends to revive this merry meltdown—and quick! Can they turn the show around and get everyone back into the holiday spirit in time? Find out in “Holiday Light,” the fun, new lead story to this comics double digest!

Script: Alex Simmons
Art: Fernando Ruiz
Cover: Dan Parent, Rich Koslowski, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 12/2
160-page, full color comic
$4.99 U.S.

ARCHIEComDig#266

ARCHIE’S FUNHOUSE JUMBO COMICS DIGEST #20

Betty has surprised everyone with a new tradition for the Christmas season: a low-budget Secret Santa! Ok, that’s not that surprising, but here’s the twist… all of the gifts have to be hand-made! There’s nothing more heartfelt than a gift made by hand—unless, of course, if you’re all-thumbs! How will some of our not-so-crafty pals ‘n’ gals fare in this new holiday tradition? Find out in “Not-So-Secret Santas,” the all-new fun and festive lead story to this JUMBO-sized comics digest!

Script: Tania Del Rio
Art: Fernando Ruiz
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 11/25
256-page, full color comic
$6.99 U.S.

FunhouseJumbo#20

B&V FRIENDS COMICS ANNUAL #246

While holiday shopping, Betty and Veronica spot a store Santa who has been abandoned by his elves at the last minute—right before a “Take Your Photo with Santa” event! Betty convinces Veronica that they should get into the spirit and help out—but when they do, Santa’s joy turns quickly to panic as his well-meaning helpers unintentionally cause some Christmas chaos! “Naughty or Nice” is a brand new hilarious holiday story you won’t want to miss—kicking off a laugh-filled comics annual featuring even more pages of fun!

Script: James Gartler
Art: Bill Galvan
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 12/9
192-page, full color comic
$5.99 U.S.

B&VFriendsComDig#246

JUGHEAD AND ARCHIE COMICS DOUBLE DIGEST #18

In order to squirm out of getting in trouble with Mr. Weatherbee for their latest shenanigans, Archie and Jughead volunteer to head up the Riverdale High School Holiday Decorating Committee. Unfortunately, neither of them is very talented at decorating! Will they get some special holiday help to clean up their mess and turn Riverdale High into a winter wonderland? Or are they doomed to spend Christmas in detention? Find out in “Santa’s Little Helpers!” the brand new lead story to this comics double digest!

Script: Paul Kupperberg
Art: Pat and Tim Kennedy
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 12/9
160-page, full color comic
$4.99 U.S.

Jug&ArchieComDig#18

MEGA MAN #55

THE MEGA-EPIC, MEGA-MOMENTOUS LAST ISSUE OF MEGA MAN BEFORE HIATUS IS HERE! “Everlasting Peace”: When an experiment at the Chronos Institute goes awry, Dr. Light is sent on a journey through time and space! Join us as we follow Mega Man across the ages and learn what it really means to be “Mega Man”! What legacy will the Blue Bomber leave and what will Dr. Light gain from this epic journey? Find out as we take a historic glimpse into the legendary adventures of Mega Man featuring the worlds of Mega Man, Mega Man X and even further beyond for the FIRST TIME EVER with the worlds of Mega Man Zero, Mega Man ZX and Mega Man Legends! Featuring cover art by the legendary Patrick “Spaz” Spaziante and a really rocking “ROCK MAN” variant cover by long-time Mega Man artist Ryan Jampole!

Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Jamal Peppers
Cover: Patrick Spaziante
Variant Cover: Ryan Jampole
On Sale Date: 11/18
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S

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SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #279

SONIC is in the FIGHT FOR HIS LIFE in—”Face of the Enemy” Part Two: Sonic and his friends are at the mercy of Egg Boss Nephthys and her Egg Army! They came to rescue a Gaia Key Guardian-but can they manage to escape with their lives?! Then, in the finale to “Hidden Costs,” revelations abound! Sally and Clove both think their plans have succeeded-but at what cost? Featuring cover art by jamming Jamal Peppers and Sonic CG artist supreme Rafa Knight!

Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Adam Bryce Thomas, Evan Stanley, Terry Austin, John Workman & Gabriel Cassata
Cover: Jamal Peppers, Terry Austin & Ben Hunzeker
Variant Cover: Rafa Knight
On Sale Date: 12/9
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

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SONIC UNIVERSE #82

ENTER THE FINAL FIGHT FOR THE FUTURE! “The Silver Age” part four: The finale to Silver’s latest adventure! Silver simply doesn’t have the might to stop the creature menacing his time. Maybe the combined brain power of Gold and Prof. von Schlemmer can help! It’s a knock-down, drag-out fight for the fate of the future with a shocking ending you’ll never see coming-even if you’re psychic! Featuring cover art by the “Silver Age” writer herself, Evan Stanley, plus a special “Movie Poster Variant” by the terrific T. Rex!

Script: Evan Stanley
Art: Tracy Yardley, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli & Matt Herms
Cover: Evan Stanley
Variant Cover: T. Rex
On Sale Date: 11/25
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S

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WORLD OF ARCHIE COMICS DOUBLE DIGEST #55

Archie, desperate for money to buy Christmas gifts, decides to lower himself in the worst possible way for a little Christmas cash: he’s going to rent himself out to his friends—at least, they WERE his friends, until they decide to take advantage of Archie’s situation by making him to do all the holiday chores they don’t want to! Will they remember the true meaning of the holiday before it’s too late? Find out in “All Worked Up!” the fun, festive new lead story to this comics double digest!

Script: Angelo DeCesare
Art: Pat and Tim Kennedy
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 11/18
160-page, full color comic
$4.99 U.S.

WOArchieComDig#55

Archie Comics in September 2015

THE SHIELD #3

NEW ONGOING SERIES FROM DARK CIRCLE! “Daughter of the Revolution, Part 3”
Captured by Walter Chase, the Shield is made a surprising offer—an invitation to join his government organization, protecting the country as she was born to do. But as her new missions take her well beyond national borders, the truth slowly dawns and the Shield must face the ultimate question: does she serve the United States of America… or its people?
Script: Adam Christopher and Chuck Wendig
Art: Drew Johnson, Rachel Deering, Kelly Fitzpatrick

CVR A Reg: David Williams
CVR B Variant: Joe Eisma
CVR C Variant: Ron Salas
CVR D Variant: Wilfredo Torres
On Sale Date: 9/16
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

TheShield#3 TheShield#3eismavar TheShield#3salasvar TheShield#3torresvar

JUGHEAD #1

IN THE GRAND TRADITION OF COMIC BOOK REBOOTS LIKE ARCHIE #1, ARCHIE COMICS PROUDLY PRESENTS… JUGHEAD #1—FROM THE COMICS DREAM TEAM OF CHIP ZDARSKY (Howard the Duck) AND ERICA HENDERSON (The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl)!

Riverdale High provides a quality education and quality hot lunches, but when one of those is tampered with, JUGHEAD JONES swears vengeance! Well, I mean, he doesn’t “swear.” This is still Archie Comics after all.

Script: Chip Zdarsky
Art: Erica Henderson
CVR A Reg Cover: Erica Henderson
CVR B Variant: Anton Emdin
CVR C Variant: Francesco Francavilla
CVR D Variant: Robert Hack
CVR E Variant: Ramon K. Perez
CVR F Variant: Chip Zdarsky
On Sale Date: 10/7
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

Jughead variant cover for Archie Comics

Jughead variant cover for Archie Comics

Print Jughead #1_Erica Henderson (Main CV) Jughead #1_Francesco Francavilla Jughead #1_Hack_Downer Jughead #1_Ramon Perez

ARCHIE #3

COMIC SUPERSTARS MARK WAID AND FIONA STAPLES ARE BACK FOR ANOTHER INSTALLMENT OF THEIR REMARKABLE REIMAGINING OF AN ICON! Something strange is looming over Riverdale—and it’s taking the shape of a giant mega-mansion owned by an elusive mogul. Why has he chosen the quaint town of Riverdale, USA as his base of operations? And how is he going to use the teens of Riverdale High to further his political aspirations? Big questions and challenges await the teens and townsfolk—meanwhile, a new student has graced the halls of Riverdale High and she’s turning heads in a BIG way! Find out all the answers to these important questions in the third issue of the biggest comics sensation of the season!
Script: Mark Waid

Art: Fiona Staples
CVR A Reg Cover: Fiona Staples
CVR B Variant: Ben Caldwell
CVR C Variant: Cliff Chiang
CVR D Variant: Stuart Immonen
CVR E Variant: Andrew Robinson
On Sale Date: 9/30
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

Archie#3 Archie#3CaldwellVar Archie#3ChiangVar Archie#3ImmonenVar Archie#3RobinsonVar

ARCHIE JUMBO COMICS DIGEST #265

Archie and Chuck are decorating Chuck’s house for Halloween with the cutest decorations in all of Riverdale… wait a minute, cutest?! Halloween is supposed to be about spooky decorations and thrills behind every corner! Archie and Chuck set to take back Halloween as the scariest holiday of them all—with a little help from a bewitching friend. Will Archie, Chuck and Sabrina be able to successfully mark the first feast of the witching year, or is Halloween doomed to be boring? Find out in “The Fright Side,” the fun new lead story, filled with double the tricks and treats, in this JUMBO comics digest!

Script: J. Torres
Art: Fernando Ruiz
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 10/7
288-page, full color comic
$6.99 U.S.

ARCHIEJumbo#265

ARCHIE’S FUNHOUSE COMICS DOUBLE DIGEST #18

The spooky season is here again, and the gang is ready to throw an unforgettable Halloween kids charity event—and what better place to host a haunted house party than at the Lodge mansion? But once the kids’ party is over, it’s time for the real Halloween fun to begin! But what happens when the teens start experiencing some spooky occurrences that they don’t remember coordinating for the event? See who can brave this haunted house adventure in “Giving up the Ghost,” the frighteningly fun brand new lead story to this comics double digest!

Script: Paul Kupperberg
Art: Pat and Tim Kennedy
Cover: Dan Parent, Rich Koslowski, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 9/30
160-page, full color comic
$4.99 U.S.

FunhouseComDig#18

THE BEST OF ARCHIE COMICS BOOK 1: DELUXE EDITION (HC)

Archie’s most popular graphic novel gets the deluxe treatment in this full-sized, remastered hardcover edition collecting over 50 iconic favorite stories from across Archie’s over 70-year history. The bestselling retrospective of this essential piece of Americana finally gets the treatment its due in this keepsake bookshelf edition.

Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover: Various
978-1-61988-955-2
$19.99/$21.99CAN
6 5/8 x 10”
HC
416 pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-Sale Date: 10/7

BOA_DLX

THE BEST OF ARCHIE COMICS: 75 YEARS, 75 STORIES (TR)

Celebrate 75 years of Archie and friends with this fun, full-color commemorative collection of high school hijinks! Contains over 600 pages of classic, much-loved comic book stories—one from each of the 75 illustrious years of Archie Comics publishing. Each of the comics in THE BEST OF ARCHIE COMICS: 75 YEARS, 75 STORIES has been personally chosen by creators, fans and contributors alike. Featuring special behind-the-scenes anecdotes, this is a must-have for all Archie—and comic book—fans everywhere!

Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover: Harry Lucey
978-1-62738-992-1
$14.99/$15.99CAN
5 1/4 x 7 ½”
TR
640 pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-Sale Date: 10/7

75Years-75Stories_CV1

BETTY & VERONICA COMICS DOUBLE DIGEST #237

Archie has received notice that he’s been entered in a “Best Boyfriend of the Year” contest. This may seem like a great thing for Riverdale’s resident Romeo, but there’s one problem: he’s been entered by eight different girls—including Betty and Veronica! And here’s the real kicker—every girl is aware of every other girl’s involvement in this contest! Meet each one of Archie’s dates one by one in the part one of this 10-part series, “The Many Loves of Archie Andrews”! And that’s only the beginning of a fun-filled comics double digest!

Script: Dan Parent
Art: Dan Parent
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 9/23
160-page, full color comic
$4.99 U.S.

B&VDDigest#237

JUGHEAD AND ARCHIE COMICS DOUBLE DIGEST #16

When Archie offers to forgo any fun plans on a gorgeous Saturday afternoon in order to help his parents plant their garden, he doesn’t realize how his good deed will snowball into something bigger… or was it all orchestrated from the start? Find out in “How Does Your Garden Grow?” the brand new lead story to this comics double digest!

Script: James Gartler
Art: Dan Parent
Cover: Fernando Ruiz, Bob Smith, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 10/14
160-page, full color comic
$4.99 U.S.

Jug&ArchieComDig#16

ART OF SONIC THE HEDGEHOG COMICS (TR)

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG is the single longest-running video game-inspired comic book series ever! With over 400 issues and over 20 years of adventures, the artists on Sonic comic books have created thousands of pages of show-stopping artwork. Join us in a parade of visual splendor as we revisit the finest pieces of art to come from SONIC THE HEDGEHOG, SONIC UNIVERSE, SONIC BOOM and all the other Sonic titles you’ve come to know and love over the years, featuring an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the artists and their work, including sketches, pencils and stage-by-stage break-downs of your favorite true blue artwork, plus an extensive variant cover gallery! No Sonic fan will want to be without the dazzling works of PATRICK “SPAZ” SPAZIANTE, TRACY YARDLEY, BEN BATES, JAMAL PEPPERS, JENNIFER HERNANDEZ and many, many more!

Script: Various
Art: Various
Cover: Patrick Spaziante, Ben Hunzeker and various
978-1-62738-936-5
$39.99/$45.00CAN
8 1/4 x 11 1/4″
TR
304 pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-Sale Date: 10/7

Art of STH

MEGA MAN #53

The BLUE BOMBER is BACK from the events of “Worlds Unite” and is ready to fight for justice! That’s all well and good, if there was actually someone to fight! In “Blue Shift,” peace has finally come to Mega Man’s life—but is that a bad thing?  Could it be possible that our super fighting robot has come to actually love the battles he was once so opposed to?  Meanwhile, Dr. Wily plots something sinister from the shadows, reaching an even newer low for the mad doctor!  It’s an extended curtain call as we come to the end of the Mega Man series! Featuring cover art from Jason Piperberg and a BOT UNDER FIRE variant from superstar Thomas Pitilli!

Script: Ian Flynn
Art: Ryan Jampole, Gary Martin, John Workman and Elaina Unger
CVR A Reg: Jason Piperberg
CVR B Variant: Thomas Pitilli
On Sale Date: 9/16
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S

Megaman#53 Megaman#53var

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 4: CONTROL (TR)

Things are about to get a little HAIRY! Moving at the speed of sound, keeping the world free from robotic tyranny—it’s SONIC THE HEDGEHOG! One of the most beloved video game icons speeds into brand new comic book stories with new friends, new foes and new adventures! It’s Sonic—UNLEASHED! The corrupting energies of Dark Gaia have infected our heroic hedgehog, transforming him into the fearsome WEREHOG! It’s up to his old buddies Mighty and Ray to tame the savage beast! And the race for the Chaos Emeralds grows direr as the Freedom Fighters fight for their lives against the fearsome E-100 killer robots! SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 4: CONTROL collects SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #264-267.

Script: Ian Flynn, Benjamin Bailey, Joey Esposito, Eric Esquivel
Art: Tyson Hesse, James Fry, Jamal Peppers, Evan Stanley, Terry Austin, John Workman and Gabriel Cassata
Cover: Patrick “Spaz” Spaziante
978-1-62738-955-6
$12.99/$14.99CAN
6 5/8 x 10 3/16″
TR
104 pp, Full Color
Direct Market On-Sale Date: 9/30

STH GN vol4

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #277

SONIC TAKES THE LEAD in the race to fix the planet! “Thunder, Rain and Lightning”: Sonic and the team link up with Lupe to destroy one of Dr. Eggman’s super badniks!  How does this tie into fixing the shattered world?  And just what secrets does Lupe keep?  Then, in “Hidden Costs” Part One, Sally and Bunnie hunt down the final Chaos Emerald—which is in the heart of Egg Boss Clove’s forbidden territory! Featuring cover art from jammin’ Jamal Peppers and a “BATTLE!” variant from Sonic comics all-star Tyson Hesse!

Script: Ian Flynn & Aleah Baker
Art: Adam Bryce Thomas, Evan Stanley, Terry Austin, Gabriel Cassata and John Workman
CVR A Reg: Jamal Peppers, Rick Bryant and Ben Hunzeker
CVR B Variant: Tyson Hesse
On Sale Date: 10/14
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S.

Sonic#277 Sonic#277var

SONIC UNIVERSE #80

The FUTURE is in DANGER, and only Silver the Hedgehog can make things right! “The Silver Age” Part Two: Silver has teamed up with Prof. von Schlemmer and they have a plan for stopping the Genesis Portals!  This seems like the solution everyone’s been waiting for—but why doesn’t the Council want to hear it?  The mystery deepens as a voice calls out to Silver—a voice that only he can hear!  Will our unlikely heroes uncover the conspiracy, or die trying? Featuring cover art from the Sonic comic master Tracy Yardley and a CHAOS CRISIS variant by Rafa Knight!
Script: Evan Stanley

Art: Tracey Yardley, Jim Amash, Matt Herms and Jack Morelli
CVR A Reg: Tracy Yardley and Matt Herms
CVR B Variant: Rafa Knight
On Sale Date: 9/23
32-page, full color comic
$3.99 U.S

SonicUniv#80 SonicUniv#80var

WORLD OF ARCHIE COMICS DOUBLE DIGEST #53

Archie, Betty, Jughead and Ethel are excited for another fun Halloween bash that Veronica’s throwing—and this time, she’s pulled out all the stops to make it a memorable one! From a secret location with creepy dolls and clowns, the gang is sure to be frightened… just one question: where is the woman of the hour? And why do those dolls seem to be following them wherever they go? Find out in the frightfully fun “Scary, Scary Doooo,” the brand new lead story to this comics double digest!

Script: Alex Simmons
Art: Pat and Tim Kennedy
Cover: Dan Parent, Rich Koslowski, Rosario “Tito” Peña
On Sale Date: 9/16
160-page, full color comic
$4.99 U.S.

WOArchieComDig#53

Zdarsky and Henderson Set the Table with a New Jughead Series

Hamburgers and a crown made of paper. The mysterious “S” shirt and a dog named Hot Dog. Did we mention Hamburgers? All of these things are synonymous with the greatest comic book character of all time: Jughead! This October, Archie Comics is launching a new ongoing Jughead series by the unbeatable team of Chip Zdarsky and Erica Henderson!

Featuring the adventures of Archie’s hamburger-loving best friend, the new series will debut with an all new #1 issue from two of the comic book industry’s brightest stars. Zdarsky, known for his work on the hit Image series Sex Criminals, will bring his unique brand of comedy to comics’ biggest jokester.

Joining Zdarsky on Jughead will be Erica Henderson, best known for her work on Marvel’s Unbeatable Squirrel Girl, whose emotive artistic style and knack for capturing characters in their silliest moments perfectly suits the gluttonous teenager.

The new series will run alongside the upcoming Archie series, launching on July 8, by Mark Waid and Fiona Staples, telling off-the-wall and hilarious stories in the new and revamped Riverdale.

Jughead #1 will be available in comic book stores and digitally on October 7.

JUGHEAD #1 Cover by Erica Henderson JUGHEAD #1 Variant Cover by Chip Zdarsky

Archie Heads to Kickstarter

Archie#1ZdarskyvarArchie Comics is taking the Riverdale kids to somewhere they haven’t been before…. Kickstarter. In what might be the highest profile publisher to date to use the platform, Archie is asking for folks to pledge on the crowdfunding platform to help expand the world of New Riverdale with three new titles.

The crowdfunding campaign is looking to build off of the relaunched Archie series being written by Mark Waid with art by Fiona Staples.

The three new titles, launching over the next 18 months, include:

JUGHEAD — Featuring the adventures of Archie’s hamburger-loving best friend, from acclaimed writer Chip Zdarsky (Sex Criminals, Howard the Duck) and an artist TBA. An off-the-wall series full of laughs, unexpected twists and a modern sense of humor.

BETTY AND VERONICA — Girl-next-door Betty Cooper and wealthy socialite Veronica Lodge are best friends and fiercely competitive. While they both have a history with that guy Archie, the series puts the focus squarely on them — their friendship, their high school lives and adventures beyond Riverdale. Written and drawn by comic book legend Adam Hughes (Wonder Woman, Before Watchmen: Doctor Manhattan).

LIFE WITH KEVIN — Kevin Keller, the hugely-popular and historic character that broke new ground in Riverdale by being the first gay character in the company’s publishing history returns in a new ongoing series. Writer/artist Dan Parent (Kevin Keller) and inker J. Bone (The Spirit) tell a tale of an older, more experienced Kevin as he navigates a new city, new romance and leaving home.

Archie Comics Publisher/Co-CEO Jon Goldwater said in their release:

Our fans are part of our family — they’re an integral part of everything we do. We’re not flush with corporate cash like Marvel or DC. But we’re also not afraid to take calculated risks. With this Kickstarter, fans have the chance to get in on the ground floor of an exciting and forward-thinking initiative. Fans can help build a New Riverdale, brick-by-brick. We’ve put together a stellar lineup of titles — featuring the best and the brightest creators working on our top characters. With your help, we can make this New Riverdale a reality. The best part? This is only the beginning.

This is all part of Archie’s 75th Anniversary Celebration, with Archie #1 launching on July 8.

Here a Witch, There a Witch

witches01

From 2014’s World of Archie Digest #43

Archie Comics has traditionally struggled more than other comics at staying relevant, modern and current.  As opposed to other comics which can update their settings within their storylines, there are certain elements of Archie which remain tied to the past. For instance, hanging around at the corner diner or the jalopy which Archie is often seen to be driving. In recent years the publisher has tried to break from this past by incorporating in a lot of more current events, be that a meeting with Glee, Vampirella themed crossovers, or introducing a more diverse group of supporting characters than is common in most comic book series. In so doing the publisher has been successful at turning itself into something different from its previous incarnation. The older stories dealt with Archie getting into trouble, Jughead eating burger, Reggie flirting with Midge and the girls flirting with Archie, but newer issues have dealt with more relevant topics especially for their fanbase and targeted demographics such as interracial relationships, rights for disabled people and ethics in sports.

witches02

From World of Archie Double Digest #32

One key mechanic which has remained throughout all series is the topical subjects of the series and their covers, especially as it relates to the seasons. So the gang goes to the beach in summer issues and goes skiing or has snowball fights in winter issues. While there has been a topical focus throughout the course of the comics, one topic has generally been missing, and that is Halloween. Archie comics fluctuates between how many series it publishes focused on Riverdale, but it is usually between 6 and 8 regular series with other specials thrown in. From among the main series though since 2011, there has been a Halloween themed issue at least once a year.  Although Archie does rely on the past for some stereotypical inspiration at most times, the trend here is actually kind of weird. Over the course of these five covers, Betty and Veronica are dressed as either witches or as the Bride of Frankenstein in every case. Witches are even more preferred showing up in six out of nine of the character appearance (both Betty and Veronica don’t always appear). Although the cases are equally limited for the male characters they at least get to have some variety as zombies, firefighters, vampires, mummies, and Frankenstein.

witches03

From Betty and Veronica Double Digest #195

In looking at these covers though, it is not that there is one cover artist that really likes witches. Dan Parent is involved with a few of them, but it would seem that even aside from that there is a tendency to resort to the cliché in this specific case, even when the two main characters have been defined as much more modern and independent in recent years. Perhaps though it is just easiest for the publisher this way. Archie struggles for its market share as much as the other smaller companies, and though its demographic is different, it is likely worth not veering too far off of the stereotype when it comes to Halloween. After all, the girls dressed as a witch is an easy visual reference, but them dressed as something else might only confuse and lose the point of the Halloween theme anyway. Perhaps though maybe the artists will realize this odd trend and maybe break the girls into something else next year. A skeleton? A cat?  Alice in Wonderland? Or maybe even a firefighter?

Interview: Women of BOOM! – Kathleen Webb

Kathleen WebbIt’s Thursday which brings us a new interview and our 26th “Women of BOOM!” feature, spotlighting the many kick-ass women that work at BOOM!, Archaia and KaBOOM! We’re focusing on everyone, editors, designers, writers, artists, you name it! We’re making sure to include the hard-working folks whose contributions are often overlooked in the process.

BOOM! (and KaBOOM! and Archaia) has given us unprecedented access and the chance to ask questions to their staff, and creative teams, to find out why the publisher is so successful in hiring women and their experiences in the comic industry as women.

Kathleen Webb is a writer and artist who has worked on Peanuts for BOOM! Studios imprint KaBOOM! as well as numerous books for Archie Comics!

Graphic Policy: How did you get involved in the comic book industry?  

Kathleen Webb: I wrote a fan letter to Dan DeCarlo that I drew like a comic book (as if I was talking to him), and he called me in May of 1985 and said he wanted to help get me on at Archie because he felt I had potential as both a writer and an artist. I did some pencilling work on Betty & Veronica fashion pages, then in September he suggested I submit a script. I sent one in, had it rejected, sent in another, it sold, and the rest was history. I worked for Archie primarily as a writer for almost twenty-five years.

GP: Did you read comics growing up? Do you read them now?

KW: Oh yeah.  As a small child, I read the comic strips in the newspapers–my favorites were Peanuts, Dick Tracy (I loved Moon Maid!), Brenda Starr, The Phantom and Blondie and Dagwood. My goal was to become a comic strip artist “just like Charles Schulz”–I wanted that as early as age 8. When I got older (around ten) I started reading more Archie titles, and other “teen” humor comics, like Millie the Model, Date With Debbie, Scooter, etc. In my high school years I got into superhero stuff–used to read Sub-Mariner, Spider-Man and the Fantastic Four.  Later on I got into manga, by watching Sailor Moon on television.  I still read manga–mostly girl’s titles, like Fruits Basket.

GP: How did you come to work with BOOM!/Archaia?

KW: My friend, Jeff Schulz, who used to work with me at Archie, suggested I try out for KaBOOM! on their Peanuts title.

GP: How would you describe your job for people?

KW:  I used to put the words in Betty and Veronica’s mouths!

GP: For people who want to pursue a career in what you do, what advice would you give them?

KW: Make sure you have a day job!  It’s not easy in this industry to make a living.

GP: Did you have a mentor to help you break into the industry?

KW: Dan DeCarlo of Archie Comics was my mentor. He and I would have long conversations on the phone (he was on the east coast, I’m on the west) about cartooning, drawing, etc. He was a big encouragement in my early years at Archie.

GP: Do you think women have a more difficult time breaking in and making it in the comic industry, if so why? And if yes, how do you think that can be overcome?

KW: Hmm. I think it’s more difficult for a woman to make it in the comic industry if she wants to write what a friend of mine referred to as “talky girl comics.” Nowadays one would just refer to Japanese girl’s manga to make the point. The stories are more emotionally driven, and have less action and more character development. The American comic industry is geared more to male readers, if you’re referring to the stuff you find in the stores. As far as web comics go, there are more girl’s comics to be found, but they are more difficult to find in print. Now, with the advent of Kindle and the like, that may be a moot point. The other thing I’ve personally felt a lack of, is what I consider “all ages” material. Stuff that can appeal across the board, without be offensive. I’d like to see more of that, particularly from female writers/artists. As far as overcoming the obstacles to getting that kind of material out, I have no clue what can be done.

GP: We’ve heard horror stories concerning women in the industry, have you ever seen or been discriminated/harassed and if so, how did you handle it?

KW: I personally have never had any kind of discrimination or harassment. Archie Comics treated me fairly (they were pleased just to have a woman on board as a writer!) and never acted like I was anything other than just a good writer that they wanted to make use of. I guess I never let my gender get in my way–it never occurred to me that a woman couldn’t be a writer or artist, since I was aware of females already in the industry (Dale Messick, Ramona Fradon and Marie Severin come to mind). And the few conventions I’ve been to, I’ve never been harassed at. Maybe I just don’t travel in those circles?

GP: What advice do you have for women looking to break into the comic book industry?

KW: If you want to do it, keep at it. If you can’t get into the “big leagues,” put your work online, either on a blog or sites like Deviantart or create your own web site. Learn all you can about your craft–how to use your tools, how to make the best use of computer tools. Read other people’s work and think about what you like about it–learn from others. If you go to conventions, don’t be afraid to ask questions of the artists/writers there. Do what you love, not what you think will “sell.” And learn from the past! Go to the library and check out the comic strip compilations of stuff like Steve Canyon, Dick Tracy, Little Orphan Annie, Prince Valient, Little Nemo, etc. Read Asterix. Find out why these strips were so popular and enduring. And don’t give up!

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Archie Comics on May 2012

ARCHIE COMICS MAY 2012 SOLICITS

ARCHIE #633

Archie Marries Valerie Part 3 – “A Star Is Born!” – As newlyweds Archie and Valerie settle into married life, they quit their respective groups, The Archies and The Pussycats and focus on what matters. Teaching at a music school while starring in their own reality show, the happy couple can finally spend time together off the road. As Archie and Valerie make their own music together what kind of new changes in their former bands can we expect to see? Music aside, the biggest life altering event of the young couple’s lives is on the horizon as Valerie announces she’s pregnant! How will the family dynamic change the musical duo? Whatever the case, the new “star” in their life won’t arrive without the usual lunacy that follows Archie and Valerie around!

Script: Dan Parent

Art & Cover: Dan Parent, Rich Koslowski

Shipping Date: 5/9

On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 5/23

32-page, full color comic

$2.99 US.
ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #229

With Archie’s wallet hurting from movie theater prices, he decides to take matters into his own hands and give his community an alternative! Check out Archie’s affordable solution in “Home Movies!” Next up is a wild west adventure in the town of Deadwood as Archie and pals visit Calamity Jane, better known as Riverdale’s Betty! Reggie is the only one not so impressed with the performers and reckons he could do a better job! Find out if Reggie has what it takes to be the perfect gunslinger in “Horse Play!” Plus, prepare to get crazy for the end of school party that Archie and Jughead are planning! However, Dilton brings news that may bring a halt to the celebrations in “The Super Bash!”

Script: Bill Golliher, Mike Pellowski, George Gladir

Art: Stan Goldberg, Scott Geralds, Ken Selig, Al Milgrom,

Cover: Fernando Ruiz

Shipping Date: 5/2

On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 5/16

160-page, full color comic

$3.99 US.
ARCHIE AND FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #16

Evilheart and Pureheart may have met their match when they take on The Dude! With a trick cane and a cunning criminal mind to his advantage, The Dude keeps the duo at bay until he has them right where he wants them! Will the super teens manage to bring the jewel thief to justice or will they fall prey to the dastardly evil-doer?

Script: Frank Doyle

Art: Bill Vigoda, Mario Acquaviva

Cover: Fernando Ruiz

Shipping Date: 5/16

On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 5/30

160-page, full color comic

$3.99 US.
B&V FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #225

Archie surprises Veronica with a cement frog! Despite hating the sight of it, Veronica doesn’t have the heart to simply get rid of it so she opts for a simpler solution. Destroy it! However she’ll discover that demolishing her gift is easier said than done in “A Ribiting Experience”.

Script: Bill Golliher

Art: Dan Parent, Jim Amash

Cover: Dan DeCarlo

Shipping Date: 5/16

On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 5/30

160-page, full color comic

$3.99 US.
BETTY AND VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #202

Nothing can pull Veronica away from a relaxing day of watching soaps on her couch except Betty’s hunk of a cousin George! However, a day of excitement at the amusement park is not exactly Veronica’s cup of tea! For the chance to get to know George better, Veronica gets more than what she bargained for in “A Ride on the Wild Side!”

Script: Dan Parent

Art: Dan Parent, John D’Agostino

Cover: Fernando Ruiz

Shipping Date: 5/30

On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 6/13

160-page, full color comic

$3.99 US.
JUGHEAD #213

How does a robbery, Hotdog, and anchovy pizza help land Jughead a summer job? Find out in “The Job Hunt!” Next up, it’s Friday the 13th, so what better way for Jughead and Archie to bend fortune in their favor than to hang out with “bad luck magnet” Jinx Malloy! See how well their plan unfolds in “Lucky Thirteen”. Finally, in a tale of devotion, Ethel helps Jughead enter Hotdog into a pet photo competition in hopes of getting asked to the big dance! Will Hotdog’s photos win his master top prize and does Ethel have a shot at true happiness? Those answers plus plenty of laughs in these pages!

Script: George Gladir, Craig Boldman

Art: Stan Goldberg, Tim Kennedy, Jim Amash, Mark McKenna, Ken Selig

Cover: Bill Galvan

Shipping Date: 5/2

On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 5/16

32-page, full color comic

$2.99 US.
JUGHEAD DOUBLE DIGEST #181

Jughead gets cursed with Jinx Malloy’s bad luck hex in this zany adventure that will have you in stitches! Will Jughead manage to rid himself of this unlucky spell before it becomes permanent or will he be destined to dish out poor fortune wherever he goes?

Script: Craig Boldman

Art: Rex Lindsey, Rich Koslowski

Cover: Samm Schwartz

Shipping Date: 5/9

On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 5/23

160-page, full color comic

$3.99 US.
KEVIN KELLER #3

“Stranded in Paradise!” – As summer sets in, Kevin gets ready to enjoy his first summer as a lifeguard on Riverdale Beach. The gang shows Kevin a great time in the Riverdale summer tradition, that is until he comes across a bump in the road… a bump named Cheryl Blossom! A battle of the beaches breaks out between Riverdale Beach and Pembrooke Beach, and Jason Blossom steps in to “punk” Kevin and the gang. To make matters more complicated, a guy across enemy lines has eyes for Kevin… a surefire way to add drama to the whole mix!

Script: Dan Parent

Art & Cover: Dan Parent, Rich Koslowski

Variant Cover: Dan Parent

Shipping Date: 5/30

On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 6/13

32-page, full color comic

$2.99 US.
LIFE WITH ARCHIE #20

“Archie Marries Veronica” – The drama amps up as Veronica’s run in with the law comes to a head, making an appearance in court to be read her sentence! Betty and Reggie’s reality show rolls into production and while Reggie could get used to the limelight, Betty struggles with the transition of becoming a reality star. Meanwhile, an ailing Lodge struggles to cope with reality… but which one? All this plus the romantic connection you’ve been waiting for but never thought possible!

“Archie Marries Betty” – The story continues as Archie’s students celebrate their battle of the bands victory! Betty uses her warm disposition to help a student in need while Jughead’s kid sister Jellybean pitches in at the Chok’lit Shoppe, but there’s something she’s not telling him… Don’t miss this very poignant issue in which a tragedy has befallen one of the gang as a new era of Life with Archie continues!

Script: Paul Kupperberg

Art: Fernando Ruiz, Pat Kennedy, Tim Kennedy, Al Milgrom, Bob Smith

Cover: Fernando Ruiz

Shipping Date: 5/23

On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 6/6

64-page, full color comic

$3.99 US.
MEGA MAN #14

“Spiritus ex Machina” Part Two: It’s pandemonium as the Emerald Spears extremist group has taken everyone at the A.R.T.S. hostage! It’s up to Mega Man and Rush to lead Elec Man, Pharaoh Man and Quake Woman to save the day! Meanwhile, Dr. Wily attempts to awaken the power of the mysterious Ra Moon.

Script: Ian Flynn

Art: Jonathan Hill, Gary Martin, John Workman and Matt Herms

Cover: Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante and Matt Herms

Shipping Date: 5/30

On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 6/13

32-page, full color comic

$2.99 US.
SONIC THE HEDGEHOG ARCHIVES #18 (TR)

Sonic Archives, Archie Comics’ most successful graphic novel series ever, is back! Sonic and Tails have defeated the evil wizard, Ixis Naugus, and rescued the long-exiled inventor Nate Morgan! Now for the hard part: getting home in one piece! All the while, a mysterious presence strikes out at Sonic from space! Also in this volume, Lupe and her pack of Freedom Fighters make a discovery that will change her family forever! Blast into the past at Sonic speed with this all-new volume, collecting Sonic the Hedgehog #67-70!

Script & Art: Various

Cover: Patrick “SPAZ” Spaziante

978-1-936975-07-5

$7.99/$8.99CAN

5 x 7 3/8”

Trade Paperback

112 pp

Direct Market On-sale: 6/13
SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #237

“Loyalty” Part One: Team Fighters links up with Grand Chief Lupe as they track down the Death Egg. As they deal with the ferocious Felidae Warriors and Dark Egg Legion, a mysterious figure tracks them. Meanwhile, in “Heart to Heart,” Nicole and Mina finally confront each other!

Script: Ian Flynn

Art: Ben Bates, Steven Butler, Terry Austin, John Workman and Matt Herms

Cover: Tracy Yardley!, Terry Austin and Matt Herms

Shipping Date: 5/16

On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 5/30

32-page, full color comic

$2.99 US.
SONIC UNIVERSE #40

“Scrambled” Part Four: The explosive conclusion! It’s the showdown decades in the making: Dr. Eggman vs. Snively! As the two mad geniuses clash one thing is for certain: whoever wins, the good guys lose! Don’t miss the grueling final fight with a sinister twist you won’t believe!

Script: Ian Flynn

Art: Jamal Peppers, Jim Amash, Jack Morelli and Steve Downer

Cover: Jamal Peppers, Jim Amash and Steve Downer

Shipping Date: 5/2

On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 5/16

32-page, full color comic

$2.99 US.
STAN LEE’S MIGHTY 7 #2

“Capture and Chaos!” – Stan Lee Comics’ “MIGHTY 7” continues! The all-new superhero property from the co-creator of Spider-Man, the X-Men and more heats up as Stan must come to terms with his alien compatriots! Titanic forces collide as comics legend meets alien – but what evil is brewing on the horizon? Villainy looms in this action-packed second installment of Stan Lee’s latest and greatest super-heroic tale!

Script: Tony Blake & Paul Jackson w/ Stan Lee

Art: Alex Saviuk, Bob Smith, John Workman and Tom Smith

Cover: Alex Saviuk and Matt Herms

Variant Cover: Alex Saviuk and Tom Smith

Shipping Date: 5/9

On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 5/23

32-page, full color comic

$2.99 US.
WORLD OF ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #18

Ever wonder what makes Dilton so smart? So does Archie! After inquiring the kid genius on what it takes to have above average intelligence, Archie goes about brainstorming for a scientific breakthrough! Will he succeed or is it a harebrained idea? Find the answer in “Here’s a Thought”. The gang has each encountered a mysterious visitor dubbed “The Elevenaire” due to his transformative powers upon handing someone eleven dollars. However, Reggie’s not buying it, refusing to believe a life changing experience can occur because of eleven measly bucks! Will his cynicism be validated or is there really something to this hocus pocus? Find out in “Alias: The Elevenaire”. Finally, Betty has the perfect idea of how to liven things up at the retirement home! Get out your old records and put on your dancing shoes as the gang throw the seniors a bash they’ll never forget in “Prom Again!”

Script: Craig Boldman, John Rose

Art: Stan Goldberg, Tim Kennedy, Al Milgrom, Jon D’Agostino

Cover: Fernando Ruiz

Shipping Date: 5/23

On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 6/6

160-page, full color comic

$3.99 US.

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