In between each issue of IDW Publishing’s Super-Secret Crisis War, a miniseries telling the action-packed tale of a myriad of Cartoon Network characters altogether in the same story together, is a one-shot crossover issue that spotlights properties that didn’t quite make the cut. The respective Johnny Bravo and Bill and Mandy issues were good fun, but the latest one-shot from writer iVan Cohen and artist Paulina Ganucheau, devoted to Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends, is by far the best. It’s not just cute fun, but also heartwarming and filled with joy. It’s a fantastic comic book that entertains through not just nostalgia-mining the psyches of Foster’s fans, but also through wonderful story-telling.

Something this issue does demonstrably better than the previous one-shots is incorporate more characters into the plot, simultaneously making things more interesting and supplying more fan service. A great deal of effort was put into this issue to assure that no major character was cut, and to make sure each of those characters fit their likeness in the television show. This feels like a complete look into the world of Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends, rather than a quick tread. The characterization is spot-on and the look is spot-on and the tone is spot-on.

It’s a genuinely funny and emotionally-resonate little story, done with just the right colorful, cheerful art and just the right gags and just the right light-hearted tugs at the heartstrings. Bloo’s constant self-centered, ethically-oblivious actions and the poor Frankie’s horrible struggles with her work at the foster home are palpable, making the laughs certainly come easy.  Still, those who need to be criticized are criticized, and those who deserved to be rewarded are rewarded, so the comedy isn’t mean.

The comic itself is light-years away from mean; by the end, it tells a story that gracefully manages to be just happy and heartwarming enough to still be enjoyable rather than forced and sappy. There isn’t really a direct moral lesson, and it isn’t even expecting the reader to take it all that seriously. It’s a silly, convivial little story that raises spirits and makes the case for being a friend to those in need and having a good ol’ goofy time, and for that, it’s remarkable.

Story: iVan Cohen Art: Paulina
Story: 9.0 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9.0 Recommendation: Buy

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IDW Publishing provided Graphic Policy with a FREE copy for review