Tag Archives: comic books

Archie Comics First Look: Archie And Friends Double Digest #10

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ARCHIE AND FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #10

“Mad Doctor Doom’s Dupe!”: Pureheart the Powerful returns in this heroic adventure when Archie’s date with Veronica is threatened by the dastardly Evilheart! Pureheart may have had no trouble in the past thwarting his Arch-nemesis but how will he withstand the combined force of Evilheart and Mad Doctor Doom’s robot Computo?

Script: Frank Doyle

Art: Bob White, Marty Epp

Cover by Fernando Ruiz

Shipping Date: 10/1911

On Sale at Comic Specialty Shops: 11/2/11

On Sale on Newsstands: 11/9/11

160-page, full color comic

$3.99 US.
To find a comic shop near you, call 1-888-comicbook or visit ComicShopLocator.com
Don’t forget to read some of your favorite Archie comics digitally – download the Archie app!

Kids Day set for Austin Comic Con, Sunday, Nov. 13

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Official Press Release

Costumes, Adventures, Readings, Wow! Wow! Wubbzy® Highlight Kid’s Day At Wizard World Austin Comic Con on Sunday, November 13

Popular Nickelodeon® Character, Kids Adventure Passport Quest, Kids Costume Contest, ‘My Favorite Giant’ Reading Just a Few of the All-Day Activities at Wizard World Digital Booth

NEW YORK and AUSTIN, Texas, October 31, 2011 – It’s an all-day kid’s extravaganza as Wizard World Austin Comic Con presents “Kid’s Day” on Sunday, November 13, at the Austin Convention Center.  Kid-friendly activities include meeting (and taking pictures with) characters like the lovable “Wow! Wow! Wubbzy!® from the Nickelodeon® series, Austin’s own superhero Jarret “The Defuser” Crippen and others, plus free face painting, balloon art, the impossibly cute Kids Costume Contest and special readings of “My Favorite Giant” by author Peter Mayhew, well-known for having portrayed “Chewbacca” in STAR WARS, and the new Border-Pups book “CrashBat” by comic book creator William “Brimstone” Kucmierowski.

Kids can stop by the Wizard World Digital Booth and pick up a free Wizard World Kids Adventure Passport, to complete activities all over Austin Comic Con and get a prize at the end of their journey.  Parents can look for the “Kid-Friendly” button on activities, vendors, booths and sessions throughout the convention floor.

Tweens and teens ages 11-17 can learn how to “Draw a Comic Character” at a one-of-a kind workshop with graphic novel artists and writing team Andy & Veronica Fish.

Crippen, winner of Stan Leeʼs “Who Wants to be a Superhero?” competition series on SyFy, will be hosting Kidʼs Day and helping youngsters get in on all of the fun.

For more information, parents and kids can visit www.wizardworldkids.com.  The site will be updated closer to the event date as more information becomes available about specific workshops and programs.

Austin Comic Con is the ninth and final stop on Wizard World’s 2011 North American tour.  Hours are Friday, November 11, 4 – 7 p.m.; Saturday, November 12, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.; and Sunday, November 13, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.  Tickets are available in advance online at http://www.wizardworldcomiccon.com/austin.html at a savings over tickets purchased at the door.  Advance adult single-day tickets are priced at $25 ($35 on site); weekend all-session tickets are $45 ($55 on site), and tickets are free for children age 10 and under when accompanied by a paid adult (limit two children per adult).  VIP packages with special entry and exclusive items are also available on a limited basis.

Austin Comic Con brings together thousands of fans of all ages and dozens of celebrities and industry professionals to celebrate the best in pop-fi, pop culture, movies, graphic novels, comics, toys, video gaming, television, sci-fi, gaming, original art, collectibles, contests and more.  Some of the top celebrity guests at Austin Comic Con include Hayden Panettiere, Adam Baldwin, James Marsters, Juliet Landau, Charisma Carpenter and four of the five original kids from the classic movie WILLY WONKA  & THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY.

About Wizard World:
Wizard World produces Comic Cons and pop culture conventions across North America that celebrate graphic novels, comic books, movies, TV shows, gaming, technology, toys and social networking. The events often feature celebrities from movies and TV, artists and writers, and events such as premieres, gaming tournaments, panels, and costume contests. Wizard World also produces Wizard World Digital, an online publication covering new and upcoming products and talents in the pop culture world, and is distributed on a weekly basis to online and iPad users worldwide.

The full event schedule can be found at www.wizardworld.com.

***** SAVE THE 2011/12 DATES *****
November 11-13 – Austin Comic Con
January 28-29, 2012 – New Orleans Comic Con
April 14-15, 2012 – Toronto Comic Con
June 1-3, 2012 – Philadelphia Comic Con
August 9-12, 2012 – Chicago Comic Con
Fall 2012 – Mid-Ohio Comic Con
TBD, 2012 – Big Apple Comic Con

CBLDF News Be Counted Member Drive Ends At Midnight Tonight! Join Now!

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Official Press Release

CBLDF Be Counted Membership Drive
Closes at Midnight Tonight!

Last month, the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund asked the comics community to Be Counted as members of the organization, and set a fundraising goal of $100,000 by October 31 to support their important legal and education work. Today, the Fund has raised over $77,000 of that goal, thanks to the generosity of those who heard the call to Be Counted, and the professional community supporting the campaign. Today, the CBLDF is asking anyone who hasn’t joined or renewed their membership the organization yet to sign up to protect free speech, and to take advantage of some of the unique rewards they’re offering to thank supporters during the drive!

All members signing up to Be Counted by 12 Midnight pacific time on October 31 will be able to receive signed thank yous, including the 2011 CBLDF Member Card featuring Green Lantern, and signed by Geoff Johns, with other rewards for members signing up at higher levels including signed prints from Neil Gaiman, Garth Ennis, and original art from Matt Wagner, Jeffrey Brown, Cliff Chiang, and more. If you’re not sure if you’re a member, you can see the current year member list here.

The Fund also has opportunities left for Lunch With Legends, including one last Neil Gaiman tea date, and lunches with Dave Gibbons, Frank Miller, Frank Quitely, and more. For aspiring pros, we also have professional development reviews withKaren Berger, Tom Brevoort, Dan DiDio, Gail Simone, Jennifer L. Holm and more!

If you’re not able to make a lunch date, the Fund also has some exclusive thank you drawings from Neil Gaiman, Frank Quitely, Chris Burnham, and Matthew Holm for members signing up during this drive.

The CBLDF exists because of the grassroots support of the comics community. If you value free expression, we’re asking you, right now, to please Be Counted as a member of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund to help us perform our important work.

Here’s how your contribution will be used:

Legal Action

Last September, the CBLDF contributed the first installment of the $150,000 in legal fees needed to defend Brandon X, an American citizen facing a minimum sentence of one year in Canadian prison and registration as a sex offender because Canada Customs alleges that Japanese horror and fantasy comics on Brandon’s laptop are child pornography. His case is important because it raises important precedent questions about the artistic merit of comics and the rights of readers and artists traveling with comics on their electronic devices. The CBLDF needs your help to pay the lawyers defending this case because we seek to establish a precedent that protects comics in Canada and influences courts in the United States.

Beyond Brandon’s case, the CBLDF needs your help to ensure we are able to continue our other important program services. Your membership dollars will pay for our membership in Media Coalition, which helps us track and fight unconstitutional legislation. You will also ensure we have the resources we need to pay our monthly retainer for routine First Amendment legal work.

Education

The CBLDF continues to assist librarians and retailers when comics and graphic novels are challenged. Often this happens on a case-by-case basis, during which CBLDF staff gather defense materials for each individual incident. We currently seek funds to develop more substantial preventive tools, including joining an important anti-censorship coalition that protects the right to read.


Be Counted Membership Incentives

$25 MEMBER– Members who join CBLDF at our $25 level will receive their 2011 Member Card, featuring Green Lantern and signed by Geoff Johns! This offer is good while supplies last.

$50 SUPPORTER – Members who join CBLDF at our $50 level will receive a CBLDF exclusive print of The Boys signed by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson! This offer is good while supplies last.

$100 ADVOCATE – Members who join CBLDF at our $100 level will receive a CBLDF exclusive print of In Reilig Oran, signed by Neil Gaiman and Tony Harris, as well as the signed The Boys print and the signed Green Lantern Member Card! This offer is good while supplies last.

Be Counted Professional Supporters & Membership Incentives

Scott Allie

SOLD OUT!Professional Development Review: Scott Allie — Dark Horse editor Scott Allie will offer a Professional Development Review for members joining at $500 or greater. This is an incredible opportunity to receive some one-on-one guidance with one of comics’ top decision makers while supporting the CBLDF.

Brian Azzarello

Lunch With Legends: Brian Azzarello in Chicago — Donors who contribute a membership of $250 or more will join Brian Azzarello, the award-winning creator of 100 Bullets and Spaceman and the architect of the new Wonder Woman launch, for lunch in Chicago! CBLDF will coordinate with winning donor to schedule a date for the lunch.

Professional Development Review: Brian Azzarello — Veteran comics writer Brian Azzarello will provide a Professional Development Review to one donor online. This opportunity is available for donors who join for a membership level of $250 or greater. This is an incredible opportunity to have one of the masters of the art form give you hard earned advice to help your craft.

Karen Berger

Professional Development Review: Karen Berger – Karen Berger changed the landscape of modern comics when she established Vertigo as an imprint designed to usher in new voices and new directions for comics storytelling. Now the legendary editor who has helped guide work from talent including Neil Gaiman, Grant Morrison, and Peter Milligan will review your work and provide one-on-one feedback to help improve your comics! Karen is offering five of these opportunities, to review over email or phone to donors who make a tax-deductible contribution of $400 or better to the CBLDF! ONLY TWO LEFT

Tom Brevoort

Professional Development Review: Tom Brevoort — Marvel’s Senior Vice President of Publishing will offer a Professional Development Review for one member joining CBLDF for a donation of $1,000 or greater. This is an incredible opportunity to receive targeted, one-on-one feedback to improve your comics skills from one of the most experienced editors in the field while supporting the CBLDF!

Chris Burnham

Professional Development Review: Chris Burnham – Batman Incorporated artist Chris Burnham will provide a Professional Development Review via email to donors who join for a membership level of $250 or greater. This is an incredible opportunity to have one of the most versatile and talented artists in mainstream comics give you hard earned advice to help your craft.


Lunch With Legends: Chris Burnham in Chicago — Enjoy a unique opportunity to have lunch in Chicago with Chris Burnham, the exciting artist on Batman Incorporated when you join CBLDF for a membership contribution of $250 or more! CBLDF will contact the donor to arrange a time for this event that coincides with Chris’ schedule.

Personalized Postcard Sketch: Chris Burnham — Chris Burnham has graciously agreed to send a personalized sketched postcard as a thank you to contributors who join the CBLDF at levels of $250 or greater.

Dan DiDio

Lunch With Legends: Dan DiDio– For donors who contribute at a membership level of $1,000 or more, DC’s co-publisher and the writer of OMAC will join you for lunch in NYC. This is a great opportunity to get the inside buzz on the new 52 and have an unforgettable time talking comics while supporting a great cause.

Professional Development Review: Dan DiDio – DC Comics co-publisher Dan DiDio will offer a Professional Development Review with one member joining CBLDF for a donation of $1,000 or greater. This is an incredible opportunity to receive some one-on-one guidance to improve your comics from one of comics’ top decision makers while supporting the CBLDF.

Neil Gaiman


SOLD OUT!Lunch With Legends: Tea With Neil Gaiman in NYC – One member joining CBLDF with a $5,000 contribution or greater will have the opportunity to go to tea with Neil Gaiman and one guest of their choice in New York City! This once in a lifetime opportunity to visit with the masterful author of American Gods, Sandman, and Coraline is a terrific way to support the important work of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. CBLDF will contact the donor to arrange a time for this event that coincides with one of Neil’s visits to this city.

Lunch With Legends: Tea With Neil Gaiman in Los Angeles — One member joining CBLDF with a $5,000 contribution or greater will have the opportunity to go to tea with Neil Gaiman and one guest of their choice in Los Angeles! This once in a lifetime opportunity to visit with the masterful author of American Gods, Sandman, and Coraline is a terrific way to support the important work of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. CBLDF will contact the donor to arrange a time for this event that coincides with one of Neil’s visits to this city.

SOLD OUT!Lunch With Legends: One-on-one Tea At An Upcoming Neil Appearance — One member joining CBLDF with a $5,000 contribution or greater will have the opportunity to go to tea with Neil Gaiman and one guest of their choice at an upcoming Neil Gaiman appearance! This once in a lifetime opportunity to visit with the masterful author of American Gods, Sandman, and Coraline is a terrific way to support the important work of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. CBLDF will contact the donor to arrange a time for this event that coincides Neil’s event schedule.

Personalized Sketched Postcard by Neil Gaiman — Neil Gaiman has graciously agreed to send a personalized sketched postcard as a thank you to contributors who join the CBLDF at levels of $1,000 or greater. (5 available)

Dave Gibbons

Lunch With Legends: Dave Gibbons in London – One member joining CBLDF with a $1,000 contribution or greater will have the opportunity to go to lunch with Dave Gibbons and one guest of their choice in London. This once in a lifetime opportunity to visit with the co-creator of Watchmen, and the author of incredible comics like The Originals is a terrific way to support the important work of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. CBLDF will contact the donor to arrange a time for this event that coincides with Dave’s schedule.

Professional Development Review: Dave Gibbons – Legendary storyteller Dave Gibbons will provide a Professional Development Review via Skype to donors who join for a membership level of $500 or greater. This is an incredible opportunity to have one of the masters of the art form give you hard earned advice that will help your craft.

Jennifer & Matthew Holm

Win A Walk-On Role In Babymouse 17! — Support intellectual freedom by bidding on this auction to win a walk-on role in the next volume of Jennifer & Matthew Holm’s hit graphic novel series Babymouse! The winner of this auction will have their name or the name of someone they choose given to a character in Babymouse 17, coming from Random House in Spring 2013. The proceeds of this auction benefit the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund’s work to protect the First Amendment rights of the comics art form. Membership in the organization is included with this auction. Bid on this auction at myworld.ebay.com/cbldf

Skype Visit With Babymouse Creators Jennifer & Matthew Holm! — Invite the creators of Babymouse and Squish into your home over Skype to support intellectual freedom! Join the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund in this auction and you’ll be able to have a 15 minute Skype visit with these incredible creators and talk about all things Babymouse! Bid on this auction at myworld.ebay.com/cbldf

Professional Development Review: Jennifer L. Holm — Jennifer L. Holm, the three-time Newbery honored NY Times Bestselling author of Turtle in Paradise, Penny from Heaven as well as the graphic novel series Babymouse and Squish offers a rare opportunity to review your writing and provide hard-earned knowledge to help you improve your craft. This rare opportunity to learn from one of the masters of modern young adult fiction. This professional development review is for writers of prose or comics, and will be conducted over Skype. It is available for a tax-deductible $1,000 membership contribution to the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund.

Professional Development Review: Matthew Holm — Matthew Holm, co-creator and illustrator of the graphic novel series Babymouse and Squish is offering a professional development review to a donor joining the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund for a tax-deductible donation of $500 or greater. This is a rare opportunity to gain insights to help improve your art from one of the prolific masters of modern kids comics! This review will be conducted over Skype.

Personalized Sketched Postcard: Matthew Holm — Matthew Holm has graciously agreed to send a personalized sketched postcard as a thank you to contributors who join the CBLDF at levels of $250 or greater.

Paul Levitz

Professional Development Review: Paul Levitz — Veteran writer, editor and publisher Paul Levitz will provide a Professional Development Review via email for donors who join the CBLDF for a contribution of $250 or greater. This is an incredible opportunity to receive some one-on-one guidance on how to make your scripts stronger by one of the industry’s most knowledgeable experts. ONLY ONE LEFT!

Frank Miller

Lunch With Legends: Frank Miller & Bob Schreck in NYC — One member joining CBLDF with a tax-deductible contribution of $5,000 or greater will have the opportunity to go to lunch with comics master Frank Miller, his long-time editor Bob Schreck, and one guest of their choice in NYC! This once in a lifetime opportunity to visit with the game changing author of Sin City, The Dark Knight Returns, and Holy Terror and a terrific, tax-deductible way to support the important work of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund. CBLDF will contact the donor to arrange a time for this event that coincides Frank’s schedule.

Terry Moore


SOLD OUT Professional Development Review: Terry Moore – For one donor contributing a membership of $500 or greater, pioneering artist and self-publisher Terry Moore will provide one professional development review on Sunday, October 16, during NYCC. This is an incredible opportunity to receive expert advice from one of the industry’s most revered artists and support the CBLDF!

Greg Rucka

SOLD OUT Professional Development Review: Greg Rucka – Veteran comics and thriller writer Greg Rucka will provide members who join CBLDF for a level of $250 or greater with a Professional Development Review for writers during NYCC or over Skype. This review is for a standard 22-page comic script or a 22-page excerpt of a longer work, with appropriate explanations as to how it fits into the larger project. This is a great opportunity to learn more about your craft and get tips from one of the modern masters of comics writing.

Bob Schreck

Professional Development Review: Bob Schreck — Legendary editor Bob Schreck will offer a Professional Development Review in NYC or via email for a member joining at $500 or greater. This is an incredible opportunity to receive some one-on-one guidance with one of comics’ top decision makers while supporting the CBLDF.

Gail Simone

Professional Development Review: Gail Simone – Veteran writer Gail Simone will provide a Professional Development Review for writers via email to members who join CBLDF for a level of $500 or greater. This review is for scripts without licensed characters. This is a great opportunity to learn more about your craft and get tips from one of the modern masters of comics writing.

Jeff Smith

Lunch With Legends: Jeff Smith in Columbus, OH — Donors who join CBLDF for $500 or more can have the opportunity to go to lunch with Jeff Smith, the innovative creator of Bone and RASL! This is a terrific opportunity to meet one of the all time great graphic novelists and support the CBLDF!


Ben Templesmith

Professional Development Review: Ben Templesmith — Iconoclastic cartoonist Ben Templesmith will provide a Professional Development Review for artists in NYC or over email to members who join CBLDF for a level of $250 or greater. This is a great opportunity to learn more about your craft and get tips from one of comics’ contemporary greats!

SOLD OUT Lager With Legends: Ben Templesmith & Friends at NYCC – Get a chance to get drinks with Ben Templesmith and friends during NYCC! Members who contribute $250 or greater will have an opportunity to go out for a drinks with Ben and friends during one of the evenings of NYCC!

Frank Quitely

Professional Development Review: Frank Quitely – Legendary creator Frank Quitely will provide a Professional Development Review via email to donors who join for a membership level of $500 or greater. This is an incredible opportunity to have one of the masters of the art form give you hard earned advice to help your craft.

Lunch With Legends: Frank Quitely in the UK – Enjoy a unique opportunity to have a one-on-one lunch with Frank Quitely, one of the most singular masters of modern comic art when you join CBLDF at $500 or more to the CBLDF! CBLDF will contact the donor to arrange a time for this event that coincides with Frank’s schedule.

Personalized Sketched Postcard by Frank Quitely – Frank Quitely has graciously agreed to send a personalized sketched postcard as a thank you to contributors who join the CBLDF at levels of $1,000 or greater.

Your First Look At Avenging Spider-Man #2 With Free Digital Code!

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Your First Look At AVENGING SPIDER-MAN #2 WITH FREE DIGITAL CODE!

The series everyone’s talking about kicks it up a gear in this first look at Avenging Spider-Man #2 With Free Digital Code! From the blockbuster creative team of Zeb Wells & Joe Madureira pit the team-up of Red Hulk & Spidey against an unstoppable army of Moloids! Don’t forget that every purchase of a polybagged issue of Avenging Spider-Man #2 comes with a special code to be redeemed for a free digital copy of the issue on the Marvel Comics app! With J. Jonah Jameson held hostage, can Spider-Man and Red Hulk fight back the hordes of underground dwellers to save the day? The high octane web-slinging action continues this December in Avenging Spider-Man #2 With Free Digital Code!

AVENGING SPIDER-MAN #2 WITH FREE DIGITAL CODE (OCT110628)
AVENGING SPIDER-MAN #2 MCGUINNESS VARIANT WITH FREE DIGITAL CODE (OCT11029)
Written by ZEB WELLS
Art & Cover by JOE MADUREIRA
Variant Cover by ED MCGUINNESS
Rated T+…$3.99
FOC – 11/7/11, ON SALE – 12/7/11

Avenging Spider-Man #2 Cover

Around the Tubes

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It’s a new week of comics and it looks like there’ll be some solid stuff out.  But until then, hope everyone has a safe and fun Halloween!

Around the Blogs:

The Times Leader – Comic industry wrote book on horror stories Tom Mooney Remember when – A nice bit of history, just in time for Halloween!

Benzinga – New Graphic Novel Tells the True Story of Lily Renée, Holocaust Survivor and Comic Book Pioneer – sad I missed this at NYCC.

ICv2 – New 52’s Remarkable Effects – Good to hear their doing well.

My Central Jersey – A life in comics – Nice to see such dedication and love of comic books.

Robot 6 – Grumpy Old Fan | Will DC’s past catch up with it? – Gives you a lot to think about as far as the shaky DC continuity.

Bleeding Cool – Darwyn Cooke’s Plans For Parker – The first two are great, can’t wait for more.

Kotaku – Sunday Comics: Liar, Liar, Abs on Fire – Each week Kotaku brings some great web comics.

Comic Book Weekly Reviews – 10/26/11

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Some debuts and a lot of second issues for DC.  What’s worth it and what should be skipped?  Find out below!

All Star Western #2 – Two western stories in this issue.  The first continues Jonah Hex’ and Dr. Arkham’s investigation into the murder of prostitutes in Gotham.  We learn the “who” as far as the bad guys, but not really the “why.”  There’s some hints to it, but it’s not really laid out in this issue.  The second story is a zombie western that’s entertaining in a throwback sort of way.  Hex’s story is great, the second story is just so-so.  Overall though the comic is still a welcome addition to the DC line up.

Story: 8 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8

Annihilators: Earthfall #2 – Hmm, I fear the cosmic side of the Marvel universe is starting to gas.  The Annihilators take on the Avengers in one of those misunderstanding fights.  The Church is also up to something, hatching someone… The story is pretty typical and has been tread before (two teams fight before teaming up) and the art is really off and inconsistent.  Rocket Racoon and Groot’s story is entertaining though, but that too just seems off.  Overall, I’m left pretty bummed.

Story: 7 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7

Aquaman #2 – Going into the reboot, this series was one I’ve been more skeptical of.  I can’t say I’ve been too fond of Aquaman as a character and have never enjoyed his solo series.  Well, times have changed.  With this second issue, the series is becoming one of the top tier DC reboot series, standing above others in it’s quality of writing and art.  Just beyond solid and an absolute must read.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Astonishing X-Men #43 – Emma and Danger team up to free a computer program that’s detected.  I yawn.  The story isn’t “astonishing” and actually quite boring.  Hopefully the series gets it’s footing and figures out it’s place in the “X” world, cause right now it’s stumbling.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75

Avengers Academy #20 – It’s post Fear Itself and the group has to decide what to do.  Instructors and students leave and the ending opens up for the series’ new direction.  It has to be better than what’s come before.  The series needs a shake up, hopefully it gets better than what it’s been.

Story: 7 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7

Batman: The Dark Knight #2 – Someone is giving Gotham’s freaks a drug that gets them all roided up and Batman is on the case.  Lots of fighting ensues, but again the art is what stands out for the series, clearly much better than the story itself.  Also, the Joker pops up in the end, which is a bit odd considering his fate in other series… not sure how that works, but whatever.

Story: 7 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.25

Captain America & Bucky #623 – An important asset has been captured by the Nazi’s and Bucky and Toro head to free him without orders.  During the mission they discover the horrors that the Nazi’s have been committing.  Unfortunately a bad fate awaits Bucky before he could see their liberation.  It looks like we’ll be getting a glimpse of Bucky’s Winter Soldier years next.  The comic’s been entertaining so far, here’s hoping the next arc is just as solid.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Daken: Dark Wolverine #16 – I’ve enjoyed the series overall, but this latest story that saw Daken being addicted to a drug is mixed.  I like the idea of the addiction and how it’s messed with his healing factor.  That opens up a lot of future stories if they stick with it.  But, the person behind it all seems silly and it doesn’t totally make sense with the lack of a lot of set up.  The motivation is missing even with the attempts at an explanation peppered throughout.  A mixed bag overall.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Daredevil #6 – The mystery over the firing of a blind man begins to unravel and it’s a big international conspiracy.  A certainly interesting story in how it’s being presented.  Mark Waid is giving us a top Daredevil series that’s a mix of pop and noir and all kinds of fantastic.  One of the best Marvel comics on the stand, beyond solid and an absolute buy.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

DMZ #70 – As the series winds down we’re given glimpses of the New York City that is and what might be.  A city, a nation, wracked by war and destroyed in spirit and mind.  Through seventy issues Matty Roth has explored this world as a reporter and as an agent for change.  For seventy issues we were drawn into this world that reflected events from our own.  In this issue we’re asked “how.”  How, for seventy issues, Zee has been able to keep herself together while Matty spiraled out of control like the city.  One went with the flow of events, the other tried to change events.  For seventy issues Matty has been part of the story, he’s been the story and for his role in this world, for his acts it looks like he’ll finally answer to someone.  Brian Wood is wrapping up this epic look at war, peace, journalism, corporatism and activism.  And it looks like it’ll end with a hell of a message.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

FF #11 – Attilan, the Inumans, Kree and Annihilus, how is this being contained in just the Fantastic Four!?  This story seems ripe for a massive classic crossover event.  Writer Jonathan Hickman is bringing together threads he set out a long time ago and it’s beginning to really pay off.  This issue was full of “holy shit” moments.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.5

The Flash #2 – While Barry might run like the fastest man on the planet his mind isn’t catching up to his legs.  In this issue he works on that with some really entertaining results.  There’s a lot of moments that made me feel like a kid while reading the comic and staring at the amazing art.  This is a series that’s speeding it’s way to the top of the pile of DC’s 52 revamp.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.5

Green Lantern: New Guardians #2 – Kyle is still trying to figure out why so many rings are being attracted to him.  The other corps. members aren’t too happy about it, leading to the predictable drag out fight.  The issue’s ending is what’s worthwhile for the issue, both Kyle’s interaction with the Guardians and what happens to him (as predictable as it is).  The issue is interesting so far.

Story: 8 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8

I, Vampire #2 – Joshua Hale Fialkov has put together one of the best series of DC’s new 52.  Instead of a straight forward vampire tale, they’re portrayed as freedom fighters, attempting their liberation.  An interesting take that resonates with modern times much more.  A beyond excellent second issue that puts the series up there as one of the best of DC’s relaunch, but also one of the best comics out there.

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

Journey Into Mystery #630 – Volstagg returns home to recount the story of Fear Itself to his children.  It’s actually a very cute issue that’s a great read and very entertaining.  There’s something sweet and innocent about it.  We’ll see where the series goes from here.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Justice League Dark #2 – What. The. Fuck.  I have no idea what the hell was going on.  And how is Deadman having discussions with Dove when he’s out and about in his series.  I’m so confused…

Story: 6.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.75

Legion: Secret Origin #1 – I wasn’t a fan of the relaunch Legion titles and can’t say this one interests me either.  Just not my cup of tea.  There’s too many characters and not enough focus to explain it all to new readers.  But at least I got a cool ring out of purchasing it.

Story: 6 Art: 7 Overall: 6

The Mighty Thor #7 – After all of these months, we’re finally shown the origin of the Serpent and his war with Odin.  After all of the build up, it’s not very good.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7 Overall: 6.5

New Mutants #32 – Hrm, I still think the story could of ended an issue or two ago.  A casualty of being tied into Fear Itself.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7 Overall: 6.5

Secret Avengers #18 – Another self-contained issue written by Warren Ellis.  This one sees the Shadow Council trying to gather a weapon.  It’s entertaining and there’s a lot going for it, but I just don’t see the overall direction of the series or it’s point.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5

Spaceman #1 – A very odd new limited series from Brian Azzarello.  I have no idea what to make of it, but it’s $1, so you have no excuse not to give it a shot.

Story: 6.25 Art: 7.75 Overall: 6.5

Stitched #1 – Another messed up horror tale set in the Afghanistan war zone.  I have no idea what the hell is going on other than over the top violence.

Story: 6 Art: 7 Overall: 6

Teen Titans #2 – Red Robin continues to gather his team as N.O.W.H.E.R.E. makes it’s move.  It’s clear one of the next big events will center around what’s going on this series.  I also like how Superboy plays into it as well.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #3 – We get more of the Turtle’s origins as they look for their missing brother Raphael.  I really dig the series, especially Casey Jones.  It feels like the old school gritty comics I loved and not the campy version they turned into later.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Ultimate Comics the Ultimates #3 – S.H.I.E.L.D. attempts to engage the enemy straight on and all hell breaks loose.  Not the best issue, but this is the first action sequence of an epic story.

Story: 7 Art: 8 Overall: 7

Venom #8 – What!?  How did that fit in her!?  Another tie-in that’s such shoddier than the normal series.  I loved the letter from Flash’s dad though.  What could have had some amazing emotional impact is lost in a jumbled mess of a tie-in.

Story: 6 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6

Voodoo #2 – Writer Ron Marz asked people to look past the strip club setting of the first issue and I’m glad I did.  This second issue is more spy/on the run action than anything with the government after Voodoo who is on some sort of mission for her alien people.  Lots of action and some tight writing.  A great second issue.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

The Walking Dead #90 – The series’ power is it’s focus on human nature.  This issue shows that all as things somewhat settle down but human nature takes over as people react and plot.  Robert Kirkman is leading the series on it’s way to it’s 100th issue and it hasn’t slowed down in any way.  Beyond fantastic because the zombies aren’t the star of the comic, it’s the people doing everything they can to survive.

Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9

Wolverine & The X-Men #1 – A first issue that’s so beyond entertaining.  I laughed, had a bit of nostalgia and can’t wait for the second issue.  I love Toad being Milton and their attempting to get accredited.  Just so many fantastic moments in this kinetic and frenetic first issue.  Welcome back to form.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

One Peace Books Announces the Upcoming Release of Breathe Deeply

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Official Press Release

One Peace Books Announces the Upcoming Release of Breathe Deeply
Breathe Deeply will be available nationwide on October 15, 2011

NEW YORK, NY – One Peace Books announces the upcoming release of Breathe Deeply (ISBN: 978-1-935548-07-2, Trade Paper, 472 pages, $16.95, Category: Graphic Fiction, available wherever fine books are sold).

Breathe Deeply begs readers to forget what they know about manga. This exhilarating piece of graphic fiction will leave the reader with no alternative but to judge it on its own merits. Award-winning manga-ka team Doton Yamazaki broke the mold when they created this controversial medical thriller, and it will break your heart every time you read it.

A battle ensues over life and death, belief and science, ethics and progress. Two boys, Sei and Oishi, fall madly in love for Yuko. Her loss wreaks havoc in their young lives as bitter memories cease to fade and their tender hearts cling to the dream where debilitating illness disappears in the face of science. But, what would happen if they discovered all they believed was a lie? Will mercy and love prevail?

This exhilarating masterpiece of graphic fiction will force you to forget what you know about manga.

Doton Yamaaki is the name for a husband and wife storytelling team. Together they have won numerous awards for graphic fiction, including the Chiba Tetsuya Young Dept. Award and the Japanese Manga Open’s Watase Seizou Award. Their work has been serialized in numerous magazines, including Mister Magazine, Morning, and Kindai Mahjong Gold. This is their first work to be translated into English.

A best seller in Japan, Breathe Deeply will be released in the United States on October 15, 2011.

Based in New York, One Peace Books (www.onepeacebooks.com) specializes in publishing visually compelling motivational literature. One Peace Books endeavors to publish literature for global readership and is committed to its core belief that quality literature should not be limited by borders or race, but should reach people all over the world.

Preview – Darkwing Duck: Campaign Carnage Vol. 4

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DARKWING DUCK: CAMPAIGN CARNAGE VOL. 4

Written by Ian Brill
Drawn by James Silvani
SC, 144pgs, FC, SRP: $16.99
ISBN: 9781608866434
Diamond Code: AUG110927

The Duck Knight has returned, he’s solved the Crisis on Infinite Darkwings, and he’s withstood the F.O.W.L. Disposition. With all these Darkwing epics in the bag, will the purple powerhouse of peace be able to deal with Campaign Carnage? It’s a super-powered stampede as waves and waves of brand new baddies pop up all over St. Canard, in the midst of a mayoral race you have to see to believe! How many more meta human menaces are gonna show up to crash Darkwing’s political party? You’ll have to read this volume to find out! Special Bonus Material: includes the DARKWING DUCK ANNUAL featuring a story by DARKWING DUCK creator Tad Stones himself!

Preview – Stan Lee’s The Traveler #12

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STAN LEE’S THE TRAVELER #12

Written by Mark Waid, Tom Peyer
Drawn by Chard Hardin
SC, 32 pgs, FC, SRP: $3.99
COVER: Chard Hardin
Diamond Code: AUG110916

FINAL ISSUE! It’s here, the cataclysmic can’t-miss finale! With the help of Soldier Zero, The Traveler is faced with a horrific decision with consequences greater than even The Traveler can imagine…and he’s seen them all! Don’t miss out as Stan Lee, Mark Waid, Tom Peyer, and Chad Hardin break time and space in half in this epic series-ending issue that will blow your mind!

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