Ed Gosney's Blog, page 10
September 22, 2022
It’s an All-Star Episode with Sgt. Rock, TMNT, & Chang Fury!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 365, where we look at various comic books I own (and in some cases ones that I let get away), both new and old, often with a nostalgic leaning for those feelings of yesteryear. I hope you have as much fun reading about them as I had writing about these cool comics!
For each of the comic books I include here, I list the current secondary market pricing according to the websites ComicBookRealm.com (CBR) and Zap-Kapow Comics (ZKC), using the comic book grading scale of 9.4 (if both sites have the same price, you’ll find just one price for that issue). Not all my comics meet that grade. Some are probably better, and many are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use. And remember, a comic book is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. And for those who enjoy the additional fun of knowing some of the more important issues in your collection, I recognize each Cool Comic that is listed in Key Collector Comics.
If you have any comments, please scroll to the bottom of the page to where it says, “Leave a Reply.” And now, episode 365…
Cool Comics Stuff!
When Chang Fury #1 arrived in my mail last week, I was immediately impressed with the cool cover! Damion Kendrick’s DamageARTS Studio has put out an impressive looking product, which debuted on Kickstarter earlier this year. The story was fun and entertaining, and I’m fortunate that Damion presented me with an individually numbered issue, of which there were just 25 copies. If you appreciate martial arts comics and want to try something different from the usual comics you find at your local comic shop, I recommend Chang Fury. If you want a copy, you can try contacting Damion on Facebook or contact Rubber City Comics in Akron, Ohio. Additionally, he plans to be at the Akron Comicon during the first week of November, so you can see if any issues are left and purchase it there.
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles versus Sgt. Rock and Easy Company! What do you think would happen if they faced each other in a titanic tussle, and how do you see the winner achieving victory? Let us know in the comments section below.
Cool Comics Creations!
It’s no secret that my favorite era of comic books is the Seventies (that’s when I first started collecting and reading them), and this awesome art of Seventies style Avengers by Robert A. Kraus is a winner! RAK has a distinctive style that meshes so well with the heroes, villains, and monsters we grew up loving. As the creator of Chakan, the forever man, RAK is known around the globe and is a great friend to Cool Comics — it’s always a pleasure to show off his amazing art! Be sure to check out all the other fantastic creations, games, illustrated novellas, and comics at RAK’s website.
You can have a piece of your art featured right here in Cool Comics Creations! Just send an electronic file in an email featuring one of your drawings, whether you’re a professional or amateur, (it can be just pencils, or inks too…or full color if you prefer) or a picture of a craft or sculpture that you’ve done, and if it’s family friendly (and not controversial…let’s try to keep this fun), you’ll be a part of an upcoming Cool Comics episode. We also want your name, an optional picture of yourself to go here, and any other background information you want to provide, such as a website or a way you can be contacted about your art (who knows, maybe someone will make you an offer for the original!). And then email it to
edgosney62@gmail.com
.
#1841 — A.X.E.: Judgment Day #4, Marvel, November 2022.
Are you reading the A.X.E. limited series/event and any of the related titles? I didn’t go out of my way to get all the tie-in issues, but some of my regular pulls are involved, which is good enough for Gosneys (I haven’t said that on here in a while – our proud family motto!). Though I always try to stay away from the negative (because we like to keep comics fun), I’m just not that into A.X.E. The concept is cool, but I haven’t enjoyed it as much as some of the other big events from Marvel over the last few years (such as War of the Realms). And this isn’t to say there haven’t been any good moments, but the Judgment Day issues tend to roost near the bottom of my To Be Read pile. Hopefully it will end on a strong note. The fine folks at Marvel who are throwing all these A.X.E.’s around include Kieron Gillen (writer), Valerio Schiti (artist), Marte Gracia (color artist), VC’s Clayton Cowles (letterer), Mark Brooks (cover artist), Jay Bowen (design), Martin Biro (assistant editor), Annalise Bissa (associate editor), and Tom Brevoort (editor). The cover price of A.X.E.: Judgment Day #4 is $4.99, while the current value is $5.
#1842 — Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #110, IDW Publishing, October 2020.
If you are the kind of reader who looks at the details, then you’ve already noticed that this category is not Media Tie-In Cool Comics (which will return next week – I’ll probably do this same thing again sometime in the future, depending on my mood), as you were expecting it to be. Instead, we walked back a bit in time with our previous category title for this comic I purchased at the cheap price of just a quarter. Why, you ask? Because as I was looking through boxes of comics a couple weeks ago, I came across several unread Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) issues and got the urge to read one. And then I decided to put it in Cool Comics. Most of us know that the TMNTs started off as a comic book before hitting the bigtime with movies, cartoons, and lots of toys, bringing happiness to fans across the globe, which is reason enough to explore their comics…and perhaps most importantly, I like turtles. This issue was very different from what I expected, and I really enjoyed it. TMNT comes to us from Kevin Eastman & Tom Waltz (story consulting), Sophie Campbell (script), Jodi Nishijima (art, cover art), Rhonda Pattison (colors), Shawn Lee (letters), and Bobby Curnow (editor). The cover price of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #110 is $3.99, while the current values are $4 on CBR and $8 on ZKC.
#1843 — Primos #1, Artists Writers & Artisans, May 2022.
If you enjoy mythology, crazy kid adventures, and free (and who doesn’t like free?), then this Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) issue just might be right up your ally. I ended up having lots of fun reading this adventure, which is sort of unique in that it also has the entire story repeated in the second half of the issue, in Spanish. If you missed out and you can’t find it, maybe you can find issue one of the regular series run. By the way, the entire series was just four issues, and each issue also put out a Spanish language edition. If you prefer collected editions, you can also get the trade. For me, this is further evidence that FCBD is a great way to try new things before making a commitment with your hard-earned cash. The Primos creative team includes Al Madrigal (writer), Carlo Barberi (artist), Brian Reber (colorist), Andworld Design (letterer), and Dave Johnson (cover artist). The cover price of Primos #1 is free, while the current value is $1.
#1844 — Yogi Bear #21, Charlton Comics, December 1973.
I spent a good many Saturday mornings watching Yogi Bear try to steal picnic baskets at Jellystone Park, so when I saw comic book in a quarter box a few months ago, I decided to bring back some of those childhood memories and gladly paid a little over cover price for it. Now I won’t tell you that I was the biggest Yogi fan around, and sometimes his antics could get a little annoying, but these stories brought a smile to my face and warmed my heart. I can still envision myself sitting with my sisters on the living room floor, living the dream with cartoons in color! The fine folks who did the fantastic art and stories for this issue of Yogi Bear include Ray Dirgo (cover art, interior art), Gwen Krause (scripts), and George Wildman (editor). According to the Grand Comics Database, Ray and Gwen basically did every story, although there are a couple listed (one is an all-text tale) with no creators. The cover price of Yogi Bear #21 is 20¢, while the current values are $20 on CBR and $6 on ZKC.
#1845 — Our Army at War #285, DC, October 1975.
When I was entering this issue in my lists (I have two separate Word files that I list my comics in, along with an online database…and yes, it sounds a bit obsessive, but I have my reasons for all three), I was a little surprised to discover that it’s my only copy of Our Army at War. I didn’t buy many DC comics in the Seventies, but over the last few years I’ve spent lots of time fishing in quarter boxes and finding all kinds of great treasures from both the Silver and Bronze age of comics, and I’m still a little stunned that this is the only issue of the title. Now that I’ve had a taste of it, I hope to find more! The story Bring Him Back is brought to us by Robert Kanigher (script) and Doug Wildey (pencils, inks); Royal Flush is compliments of Robert Kanigher (script) and Ric Estrada (pencils, inks); cover pencils and inks are by Joe Kubert, who also functioned as the editor, with the assistance of Allan Asherman. The cover price of Our Army at War #285 is 25¢, while the current values are $22 on CBR and $15 on ZKC.
Would you like to write a review of a comic book or graphic novel for all the Internet to read? Our
Cool Comics Reader Reviews
section is looking for fans just like you to submit your review, along with a cover image of the comic. Additionally, you may
provide a picture of yourself and any other biographical information you want published in Cool Comics. Send all this
to
edgosney62@gmail.com
. Please keep in mind that we reserve the right to decide what will and won’t go in the blog, so keep the language clean, pick out a comic that won’t cause controversy (we try to have fun here!), and start tapping away on your keyboard!
ComicBooks For Kids! (CB4K) is a charity that Cool Comics In My Collection is honored to be working with. CB4K provides comic books to kids in hospitals and cancer centers all across the United States. You can check their website and see if your local hospital is included and if not, you can work with them to get them included! If you like what you see, please help them out and follow/like their Facebook page. Their link is https://www.facebook.com/comicbooksforkids/
Now you can get Cool Comics in My Collection delivered directly to your email! Just click “Join My Newsletter” on my website (or click on the image of my No-Prize!), sign up, and that’s it. Pretty easy, right? Just be sure to follow the instructions on the confirmation email so that you start receiving my newsletter. If you don’t see it, you may want to check your Spam or Junk Mail folders.
The Cool Comics In My Collection Facebook Group is a place where you can discuss the comics you love, your favorite titles, and the characters that keep you coming back for more. Also, creators are welcome to share news about what you are working on, including crowdfunding campaigns. Don’t miss out on all the inside scoops that might get revealed on our Facebook group. Be sure and join today!
Tired of seeing a blank image when you leave comments? Now you can have a picture or logo show up here at Cool Comics and other WordPress sites, absolutely free! Just click the link below to get started.
Please check out my newest blog, I Read That Book! Periodically, I discuss a book I’ve read in an entertaining, positive manner. It’s not a book review site, but instead a fun way to look at many of the books that have been a part of my life (and perhaps yours, too!), through anecdotes, quotes, weblinks, fond memories, pictures, and other surprises!
Hits: 98
September 15, 2022
Imagine if Camo Chakan Teamed with G.I. Joe!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 364, where we look at various comic books I own (and in some cases ones that I let get away), both new and old, often with a nostalgic leaning for those feelings of yesteryear. I hope you have as much fun reading about them as I had writing about these cool comics!
For each of the comic books I include here, I list the current secondary market pricing according to the websites ComicBookRealm.com (CBR) and Zap-Kapow Comics (ZKC), using the comic book grading scale of 9.4 (if both sites have the same price, you’ll find just one price for that issue). Not all my comics meet that grade. Some are probably better, and many are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use. And remember, a comic book is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. And for those who enjoy the additional fun of knowing some of the more important issues in your collection, I recognize each Cool Comic that is listed in Key Collector Comics.
If you have any comments, please scroll to the bottom of the page to where it says, “Leave a Reply.” And now, episode 364…
Cool Comics Stuff!
My buddy Robert A. Kraus (RAK) graciously gifted me this awesome camo version of a Chakan action figure produced by Toy Pizza and RAK Graphics! Be sure to check out all the credits on the card pictured above. And just to keep in the spirit of this awesome action figure, you’ll find a G.I. Joe in the Cool Comics section below!
If you’re interested in getting one of these for yourself, there are a few remaining for $30 each. Just email me at edgosney62@gmail.com and I’ll let RAK know.
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Mr. Spock versus Snake-Eyes! What do you think would happen if they faced each other in a titanic tussle, and how do you see the winner achieving victory? Let us know in the comments section below.
Cool Comics Creations!
In this episode, Cool Comics shows off Ed Griffie’s version of Juggernaut! Ed is a lifelong comic book fan who started drawing Kawaii and Chibi style versions of pop culture icons and superheroes about five years ago. Through Facebook, his work came to the attention of Daniel Hare, the owner of vintage toy and comic bookstore The Toys Time Forgot, who offered him a guest spot at Free Comic Book Day. Since then, Ed has been a regular at local conventions and comic bookstores, where he offers bookmarks, coloring pages, trading cards, and color prints featuring his unique artwork. You can check out his full catalog of work at toonist27.deviantart.com or contact him at edgriffiejr@gmail.com to commission an original piece of your very own.
You can have a piece of your art featured right here in Cool Comics Creations! Just send an electronic file in an email featuring one of your drawings, whether you’re a professional or amateur, (it can be just pencils, or inks too…or full color if you prefer) or a picture of a craft or sculpture that you’ve done, and if it’s family friendly (and not controversial…let’s try to keep this fun), you’ll be a part of an upcoming Cool Comics episode. We also want your name, an optional picture of yourself to go here, and any other background information you want to provide, such as a website or a way you can be contacted about your art (who knows, maybe someone will make you an offer for the original!). And then email it to
edgosney62@gmail.com
.
#1836 — The New Champion of SHAZAM! #2, DC, November 2022.
A few months ago, when I saw that Mary Bromfield was going to be taking on the role of SHAZAM (Billy Batson has some stuff going on, so he sent Hoppy the bunny to give Mary the news), I didn’t have much interest, and therefore didn’t place a hold on the title. But my local comic shop owner pulled the first issue, and now, after reading two issues, I’m glad he did. I’ve been a longtime fan of Billy Batson, and with this limited series, it’s been fun seeing what life is like for the rest of his family. My advice is, if you’re a fan of SHAZAM (especially the modern version, which you may have seen in the movie a few years ago, if you haven’t been reading any of the comics), give this one a try. It’s just four issues, and it’s been more entertaining than some of the titles I currently read. The fine folks who put together this issue include Josie Campbell (writer), Evan “Doc” Shaner (art and cover), Becca Carey (lettering), Jillian Grant (assistant editor), Brittany Holzherr (editor), and Paul Kaminski (group editor). The cover price of The New Champion of SHAZAM! #2 is $3.99, while the current value is $4.
#1837 — Star Trek #400, IDW Publishing, September 2022.
I like Star Trek, but I’m far from being a Trekkie (or Trekker, if that’s your preference). Still, I grew up watching the syndicated Original Series, had a Mr. Spock Mego action figure, read some of my sister’s Star Trek books many moons ago, married into a family that loves the show, and have collected dozens of books and comics since then (my favorite novel is Federation, by Judith and Garfield Reeves-Stevens). And even though I recently bought and read The Mirror War series, I didn’t plan to buy this special 400th issue published by IDW, but I’m glad I did. My favorite story features the Traveler and was written by Wil Wheaton. If you like Star Trek, grab this issue before it goes where no one has gone before! Starfleet loaned out several Away Teams to build this Enterprise-sized issue, including: Chris Eliopoulos (writer), Luke Sparrow (art), DC Alonso (colors), and Jake Wood (letters) for Captain’s Log; Declan Shalvey (writer), Seth Damoose (art), DC Alonso (colors), and Neil Uyetake (letters) for Soldier On; Mike Johnson (writer), Angel Hernandez (art), Steve Dellasala (colors), and Neil Uyetake (letters) for Meanwhile…; Wil Wheaton (writer), Joe Eisma (art), DC Alonso (colors), and Nathan Widick (letters) for A Matter of Choice; Mike Johnson (writer), Megan Levens (art), Ronda Pattison (colors), and Neil Uyetake (letters) for The Starfleeter!; and Collin Kelly & Jackson Lanzing (writers), Ramon Rosanas (art), Lee Loughridge (colors), and Nathan Widick (letters) for A Perfect System. Additional crew members include Rich Handley (essay), Heather Antos (edits), Vanessa Real (editorial assist), and Louie De Martinis (cover artist). The cover price of Star Trek #400 is $7.99, while the current value is $8.
#1838 — The Winchester Mystery House: The Hundred Year Curse, Source Point Press, May 2022.
Until I saw it on an episode of the William Shatner hosted TV series The UnXplained, I was ignorant when it came to The Winchester House. I found the idea and concept fascinating, and who would have thought that there would be a Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) issue featuring this strange abode? And, as it turns out, Source Point Press put out a four issue limited series in 2021, but I’m not sure if I even noticed it in Previews, since I may not have seen the aforementioned episode at the time. At any rate, if you have an interest in the house, you may want to see if you can still find this FCBD issue. The Winchester House architects are Joshua Werner (writer, colors, cover design & colors, editor-in-chief), Damien Torres (pencils & inks, cover art), Justin Birch (lettering), Lyx Lyon & Josh Sobek (color flatting assistance), and Martha Webby (art director). The cover price of The Winchester Mystery House: The Hundred Year Curse is free, while the current value is $1.
#1839 — Mickey Mouse #20, IDW Publishing, May 2017.
I always enjoy reading adventures with the Mouse, but what I like best about this issue is the alternate Funko cover. However, this wasn’t an intentional purchase. One day when I was visiting a local Ollie’s Bargain Outlet, I bought a few multipacks of comics, and this one happened to be inside. Since my wife is a fan of most things Funko, this cover made her smile, and that made my purchase worth it. Mickey’s creators for each of the stories consist of the following: The Magnificent Doublejoke (part 2 of 2) – Andrea Castellan (writer), Massimo De Vita (art), Disney Italia with Nicole and Travis Seitler (colors), Nicole and Travis Seitler (letters), and Thad Komorowski (translation and dialogue); A Goofy Look at Cooking – Pascal Oost (writer), Michel Nadorp (artist), Digikore Studios (colors), and Nicole and Travis Seitler (letters); Fancy – Wilfred Haughton (writer, artist, and letterer) and Digikore Studios (colors); The Mouse Collector – Noel Van Horn (writer and artist), Digikore Studios (colors), and Nicole and Travis Seitler (letters); and Mynah Mistake – Bill Walsh (writer), Manuel Gonzales (art), and Digikore Studios (colors). This alternate cover is by Marco Gervasio and Ronda Pattison. Sarah Gaydos (assistant editor) and Chris Cerasi (editor) also contributed. The cover price of Mickey Mouse #20 is $3.99, while the current values are $4 on CBR and $5 on ZKC.
#1840 — G.I. Joe A Real American Hero #4, Marvel, October 1982.
I was a little too young when G.I. Joe hit the toy shelves with the 12-inch action figures, and a little too old when the newly redesigned 3.75-inch Joes became all the rage (and being that they were the same size as Star Wars figures, I’m sure there were plenty of alternate universe battles taking place in the wonderful imaginations of kids across the globe!). Therefore, I’ve never been a G.I. Joe comic book reader. However, when I started going fishing in quarter bins, I started reeling some in, and this fourth issue is my earliest of the lot. Sure, the condition won’t bring me the value listed below, but quarter boxes are all about filling in your collection with fun reading copies, and I have a few dozen more Joe issues left to keep me company when the mood strikes! The artistic squad members for G.I. Joe include Larry Hama (script), Herb Trimpe (plot and art), Jon D’Agostino & Jack Abel (inks), Diana Albers (letters), George Roussos (colors), and Tom DeFalco (edits). The cover price of G.I. Joe A Real American Hero #4 is 60¢, while the current value is $25.
Would you like to write a review of a comic book or graphic novel for all the Internet to read? Our
Cool Comics Reader Reviews
section is looking for fans just like you to submit your review, along with a cover image of the comic. Additionally, you may
provide a picture of yourself and any other biographical information you want published in Cool Comics. Send all this
to
edgosney62@gmail.com
. Please keep in mind that we reserve the right to decide what will and won’t go in the blog, so keep the language clean, pick out a comic that won’t cause controversy (we try to have fun here!), and start tapping away on your keyboard!
ComicBooks For Kids! (CB4K) is a charity that Cool Comics In My Collection is honored to be working with. CB4K provides comic books to kids in hospitals and cancer centers all across the United States. You can check their website and see if your local hospital is included and if not, you can work with them to get them included! If you like what you see, please help them out and follow/like their Facebook page. Their link is https://www.facebook.com/comicbooksforkids/
Now you can get Cool Comics in My Collection delivered directly to your email! Just click “Join My Newsletter” on my website (or click on the image of my No-Prize!), sign up, and that’s it. Pretty easy, right? Just be sure to follow the instructions on the confirmation email so that you start receiving my newsletter. If you don’t see it, you may want to check your Spam or Junk Mail folders.
The Cool Comics In My Collection Facebook Group is a place where you can discuss the comics you love, your favorite titles, and the characters that keep you coming back for more. Also, creators are welcome to share news about what you are working on, including crowdfunding campaigns. Don’t miss out on all the inside scoops that might get revealed on our Facebook group. Be sure and join today!
Tired of seeing a blank image when you leave comments? Now you can have a picture or logo show up here at Cool Comics and other WordPress sites, absolutely free! Just click the link below to get started.
Please check out my newest blog, I Read That Book! Periodically, I discuss a book I’ve read in an entertaining, positive manner. It’s not a book review site, but instead a fun way to look at many of the books that have been a part of my life (and perhaps yours, too!), through anecdotes, quotes, weblinks, fond memories, pictures, and other surprises!
Hits: 96
September 8, 2022
Demon-Hunter Versus Judge Dredd in a Battle of the Ages!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 363, where we look at various comic books I own (and in some cases ones that I let get away), both new and old, often with a nostalgic leaning for those feelings of yesteryear. I hope you have as much fun reading about them as I had writing about these cool comics!
For each of the comic books I include here, I list the current secondary market pricing according to the websites ComicBookRealm.com (CBR) and Zap-Kapow Comics (ZKC), using the comic book grading scale of 9.4 (if both sites have the same price, you’ll find just one price for that issue). Not all my comics meet that grade. Some are probably better, and many are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use. And remember, a comic book is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. And for those who enjoy the additional fun of knowing some of the more important issues in your collection, I recognize each Cool Comic that is listed in Key Collector Comics.
If you have any comments, please scroll to the bottom of the page to where it says, “Leave a Reply.” And now, episode 363…
Cool Comics Stuff!
The Man of Steel has been having a rough go of it over the last several months, including losing his powers, being trapped on Warworld, and separated from his family. But, as they say, this issue changes everything! If you’re a Superman fan but haven’t been reading lately, I think you can glean enough from this special issue to make it worth your while. Sitting right next to it is the first issue in a new limited series about Damage Control, with writers from The Goldbergs TV show, along with Adam Goldberg himself. It’s certainly not your typical Marvel comic, but you may want to check it out if you appreciate Mr. Goldberg.
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Doc Savage versus Demon-Hunter! What do you think would happen if they faced each other in a titanic tussle, and how do you see the winner achieving victory? Let us know in the comments section below.
Cool Comics Creations!
This episode’s Cool Comics Creation features everyone’s favorite 50-year-old baby alien, Grogu, from Star Wars: The Mandalorian, by artist Sydney Walton! The art is all hand-painted with acrylic paints. Syd is always taking commissions, so don’t hesitate to contact him for a cool cover or other fantastic creations. You can find him on Facebook at Syd’s Altruistic Art, or contact him via email at swaltoniii@aol.com.
You can have a piece of your art featured right here in Cool Comics Creations! Just send an electronic file in an email featuring one of your drawings, whether you’re a professional or amateur, (it can be just pencils, or inks too…or full color if you prefer) or a picture of a craft or sculpture that you’ve done, and if it’s family friendly (and not controversial…let’s try to keep this fun), you’ll be a part of an upcoming Cool Comics episode. We also want your name, an optional picture of yourself to go here, and any other background information you want to provide, such as a website or a way you can be contacted about your art (who knows, maybe someone will make you an offer for the original!). And then email it to
edgosney62@gmail.com
.
#1831 — Amazing Fantasy #1000, Marvel, October 2022.
You can’t fool us, Marvel! We know that there haven’t been a thousand issues of Amazing Fantasy…but then again, we also realize that you can’t stick to walls, even if you’ve been bitten by a radioactive spider. But none of that really matters, because this is a fun tribute to Peter Parker, the Amazing Spider-Man. There are several clever, very entertaining tales included here, so if you’re a fan of the Wallcrawler, grab a copy while you can still find it, and enjoy! This special edition of Amazing Fantasy came together with the help of many artistic hands, a few of which I’ll list here, along with a link so you can see the complete lineup: Jonathan Hickman, Dan Slott, Kurt Busiek, Neil Gaiman, Ryan Stegman, Jim Cheung, Olivier Coipel, Klaus Janson, Jordie Bellaire, Todd Klein, and Nick Lowe. The cover price of Amazing Fantasy #1000 is $7.99, while the current value is $8. The Key Collector Comics value is also $8.
#1832 — Doc Savage #1, DC, November 1987.
This is just the second time we’ve featured a Doc Savage comic here, and it’s been too long, as that instance came in episode 121, well over four years ago. Way back then I mentioned that I owned a Scholastic version of The Man of Bronze: A Doc Savage Adventure, by Kenneth Robeson, dating back to my grade school days, unread. Well, I finally got around to it in 2019 and absolutely loved it. But that novel and the two comic books are about the extent of my Doc Savage knowledge. Which means that yes, I need to add more to my library, both of the prose and four-color variety. The creative crew who brought us this issue of pulp hero Doc Savage consists of Dennis O’Neil (writer), Adam & Andy Kubert (art, cover), John Costanza (lettering), Petra Scotese (coloring), and Mike Carlin (editing). The cover price of Doc Savage #1 is $1.75, while the current values are $4 on CBR and $3 on ZKC.
#1833 — Best of 2000 AD, Rebellion, May 2022.
Should 2000 AD be updated to 2100 AD? Maybe that line of thinking ruffles a few feathers (I hope this doesn’t get me Judged by Dredd!), but it’s just a thought. This is another universe I know next to nothing about. I’ve seen the newer movie version and read several Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) versions, which this is, but that’s a drop in the bucket compared to how many comics have come out over the years. Are you a big fan of Judge Dredd and others that exist in this world? If so, we’d love for you to drop a comment below and tell us why it appeals to you. This FCBD issue is loaded with creators, so, like above, I’ll name a few and give you a link where you can see all the names: Al Ewing, V.V. Glass, Pat Mills, Kevin O’Neill, John Wagner, Mick McMahon, and Ian McQue (cover art). The cover price of Best of 2000 AD is free, while the current value is $1.
#1834 — Blondie #209, Charlton Comics, July 1974.
Though Blondie mostly focuses on the adult couple of Blondie and Dagwood Bumstead, I feel it belongs in this category of Cool Comics for the Young at Heart, since I have memories of reading the strip in the Sunday funnies section of our local paper when I was a kid. And when something is part of your childhood, that’s all the criteria you need. This is the only issue I own, and until I found it in a quarter box, I didn’t even realize the comic series existed. Like many comics in this genre that doesn’t include capes and tights, it contains several self-contained short stories. According to the Grand Comics Database, Paul Fung Jr. did lots of pencils and inks for this issue for the various stories (and the cover) … although some instances have question marks. The only other credit list is George Wildman as managing editor. The cover price of Blondie #209 is 25¢, while the current value is $12.
#1835 — Demon-Hunter #1, Atlas/Seaboard, September 1975.
There are plenty of critics out there in comic book world who don’t have much nice to say when it comes to Atlas/Seaboard titles, but I’ve been enjoying my time spent with them. I have a few memories of seeing some issues sitting next to my favorite Marvels on the shelves of the little mom and pop shop where I bought my comics, but it never crossed my mind to give any of them a try. Unfortunately, that seemed to be the case for most of us back then, as the company didn’t last long. I really enjoyed Demon-Hunter and wish it could have gone to at least 2 or 3 issues, like several of the other titles. But alas, it was one and done. The creative people behind Demon-Hunter are Rich Buckler (concept, plot, art, cover), David Anthony Kraft (script), Shelly Leferman (lettering), and Larry Lieber (editor). The cover price of Demon-Hunter #1 is 25¢, while the current value is $20. The Key Collector Comics value is also $20.
Would you like to write a review of a comic book or graphic novel for all the Internet to read? Our
Cool Comics Reader Reviews
section is looking for fans just like you to submit your review, along with a cover image of the comic. Additionally, you may
provide a picture of yourself and any other biographical information you want published in Cool Comics. Send all this
to
edgosney62@gmail.com
. Please keep in mind that we reserve the right to decide what will and won’t go in the blog, so keep the language clean, pick out a comic that won’t cause controversy (we try to have fun here!), and start tapping away on your keyboard!
ComicBooks For Kids! (CB4K) is a charity that Cool Comics In My Collection is honored to be working with. CB4K provides comic books to kids in hospitals and cancer centers all across the United States. You can check their website and see if your local hospital is included and if not, you can work with them to get them included! If you like what you see, please help them out and follow/like their Facebook page. Their link is https://www.facebook.com/comicbooksforkids/
Now you can get Cool Comics in My Collection delivered directly to your email! Just click “Join My Newsletter” on my website (or click on the image of my No-Prize!), sign up, and that’s it. Pretty easy, right? Just be sure to follow the instructions on the confirmation email so that you start receiving my newsletter. If you don’t see it, you may want to check your Spam or Junk Mail folders.
The Cool Comics In My Collection Facebook Group is a place where you can discuss the comics you love, your favorite titles, and the characters that keep you coming back for more. Also, creators are welcome to share news about what you are working on, including crowdfunding campaigns. Don’t miss out on all the inside scoops that might get revealed on our Facebook group. Be sure and join today!
Tired of seeing a blank image when you leave comments? Now you can have a picture or logo show up here at Cool Comics and other WordPress sites, absolutely free! Just click the link below to get started.
Please check out my newest blog, I Read That Book! Periodically, I discuss a book I’ve read in an entertaining, positive manner. It’s not a book review site, but instead a fun way to look at many of the books that have been a part of my life (and perhaps yours, too!), through anecdotes, quotes, weblinks, fond memories, pictures, and other surprises!
Hits: 122
September 1, 2022
The Swamp Thing Concludes & Frankenstein Spells Doom!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 362, where we look at various comic books I own (and in some cases ones that I let get away), both new and old, often with a nostalgic leaning for those feelings of yesteryear. I hope you have as much fun reading about them as I had writing about these cool comics!
For each of the comic books I include here, I list the current secondary market pricing according to the websites ComicBookRealm.com (CBR) and Zap-Kapow Comics (ZKC), using the comic book grading scale of 9.4 (if both sites have the same price, you’ll find just one price for that issue). Not all my comics meet that grade. Some are probably better, and many are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use. And remember, a comic book is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. And for those who enjoy the additional fun of knowing some of the more important issues in your collection, I recognize each Cool Comic that is listed in Key Collector Comics.
If you have any comments, please scroll to the bottom of the page to where it says, “Leave a Reply.” And now, episode 362…
Cool Comics Stuff!
If you’re a fan of Marvel’s first family and enjoyed Dan Slott’s take on the Fantastic Four, you’re probably feeling a little blue about the end of his run (click here to read about the new creative team). And while I didn’t necessarily love everything that happened during the last 46 issues, there were some great moments that I’ll remember for a long time (or at least until next week…my memory isn’t what it used to be). But my favorite aspect of what Slott accomplished was the addition of Alicia and Ben’s adopted kids. They provided a lot of fun to the title and made it feel even more like a story about a family. This little snippet from last week’s issue 46 sums up exactly why I feel that way.
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is The Swamp Thing versus Venom! What do you think would happen if they faced each other in a titanic tussle, and how do you see the winner achieving victory? Let us know in the comments section below.
Cool Comics Creations!
I’m in a Chakan kind of mood these days, and especially so after receiving a new batch of Chakan graphic novella stories to edit for the distinguished creator, Robert A. Kraus! RAK has a distinctive style that meshes so well with the heroes, villains, and monsters we grew up loving, and this image of Chakan makes me glad that I don’t have to fight him. As the creator of Chakan, the forever man, RAK is known around the globe and is a great friend to Cool Comics — it’s always a pleasure to show off his amazing art! Be sure to check out all the other fantastic creations, games, illustrated novellas, and comics at RAK’s website.
You can have a piece of your art featured right here in Cool Comics Creations! Just send an electronic file in an email featuring one of your drawings, whether you’re a professional or amateur, (it can be just pencils, or inks too…or full color if you prefer) or a picture of a craft or sculpture that you’ve done, and if it’s family friendly (and not controversial…let’s try to keep this fun), you’ll be a part of an upcoming Cool Comics episode. We also want your name, an optional picture of yourself to go here, and any other background information you want to provide, such as a website or a way you can be contacted about your art (who knows, maybe someone will make you an offer for the original!). And then email it to
edgosney62@gmail.com
.
#1826 — The Swamp Thing #16, DC, October 2022.
Ram V gave us ten issues of a different Swamp Thing, and the fans liked it enough that DC gave him six additional issues. Will we get more? While that would make me happy (and probably many other readers, too), I don’t think it’s going to happen. Ram V suddenly seems to be one of the hot writers in the comics biz, scripting titles such as Detective Comics and Carnage, among others, and while I don’t necessarily follow creators, Carnage is part of my pull list just because of him. I realize that his brand of storytelling isn’t for everyone, but I like it. The swamp crew consists of Ram V (writer), Mike Perkins (artist, cover), Mike Spicer (colorist, cover), Aditya Bidikar (letter), and Ben Meares (editor). The cover price of The Swamp Thing #16 is $3.99, while the current value is $4.
#1827 — DragonLance #1, DC, December 1988.
I don’t know much about DragonLance, or Dungeons & Dragons, or TSR, or role-playing games in general. But I do know these were hot commodities once upon a time, and I just happened to buy the first DragonLance trilogy in paperback many moons ago. And they sit on my bookshelves, unread to this day. But after reading this first comic book issue of DragonLance, perhaps the chronicles have crept just a little closer to my TBR (to be read) pile. If memory serves, there were quite a few more issues in the quarter bin where I found this issue. I probably should have bought them all; instead, some other lucky person was able to get their hands on them at such a great price. The creative teammates who put together DragonLance include Dan Mishkin (writer), Ron Randall (artist), Randy Elliott (background inker), Steve Haynie (letterer), Daniel Vozzo (colorist), and Barbara Kesel (editor). The cover price of DragonLance #1 is $1.25, while the current values are $4 on CBR and $15 on ZKC. The Key Collector Comics value is $8.
#1828 — Spider-Man/Venom, Marvel, June 2022.
If you participate in Free Comic Book Day (FCBD), there’s a good chance you grabbed this issue back in May. Most stores limit the number of titles you can take for free, and when you can just get a few, who wouldn’t take one with Spider-Man on the cover? Aside from everyone’s favorite webspinner and his buddy Venom, this issue also contains a brief look at the upcoming new title, All-Out Avengers. Lost In the Mail is delivered by Zeb Wells (writer), John Romita, Jr. (penciler, cover), Scott Hanna (inker, cover), Marcio Menyz (colorist, cover), VC’s Joe Caramagna (letterer), Lindsey Cohick & Kaeden McGahey (assistant editors), and Nick Lowe (editor); Seven Seals creators include Ram V & Al Ewing (writers), Stefano Raffaele (artist), Alex Sinclair (colorist), VC’s Clayton Cowles (letterer & production), Tom Groneman (associate editor), and Devin Lewis (editor); and All Out Avengers is by Derek Landy, Greg Land, Jay Leisten, Frank D’Armata, VC’s Cory Petit, Annalise Bissa (associate editor), Martin Biro (assistant editor), and Tom Brevoort (editor). The cover price of Spider-Man/Venom is free, while the current value is $1. The Key Collector Comics value is $4.
#1829 — Bugs Bunny #114, Gold Key, November 1967.
This Cool Comic for the Young at Heart was an easy pick as we have now flipped the calendar and find ourselves in September, a time when pumpkin spice is everywhere, candy corn once again tempts me, school is back in session, and college and pro football start dominating conversations. As I read tale after tale in this old issue of Bugs Bunny, I continued to anticipate how much fun the football story would be, only to discover that I was hoodwinked. There were no pigskins in this issue at all, not even Porky! But it was still a lot of fun. Who were the esteemed creators of this spectacular issue of Bugs Bunny? Unfortunately, the only name given at the Grand Comics Database is Phil DeLara. But please don’t let that stop you from clicking the link and checking out the titles and stars of the stories in this Gold Key beauty. The cover price of Bugs Bunny #114 is 12¢, while the current value is $22.
#1830 — Frankenstein #13, Marvel, November 1974.
A few years ago, I purchased the digital version of the complete Frankenstein run during a sale on Amazon and enjoyed getting to read the entire series. Yet I still want to own all 18 issues of the original comics. Why, you ask? Why not, I say! It’s a short run, it came out in the Seventies (my sweet spot when it comes to comics since that’s when I started buying them), and it’s Frankenstein! And let’s face it, I’ve read a few thousand comic books since I read this in my digital collection, so I didn’t really remember much from the issue. And the result was that I liked it just as much the second time around. And while it’s still a month away, this issue is a great warmup for October. The swinging Seventies people who brought this Frankenstein to life are Doug Moench (script), Val Mayerik (pencils), Jack Abel (inks), John Costanza (letterer), George Roussos (colorist), and Roy Thomas (editor). The cover price of Frankenstein #13 is 25¢, while the current values are $28 on CBR and $14 on ZKC.
Would you like to write a review of a comic book or graphic novel for all the Internet to read? Our
Cool Comics Reader Reviews
section is looking for fans just like you to submit your review, along with a cover image of the comic. Additionally, you may
provide a picture of yourself and any other biographical information you want published in Cool Comics. Send all this
to
edgosney62@gmail.com
. Please keep in mind that we reserve the right to decide what will and won’t go in the blog, so keep the language clean, pick out a comic that won’t cause controversy (we try to have fun here!), and start tapping away on your keyboard!
ComicBooks For Kids! (CB4K) is a charity that Cool Comics In My Collection is honored to be working with. CB4K provides comic books to kids in hospitals and cancer centers all across the United States. You can check their website and see if your local hospital is included and if not, you can work with them to get them included! If you like what you see, please help them out and follow/like their Facebook page. Their link is https://www.facebook.com/comicbooksforkids/
Now you can get Cool Comics in My Collection delivered directly to your email! Just click “Join My Newsletter” on my website (or click on the image of my No-Prize!), sign up, and that’s it. Pretty easy, right? Just be sure to follow the instructions on the confirmation email so that you start receiving my newsletter. If you don’t see it, you may want to check your Spam or Junk Mail folders.
The Cool Comics In My Collection Facebook Group is a place where you can discuss the comics you love, your favorite titles, and the characters that keep you coming back for more. Also, creators are welcome to share news about what you are working on, including crowdfunding campaigns. Don’t miss out on all the inside scoops that might get revealed on our Facebook group. Be sure and join today!
Tired of seeing a blank image when you leave comments? Now you can have a picture or logo show up here at Cool Comics and other WordPress sites, absolutely free! Just click the link below to get started.
Please check out my newest blog, I Read That Book! Periodically, I discuss a book I’ve read in an entertaining, positive manner. It’s not a book review site, but instead a fun way to look at many of the books that have been a part of my life (and perhaps yours, too!), through anecdotes, quotes, weblinks, fond memories, pictures, and other surprises!
Hits: 94
August 25, 2022
Cool Comics Features Some Tough Customers!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 361, where we look at various comic books I own (and in some cases ones that I let get away), both new and old, often with a nostalgic leaning for those feelings of yesteryear. I hope you have as much fun reading about them as I had writing about these cool comics!
For each of the comic books I include here, I list the current secondary market pricing according to the websites ComicBookRealm.com (CBR) and Zap-Kapow Comics (ZKC), using the comic book grading scale of 9.4 (if both sites have the same price, you’ll find just one price for that issue). Not all my comics meet that grade. Some are probably better, and many are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use. And remember, a comic book is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. And for those who enjoy the additional fun of knowing some of the more important issues in your collection, I recognize each Cool Comic that is listed in Key Collector Comics.
If you have any comments, please scroll to the bottom of the page to where it says, “Leave a Reply.” And now, episode 361…
Cool Comics Stuff!
A couple additional noteworthy comics that came out last week include Chilling Adventures Presents: Jinx Grim Fairy Tales #1 and Hulk #8, which ends the mini epic Banner of War series. The Jinx issue was a fun warm-up as we inch a little closer to October.
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Red Sonja versus The Warlord! What do you think would happen if they faced each other in a titanic tussle, and how do you see the winner achieving victory? Let us know in the comments section below.
Cool Comics Creations!
In this episode, Cool Comics shows off some tough customers, and Ed Griffie’s version of Rosie the Riveter leaves no doubt that she’s as tough as they come! Ed is a lifelong comic book fan who started drawing Kawaii and Chibi style versions of pop culture icons and superheroes about five years ago. Through Facebook, his work came to the attention of Daniel Hare, the owner of vintage toy and comic bookstore The Toys Time Forgot, who offered him a guest spot at Free Comic Book Day. Since then, Ed has been a regular at local conventions and comic bookstores, where he offers bookmarks, coloring pages, trading cards, and color prints featuring his unique artwork. You can check out his full catalog of work at toonist27.deviantart.com or contact him at edgriffiejr@gmail.com to commission an original piece of your very own.
You can have a piece of your art featured right here in Cool Comics Creations! Just send an electronic file in an email featuring one of your drawings, whether you’re a professional or amateur, (it can be just pencils, or inks too…or full color if you prefer) or a picture of a craft or sculpture that you’ve done, and if it’s family friendly (and not controversial…let’s try to keep this fun), you’ll be a part of an upcoming Cool Comics episode. We also want your name, an optional picture of yourself to go here, and any other background information you want to provide, such as a website or a way you can be contacted about your art (who knows, maybe someone will make you an offer for the original!). And then email it to
edgosney62@gmail.com
.
#1821 — Daredevil #2, Marvel, October 2022.
This episode of Cool Comics has a bit of a tough guy theme, and we start off with the Devil of Hell’s Kitchen. Daredevil #2 is yet another Marvel Milestone, as the Legacy numbering reached the 650th issue of The Man Without Fear. As usual, Marvel upped the page count, and if you’re a fan, you don’t want to miss out on this one. Another neat touch is that they included thumbnail images of all 650 covers of Daredevil. This special issue of Daredevil is full of creators, including Chip Zdarsky (writer), Marco Checchetto (artiist, cover), Matthew Wilson (color artist, cover), Rafael DeLatorre (flashback artist), VC’s Clayton Cowles (letterer), Tom Groneman (associate Editor), and Devin Lewis (editor). But that’s not all! There’s a short tale by Ann Nocenti (writer), Chip Zdarsky (artist), and VC’s Clayton Cowles (letterer). And yet we’re still not done, as the first story has a number of guest artists, including: Alex Maleev, Paul Azaceta, Phil Noto, Chris Samnee, Klaus Janson, Mike Hawthorne, John Romita, Jr., and Scott Hanna. The cover price of Daredevil #2 is $5.99, while the current value is $6.
#1822 — Elric of Melniboné #4, Pacific Comics, December 1983.
Our second tough guy, Elric of Melniboné, is physically weak but discovers the sword Stormbringer, which brings him abundant strength and health, yet it comes with a steep price. Elric is far and away more well-known for the novels he originated from than his limited comic book appearances, but I’m more than happy to have found this issue while digging through quarter boxes one fine day. Why, you ask? Because I’ve gotten to know one of the creators, Michael T. Gilbert, a bit, as he attends the monthly local comic book club I don’t get to often enough. That alone makes this issue a Cool Comic! Elric is a fascinating character, and while I’ve read the first novel in the series years ago, I probably should dig deeper and read a few more. By the way, this comic book is a little on the mature side, so keep that in mind. This issue of Elric comes by way of P. Craig Russell (cover layout, pencil layouts, inks, colors, and back cover art), Michael T. Gilbert (cover pencils & colors, pencils, colors, and everything for the Melnibonean Mailbox! page), Roy Thomas (script), and Mike Friedrich (editor). The cover price of Elric of Melniboné #4 is $1.50, while the current value is $3.
#1823 — Red Sonja, Dynamite, May 2022.
Our third tough character is more properly a tough gal, Red Sonja, created by Roy Thomas and partly inspired by Conan creator Robert E. Howard’s Red Sonya of Rogatino. With a new Red Sonja movie in production, perhaps it’s time to grab this Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) issue if you haven’t already, and if you’re fortunate enough to still find a copy. While I wouldn’t consider myself a big fan of the She-Devil with a Sword, I do grab the old Marvel issues when I come across them in quarter boxes at local comic shops. The first tale in this FCBD issue comes from Marvel Feature #4 and includes the following creators: Bruce Jones (writer), Frank Thorne (artist, cover artist), George Roussos (colorist), and Roy Thomas (editor). The second offering features the talents of Cullen Bunn (writer), Jonathan Lau (artist), Ivan Nunes (colorist), and A Larger World Studies did the lettering. The cover price of Red Sonja is free, while the current value is $1.
#1824 — Adventures of Mighty Mouse #168, Gold Key, July 1979.
Our fourth tough guy hero is perhaps the strongest, most powerful critter in the entire cartoon universe, Mighty Mouse! I’ve seen my share of Mighty Mouse cartoons over the years, as this powerful rodent has starred in several different series. However, this is the only Mighty Mouse comic book I’ve ever owned. I found it (and yes, you guessed right) in a quarter box a few months back (never pass up the opportunity to dig for collector’s gold when these opportunities present themselves!), and now I’m hoping to spot a few more issues. This comic contains The Hole Truth, The Missing Link, Jungle Wary, and Meditating Mouse. Yet most unfortunate is the fact that the creators are unknown. But be sure to visit this issue’s page on the Grand Comics Database for other fun facts! The cover price of Adventures of Mighty Mouse #168 is 40¢, while the current value is $8.
#1825 — The Warlord #3, DC, November 1976.
Our last tough guy this week in Cool Comics is Travis Morgan, better known as The Warlord! If you happen to fly your plane into a hole in the earth, you better be prepared to take on sorcerers, other warriors, and ugly creatures like the green guys on the cover (click on the cover for a closer view). I think the concept of The Warlord is fascinating, reminding me of Edgar Rice Burroughs’ Pellucidar Chronicles that I read many years ago. I’ve been able to find a good number of these issues in discount boxes, which is always a nice way to build your collection without breaking your budget. This issue of The Warlord is written and illustrated by Mike Grell (along with the cover art), colored by Carl Gafford, and edited by Joe Orlando. The cover price of The Warlord #3 is 30¢, while the current values are $15 on CBR and $12 on ZKC.
Would you like to write a review of a comic book or graphic novel for all the Internet to read? Our
Cool Comics Reader Reviews
section is looking for fans just like you to submit your review, along with a cover image of the comic. Additionally, you may
provide a picture of yourself and any other biographical information you want published in Cool Comics. Send all this
to
edgosney62@gmail.com
. Please keep in mind that we reserve the right to decide what will and won’t go in the blog, so keep the language clean, pick out a comic that won’t cause controversy (we try to have fun here!), and start tapping away on your keyboard!
ComicBooks For Kids! (CB4K) is a charity that Cool Comics In My Collection is honored to be working with. CB4K provides comic books to kids in hospitals and cancer centers all across the United States. You can check their website and see if your local hospital is included and if not, you can work with them to get them included! If you like what you see, please help them out and follow/like their Facebook page. Their link is https://www.facebook.com/comicbooksforkids/
Now you can get Cool Comics in My Collection delivered directly to your email! Just click “Join My Newsletter” on my website (or click on the image of my No-Prize!), sign up, and that’s it. Pretty easy, right? Just be sure to follow the instructions on the confirmation email so that you start receiving my newsletter. If you don’t see it, you may want to check your Spam or Junk Mail folders.
The Cool Comics In My Collection Facebook Group is a place where you can discuss the comics you love, your favorite titles, and the characters that keep you coming back for more. Also, creators are welcome to share news about what you are working on, including crowdfunding campaigns. Don’t miss out on all the inside scoops that might get revealed on our Facebook group. Be sure and join today!
Tired of seeing a blank image when you leave comments? Now you can have a picture or logo show up here at Cool Comics and other WordPress sites, absolutely free! Just click the link below to get started.
Please check out my newest blog, I Read That Book! Periodically, I discuss a book I’ve read in an entertaining, positive manner. It’s not a book review site, but instead a fun way to look at many of the books that have been a part of my life (and perhaps yours, too!), through anecdotes, quotes, weblinks, fond memories, pictures, and other surprises!
Hits: 46
August 18, 2022
Gordon Shumway & the Marvel Age of Comics!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 360, where we look at various comic books I own (and in some cases ones that I let get away), both new and old, often with a nostalgic leaning for those feelings of yesteryear. I hope you have as much fun reading about them as I had writing about these cool comics!
For each of the comic books I include here, I list the current secondary market pricing according to the websites ComicBookRealm.com (CBR) and Zap-Kapow Comics (ZKC), using the comic book grading scale of 9.4 (if both sites have the same price, you’ll find just one price for that issue). Not all my comics meet that grade. Some are probably better, and many are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use. And remember, a comic book is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. And for those who enjoy the additional fun of knowing some of the more important issues in your collection, I recognize each Cool Comic that is listed in Key Collector Comics.
If you have any comments, please scroll to the bottom of the page to where it says, “Leave a Reply.” And now, episode 360…
Cool Comics Stuff!
This week there were a couple other cool comics that got my serious consideration for inclusion in the Modern-Day Cool Comics category, but there can be only one, and I like to mix it up a bit. It’s obvious that I read more Marvel than any other company, so when I get something new that wasn’t published by the House of Ideas, I often like to dub it a cool comic. Pictured above, you can see that Marvel gave us a couple fun ones with a new volume of X-Men Legends (this story takes place just after the first Wolverine / Hulk confrontation, and we get more of the same here!) and a gaggle of Ghost Rider goodness in Ghost Rider: Vengeance Forever #1.
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is ALF versus Richie Rich! What do you think would happen if they faced each other in a titanic tussle, and how do you see the winner achieving victory? Let us know in the comments section below.
Cool Comics Creations!
This episode’s Cool Comics Creation features one of my favorite Image titles, Geiger, by artist Sydney Walton! The art is all hand-painted with acrylic paints. Syd is always taking commissions, so don’t hesitate to contact him for a cool cover or other fantastic creations. You can find him on Facebook at Syd’s Altruistic Art, or contact him via email at swaltoniii@aol.com.
You can have a piece of your art featured right here in Cool Comics Creations! Just send an electronic file in an email featuring one of your drawings, whether you’re a professional or amateur, (it can be just pencils, or inks too…or full color if you prefer) or a picture of a craft or sculpture that you’ve done, and if it’s family friendly (and not controversial…let’s try to keep this fun), you’ll be a part of an upcoming Cool Comics episode. We also want your name, an optional picture of yourself to go here, and any other background information you want to provide, such as a website or a way you can be contacted about your art (who knows, maybe someone will make you an offer for the original!). And then email it to
edgosney62@gmail.com
.
#1816 — Archie & Friends: Thrills & Chills #1, Archie, October 2022.
If you have a fondness for Archie comics but don’t much care for the newer, edgier versions or the horror twists, be glad that Archie & Friends continues to put out fun adventures like this Thrills & Chills iteration. Sure, there are reprint stories inside, but for $2.99, you always get a new tale, too. Return to Mirrordale is brought to us by J. Torres (script), Rex Lindsey (art), and Glenn Whitmore (colors); Funhouse Frolic comes courtesy of Tom DeFalco (script), Pat & Tim Kennedy (pencils), Bob Smith (inks), Jack Morelli (letters), and Digikore Studios (colors); Carnival Capers featuring Sabrina didn’t have credits listed; and Archie 3000 Carnival Atmosphere creators include Mike Pellowski (script), Rex Lindsey (pencils), Jon D’Agostino (inks), and Bill Yoshida (letters). Other creators are Dan Parent (cover) and the editorial team of Jamie Lee Rotante, Vincent Lovallo, and Stephen Oswald. The cover price of Archie & Friends: Thrills & Chills #1 is $2.99, while the current value is $3.
#1817 — ALF #1, Marvel, March 1988.
Were you watching on September 22, 1986, when Gordon Shumway (aka ALF) entered our lives in living color? ALF (Alien Life Form), a fuzzy alien from the planet Melmac, crash-landed into the Tanner’s garage, not to mention the hearts of millions of viewers. Sure, he could be obnoxious, along with a threat to cats across the globe, but the show provided light entertainment that often just hit the spot. This first issue contains three fun stories: At Your Disposal, Skin Off My Nose, and Play Misty for Me. If you enjoyed the show and wouldn’t mind adding a few issues to your collection, I’ve been able to find a handful of them in discount bins. All three stories feature the talents of Michael Gallagher (story), Dave Manak (pencils, cover), Marie Severin (inks, colors, cover), Grace Kremer (letters), and Sid Jacobson (editor). The cover price of ALF #1 is $1, while the current values are $8 on CBR and $5 on ZKC. The Key Collector Comics value is $10.
#1818 — Fuzzy Baseball, Papercutz, May 2022.
Did you know Fuzzy Baseball was a thing? I sure didn’t. When I pulled this from my Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) box, I figured it was something new, but it turns out there have been other Fuzzy Baseball comics…and I didn’t even know it. Maybe I’ve seen it in Previews before, but I see lots of things there that I end up forgetting about. Anyway, while this seems kind of odd with all these intelligent animals, I ended up sort of enjoying this FCBD issue. I guess if Disney and Warner Brothers and many others can do it, why not Fuzzy Baseball? Perhaps next will come Scaly Football, with snakes, alligators, and lizards. Fuzzy Baseball was created by John Steven Gurney. Incidentally, John Steven Gurney also provided the writing, art, color, and lettering. Stephanie Brooks is credited as the assistant managing editor, and Jim Salicrup is the editor-in-chief. The cover price of Fuzzy Baseball is free, while the current value is $1.
#1819 — Richie Rich Jackpots #15, Harvey Comics, February 1975.
I’ve probably mentioned this on here a time or two, but I was not a Richie Rich reader when I was young. Not that I didn’t have any (I think I bought two or three issues), but the Poor Little Rich Boy just didn’t resonate with me. It wasn’t a jealousy thing (although who wouldn’t want to have his bank account?). It’s just that I preferred Dennis the Menace and Archie comics when I wasn’t spending my pocket change on superheroes. But today, as a more seasoned person and reader, I’ve developed a fondness for Richie Rich stories. They certainly make me feel young at heart. Some of you already know that it’s nearly impossible to find proper creator credits for some of these older cool comics for the young at heart, which holds true with this issue. And while we usually provide a link to the issue from the Grand Comic Database, this one didn’t have much information, so instead I’m giving you the link to this issue’s page on Mike’s Amazing World of Comics, another outstanding website that’s loaded with all kinds of comic book knowledge. The cover price of Richie Rich Jackpots #15 is 25¢, while the current value is $12.
#1820 — The Legion of Super-Heroes #308, DC, February 1984.
The Legion of Super-Heroes takes me back to 1982, when I was a student at The Ohio State University and I discovered this fun, futuristic team during The Great Darkness Saga. A new friend and fellow Buckeye got me back into collecting comics (and unfortunately this lasted for too short a time), and I was determined to try titles I’d never explored in the past. It seems like there are thousands of LSH comics to be found in quarter boxes, which is nice for those of us who want to keep adding to our collections. …And the Sky Itself Shall Burn! was born from the minds of Paul Levitz (writer), Keith Giffen (penciller, cover), Larry Mahlstedt (inker, cover), John Constanza (letterer), Carl Gafford (colorist), Anthony Tollin (cover colors); Guess What’s Coming to Dinner? comes from Keith Giffen (plot), Paul Levitz (plot, script), George Tuska (pencils), Larry Mahlstedt (inks), Carl Gafford (colors), Adam Kubert (letterer); and Karen Berger (editor). The cover price of The Legion of Super-Heroes #308 is 75¢, while the current value is $3.
Would you like to write a review of a comic book or graphic novel for all the Internet to read? Our
Cool Comics Reader Reviews
section is looking for fans just like you to submit your review, along with a cover image of the comic. Additionally, you may
provide a picture of yourself and any other biographical information you want published in Cool Comics. Send all this
to
edgosney62@gmail.com
. Please keep in mind that we reserve the right to decide what will and won’t go in the blog, so keep the language clean, pick out a comic that won’t cause controversy (we try to have fun here!), and start tapping away on your keyboard!
ComicBooks For Kids! (CB4K) is a charity that Cool Comics In My Collection is honored to be working with. CB4K provides comic books to kids in hospitals and cancer centers all across the United States. You can check their website and see if your local hospital is included and if not, you can work with them to get them included! If you like what you see, please help them out and follow/like their Facebook page. Their link is https://www.facebook.com/comicbooksforkids/
Now you can get Cool Comics in My Collection delivered directly to your email! Just click “Join My Newsletter” on my website (or click on the image of my No-Prize!), sign up, and that’s it. Pretty easy, right? Just be sure to follow the instructions on the confirmation email so that you start receiving my newsletter. If you don’t see it, you may want to check your Spam or Junk Mail folders.
The Cool Comics In My Collection Facebook Group is a place where you can discuss the comics you love, your favorite titles, and the characters that keep you coming back for more. Also, creators are welcome to share news about what you are working on, including crowdfunding campaigns. Don’t miss out on all the inside scoops that might get revealed on our Facebook group. Be sure and join today!
Tired of seeing a blank image when you leave comments? Now you can have a picture or logo show up here at Cool Comics and other WordPress sites, absolutely free! Just click the link below to get started.
Please check out my newest blog, I Read That Book! Periodically, I discuss a book I’ve read in an entertaining, positive manner. It’s not a book review site, but instead a fun way to look at many of the books that have been a part of my life (and perhaps yours, too!), through anecdotes, quotes, weblinks, fond memories, pictures, and other surprises!
Hits: 57
August 11, 2022
Remembering Those Early Days of Comics With Dennis the Menace!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 359, where we look at various comic books I own (and in some cases ones that I let get away), both new and old, often with a nostalgic leaning for those feelings of yesteryear. I hope you have as much fun reading about them as I had writing about these cool comics!
For each of the comic books I include here, I list the current secondary market pricing according to the websites ComicBookRealm.com (CBR) and Zap-Kapow Comics (ZKC), using the comic book grading scale of 9.4 (if both sites have the same price, you’ll find just one price for that issue). Not all my comics meet that grade. Some are probably better, and many are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use. And remember, a comic book is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. And for those who enjoy the additional fun of knowing some of the more important issues in your collection, I recognize each Cool Comic that is listed in Key Collector Comics.
If you have any comments, please scroll to the bottom of the page to where it says, “Leave a Reply.” And now, episode 359…
Cool Comics Stuff!
While I don’t read many DC titles, this past week had several good ones, including The New Champion of SHAZAM! #1 and Batman #126. If you haven’t tried Batman in a while, the new creative team of Chip Zdarsky and Jorge Jimenez is seeing me put it on top of my pile when each new issue appears.
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is The Bionic Woman versus Dennis the Menace! What do you think would happen if they faced each other in a titanic tussle, and how do you see the winner achieving victory? Let us know in the comments section below.
Cool Comics Creations!
This trike-riding Ghost Rider is the terror of the local playground! Robert Kraus has a distinctive style that meshes so well with the heroes, villains, and monsters we grew up loving, and this image from one of his limited-edition prints is proof positive. RAK is known around the globe as the creator of Chakan, the forever man, and is a great friend to Cool Comics — it’s always a pleasure to show off his amazing art! Be sure to check out all the other fantastic creations, games, illustrated novellas, and comics at RAK’s website.
You can have a piece of your art featured right here in Cool Comics Creations! Just send an electronic file in an email featuring one of your drawings, whether you’re a professional or amateur, (it can be just pencils, or inks too…or full color if you prefer) or a picture of a craft or sculpture that you’ve done, and if it’s family friendly (and not controversial…let’s try to keep this fun), you’ll be a part of an upcoming Cool Comics episode. We also want your name, an optional picture of yourself to go here, and any other background information you want to provide, such as a website or a way you can be contacted about your art (who knows, maybe someone will make you an offer for the original!). And then email it to
edgosney62@gmail.com
.
#1811 — Immortal X-Men #5, Marvel, October 2022.
The X-Men line isn’t what it used to be. I think I may have stated something similar in a past episode, but I wanted to mention it (maybe again). And I’m not saying that in a negative way. They’re just different from past periods in which I read and enjoyed the X-Comics so much. Maybe you love the current stuff, and if you do, great! Read what you like. For a while I was trying to keep up with all the titles, but I lost interest in several of them. What it comes down to for me is that I want to know what’s going to happen, because I don’t think the status quo is going to remain. Anyway, I ended up liking this issue and learned more than I previously knew about the character Exodus. The X-Cellent creative team includes Kieron Gillen (writer), Michele Bandini (artist), David Curiel (color artist), VC’s Clayton Cowles (letterer, production), Tom Muller & Jay Bowen (design), Giuseppe Camuncoli & Jesus Aburtov (cover artists), Lauren Amaro (associate editor), and Jordan D. White (editor). The cover price of Immortal X-Men #5 is $3.99, while the current value is $4.
#1812 — The Bionic Woman #1, Charlton Comics, October 1977.
When The Six Million Dollar Man made-for-TV movie appeared one fine evening in 1973, my life changed…for the better (the same thing happened many times to me over the years, such as when The Planet of the Apes came on one night when I was a youngster). The kids in my neighborhood pretty much felt the same way, and suddenly we were running, punching, kicking, and falling, all in slow motion, often accompanied by the ultra-cool sound effects from the movie and eventual ongoing weekly series. And before you knew it, Steve Austin, the Six Million Dollar Man, had a girlfriend, Jaime Sommers, who became The Bionic Woman. Yep, we watched that one, too. This first fun issue of The Bionic Woman features three complete adventures: Rico, Come Home!; Weaker Sex?; and Birth of the Bionic Woman. And seriously, if you grew up while the show aired on TV, and you love collecting Media Tie-In Cool Comics, then you need to add this one to your collection! The cyborg staff includes the following, according to the Grand Comics Database (some names are not verified, as there are some question marks – see for yourself by clicking the link): Joe Gill (writer), Jack Sparling (pencils, inks, letters), and George Wildman (editor). The cover price of The Bionic Woman #1 is 35¢, while the current values are $60 on CBR and $38 on ZKC. The Key Collector Comics value is $80.
#1813 — Street Fighter Masters: Blanka #1, Udon, May 2022.
If you want a quick read, then maybe this is the Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) issue for you. Because the only words in the story come in the first panel on the first page, which simply tells us the setting. And while you may be tempted to flip page after page after page just to get to the end so you can really dig into that new issue of The Adventures of Buzzkill Man, I suggest taking your time and checking out the cool art and the flow of what you’re watching unfold in front of you. Just a suggestion. The architects for this wordless adventure are Matt Moylan (story) and Genzoman (art). The Udon staff who helped make this possible are Erik Ko (chief of operations), Matt Moylan (director of publishing), Cory Casoni (VP of business development), Megan Maiden (director of marketing), and Steven Cummings & Anna Kawashima (Japanese liaisons). The cover price of Street Fighter Masters: Blanka #1 is free, while the current value is $1.
#1814 — Dennis the Menace…and Away We Go!, Parke, Davis & Company, January 1970.
Hank Ketcham’s menacing little kid broke out in the world of advertising over 50 years ago, and I can’t imagine not wanting this as part of my collection. I have no idea if this giveaway was available where I grew up, but I have no recollection of it and wouldn’t even know about this fun gem if it weren’t for my passion of digging through quarter bins at comic book shops. When I was a wee lad, Dennis the Menace was one of my favorite things to read, whether it was in comic book form or the Sunday Funny pages. And this opportunity to read it took me back many years, to a time when things were much simpler. By now, you must be itching (better break out the Caladryl!) to know who we have to thank for this Dennis the Menace adventure…but unfortunately only one name is given at the Grand Comics Database, that of Fred Toole, and there’s a question mark after his name. It’s really a shame how so many credits are unknown when it comes to comics of the past. The cover price of Dennis the Menace…and Away We Go! is free, while the current value is $12.
#1815 — Blitzkrieg #3, DC, June 1976.
This issue has kind of a neat story for me, personally, if you’re the kind of collector who wishes you could get back some of the comics you ended up parting with. So yes, this one got away (and I actually had a story about it in my blog way, way back in episode 32), but once again, thanks to a little digging around – in quarter bins – I was able to add it back to my collection one fine day when I had a sharp eye out for something that would flood my memories with nostalgia. If you’re not familiar with Blitzkrieg, it can be a little off-putting, as we get the point of view of soldiers from the Axis powers during WW2. Creators for this issue include Robert Kanigher (script), Ric Estrada (pencils, inks), Bob Rozakis (editorial assistant), Jack C. Harris (editorial assistant), Joe Kubert (editor, cover pencils, cover inks), and Tatjana Wood (cover colors). The cover price of Blitzkrieg #3 is 30¢, while the current values are $32 on CBR and $25 on ZKC.
Would you like to write a review of a comic book or graphic novel for all the Internet to read? Our
Cool Comics Reader Reviews
section is looking for fans just like you to submit your review, along with a cover image of the comic. Additionally, you may
provide a picture of yourself and any other biographical information you want published in Cool Comics. Send all this
to
edgosney62@gmail.com
. Please keep in mind that we reserve the right to decide what will and won’t go in the blog, so keep the language clean, pick out a comic that won’t cause controversy (we try to have fun here!), and start tapping away on your keyboard!
ComicBooks For Kids! (CB4K) is a charity that Cool Comics In My Collection is honored to be working with. CB4K provides comic books to kids in hospitals and cancer centers all across the United States. You can check their website and see if your local hospital is included and if not, you can work with them to get them included! If you like what you see, please help them out and follow/like their Facebook page. Their link is https://www.facebook.com/comicbooksforkids/
Now you can get Cool Comics in My Collection delivered directly to your email! Just click “Join My Newsletter” on my website (or click on the image of my No-Prize!), sign up, and that’s it. Pretty easy, right? Just be sure to follow the instructions on the confirmation email so that you start receiving my newsletter. If you don’t see it, you may want to check your Spam or Junk Mail folders.
The Cool Comics In My Collection Facebook Group is a place where you can discuss the comics you love, your favorite titles, and the characters that keep you coming back for more. Also, creators are welcome to share news about what you are working on, including crowdfunding campaigns. Don’t miss out on all the inside scoops that might get revealed on our Facebook group. Be sure and join today!
Tired of seeing a blank image when you leave comments? Now you can have a picture or logo show up here at Cool Comics and other WordPress sites, absolutely free! Just click the link below to get started.
Please check out my newest blog, I Read That Book! Periodically, I discuss a book I’ve read in an entertaining, positive manner. It’s not a book review site, but instead a fun way to look at many of the books that have been a part of my life (and perhaps yours, too!), through anecdotes, quotes, weblinks, fond memories, pictures, and other surprises!
Hits: 47
August 4, 2022
Agent 007 and the Mystery of the Missing Issues!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 358, where we look at various comic books I own (and in some cases ones that I let get away), both new and old, often with a nostalgic leaning for those feelings of yesteryear. I hope you have as much fun reading about them as I had writing about these cool comics!
For each of the comic books I include here, I list the current secondary market pricing according to the websites ComicBookRealm.com (CBR) and Zap-Kapow Comics (ZKC), using the comic book grading scale of 9.4 (if both sites have the same price, you’ll find just one price for that issue). Not all my comics meet that grade. Some are probably better, and many are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use. And remember, a comic book is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. And for those who enjoy the additional fun of knowing some of the more important issues in your collection, I recognize each Cool Comic that is listed in Key Collector Comics.
If you have any comments, please scroll to the bottom of the page to where it says, “Leave a Reply.” And now, episode 358…
Cool Comics Stuff!There have been several comic book conventions this summer within driving distance of where I live, but circumstances have prevented me from attending. Here’s to hoping next season (or later in 2022) fares better. If you’ve been able to attend a few, we’d love to hear about your experiences in the comment section at the bottom of the page.
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Spider-Man versus Hawkman! What do you think would happen if they faced each other in a titanic tussle, and how do you see the winner achieving victory? Let us know in the comments section below.
Cool Comics Creations!
In this episode, Cool Comics shows off The Shadow, thanks to Ed Griffie! Ed is a lifelong comic book fan who started drawing Kawaii and Chibi style versions of pop culture icons and superheroes about five years ago. Through Facebook, his work came to the attention of Daniel Hare, the owner of vintage toy and comic bookstore The Toys Time Forgot, who offered him a guest spot at Free Comic Book Day. Since then, Ed has been a regular at local conventions and comic bookstores, where he offers bookmarks, coloring pages, trading cards, and color prints featuring his unique artwork. You can check out his full catalog of work at toonist27.deviantart.com or contact him at edgriffiejr@gmail.com to commission an original piece of your very own.
You can have a piece of your art featured right here in Cool Comics Creations! Just send an electronic file in an email featuring one of your drawings, whether you’re a professional or amateur, (it can be just pencils, or inks too…or full color if you prefer) or a picture of a craft or sculpture that you’ve done, and if it’s family friendly (and not controversial…let’s try to keep this fun), you’ll be a part of an upcoming Cool Comics episode. We also want your name, an optional picture of yourself to go here, and any other background information you want to provide, such as a website or a way you can be contacted about your art (who knows, maybe someone will make you an offer for the original!). And then email it to
edgosney62@gmail.com
.
#1806 — The Amazing Spider-Man #6, Marvel, September 2022.
Comic book companies typically shy away from big celebrations, so for the life of me I can’t figure out why hitting 900 issues translates into such a thick, expensive comic book. Sarcasm aside (I’m not really a sarcastic person anymore, but sometimes I like to have a little fun), the name of the game is sales, so slapping 900 on the cover probably sells a few additional copies. With this issue, we get a long main story, then a couple short ones at the end. I feel like the issue dragged on for a while, but all in all I’m a fan, so I’m glad I added it to my collection. This amazing comic comes with a lot of creators, including Zeb Wells (writer), Ed McGuinness (penciler, inker), Mark Morales (inker), Wade Von Grawbadger (inker), Cliff Rathburn (inker), Marcio Menyz, (colorist, cover artist) Dijjo Lima (colorist), Erick Arciniega (colorist), VC’s Joe Caramagna (letterer), John Romita Jr. (cover artist), Scott Hanna (cover artist), Lindsey Cohick (assistant editor), Kaeden McGahey (assistant editor), and Nick Lowe (editor). The cover price of The Amazing Spider-Man #6 is $9.99, while the current value is $10. The Key Collector Comics value is also $10.
#1807 — James Bond 007/GoldenEye #1, Topps Comics, January 1996.
Who is your favorite Bond? Roger Moore was my first, but to be honest, I’m not a superfan, and therefore I’ll watch any of them, as long as the movie is good. I’m sure that Topps Comics had good intentions when they decided to put out a comic book version of GoldenEye, but in the end, they came up short…two issues short. That’s right, the promised three issue series ended here. Wait, you didn’t know that, and you’ve been spending hours searching in comic shops, going to conventions, and clicking away online, frantically searching for issues 2 and 3? I’m sorry I took so long tell you, but at least now you can concentrate on finishing that run of the original Howard the Duck! 007 credits belong to Don McGregor (writer), Claude St. Aubin (penciler), Rick Magyar (inker), Brian Stelfreeze (cover artist), Steve Buccelato (colorist), Electric Caryon (colorist), Brad Joyce (letterer), and Renée Witterstaetter (editor). The cover price of James Bond 007/GoldenEye #1 is $2.95, while the current value is $3.
#1808 — Wandance and Blackguard, Kodansha, May 2022.
Neither of these two stories stood out, but at the same time, I wasn’t bored reading them. Sometimes Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) issues answer the question of why I’m not reading certain titles on a regular basis, and though I can’t see myself paying to read either Wandance or Blackguard, I probably would read more free issues of these titles. I know, creators deserve to be paid…but consumers aren’t obligated to buy issues they aren’t crazy about. And that’s part of the beauty of FCBD: you get an opportunity to take a title for a test-drive. Wandance comes to us from Coffee (writer, artist), Kevin Steinbach (translation), Nicole Roderick (lettering), Tiff Joshua TJ Ferentini (editor). Blackguard is brought to you by Ryo Hanada (writer, artist), Micah Q. Allen (proofreading), Melissa Tanaka (translation), Michelle Lin (editor), Risa Cho (production), Shirley Fang (production), and Lorina Mapa (production). The cover price of Wandance and Blackguard is free, while the current value is $1. The Key Collector Comics value is $0.
#1809 — Barney and Betty Rubble #8, Charlton Comics, July 1974.
Are you team Flintstone or team Rubble? I must admit that I was a Fred fan while growing up, but Barney and Betty certainly had their moments. This issue is packed with several short stories featuring some of your favorite stone-aged families, so while digging through discount bins, consider snagging this title if you find it. Okay, it’s not like reading the adventures of Batman, but for many of us it holds a special place in our childhood hearts. And yes, once again, we’re dealing with a Cool Comic for the Young at Heart that doesn’t have much information about the fabulous people who worked so hard to bring it to life. At least the Grand Comics Database does have a few people listed (along with story titles, characters, etc.) for several of the individual stories, such as Hiram Walker (pencils), Richard Reichart (inks), and George Wildman (managing editor). The cover price of Barney and Betty Rubble #8 is 25¢, while the current value is $25.
#1810 — All-Star Comics #74, DC, October 1978.
While I often rave about Marvel comics from the Seventies, I’ll take DC issues, too (frankly, the older I get, the less picky I’m finding myself, so I’ll read just about any comic from 1970 to 1979). Justice Society stories are always a lot of fun, and since I didn’t buy much DC back then, it’s always a treat to find these in quarter boxes, regardless of the not-so-great condition. This Legendary Justice Society story is brought to you by Paul Levitz (writer), Joe Staton (pencils, cover), Joe Giella (inks), Ben Oda (letters), Adrienne Roy (colorist), Tatjana Wood (cover colors), Gaspar Saladino (cover letters), and Joe Orlando (editor). The cover price of All-Star Comics #74 is 50¢, while the current values are $65 on CBR and $28 on ZKC. The Key Collector Comics value is $45.
Would you like to write a review of a comic book or graphic novel for all the Internet to read? Our
Cool Comics Reader Reviews
section is looking for fans just like you to submit your review, along with a cover image of the comic. Additionally, you may
provide a picture of yourself and any other biographical information you want published in Cool Comics. Send all this
to
edgosney62@gmail.com
. Please keep in mind that we reserve the right to decide what will and won’t go in the blog, so keep the language clean, pick out a comic that won’t cause controversy (we try to have fun here!), and start tapping away on your keyboard!
ComicBooks For Kids! (CB4K) is a charity that Cool Comics In My Collection is honored to be working with. CB4K provides comic books to kids in hospitals and cancer centers all across the United States. You can check their website and see if your local hospital is included and if not, you can work with them to get them included! If you like what you see, please help them out and follow/like their Facebook page. Their link is https://www.facebook.com/comicbooksforkids/
Now you can get Cool Comics in My Collection delivered directly to your email! Just click “Join My Newsletter” on my website (or click on the image of my No-Prize!), sign up, and that’s it. Pretty easy, right? Just be sure to follow the instructions on the confirmation email so that you start receiving my newsletter. If you don’t see it, you may want to check your Spam or Junk Mail folders.
The Cool Comics In My Collection Facebook Group is a place where you can discuss the comics you love, your favorite titles, and the characters that keep you coming back for more. Also, creators are welcome to share news about what you are working on, including crowdfunding campaigns. Don’t miss out on all the inside scoops that might get revealed on our Facebook group. Be sure and join today!
Tired of seeing a blank image when you leave comments? Now you can have a picture or logo show up here at Cool Comics and other WordPress sites, absolutely free! Just click the link below to get started.
Please check out my newest blog, I Read That Book! Periodically, I discuss a book I’ve read in an entertaining, positive manner. It’s not a book review site, but instead a fun way to look at many of the books that have been a part of my life (and perhaps yours, too!), through anecdotes, quotes, weblinks, fond memories, pictures, and other surprises!
Hits: 53
July 28, 2022
Revisiting Batman Adventures and Simpsons Comics!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 357, where we look at various comic books I own (and in some cases ones that I let get away), both new and old, often with a nostalgic leaning for those feelings of yesteryear. I hope you have as much fun reading about them as I had writing about these cool comics!
For each of the comic books I include here, I list the current secondary market pricing according to the websites ComicBookRealm.com (CBR) and Zap-Kapow Comics (ZKC), using the comic book grading scale of 9.4 (if both sites have the same price, you’ll find just one price for that issue). Not all my comics meet that grade. Some are probably better, and many are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use. And remember, a comic book is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. And for those who enjoy the additional fun of knowing some of the more important issues in your collection, I recognize each Cool Comic that is listed in Key Collector Comics.
If you have any comments, please scroll to the bottom of the page to where it says, “Leave a Reply.” And now, episode 357…
Cool Comics Stuff!
Writer Gerald J. Jones has a new Kickstarter for your comic book reading pleasure! Mrs. Vengeance: “The Broken Pavement” Complete Series 1-3, is a fascinating story of crime and vengeance in a dark, criminal world, that isn’t quite as black and white as the comic itself is. The story has some surprises that make it hard to put down. I had the opportunity to read all three issues and give them my stamp of approval, from plot to writing to art (and what a fantastic job Clovis Batebola did). Be sure not to miss this one! Visit the project on Kickstarter, watch the video, read about the different reward levels, and make your choice.
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Shang-Chi versus Manhunter! What do you think would happen if they faced each other in a titanic tussle, and how do you see the winner achieving victory? Let us know in the comments section below.
Cool Comics Creations!
This episode’s Cool Comics Creation of Chucky by artist Sydney Walton is a timely edition, as the Internet has been tracking the murderous toy as he wanders neighborhoods, frightening all who dare to step outside! The art is all hand-painted with acrylic paints. Syd is always taking commissions, so don’t hesitate to contact him for a cool cover or other fantastic creations. You can find him on Facebook at Syd’s Altruistic Art, or contact him via email at swaltoniii@aol.com.
You can have a piece of your art featured right here in Cool Comics Creations! Just send an electronic file in an email featuring one of your drawings, whether you’re a professional or amateur, (it can be just pencils, or inks too…or full color if you prefer) or a picture of a craft or sculpture that you’ve done, and if it’s family friendly (and not controversial…let’s try to keep this fun), you’ll be a part of an upcoming Cool Comics episode. We also want your name, an optional picture of yourself to go here, and any other background information you want to provide, such as a website or a way you can be contacted about your art (who knows, maybe someone will make you an offer for the original!). And then email it to
edgosney62@gmail.com
.
#1801 — Shang-Chi and the Ten Rings #1, Marvel, September 2022.
Here we are, at the start of yet another Shang-Chi comic book series. To be honest, I wasn’t going to bother with this run, figuring with the last one ending, it was a good breaking-off point (because I need the extra cash to pay for my gas so that I can afford to drive to the comic shop…). And while I don’t sound overly enthusiastic, I’ll admit that I ended up enjoying the issue. I guess because of the movie and its title that Marvel felt they may be able to land a few extra readers if they tossed the Ten Rings into the conversation. But to be honest, I’m still not sure if issue two will become part of my collection. The talented crew who brought us this issue includes Gene Luen Yang (writer), Marcus To (artist), Erick Arciniega (colorist), VC’s Travis Lanham (letterer), Dike Ruan & Matthew Wilson (cover artists), Kat Gregorowicz (assistant editor), and Darren Shan (editor). The cover price of Shang-Chi and the Ten Rings #1 is $3.99, while the current value is $4. The Key Collector Comics value is also $4.
#1802 — Simpsons Comics #91, Bongo Comics, February 2004.
I’ve probably seen fewer episodes of the Simpsons than most of you out there, but I did enjoy what I watched. More than a couple decades ago, back when the first few Simpson comic book titles came out, I bought each one for several months, but didn’t continue any of the series. I acquired this one recently after snooping around in a quarter box, and the story is worth every penny. For some reason, I don’t see Bongo Comics on the cheap that often, but I’ll grab them when I do because they’re fun to read and I’ll enjoy including them in my new Media Tie-In category. This silly Simpsons Comic comes courtesy of Ian Boothby (script), Phil Ortiz (pencils), Mike DeCarlo (inks), Art Villanueva (colors), Karen Bates (letters), Bill Morrison (editor, cover pencils), Mike Rote (cover inks), and Nathan Kane (cover colors). The cover price of Simpsons Comics #91 is $2.99, while the current values are $4 on CBR and $3 on ZKC.
#1803 — Sonic the Hedgehog , IDW Publishing, May 2022.
I’m not the biggest Sonic the Hedgehog fan around (I think my son claims that title), but I enjoyed both movies, and this Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) issue was fun to read. And I have to admit that I’m just a bit outside of the target market. Still, getting to read some characters on an annual basis via FCBD is a nice change of pace. The story Deep Trouble comes from the talents of Ian Flynn (story), Bracardi Curry (art), and Shawn Lee (letters). Prelude to Disaster comes by way of David Mariotte (story), Shawn Lee (letters), and various artists (which weren’t listed). For the cover, we can thank Adam Bryce Thomas, and the editors are David Mariotte and Riley Farmer. The cover price of Sonic the Hedgehog is free, while the current value is $1. The Key Collector Comics value is $0.
#1804 — The Batman Adventures #27, DC, December 1994.
Back in the Nineties, I started buying The Batman Adventures, getting both issues 7 and 8—and then I stopped. If only I’d kept going and gotten that first Harley Quinn issue! Still, I ended up selling those two issues, so chances are I would have sold #12, too, without realizing the value. At any rate, I grabbed this one in a quarter box and enjoyed the trip back in time. The story and art do a nice job of pulling you in, and I’ll get more of these if I find them at the right price. This four-color fun is brought to you by Kelley Puckett (writer), Mike Parobeck (art), Rick Burchett (art), Rick Taylor (colorist), Starkings Comicraft (page numbers), Darren Vincenzo (associate editor), and Scott Peterson (editor). The cover price of The Batman Adventures #27 is $1.50, while the current value is $3.
#1805 — 1st Issue Special #5, DC, August 1975.
Because I didn’t pay much attention to DC Comics back in the Seventies, I don’t remember ever seeing 1st Issue Special on the racks where my little mom and pop shop kept their comics, along with monster magazines, music periodicals that had popular song lyrics, and other cool stuff in the Seventies. Now I have a couple of these in my collection, and this was a fun read, learning about the Manhunter! I hope I can score a few more someday. The cover credits for this Manhunter feature include Jack Kirby (pencils), D. Bruce Berry (inks), Tatjana Wood (inks), and possibly Joe Letterese (letters). The interior credits go to Jack Kirby (script, pencils, editor), D. Bruce Berry (inks, letters), and Steve Sherman (assistant editor). The cover price of 1st Issue Special is 25¢, while the current values are $26 on CBR and $15 on ZKC. The Key Collector Comics value is $15.
Would you like to write a review of a comic book or graphic novel for all the Internet to read? Our
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section is looking for fans just like you to submit your review, along with a cover image of the comic. Additionally, you may
provide a picture of yourself and any other biographical information you want published in Cool Comics. Send all this
to
edgosney62@gmail.com
. Please keep in mind that we reserve the right to decide what will and won’t go in the blog, so keep the language clean, pick out a comic that won’t cause controversy (we try to have fun here!), and start tapping away on your keyboard!
ComicBooks For Kids! (CB4K) is a charity that Cool Comics In My Collection is honored to be working with. CB4K provides comic books to kids in hospitals and cancer centers all across the United States. You can check their website and see if your local hospital is included and if not, you can work with them to get them included! If you like what you see, please help them out and follow/like their Facebook page. Their link is https://www.facebook.com/comicbooksforkids/
Now you can get Cool Comics in My Collection delivered directly to your email! Just click “Join My Newsletter” on my website (or click on the image of my No-Prize!), sign up, and that’s it. Pretty easy, right? Just be sure to follow the instructions on the confirmation email so that you start receiving my newsletter. If you don’t see it, you may want to check your Spam or Junk Mail folders.
The Cool Comics In My Collection Facebook Group is a place where you can discuss the comics you love, your favorite titles, and the characters that keep you coming back for more. Also, creators are welcome to share news about what you are working on, including crowdfunding campaigns. Don’t miss out on all the inside scoops that might get revealed on our Facebook group. Be sure and join today!
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Please check out my newest blog, I Read That Book! Periodically, I discuss a book I’ve read in an entertaining, positive manner. It’s not a book review site, but instead a fun way to look at many of the books that have been a part of my life (and perhaps yours, too!), through anecdotes, quotes, weblinks, fond memories, pictures, and other surprises!
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July 21, 2022
The Mandalorian Comes to Comics & We Usher in a Change!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 356, where we look at various comic books I own (and in some cases ones that I let get away), both new and old, often with a nostalgic leaning for those feelings of yesteryear. I hope you have as much fun reading about them as I had writing about these cool comics!
For each of the comic books I include here, I list the current secondary market pricing according to the websites ComicBookRealm.com (CBR) and Zap-Kapow Comics (ZKC), using the comic book grading scale of 9.4 (if both sites have the same price, you’ll find just one price for that issue). Not all my comics meet that grade. Some are probably better, and many are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use. And remember, a comic book is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it. And for those who enjoy the additional fun of knowing some of the more important issues in your collection, I recognize each Cool Comic that is listed in Key Collector Comics.
If you have any comments, please scroll to the bottom of the page to where it says, “Leave a Reply.” And now, episode 356…
Cool Comics Stuff!Welcome to the next era of Cool Comics, in which we introduce a new heading under the Cool Comics In My Collection banner, and say goodbye to an old favorite. Though some may be disappointed, we’ve done away with Dynamically Discounted Cool Comics and are ushering in the age of Media Tie-In Cool Comics. So, what exactly does this mean? It means that any comic book story or character(s) that first appeared in a different format, be it book, movie, TV show, video game, cartoon, or strategy game (and there may be a few more categories that don’t immediately come to mind), fit into this category. Under this heading I’ll be showcasing a wide variety of comics, from Star Trek to Disney to Planet of the Apes to Adam-12 to Jonny Quest to Speed Race to Quantum Leap to Conan the Barbarian…and the list goes on and on. Each week you’ll find yourself coming back to Cool Comics just so you can see if we’re featuring comics from some of your favorite franchises. Believe me, you don’t want to miss a single episode! And ironically enough, 3 of this episode’s 5 comics could fit in this category. But there’s a special reason I chose the one I did, which you can read about in Media Tie-In Cool Comics.
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is The Mandalorian versus Black Goliath! What do you think would happen if they faced each other in a titanic tussle, and how do you see the winner achieving victory? Let us know in the comments section below.
Cool Comics Creations!
How can any Pokémon fans not LOVE this RAKified version of these well-known characters?! Robert Kraus has a distinctive style that meshes so well with the heroes, villains, and monsters we grew up loving, and this image from one of his limited-edition prints is proof positive. RAK is known around the globe as the creator of Chakan, the forever man, and is a great friend to Cool Comics — it’s always a pleasure to show off his amazing art! Be sure to check out all the other fantastic creations, games, illustrated novellas, and comics at RAK’s website.
You can have a piece of your art featured right here in Cool Comics Creations! Just send an electronic file in an email featuring one of your drawings, whether you’re a professional or amateur, (it can be just pencils, or inks too…or full color if you prefer) or a picture of a craft or sculpture that you’ve done, and if it’s family friendly (and not controversial…let’s try to keep this fun), you’ll be a part of an upcoming Cool Comics episode. We also want your name, an optional picture of yourself to go here, and any other background information you want to provide, such as a website or a way you can be contacted about your art (who knows, maybe someone will make you an offer for the original!). And then email it to
edgosney62@gmail.com
.
#1796 — Star Wars: The Mandalorian #1, Marvel, September 2022.
Fans of the Disney+ streaming series Star Wars: The Mandalorian won’t be disappointed (well, at least I wasn’t disappointed) with this first issue of the new comic book series. Yes, it’s basically the first episode in comic book form, but it’s been a while since I’ve watched it, so I enjoyed it and feel that the creators did a nice job. I could practically hear the theme song of the streaming series playing in my head during my visit to this galaxy that’s far, far, away! If you’re a big Star Wars fan, grab this issue while you can still find a copy. This retelling of episode 1 of Star Wars: The Mandalorian comes to us from Rodney Barnes (writer), Georges Jeanty (penciler), Karl Story (inker), Rachelle Rosenberg (color artist), VC’s Joe Caramagna (letterer), Adi Granov (cover artist), Carlos Lao (designer), Mikey J. Basso (assistant editor), Danny Khazem (associate editor), and Mark Paniccia (editor). The cover price of Star Wars: The Mandalorian #1 is $4.99, while the current value is $5. The Key Collector Comics value is $4.
#1797 — Korak, Son of Tarzan #36, Gold Key, July 1970.
Before I started reading comic books, I devoured the Sunday Funnies, including Tarzan adventures. And while I didn’t buy Tarzan comics as a kid, I did watch weekend afternoon movies featuring Tarzan (and sometimes his son, Boy) with my dad. Those are some great memories, and I wouldn’t mind reliving some of those awesome moments. My dad would probably have a good time reading this comic book, just like I did. For a Gold Key issue that came out in 1970, the Grand Comics Database (GCD) is able to provide more than the usual information when it comes to creators. George Wilson is credited for the cover, Gaylord Du Bois scripted both stories, Dan Spiegle provided pencils and inks for the main tale, Tom Massey did the pencils and inks on a shorter adventure, and Chase Craig edited the exciting issue. You can see full credits, titles, and characters HERE. The cover price of Korak, Son of Tarzan #36 is 15¢, while the current value is $35.
Cool Comics Celebrates FCBD (Week 11 of 2022)
#1798 — DC League of Super-Pets , DC, June 2022.
I’m not the biggest fan of Pets of the Superheroes, but with the DC League of Super-Pets movie coming out next week, I thought I’d introduce myself to the Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) issue and give it a little promotion. Are you excited about this movie? Do you plan on going to the theater? If you do, let the good folks at Cool Comics know what you think of it in the comments, if you have a little time on your hands. The creative team behind this adventure of Super-Pets includes Heath Corson (writer), Bobby Timony (illustrator), Jeremy Lawson (colors), and Wes Abbott (letters). The creators for the sneak peek of Primer are Jennifer Muro, Thomas Krajewski, and Gretel Lusky. The cover price of DC League of Super-Pets is free, while the current value is $1. The Key Collector Comics value is $3.
#1799 — Walt Disney’s Junior Woodchucks #1, Disney Comics, July 1991.
What? More Disney Ducks? You better believe it, comic book fans! It’s no secret that ducks are often used in cartoons and comic books, and Donald and his nephews rule the nest when it comes to crazy duck antics. Sure, I don’t mind the occasional Daffy or Howard story, but the Disney Ducks take me back to my youth, making me feel young at heart. We don’t get a complete picture of the hands that it took to put this issue together, but GCD does give us some good info. For the first adventure, Bubbleweight Champ, Carl Barks is credited with script, pencils, and inks, while Garé Barks is credited as letterer. For the story Finders Weepers, credits go to Carl Fallberg (script), Héctor Saavedra (pencils), and Nestor Torreiro (inks). We have Jukka Murtosaari to thank for the cover pencils and inks. You can check out all the known fun stuff HERE. The cover price of Walt Disney’s Junior Woodchucks #1 is $1.50, while the current values are $2.50 on CBR and $3 on ZKC.
#1800 — Black Goliath #2, Marvel, April 1976.
Astute readers of Cool Comics In My Collection may recall that I try to collect complete runs of Seventies series. And while Black Goliath is one of the shorter runs at just five issues, I still have one more to go! When this issue originally hit the shelves and spinner racks in 1976, I bought it, as I’d previously bought the first issue, also. But I eventually sold both of those issues, along with a few others (that I now regret), to a comic shop somewhere in Columbus, Ohio. This would have been late fall of 1982, if memory serves (although we don’t usually enjoy these kinds of memories, do we?). Now I just need to find issue three for a reasonable price (I was able to get this one for just $2). The sensational Seventies crew that brought us this issue of Black Goliath are Chris Claremont (writer), George Tuska (artist), Vince Colletta (inker), Ray Holloway (letterer), Phil Rache (colorist), and Marv Wolfman (editor). The cover price of Black Goliath #2 is 25¢, while the current values are $16 on CBR and $12 on ZKC.
Would you like to write a review of a comic book or graphic novel for all the Internet to read? Our
Cool Comics Reader Reviews
section is looking for fans just like you to submit your review, along with a cover image of the comic. Additionally, you may
provide a picture of yourself and any other biographical information you want published in Cool Comics. Send all this
to
edgosney62@gmail.com
. Please keep in mind that we reserve the right to decide what will and won’t go in the blog, so keep the language clean, pick out a comic that won’t cause controversy (we try to have fun here!), and start tapping away on your keyboard!
ComicBooks For Kids! (CB4K) is a charity that Cool Comics In My Collection is honored to be working with. CB4K provides comic books to kids in hospitals and cancer centers all across the United States. You can check their website and see if your local hospital is included and if not, you can work with them to get them included! If you like what you see, please help them out and follow/like their Facebook page. Their link is https://www.facebook.com/comicbooksforkids/
Now you can get Cool Comics in My Collection delivered directly to your email! Just click “Join My Newsletter” on my website (or click on the image of my No-Prize!), sign up, and that’s it. Pretty easy, right? Just be sure to follow the instructions on the confirmation email so that you start receiving my newsletter. If you don’t see it, you may want to check your Spam or Junk Mail folders.
The Cool Comics In My Collection Facebook Group is a place where you can discuss the comics you love, your favorite titles, and the characters that keep you coming back for more. Also, creators are welcome to share news about what you are working on, including crowdfunding campaigns. Don’t miss out on all the inside scoops that might get revealed on our Facebook group. Be sure and join today!
Tired of seeing a blank image when you leave comments? Now you can have a picture or logo show up here at Cool Comics and other WordPress sites, absolutely free! Just click the link below to get started.
Please check out my newest blog, I Read That Book! Periodically, I discuss a book I’ve read in an entertaining, positive manner. It’s not a book review site, but instead a fun way to look at many of the books that have been a part of my life (and perhaps yours, too!), through anecdotes, quotes, weblinks, fond memories, pictures, and other surprises!
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