Ed Gosney's Blog, page 11
July 14, 2022
Giant Moths Terrorize Mighty Samson & His Post-Apocalyptic Pals!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 355, 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 355…
Cool Comics Stuff!
As promised, we proudly bring you part two of Cool Comics from Pennsylvania! After my wife, oldest daughter, and I departed Gettysburg, we made lunch plans with an old friend and met at a very tasty restaurant in Valley Forge. Following that delicious stop, more history was in our future as we entered Valley Forge National Historic Park and drove around to various stops, such as George Washington’s headquarters and replica barracks where the soldiers were housed for about six months, starting in December 1777. The cool comic connection came in the visitor’s center, where I was able to snag these four issues of Patriot Tales pictured above. And the best part is that they were free! That’s right, these comics didn’t cost me a cent. Isn’t that reason enough to visit this important part of our nation’s history?
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Hot Stuff versus Mighty Samson! 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 Batman, 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
.
#1791 — Batman #125, DC, September 2022.
The cover of this issue tells us just what we need to know: A NEW ERA BEGINS! Or at least a new creative team has arrived. Does it get hard to come up with new stuff when Batman stories have been lining the shelves of shops for over eight decades? I can’t really answer that, but fans these days still want more Dark Knight (and DC keeps giving it to them, as nearly half of their monthly comics seem to have a connection to the goings on in Gotham). The first story in this new era of Batman is brought to us by Chip Zdarsky (writer), Jorge Jimenez (artist, cover artist), Tomeu Morey (colorist), Clayton Cowles (letterer), Dave Wielgosz (associate editor), and Ben Abernathy (editor). Part one of the Catwoman back-up adventure comes from the artistic talents and imaginations of Chip Zdarsky (writer), Belén Ortega (artist), Luis Guerrero (colors), Clayton Cowles (letters), Dave Wielgosz (associate editor), and Ben Abernathy (editor). The cover price of Batman #125 is $5.99, while the current value is $6. The Key Collector Comics value is also $6.
#1792 — Mad About Millie #5, Marvel, November 1969.
Until I recently found this in a quarter bin at a local comic shop, I never thought about owning an issue featuring Millie the Model. And now, after reading it, I suppose the title fits, because I’m “Mad About Millie!” Well, not really, but it was a fun enough read. Having lived through the period this comic takes place in gave me a bit of a connection to the shenanigans of Millie and her pals, and it’s always fun to read something that Stan Lee had a hand in. And yes, if I found more Millie for the right price, I’d buy it. This issue contains seven different short episodes, brought to you by the following talented people: Stan Lee, Stan Goldberg, Morrie Kuramoto, Artie Simek, Sam Rosen, and John Verpoorten. If you want the lowdown on each of the stories contained in the comic and who did what, such as writing, penciling, etc., then by all means, click HERE. The cover price of Mad About Millie #5 is 15¢, while the current values are $75 on CBR and $38 on ZKC.
#1793 — Avengers/X-Men #1 , Marvel, June 2022.
Since Marvel’s Judgment Day opened this week (at a comic shop near you!), I decided to go with this Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) intro to the multi-monthly crossover. While I’m not overly excited about it, it could prove to be a good read, as it includes three tough teams: the Avengers, the X-Men, and the Eternals. This FCBD issue also includes a story that is being continued in The Hellfire Gala and the upcoming title Destiny of X, so you may want to make sure you have this one in your collection. The story Judgment Day: Of Deviation and Mutation features the writing of Kieron Gillen, artistry of Dustin Weaver, and the colors by Marte Gracia. The talent that created Bloodline includes Danny Lore (writer), Karen S. Darboe (artist), Ian Herring (colors) and Annalise Bissa (editor). Other contributors to this FCBD issue include VC’s Cory Petit (letterer), Valerio Schiti & Marte Gracia (cover artists), Carlos Lao (production designer), Jay Bowen (logo design), Martin Biro (assistant editor), Annalise Bissa (associate editor), and Tom Brevoort (editor). The cover price of Avengers/X-Men #1 is free, while the current value is $5. The Key Collector Comics value is $3.
#1794 — Devil Kids, Starring Hot Stuff #4, Harvey Comics, January 1963.
With a title like Devil Kids, it has to make you wonder what they were thinking…especially after the whole Fredric Wertham Seduction of the Innocent craziness that took place in the previous decade. But Harvey does a nice job of putting out titles that capture those memories of being young, even when Hot Stuff is involved. I know I enjoy reading these, and perhaps you do, too. Not many creators are listed for this issue on the Grand Comics Database (GCD). It gives us Leon Harvey, Sid Jacobson, and a whole lot of Warren Kremer, often followed by question marks. But if you go visit this issue’s page on GCD, you can find cool fun facts, such as the name of each story, the characters involved, and the original publication date and comic title. If you’re the sort that likes to get the bigger picture, be sure to click the link. The cover price of Devil Kids, Starring Hot Stuff #4 is 12¢, while the current value is $140.
#1795 — Mighty Samson #31, Whitman/Gold Key, March 1976.
I’ve seen covers of Mighty Samson comics online, in comic book shops, and at comic cons, but I never had an issue in my collection until a few months ago. I really enjoyed this post-apocalyptic adventure, as it brings back a lot of memories of the types of movies, TV shows, and other comics that we saw a lot of back in the Seventies. And when you toss in mutated giant moths that are eating just about everything across the country, then you know you’re in for a heck of a good time! This issue of Mighty Samson contains an adventure in three parts, but there’s a chance that the writer may not have been consistent throughout…at least according to GCD. But for our purposes, Cool Comics is going to give you a list of creators and you can decide for yourself, if you feel so inclined. The cool cover was painted by Luis Dominguez, Arnold Drake gets script credit, Jack Abel did pencils and inks, and Ben Oda did the lettering. The cover price of Mighty Samson #31 is 25¢, while the current value is $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: 57
July 7, 2022
The Phantom, Buffy, and Popeye Generate Great Memories!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 354, 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 354…
Cool Comics Stuff!
Last week Cool Comics went on a road trip across the state of Pennsylvania, and our first stop was Gettysburg. With a deep passion for history, we had an incredible time and made sure to visit The Jennie Wade House. Jennie was the only civilian killed there during the [image error]three-day battle. You can tour the house where she died, and I bought the pictured comic Epic Battles of the Civil War Volume 4: Gettysburg, in the gift shop. We also came to find out that Gettysburg has a very nice comic book and game shop, and it was crowded with customers and gamers alike. By the way, my wife really loved their logo, so I included it here. Fourcorners Comics and Games is worth a visit. The person working there was courteous and helpful. Be sure to see their website and Facebook page.
And be sure not to miss next week’s Cool Comics Stuff for part 2 of Cool Comics fun from Pennsylvania!
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is The Phantom versus Popeye! 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 by artist Sydney Walton features your favorite Looney Tunes alien, Marvin Martian! 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
.
#1786 — Avengers #57, Marvel, August 2022.
If you’re a fan of time travel and have an interest in superheroes, then you probably should make sure to start reading the Avengers. At least from my perspective. But of course, none of this is new when it comes to comic book storylines. Time travel never grows old in my opinion, but I’m sure there are those who don’t care much for it. And now for the question of the week: can we regain our youth via time travel? Probably not, but comic books are a great vehicle for allowing our memories to take a stroll back to simpler times. The creators of this time-traveling adventure include Jason Aaron (writer), Javier Garrón (artist, cover), David Curiel (colorist), Cory Petit (letterer), Carlos Lao (designer) Alex Sinclair (cover artist), Martin Biro (assistant editor), Annalise Bissa (associate editor), and Tom Brevoort (editor). The cover price of Avengers #57 is $3.99, while the current value is $4. The Key Collector Comics value is also $4.
#1787 — The Phantom #1, DC, May 1988.
This issue of The Phantom takes me back to my childhood days of reading his adventures in the comics section of the Wheeling News Register Sunday paper. Wouldn’t it be great to relive some of those kinds of moments from our youth? I also remember my mom buying me some Phantom (published by Charlton) comics in bagged 3-packs at the drug store where my father worked. And while this new (well, at least newer than those days) series isn’t quite the same as those from my childhood, I appreciate the fact that it helped reinvigorate those memories. Our back to the Eighties crew consists of Peter David (writer), Joe Orlando (penciller), Dennis Janke (inker), Todd Klein (letterer), and Anthony Tolin (colorist), with editing by Mike Gold and Robert Greenberger. The cover price of The Phantom #1 is $1.25, while the current value is $3.
#1788 — 25 Years of Buffy the Vampire Slayer , BOOM! Studios, May 2022.
I have great memories of watching Buffy the Vampire Slayer with my wife, so it was a sweet stroll down memory lane just to see this Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) issue. And for a while, when the first Buffy comic book series came out, we collected it for a few years. But come on, 25 years? Where in the world has the time gone? And yes, I realize that sentence makes me sound old. A bunch of people get credit for this FCBD issue of Buffy. For Yearbook, the artists include Dan Mora, David López, Gleb Melnikov, Eleonora Carlini, Marianna Ignazzi, Andrés Genolet, Hayden Sherman, Ornella Savarese, Valentina Pinti, Natacha Bustos, Ramon Bachs, Daniel Bayliss, Claudia Balboni, Cliff Richards, and Georges Jeanty; colors are by Raúl Angulo, Roman Titov, Cris Peter, Mattia Iacono, Eleonora Bruni, Patricio Delpeche, Gabriel Cassata, Jeromy Cox, and Dave Stewart. The tale Trust The Process is brought to us by Sarah Gailey (writer), Carlos Olivares (illustrator), Valentina Pinto (colors), Ed Dukeshire (letterer), Madison Goyette (designer), Gavin Gronenthal (assistant editor), and Elizabeth Brei (editor). Additionally, Christa Miesner did the cover and page layout design. The cover price of 25 Years of Buffy the Vampire Slayer is free, while the current value is $1. The Key Collector Comics value is $0.
#1789 — Popeye the Sailor #141, Whitman/Gold Key, September 1978.
So many of the cool comics this week have a connection with my past, and Popeye is no exception. If you’re somewhere in the neighborhood of my age range, I’m willing to bet that you, too, saw your fair share of Popeye cartoons while growing up. And that’s not a bad thing at all. I’ve always had an affinity for the spinach eating sailor, who also happens to always make me think of my paternal grandfather. So again, the memories that came from reading this comic were both positive and precious. This issue has some great characters, such as Popeye, Olive Oyl, Wimpy, Brutus, the Sea Hag, Castor Oyl, and Alice the Goon. As usual, credits for Whitman/Gold Key comics are skimpy when it comes to creator credits. The Grand Comics Database has George Wildman doing cover pencils and inks, along with interior pencils and inks, and Bill Pearson providing the script. The cover price of Popeye the Sailor #141 is 35¢, while the current values are $12 on CBR and $10 on ZKC.
#1790 — Tales of Evil #1, Atlas/Seaboard, February 1975.
As a fan of anthology comic books, this one didn’t disappoint! The Seventies was an interesting age for horror comics, and whether good or bad, I’m always willing to read them. Thankfully, I liked this first issue in the short-lived series from Atlas. And lucky for me I own all three, so I have some great reading to look forward to! Artistic awesomeness for this Atlas/Seaboard comic includes the following: Russ Jones (script), Jerry Grandenetti (pencils, inks), and John Duffy (letters) gave us Spawn of the Devil!; Russ Jones (script), Mike Sekowsky (pencils), George Roussos (perhaps did the inks), and Alan Kupperberg (letters) made A Matter of Breeding!; Russ Jones (credited as Jack Younger, script), Jerry Grandenetti (pencils, and maybe inks), and John Duffy (letters) produced Stake Out!; cover credits belong to Larry Lieber (pencils), Frank Giacoia (inks), and Gaspar Saladino (letters); and the issue was edited by Larry Lieber. The cover price of Tales of Evil #1 is 25¢, while the current values are $20 on CBR and $10 on ZKC. The Key Collector Comics 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: 52
June 30, 2022
Bringing Back that Seventies Groove with The Partridge Family!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 353, 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 353…
Cool Comics Stuff!
Batman/Superman: World’s Finest continues to be a bright spot in DC’s lineup of four-color fun. Mark Waid, Dan Mora, and the rest of the crew are keeping Cool Comics very entertained. Next to it is the latest issue of the new volume of The Amazing Spider-Man, which, in my opinion, is the best of the series so far. While my sweet spot for Marvel’s Wallcrawler is the Seventies, this issue makes me glad I continue to read it.
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is The Punisher versus The Terminator! 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!
Iron Man fans, take notice of this awesome RAKified version of Tony Stark flying in to save the day! 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
.
#1781 — Punisher War Journal: Blitz #1, Marvel, August 2022.
When The Punisher made his debut in The Amazing Spider-Man #129 way back in 1974, I was still fairly new to the world of comic books, and there was no question that this guy on the cover with a skull on his chest and shooting a rifle at my hero was going to be bad news for plenty of Marvel characters. Years later, Frank Castle continues to be surrounded by controversy in several different ways, but I still find his story to be compelling. Now he’s leading the infamous Hand and faces a murderous villain from his past. The cover has a Parental Advisory warning, and they aren’t kidding, as this comic isn’t for the squeamish. The creative team behind this Punisher special one-shot consists of Torunn Grønbekk (writer), Lan Medina (artist), Antonio Fabela (color artist), VC’s Cory Petit (letterer), Mahmud Asrar & Matthew Wilson (cover artists), Martin Biro (assistant editor), and Annalise Bissa (editor). The cover price of Punisher War Journal: Blitz #1 is $4.99, while the current value is $5.
#1782 — The Terminator #1, NOW Comics, September 1988.
First off, yes…I plucked this out of a quarter box, and it’s in pretty good condition (I’m certainly not a professional grader, but this isn’t far from looking new-ish). And it is sort of a big deal, in case you aren’t aware, because it’s the first Terminator comic book. What in the world did fans do between 1984 and when this finally came out four years later? Anyway, it’s really apparent that this is a bit different from movies and comics that came later, as this series has humans in the future referring to them as ‘Nators, along with some warriors called “Sarah’s Slammers.” But it’s also interesting to get this take on the ever-expanding franchise. If you’re interested in learning more about the history of The Terminator in comics, there’s a rather long article HERE that I haven’t read yet, but plan to later. According to Skynet, this comic is brought to you by Fred Schiller (writer), Tony Akins (illustrator), Jim Brozman (inker), Ken Holewczynki (letterer), Rich Powers (colorist), and Mitch O’Connell (cover). No editor is listed. The cover price of The Terminator #1 is $1.75, while the current values are $10 on CBR and $20 on ZKC. The Key Collector Comics value is $12.
#1783 — Galaxy: The Prettiest Star , DC, June 2022.
This Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) issue is a bit outside of my wheelhouse, but as always, I read them and tell you a little bit right here at Cool Comics. It features an alien princess who is trying to hide her identity on Earth by posing as a boy, but a friend finds out the truth, and she ends up going to a party as her real persona. This is a preview from a longer graphic novel, for those who are interested. As I always like to mention, FCBD is a great way to learn about many different heroes, characters, and universes without spending a penny. Galaxy: The Prettiest Star features the writing of Jadzia Axelrod and art by Jess Taylor, while Marie Javins is editor-in-chief. The cover price of Galaxy: The Prettiest Star is free, while the current value is $1. The Key Collector Comics value is $3.
#1784 — Donald Duck #174, Whitman/Gold Key, August 1976.
It’s hard to go wrong with ducks when it comes to comic book entertainment, and Donald, along with his fun-loving nephews, rules the nest! Sometimes it seems as if the popular Disney duck never gets a break, but he never stops trying, which could be considered a good example for us to follow. The cover of this issue is penciled and inked by Carl Barks. The adventure titled Malayalaya (originally published in 1952) comes to us courtesy of Del Connell (writer, editor) and Jack Bradbury, while Phone Trouble (originally published in 1957) credits Tony Strobl (pencils) and John Liggera (inks). No writer is credited with Phone Trouble, but I’m happy we did get some credits, because as many of you are aware, it’s rare that comics for the young at heart give attribution to writers and artists. The cover price of Donald Duck #174 is 25¢, while the current values are $24 on CBR and $22 on ZKC.
#1785 — The Partridge Family #6, Charlton Comics, January 1972.
If you grew up in the early Seventies, then this comic book may have us much meaning for you as it does me. I loved watching The Partridge Family on TV each week with my sisters, and recently I’ve been playing some of their songs on YouTube (as a matter of fact, my current favorite, Echo Valley 2-6809, is always worth a listen, so click the song title and enjoy the images from the past). Charlton Comics don’t have the best reputation for art, but I think this issue did a nice job of capturing their likenesses. I’m pretty sure I had a goofy grin on my face while I read this, and for a few short moments, I was transported back to my childhood. The Grand Comics Database gives us just two names credited to this issue of The Partridge Family: Don Sherwood (who apparently did most of the pencils and inks) and Sal Gentile (who acted as the fearless editor). The cover price of The Partridge Family #6 is 20¢, while the current values are $55 on CBR and $10 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: 48
June 23, 2022
Here It Is, Fans, The Best Archie Comic Ever!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 352, 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 352…
Cool Comics Stuff!It’s a new era for Captain America, as we now have ongoing titles for both Steve Rogers and Sam Wilson. Both titles had strong opening issues, so if you love the red, white, and blue, there’s now more to go around. The Marvels has been an interesting run so far, but the reason I posted it here is because I’m a fan of picture in a picture in a picture art!
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Jughead the Burgarian versus The Green Arrow! 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 Red Tornado, 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
.
#1776 — The Best Archie Comic Ever #1, Archie, August 2022.
Gee whiz, all you have to do is glance at the cover and realize that this just might truly be The Best Archie Comic Ever! It has super heroics, spies, and barbarians jam-packed into this single issue of four-color fun that left me screaming for another issue. Will we get more? And if so, will issue two continue the momentum? If you don’t have history with America’s favorite teenager, then this comic book isn’t for you, but if you grew up with the Riverdale gang, you might get a big kick out of it. The fabulous team behind The Best Archie Comic Ever includes the following: Once We Were Heroes – Fred Van Lente (story), Tim Seeley (line art), and Matt Herms (coloring); Jughead the Burgarian – Aubrey Sitterson (story), Jed Dougherty (line art), and Matt Herms (coloring); and Operatives – Ruben Najera (story), Giorgia Sposito (line art), and Glenn Whitmore (coloring). Other contributors are Jack Morelli (lettering), Stephen Oswald (associate editor), Vincent Lovallo (assistant editor), and Jamie Lee Rotante (editor). The cover was done by Tim Seeley, with Matt Herms. The cover price of The Best Archie Comic Ever #1 is $3.99, while the current value is $4.
#1777 — The Amazing Spider-Man #208, DC, September 1980.
If you’re a fisher of dynamically discounted comic books, then you know that it’s not often you spot issues of The Amazing Spider-Man in these boxes. This issue came out a couple years after I foolishly thought I was too old to read comic books, so when I found it for just a quarter, I could feel my pulse quicken and I knew it had to come home with me and help fill that “amazing” void in my collection. There’s no way I’ll ever have the complete run, and while I can live with that fact, I do love the challenge. The Amazing creators for this issue include Denny O’Neil (writer), John Romita, Jr. (layouts, cover), Al Milgrom (finished art, cover inks, editor), Brett Breeding (finished art) Jean Simek (letterer), and Barry Grossman (colorist). The cover price of The Amazing Spider-Man #208 is 50¢, while the current values are $15 on CBR and $18 on ZKC.
#1778 — The Rema Chronicles , Graphix (an imprint of Scholastic), May 2022.
This Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) issue gives us a brief preview of The Rema Chronicles graphic novel. And if you like it, the back cover tells us that the complete adventure is in stores now! Some of these Graphix previews that we see for FCBD are better than others, and I will not hesitate to admit that even an old curmudgeon like me (I don’t really think I’m a curmudgeon…and perhaps not as old as I sometimes feel…but I enjoyed getting to use the word twice!) enjoyed this story featuring much younger folks. If you’re looking to show a young fantasy fan the joys of comic books, this seems like a good place to start. The Rema Chronicles: Realm of the Blue Mist is brought to us by artist and writer Amy Kim Kibuishi. The cover price of The Rema Chronicles is free, while the current value is $1. The Key Collector Comics value is $0.
#1779 — The Friendly Ghost Casper #245, Harvey, March 1989.
For someone who rarely bought comics for the young at heart when my heart was actually young, I’m building a pretty hefty collection. Most of them have a number of bumps and bruises, both on the covers and interiors, but I’m okay with that. These reader copies are great for going back to those days of yesteryear when the world was a simpler place to live. Taxes? Electric bills? Putting gas in my tank? These sure weren’t concerns of mine when I was growing up and reading comic books with my friends. And though it’s inevitable that I have to pay for a great many things today, grabbing a copy of Casper out of a comic book box is a great way to escape for just a little while. I’m starting to feel like a broken record, but there are no writers or artists listed for this comic book. Now that’s not always the case when it comes to Cool Comics for the Young at Heart, but, most unfortunately, it’s usually the status quo. What you can find here is a list of all the titles and characters in this issue, which is mostly reprints. The cover price of The Friendly Ghost Casper is $1, while the current value is $4.
#1780 — Justice League of America #200, DC, March 1982.
This 200th adventure of the Justice League of America gives readers plenty of bang for their buck-and-a-half, as it fills out 72 big pages! I didn’t buy this fresh off the shelves when it came out, instead paying double the cover price (and $3 isn’t a bad deal for so much comic book fun), and it was worth every penny. The two-page cover comes to us from George Perez (pencils, inks), Anthony Tollin (colors), and Gaspar Saladino (letters). Interior writing credits belong to Gerry Conway, while a bevy of artists helped put together this thick anniversary issue, including George Perez, Brett Breeding, Carl Gafford, Pat Broderick, Terry Austin, Jim Aparo, Dick Giordano, Gil Kane, Carmine Infantino, Joe Kubert, and more, which you can see here. The cover price of Justice League of America #200 is $1.50, while the current value is $10. The Key Collector Comics value is also $10.
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: 59
June 16, 2022
Marvel Team-Up Memories: Spider-Man and the Thing vs. Basilisk!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 351, 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 351…
Cool Comics Stuff!
Dark Crisis, a Limited Event Series from DC, will be crossing over into The Flash and have a few one-shot offspring and even some connected limited series. I won’t be collecting all of it, but I am (at least for now) looking to read each of the seven issues in the main series. I liked the start and hope it keeps my interest!
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Richard Dragon, Kung-Fu Fighter versus Ninjak! 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 by artist Sydney Walton features your favorite bad boy of the dark side of the Force, Darth Vader! The art is all hand-painted with acrylic paints. Syd said he’s been painting covers for a few years now and likes to think that he was one of the first to do so. 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
.
#1771 — Oblivion Song #36, Image, June 2022.
While I know there are many fans of The Walking Dead out there, I admit that I never became a follower. Not that I wouldn’t like it, but the series started when I was finishing up my third phase of comic book collecting (1993-2003), so I kind of missed out. And believe it or not, I’ve never seen an episode of the show. But I did start reading Oblivion Song, another Robert Kirkman creation, from the beginning, and now I’ve seen it through to the end. It lasted just 36 short issues, but it was fun, exciting, and scary at times. I like the science involved and the crazy transference that went down in Philadelphia. There’s no doubt I’m going to miss this series. This swan song issue of Oblivion Song is brought to us by Robert Kirkman (writer, creator), Lorenzo De Felici (artist, creator), Annalisa Leoni (colorist), Rus Wooton (letterer), and Sean Mackiewwicz (editor). The cover is by Lorenzo De Felici and Attack Peter. The cover price of Oblivion Song #36 is $5.99, while the current value is $6. The Key Collector Comics value is also $6.
#1772 — Richard Dragon, Kung-Fu Fighter #6, DC, March 1976.
When this issue came out in 1976, I was busy buying and reading mostly Marvel comic books, and though I’d glance at what else filled the shelves of the tiny mom and pop shop where I spent lots of pocket change on four-color adventures, I don’t recall ever seeing Richard Dragon, Kung-Fu Fighter. If memory serves, I first learned about this character in Back Issue magazine. And when I saw a couple in a quarter box, I knew I had to grab them and enjoy some Seventies nostalgia. The Kung-Fu creators for this issue of Richard Dragon adventures include Dennis O’Neil (story, editor), Ric Estrada (layouts), Wally Wood (pencils, inks), Al Sirois (inks), Ben Oda (letters), Dick Giordano (cover pencils & inks), Tatjana Wood (cover colors), and Allan Asherman (assistant editor). The cover price of Richard Dragon, Kung-Fu Fighter #6 is 25¢, while the current values are $12 on CBR and $7 on ZKC.
#1773 — The Year of Valiant , Valiant Entertainment, May 2022.
For new (or even existing) comic book fans who want to dip their foot in the water and test the temperature, Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) comes chalk full of stuff you’ve probably never read, and maybe never heard of before. This FCBD issue featuring several different Valiant characters is a great way to take a gander at what they offer and see if you want to give any of them a try. This issue features Bloodshot, Archer & Armstrong, Ninjak, and some new stuff called Armorclads, and comes to us thanks to a number of creators, including Brian Buccellato, Jeff Parker, Steve Foxe, Manuel Garcia, Mike Norton, and Marcio Fiorito. If you want to see the entire list of talented artists, be sure to click HERE. The cover price of The Year of Valiant is free, while the current value is $1. The Key Collector Comics value is $0.
#1774 — Tom and Jerry #322, Gold Key/Whitman, September 1979.
Tom and Jerry comic books are different from the cartoons you may have watched on Saturday mornings long ago, but that doesn’t mean you won’t enjoy them just as much. Remember those golden days of getting up early, pouring a bowl of Freakies cereal, and plopping down on the floor in front of the TV that was as heavy as an elephant? If so, then there’s a good chance that you watched a few Tom and Jerry cartoons, too. Sometimes it’s nice to pick one of these out of a box and drift off to a simpler time and place…a time when a comic book and a gallon of gas cost just about the same price…okay, wait a minute—some things never seem to change! Unfortunately, many of these older comics for the young at heart come without creator credits, and sometimes they can’t even be found online. If you do happen to click the link, you can take a gander at the titles for all the various stories, along with the stars of each adventure, such as Tom, Jerry, Tuffy, Howard, Spike, Tyke, and others. The cover price of Tom and Jerry #322 is 40¢, while the current value is $10.
#1775 — Marvel Team-Up #47, Marvel, July 1976.
I really loved Marvel Team-Up during my first phase of comic book collecting in the Seventies. Although, to be honest, the only time I bought it was when Spider-Man was featured. Because he wasn’t in every adventure. So even though I really liked the title, I didn’t even bother to buy issues when Spidey wasn’t on the cover (although now if I find issues in discount bins that I skipped over, I nearly always get them to fill in those gaps in my collection). Yet after saying all that, for some reason I didn’t buy this issue—that does have Spider-Man on the cover—when it came out (so yes, this is a quarter box find). The battle with the Basilisk actually started in another Seventies team-up book, Marvel-Two-In-One, so we get double the fun with The Thing and Spider-Man paired up to take on the super baddie. The Marvelous crew who gave us this fun team-up includes Bill Mantlo (writer), Ron Wilson (artist), Dan Adkins (inker), Irv Watanabe (letters), Don Warfield (colors), Gil Kane (cover pencils), Joe Sinnott (cover inks), and Marv Wolfman (editor). The cover price of Marvel Team-Up #47 is 25¢, while the current value is $8.
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: 32
June 9, 2022
Wrapping Up Episode 350 of Cool Comics with Ragman!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 350, 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 350…
Cool Comics Stuff!
As the air gets warmer and the spring rains start to slow down, you know that summer is right around the corner when the comic book annuals start to show up. Although, come to think of it, annuals don’t show up as often as they used to, but DC recently gave us both Batman and Action Comics, a couple of the older titles in existence. While the Batman story was fine, it’s the Action Comics tale that truly impressed me, hitting home in a personal way. This story took us back to the childhood days of Clark Kent, in which he learns a lesson that sticks with him throughout the years. Did you happen to read it? Maybe it wasn’t for you, but a certain illness in the issue also affected my family and had me a bit choked up. This was the best Superman story I’ve read in years.
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Clea Strange versus Ragman! 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!
If you like your monsters big, then how can you help but dig these RAKified giants! 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
.
#1766 — Strange #3, Marvel, July 2022.
If you haven’t been paying attention, you may not know that Doctor Strange is dead, and that Clea Strange has taken over the mantel of Sorcerer Supreme. To be honest, I didn’t have much interest in this title when I saw it solicited a few months ago. But I ended up grabbing the first issue on a whim…and the whim continued to issue two, and now issue three. It’s been a fun read, and you may want to see if you can find the back issues if you haven’t been getting it (or wait until a collected edition comes out). The supreme creative team consists of Jed MacKay (writer), Marcelo Ferreira (penciler), Roberto Poggi (inks), Don Ho (inks), Java Tartaglia (colorist), VC’s Cory Petit (lettering), Björn Barends (cover), Kat Gregorowicz (assistant editor), and Darren Shan (editor). The cover price of Strange #3 is $3.99, while the current value is $4. The Key Collector Comics value is also $4.
#1767 — Brigade #0, Image, September 1993.
I’m pretty sure I had a copy of this back in the 90s, but it ended up leaving my collection in a big garage sale a few years ago. When I ran across it while flipping through comics in a quarter bin, the nostalgia bug bit me hard enough to grab it at such a great price. To be honest, I don’t remember what I thought of it when I read it nearly 30 years ago, but when I started reading it last week, I told myself that it was worth it for the memories that stirred in my brain. Some of these comics from that era don’t stand up well today, but I have some great collecting memories from that period, and this was worth every penny to me. The people bringing Brigade to us are Rob Liefeld (creator, story), Jeff Matsuda (pencils), Norm Rapmund (inks), Eric Stephenson (script), Marat Mychaels (layouts), Byron Talman (colors), and Kurt Hathaway (lettering, editor). The cover price of Brigade #0 is $1.95, while the current values are $3 on CBR and $2.50 on ZKC.
#1768 — The Three Stooges #1 , American Mythology, May 2022.
Do kids today know who The Three Stooges are? I honestly don’t know, but it seemed like they showed up often on the TV at my house back when I was young. I certainly wasn’t the biggest fan, but kids in my neighborhood would watch, and I did too (sometimes just to be able to talk about them). And so, I started reading this with a bit of trepidation, and found, to my surprise, that I liked this Free Comic Book Day issue and the variety of stories inside it. The story Slapstick Special is brought to us by SA Check (writer), and Brendon & Brian Fraim (art, cover). The Robonic Stooges creators are Todd Livingston (writer), Diego Tapie (art), and Eric Shanower (cover). Finally, Stooges on Set comes courtesy of J. Gershowitz (writer) and J. Pacheco (art director). The cover art credit goes to Adrian Ropp. The cover price of The Three Stooges #1 is free, while the current value is $1. The Key Collector Comics value is $0.
#1769 — Little Lulu #234, Gold Key/Whitman, August 1976.
This issue of Little Lulu gives us three stories featuring Little Lulu herself, and an entertaining tale with Witch Hazel. These Seventies kid comics really do the trick when you’re looking for something light and easy to read, and as a bonus, the stories are nearly always complete in each issue. I often grab a bunch of these comics when I find them in quarter boxes, because you never know when you might want to feel young at heart. Little Lulu has some partial credits listed at GCD, consisting of Arnold Drake (credited with writing three of the stories), Irving Tripp (credited with pencils and inks on two stories), Fred Fredericks (credited with writing on story), and Frank Carin (credited with pencils and inks on one story). The cover price of Little Lulu #234 is 25¢, while the current values are $12 on CBR and $10 on ZKC.
#1770 — Ragman #4, DC, March 1977.
Though I’ve read a lot of comic books over the years, I’d never read any with Ragman (that I can remember) until after I saw the character on The CW show Arrow. And now I always keep my eye out for Ragman in the discount bins (spending a quarter is nearly always worth the risk when it comes to back issues!). I’ve found a few, here and there, but I’m no expert whatsoever. The best part of this issue is that it’s from the Seventies and has some outstanding ads. I started collecting comic books in 1973, so any issue from this era is like gold to me. I know there are detractors, but I enjoy reading them, so that’s good enough for this Gosney. Ragman credits go to Robert Kanigher (script), Joe Kubert (layouts, editor), The Redondo Studio (pencils), and Erik Santos (letters). The cover price of Ragman #4 is 25¢, while the current value is $12.
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: 44
June 2, 2022
Beware The Secret Society of Super-Villains!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 349, 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 349…
Cool Comics Stuff!
Pictured are a couple notable comics from last week that merit mention. First is The Amazing Spider-Man #2 (legacy number 896). What’s going on with Peter Parker? Did he forget to brush his teeth? You know things are bad when Mary Jane gives him the cold shoulder. While I’m not the biggest fan of JRJ’s artistic take on Spider-Man, I am interested in finding out why people seem upset with our hero. The next issue is The Harbinger #8. This is the end of a limited series, and while it was okay, it makes me want to dig out my old school Harbinger comics back when Valiant was new.
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Chip ‘N’ Dale versus The Secret Society of Super-Villains! 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 Scarlet Witch, 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
.
#1761 — Triskele #1, Scout Comics, April 2022.
If you love the concepts of myth and lore and yearn for more adventures that tie in with King Arthur, Merlin, and the land of Albion, and if the very mention of Samhain creates both a sense of dread and growing excitement in your belly, then make sure to find a copy of Triskele #1 and travel back in time to an age of Celtic magic. A young teen named Alec and his friends find themselves on an adventure fraught with danger, and I can’t wait to see what comes next. Triskele #1 was due in April, but as we have come to expect over the last couple of years, some things are better late than never. This limited series won’t be for everyone, but for me it really struck a chord, and I recommend it. The cool creators of Triskele are Felipe Pan (writer, letters), Monaramis (artist, letters), Arthur Fujii (logo), Andrea Lorenzo Molinari (editor), and Nate Johnson (production). The cover price of Triskele #1 is $4.99, while the current value is $5.
#1762 — The Vision and the Scarlet Witch #1, Marvel, November 1982.
It turns out that this would have been a great issue to read in October, as the opening scene quickly establishes that Halloween is here, and ghouls and goblins are out for their annual trick-or-treating festivities. Hey, wait a minute…Triskele starts off on Samhain, and this issue of The Vision and the Scarlet Witch features the first appearance of—yep, you guessed it—a character named Samhain! The funny part is that I didn’t realize we were getting two Halloween happenings in June. Lucky for me that I was searching through quarter boxes at just the right time to find such a fun gem. This grim and ghastly issue is brought to us by Bill Mantlo (scripter), Rick Leonardi (penciler, cover), Ian Akin (inker), Brian Garvey (inker), Joe Rosen (letterer), Bob Sharen (colorist), Jack Abel (cover inks), and Mark Gruenwald (editor). The cover price of The Vision and the Scarlet Witch #1 is 60¢, while the current values are $5 on CBR and $10 on ZKC. The Key Collector Comics value is $8.
#1763 — Tex: In the Land of the Seminoles , Epicenter Comics, March 2022.
This Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) issue is an excerpt of this new Tex old timey adventure, which comes out in July. A little looking around on the Internet tells us that the character of Tex made his first appearance in 1948 in Italy, and that now, thanks to Kickstarter campaigns, Tex has returned. The back cover of this FCBD edition shows what is currently available, and what will be coming out soon. If you appreciate black and white comics from days gone by, you may want to see if you can find yourself a copy, and perhaps become a big fan! Tex comes to us from Mauro Boselli (story), Michele Rubini (artwork), Massimo Carnevale (cover), Zoran Nikolic (lettering and print production), Vladimir Jovanovic (translation), and Igor Maricic (editor-in-chief). The cover price of Tex: In the Land of the Seminoles is free, while the current value is $1. The Key Collector Comics value is $0.
#1764 — Chip ‘N’ Dale #54, Gold Key, September 1978.
The sun is finally shining, flowers are blooming, and chipmunks are invading our property! Do you consider them to be cute, or a nuisance? I guess it depends on your perspective (and how much property damage has already been done by these little critters). But Disney chipmunks like Chip and Dale are a different breed and are here to entertain us. This issue contains several fun stories that won’t have your blood pressure go sky high, so dig in (maybe dig is the wrong word choice?) and enjoy! I admit that I was surprised to see several credited artists at the Grand Comics Database for this issue. Some of the fine people who helped bring these adventures of Chip ‘N’ Dale to fruition include Pete Alvarado, Kay Wright, Cliff Voorhees, Del Connell, and Larry Mayer. Be sure to check out the GCD page for this comic to see who did what and the names of all the stories included. The cover price of Chip ‘N’ Dale #54 is 35¢, while the current values are $9 on CBR and $7 on ZKC. The Key Collector Comics value is $8.
#1765 — Secret Society of Super-Villains #9, DC, September 1977.
I admit that I’ve never been a fan of super-villains and all the headaches they create. They rob, steal, cheat, and destroy! But when it comes to comic book super-villains, I guess I don’t have much to worry about, so I try to relax when reading their (mis)adventures. I was fortunate to find this fun issue in a quarter bin, especially considering it’s from my favorite period of comic books (yes, I dig the Seventies). And while the comic features super-villains, the creators, as always, are the real heroes and include Gerry Conway (writer), Rich Buckler (penciller, cover), Bob McLeod (inker), Jerry Serpe (colors), Jack Abel (cover), and Jack C. Harris (editor). The cover price of Secret Society of Super-Villains #9 is 35¢, while the current values are $10 on CBR and $8 on ZKC. The Key Collector Comics value is $8.
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: 44
May 26, 2022
The Losers, Sad Sack, & Sgt. Fury Pay Tribute to Memorial Day
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 348, 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 348…
Cool Comics Stuff!
Here’s a look at a couple comics that came out last week you may not want to miss! Marvel’s Voices: Identity #1 is an anthology issue that gives us some cool adventures with several of the Asian heroes from the House of Ideas (along with Asian creators), while Savage Avengers is back with a new number 1 issue. The concept was a bit criticized when the first volume came out, but it seems like many fans ended up loving the idea of Conan mixing with such an odd assortment of heroes. Unfortunately, Conan doesn’t have much time left in the Marvel Universe, due to licensing issues.
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is The Losers versus Sgt. Fury and His Howling Commandos! 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 week our Cool Comics Creation features a beautiful Darth Maul painting, courtesy of illustrator Dan Gorman, a member of the National Cartoonists Society and one of the top sketch card artists on the planet! This past Sunday, Rubber City Comics in downtown Akron, Ohio, had actor Ray Park (who portrayed Darth Maul in Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace) as a special guest, and Dan painted this for the event. For more about Dan and his art, please visit www.dangormanart.com. Additionally, Dan is the artist of the Cool Comics logo!
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
.
#1756 — Shadow War Zone #1, DC, July 2022.
I don’t read many DC comics these days, but I do try to keep up with some of Batman’s corner of Gotham. A few weeks ago this spot belonged to Shadow War: Alpha #1, and the story continues with Shadow War Zone, giving us adventures featuring characters such as Black Canary, Death Stroke, Harley Quinn, Clownhunter, and Talia al Ghul. With several stories in this anthology, it took a number of people to make this comic book happen, including the following for each story: Old Friends – Joshua Williamson (words), Otto Schmidt (art, color), Steve Wands (lettering), and Ben Abernathy (edits); Inner Demon – Nadia Shammas (script), Sweeney Boo (art, color), Becca Carey (letters), Jessica Berbey (assistant editor), and Dave Wielgosz (editor); Panic Room – Ed Brisson (writer), Mike Bowden (pencils), Mark Morales (inks), Antonio Fabela (colors), ALW’s Troy Peteri (lettering), and Ben Abernathy (editor); and Ninjas! At the Arcade – Stephanie Phillips (writer), Ann Maulina (art), Andworld Design (letters), and Ben Abernathy (editor). The cover is by Jonboy Meyers. The cover price of Shadow War Zone #1 is $5.99, while the current value is $6. The Key Collector Comics value is also $6.
#1757 — Our Fighting Forces #152, DC, January 1975.
You’re going to notice a pattern of military comics this week, and it should be no surprise, as Monday is Memorial Day. I’m a U.S. Army veteran, and I have great respect for those who have served. But Memorial Day isn’t a day to celebrate veterans. Rather, it’s a more somber occasion in which we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice. I’m sure there are plenty of comic book readers who don’t care for comics such as Our Fighting Forces, but they help remind me of real-life heroes, and that makes them worth including in this episode. And yes, I was able to find this fantastic comic book in a quarter bin. This issue of Our Fighting Forces, featuring The Losers, comes to us thanks to the following creators: Jack Kirby (script, pencils, edits, cover), D. Bruce Berry (inks, letters), Jerry Serpe (colors), and Steve Sherman (assistant editor). The cover price of Our Fighting Forces #152 is 20¢, while the current values are $38 on CBR and $20 on ZKC.
#1758 — Stranger Things/Resident Alien , Dark Horse Comics, May 2022.
With Season 4 of Stranger Things dropping on Netflix tomorrow, the timing for reading this Free Comic Book Day issue (FCBD) feels so right! If you’re a fan, I sure hope you were able to get yourself a copy. The story is so good it had me thinking I was watching an episode! While I don’t know much about Resident Alien, it also proved to be a good read. The creative people involved in Stranger Things: Creature Feature are Michael Moreci (script), Pius Bak (art), Dan Jackson (colors), Nate Piekos of Blambot (lettering), and Diego Galindo (cover art). For Resident Alien: The Ghost, we thank Peter Hogan (script) and Steve Parkhouse (art, colors, lettering, cover cameo art). Editors include Spencer Cushing, Philip R. Simon, and Freddye Miller. The over price of Stranger Things/Resident Alien is free, while the current value is $1. The Key Collector Comics value is $0.
#1759 — Sad Sack and the Sarge #68, Harvey Comics, June 1968.
Don’t you love it when you pay just a quarter for a comic book, but the original cover price is even less? Finding these comics for the young at heart at deep discounts is part of the fun, yet what I really enjoy is the way they transport me back to my youth. This issue of Sad Sack and the Sarge contains six stories (a few that were just a page long), a 2-page prose story with three illustrations, and several ads that will transport you back to 1968. It’s unfortunate that so many of these older comics (especially the ones aimed towards the young at heart) don’t give creator credits. Sometimes people have been able to fill in the blanks for the writers and artists, but I haven’t been able to locate anything for this issue, although the cover has the name George Baker at the bottom right corner. The cover price of Sad Sack and the Sarge #68 is 12¢, while the current value is $16.
#1760 — Sgt. Fury and His Howling Commandos #145, Marvel, March 1978.
Which version of Nick Fury do you like best? This comic features him as the rough and tumble noncommissioned officer fighting for his life during World War 2, but there is also the S.H.I.E.L.D. version, and several TV and movie variations. He’s had some interesting encounters and adventures over the years, and if you’d like to learn a little more, check out his Wikipedia entry. This issue, originally presented in Sgt. Fury #50, is presented to us by Gary Friedrich (scripter), Dick Ayers (penciller), John Severin (inker), and Sam Rosen (letterer). Cover credits belong to Dave Cockrum (pencils), Frank Giacoia (inks), and Danny Crespi (letters). The editor of this issue was Archie Goodwin. The cover price of Sgt. Fury and His Howling Commandos #145 is 35¢, while the current value is $12.
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: 38
May 19, 2022
Hulk & Thor Smash, Turtles Bash, & Kamandi Cooked like Calabash?
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 347, 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 347…
Cool Comics Stuff!
Some noteworthy issues I enjoyed this past week include Archie Meets Riverdale #1, Moon Knight: Black, White & Blood, and Captain America: Symbol of Truth #1. If I had to pick just one to read a second time, it would be the Archie issue, which was fun, clever, and entertaining. And while I plan on reading the entire Moon Knight limited series, the Captain America comic was an impulse purchase that turned out to be a good story.
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Hulk versus Thor! 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 by artist Sydney Walton features Sid Haig as Captain Spaulding from House of 1,000 Corpses! The art is all hand-painted with acrylic paints. Syd said he’s been painting covers for a few years now and likes to think that he was one of the first to do so. 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
.
#1751 — Hulk vs. Thor: Banner of War Alpha #1, Marvel, June 2022.
Did you notice that I pitted Hulk vs. Thor in the Cool Comics Battle of the Week? From what I can remember, it’s the first time I’ve taken both combatants from the same issue. And why not? When Hulk and Thor go toe-to-toe, the readers always win! This Alpha issue is just the start as the battle crosses over into the next two issues of Thor (25, 26) and Hulk (7, 8). If you want to witness it from the start, grab this issue while you can! The fantastic creators for this bombastic start to Banner of War are Donny Cates (writer), Martin Coccolo (artist), Matt Wilson (color artist), VC’s Joe Sabino (letterer), Gary Frank & Brad Anderson (cover artists), Anthony Gambino (production designer), Kaitlyn Lindtvedt (assistant editor), and Will Moss with Alanna Smith (editors). The cover price of Hulk vs. Thor: Banner of War Alpha #1 is $4.99, while the current value is $5. The Key Collector Comics value is also $5.
#1752 — Pep #285, Archie, January 1974.
I’m on a bit of a hiatus from fishing in quarter boxes, but I’ve acquired more than I can ever cover here on a weekly basis (unless it turns out I’m an Eternal…or a Mutant). The fun part in planning each episode of Cool Comics is in deciding which title to include here–and then the actual process of reading it. I try to maintain a bit of variety for each episode, but my rules aren’t hard and fast, so if I decide I want to take a reading time machine back to the Seventies with Archie once again, that’s what I’ll do (by the way, this issue is missing a couple pages, but I can’t complain when it comes to quarter comics). Like most Archie comic books, this issue is an anthology with various creators for the different stories included. Some of the artistic talent includes Dan DeCarlo, Rudy Lapick, Bill Yoshida, Al Hartley, Stan Goldberg, and Joe Edwards. For a more complete look, be sure to click PEP #285 and check out the story titles and credits. The cover price of Pep #285 is 20¢, while the current value is $15.
Cool Comics Celebrates FCBD (Week 2 of 2022)
#1753 — TMNT: The Armageddon Game , IDW Publishing, May 2022.
Did you visit your local comic shop on Free Comic Book Day (FCBD)? If so, and if you happened to grab this Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) issue, then you’re in for a treat. Admittedly, I’m not a regular reader or fan of TMNT, but I really enjoyed this special issue, so I recommend giving it a try. In a nod to Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird, we get the talents of Tom Waltz (story), Sophie Campbell (art, colors, letters), and Bobby Curnow (edits). But wait! This FCBD issue also includes a look back at the original TMNT story by Eastman and Laird. The cover price of TMNT: The Armageddon Game is free, while the current value is $1. The Key Collector Comics value is $0.
#1754 — Snagglepuss #1, Gold Key, October 1962.
Exit, stage left! I remember watching Snagglepuss cartoons when I was a kid, so getting my hands on issue #1 of this short-lived series—out of a quarter box, no less—was a big win! Not that I’m a huge fan, but the nostalgia factor, along with the price, is part of the pull of comic book collecting. Except when you’re in the middle of a story and realize that a couple pages are missing. And if you’re keeping score, that’s two quarter comic books this week with the dreaded missing pages syndrome. This first issue of Snagglepuss contains several stories that will make you long for the days of your youth (well, at least if you’re of a certain age), but, alas, from what I can tell, there is no record of writers, artists, colorists, letterers, or even the editor. Still, it shouldn’t stop you from checking out the entry at the Grand Comics Database for further fun details. The cover price of Snagglepuss #1 is 12¢, while the current value is $135.
#1755 — Kamandi, the Last Boy on Earth #11, DC, November 1973.
It’s unfortunate that this is the only issue of Kamandi in my collection. Long ago, I had a couple other issues that I ended up selling in a garage sale. And I’m not even sure if I read either of those comic books before they moved out of my house and into someone else’s box of fun. But ever since reading an article about the Last Boy on Earth in Back Issue magazine, I’ve been curious about Kamandi and happily found this issue in a discount bin. Perhaps someday I’ll have the opportunity to read more. Kamandi creators consist of Jack Kirby (writer, artist, editor), Mike Royer (letterer, inker), and Steve Sherman (assistant editor). Cover credits include Jack Kirby (pencils, script), Mike Royer (inks), and Gaspar Saladino (letters). The cover price of Kamandi, the Last Boy on Earth #11 is 20¢, while the current values are $28 on CBR and $22 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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May 12, 2022
From Barbarians to Deathlok to … Richie Rich!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection episode 346, 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 346…
Cool Comics Stuff!
A couple honorable mentions this week include Spider-Man 2099: Exodus Alpha #1 and Dune: Waters of Kanly #1. If you’ve been feeling nostalgic for Marvel’s 2099 line, you probably don’t want to miss this start to a new limited series (although there are big spoilers if you haven’t caught up with your 2099 reading). And for Dune fans waiting around for the next movie, I recommend giving this series a try. It fills in some gaps about Gurney Halleck after House Harkonnen seizes power once more on Arrakis.
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!The Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Deathlok versus Ironjaw! 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 like turtles—especially Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles! These RAKified versions of your favorite Heroes in a Half Shell are pretty awesome, so give Robert Kraus, artist extraordinaire, a big hand. (By the way, if you’re a TMNT fan, be sure not to miss our next episode of Cool Comics.) 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
.
#1746 — Twig #1, Image, May 2022.
Though I wasn’t originally going to add Twig to my collection, common sense finally prevailed (especially after I started paying attention to some of the online buzz), and after reading this first issue, I’m glad I did. Image’s website also does a nice job of attracting fans of Bone, The Dark Crystal, and Labyrinth in their description of this odd-looking little character. Will Twig’s adventure keep readers riveted for all five issues of this limited series? I certainly hope so! The creators of Twig consist of Skottie Young (writer), Kyle Strahm (artist, cover), Jean-Francois Beaulieu (colorist), Nate Piekos (letterer), and Joel Enos (editor). The cover price of Twig #1 is $3.99, while the current value is $4. The Key Collector Comics value is also $4.
#1747 — Astonishing Tales #33, Marvel, January 1976.
Just five historic episodes ago, I revealed to Cool Comics readers that I have a comic book containing one of the much-coveted Mark Jewelers inserts! Or, as I wrote it back in that episode, Marks Jewelers. Because that’s how it was written in the ad. I’m not sure which is correct, so if you know for certain, please tell us in the comments section below. And just like the previous one, I found this comic in a quarter bin, too. Deathlok has been getting a lot of publicity in the Avengers of late, so it was fun looking back at this early Deathlok tale. The astonishing team that gave us this issue of Astonishing Tales consists of Bill Mantlo (script), Rich Buckler (pencils), Klaus Janson (inks, colors), Irving Watanabe (letterer), Beth Bleckley (computer lettering), and Marv Wolfman (editor). The cover price of Astonishing Tales #33 is 25¢, while the current value is $18. The Key Collector Comics value is $3.
#1748 — Dark Crisis Special Edition #0 , DC, June 2022.
These days, I’m wondering if DC stands for Dark Crisis, because the home of now late Justice League is really ramping up this series that takes us to the end of the year. That’s right, Super Friends, if you like four-color big events, be sure to add Dark Crisis to your pull list. There are also a few special issues that will be part of this, along with a couple issues of The Flash. And while I’m sure you can find a list somewhere on the Internet, this Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) issue tells you what to buy if you want the entire tale. This Dark Crisis Special Edition comes to us by way of Joshua Williamson (writer), Jim Cheung (art), Jay David Ramos (colors), Tom Napolitano (letters), Daniel Sampere (cover), Alejandro Sánchez (cover), Chris Rosa (associate editor), and Paul Kaminski (editor). The cover price of Dark Crisis Special Edition #0 is free, while the current value is $1. The Key Collector Comics value is $3.
#1749 — Richie Rich Jackpots #27, Harvey Comics, February 1977.
When I was young, I would have chosen Dennis the Menace over Richie Rich. But now that I’m older (but still young at heart!), Richie Rich is one of my favorite go-to titles when I want to capture those fun feelings of reading comics as a kid. Don’t get me wrong, I still enjoy Dennis, but there’s something about Richie and his positive outlook, amazing adventures, and kind heart. The only confirmed creator for this issue of Richie Rich Jackpots is Leon Harvey (editor). It’s really a shame that so many of these older “kiddie” comics didn’t make the effort to list all the artistic talent it takes to put together each issue. Still, I recommend that you visit the entry at the Grand Comics Database so that you can see all the titles, characters, and even ads that take up this issue. The cover price of Richie Rich Jackpots #27 is 30¢, while the current value is $9.
#1750 — The Barbarians #1, Atlas/Seaboard, June 1975.
How many people have seen this comic cover and just assumed the entire story inside featured Ironjaw? Which would have been perfectly fine with me, but it was fun to discover that The Barbarians contains two scintillating stories! The only disappointment came when I finished reading it and came to terms with the fact that I’d never find out what comes next for each adventure. Rich Buckler (pencils) gives us this cool cover of The Barbarians. The Mountain of Mutants comes to us courtesy of Gary Friedrich (writer), Pablo Marcos (artist), and Shelly Lefferman, while Peter Wiechmann (writer) and Jordi Bernet (pencils, inks) present Tension mounts in Montreal at the 1976 Olympics … (which reminded me a bit of the book and TV series Wayward Pines). Larry Lieber handled the edits for this issue. The cover price of The Barbarians #1 is 25¢, while the current value is $22.
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
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