Ed Gosney's Blog, page 22
June 4, 2020
Cool Comics Pays Tribute to Those Who’ve Served!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection Episode 245, 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 (except for of digital issues, which don’t have collectible value). This is 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 some are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use here. 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 245…
Cool Comics News!
Memorial Day and D-Day are so close to each other that I’m saluting our military this week with two special comic books as a tribute to the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our freedoms. As a U.S. Army veteran, I have so much respect for all who have served, and this is just one small way to let them know that at Cool Comics, we care!
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!
Your Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Doop versus the House of Fear Snowman! 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 creation comes to us from illustrator Dan Gorman, a member of the National Cartoonists Society and one of the top sketch card artists on the planet. This card, featuring Luke Skywalker, is one of the 50 plus sketch cards Dan created for the Topps Star Wars Masterworks 2019 Set. For more about Dan and his art, please visit www.dangormanart.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 as long as 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 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 .
Cool Comics In My Collection
Contemporary Cool Comics
#1246 — Our Fighting Forces Giant #1, DC, July 2020.
Yes, this is one of those 100-page giants that have been coming first to a Walmart near you…and eventually to your local comic shop. The Walmart version (which has a different cover and is selling for more money on the secondary market) appeared a few weeks back when I was hesitant to go in a crowded store even while donning a mask. But one day when I had to go in a Walmart, I looked for it with no success. Lucky for me I was able to find a copy in my friendly neighborhood comic shop last week, and I’m so glad I did. While it’s not the greatest military comic I’ve ever read, I enjoyed it, especially considering the timing of Memorial Day and D-Day. This issue contains three all-new stories, the first with the Unknown Soldier, then Batwoman, and the last with Batman. Additionally, there are five reprint stories from the Men of War series in 2012. I realize that military themed comics aren’t for everyone, but as an Army veteran, I have a special appreciation for them. The cover price of Our Fighting Forces Giant #1 is $4.99, while the current value is $5.
Cool Comics from the Quarter Bin
#1247 — All-New Doop #1, Marvel, June 2014.
Doop! It really says it all, doesn’t it? Or maybe not so much? Can you think of some rhyming words for Doop, besides the obvious? You’re probably asking, “What’s the scoop with Doop?” Well, I’m still trying to figure that out! I don’t have much experience with Doop, although I recall him with Cable in a comic I read not too long ago. When did Doop enter the world of Marvel? Back in 2001 in X-Force #116. Yes, I was buying comics at the time, but not X-Force, and if this green guy appeared in any of the other X-Books that I was reading before mid-2003 (after this date I took a long break…until 2017), well, he slipped through the cracks of my mind. So why Doop? I say, why not? Oh, you probably want to know if I’m a fan of Doop now. Can’t say I am, can’t say I’m not, because I don’t have enough experience with him yet. I found this in a quarter bin a few months ago, and decided it was strange and weird enough that I needed to put him front and center in Cool Comics. Because Doop happens. The cover price of All-New Doop #1 is $3.99, while the current value is $4.
Halloween ComicFest Cool Comics
#1248 — House of Fear , Dark Horse Comics, October 2019.
While I don’t buy any monthly comics from Dark Horse Comics, my youngest likes Stranger Things, and this special Halloween ComicFest issue may just appeal to that same crowd. No doubt the title alone will make you think of scary comics that came before it (House of Secrets, House of Mystery…and many other “House of” titles, too), but this one is geared towards a younger audience, although probably an audience that has outgrown Goosebumps. And you know what? I liked it. A lot! This is a fun little horror story that doesn’t have all the gore that so many scary comics use today. Another cool feature is a horror host, which will definitely make your wheels of nostalgia spin. The writing by James Powell is excellent and immediately pulls you in, while illustrator Jethro Morales sets the tone. Best of all, this is just one sample story from a collected edition of other fun, spooky stories! The cover price of House of Fear is free, while the current value is $1.
Cool Comics Kids
#1249 — Tom and Jerry #299 , Whitman/Gold Key, October 1977.
I’ve been known to grumble here at Cool Comics about some of the bird characters that tend to get under my skin from time to time (See Cool Comics Kids in Episode 239), and now I’m feeling the same way about Jerry the mouse. He, along with his rodent pal Tuffy, are often the instigators when it comes to the conflict that usually occurs in their adventures. And what I like about the comics is that Jerry doesn’t always come out the winner. And unless we have pet mice, we don’t want the uninvited ones to make shelter in our homes, garages, and storage sheds! This issue contains two Tom and Jerry stories, along with a dog adventure featuring Big Spike and Little Tyke. Honestly, I’m not sure how many kids today know who Tom and Jerry are, but when I was growing up you could easily find their cartoons and comic books. I think this is a terrific addition to a library of comic books for little ones. The cover price of Tom and Jerry #299 is 30¢, while the current value is $14.
Cool Comics Classics
#1250 — G.I. Combat #133, DC, January 1969.
As constant readers know, one of my great loves of collecting is finding treasures in quarter bins. I’m fortunate that a local comic shop happens to adhere to the philosophy that if you have a quarter bin, fans will come! And this store typically has not just one quarter box, but often anywhere from three to eight longboxes full of quarter comics. Hence, you really can’t complain about condition, and when you’re frantically searching through them during your lunch hour, you have to grab what you want and take your chances. This beautiful old issue of G.I. Combat, unfortunately, is slightly wounded, as something was cut out on page 1 (which of course also damaged page 2), and then an ad page also had something cut out of it. It also appears that an entire page was torn out, but it didn’t seem to interfere with any of the stories. While all of us like our comics complete, I’m still glad I was able to find this at such a great price and experience reading it between Memorial Day and D-Day. The cover price of G.I. Combat #133 is 12¢, while the current values are $160 on CBR and $150 on ZKC.
Cool Collected Editions with Dr. Omnibus
Dark Knight Returns By Frank Miller TPB 30th Anniversary Edition (DC)
Dr. Omnibus score: 8.0 out of 10
The Dark Knight Returns is commonly considered one of the best graphic novels of all time. That being the case, I bought this volume with very high expectations. Let’s see how it stacked up.
The Book Itself
This 30th Anniversary Edition TPB is, for the most part, a standard trade paperback. It is printed on premium glossy paper and has a fair amount of backmatter, including some pages of rough line art and Frank Miller’s original pitch and idea for the story, which is quite fun.
The Words
By Frank Miller
As I already mentioned, this graphic novel is considered one of the best, and my expectations were running high when I cracked this open. That being said, I made it about 20 pages in and couldn’t stand it. There is a frequent occurrence in which talking head news personalities take up a 12-panel page just sharing dialogue, which for the most part builds a world most readers already know. Granted, some world-building is needed, but I think its driven home a little too hard, which is a detriment to the pacing of the story. So, I put the story down, stepped away for a few months and tried again with the same result. But then, with the extra reading time brought forth by the COVID-19 pandemic, I found myself determined to muscle through this book. I am so glad I did, because once I got through that first issue, things really picked up the pace. The world is gritty, Batman is savage, and this story is just far enough off the beaten path that it holds intrigue while still being familiar. Also, after reading this, Carrie Kelley is my favorite Robin-for now.
The Pictures
By Frank Miller (pencils), Klaus Janson (inker), Lynn Varley (colors)
I’ve never been a huge fan of Frank Miller’s art, but for this super dark, twisted tale it works well, and I suspect the inks of Klaus Janson probably helped it along a bit. The colors are fantastic, they are simple, and highly washed out, and that really works well for this book; it really sets the bleak tone. I couldn’t imagine this story told with highly finished art like that of Lee Bermejo, but I sure would give it a shot.
The Gist
I don’t know that I am on board saying this is one of the best graphic novels of all time. But it might be fair to say, “one of the best Batman graphic novels of all-time,” and certainly one of the better ones I have read. It is kind of required reading for any comic fan, so who cares what I say about it…go read it!
Damian Starr is a long-time collector of comics who, in recent years, has converted his focus to reading—almost exclusively—trade paperbacks, hardcovers, and Omnibus editions. Additionally, he is a frequent contributor to the MCBCFA Play Network YouTube channel (check out his Dr. Omnibus playlists). To add one more layer to his geekery, he is an amateur comic author and co-founder of Illuminatus Comics .
Cool Comics Reader Reviews!
Would you like to write a review of a comic book or graphic novel for all the Internet to see? Our Cool Comics Reader Reviews section is looking for fans just like you to submit reviews of 500 words or less (introductions about yourself don’t go against the word count), along with a cover image of the comic, 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!
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/
Never Miss an Episode of Cool Comics!
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.
Join our Facebook Group!
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 Kickstarter campaigns. And don’t forget the prizes. Yes, Cool Comics gives away cool prizes. Be sure and join today!
Create a Gravatar!
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.
May 28, 2020
Is the Karate Kid…the Best Around?
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection Episode 244, 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 (except for of digital issues, which don’t have collectible value). This is 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 some are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use here. 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 244…
Cool Comics News!
Comic shops are back in business and the new Previews is out! What are you waiting for? Get thee to a comic shop (but make sure to follow the guidelines put out by your state and store, such as masks, gloves, distancing, and capacity). Also, for you music lovers out there, I’ve got a couple phrases from songs in the blog this week. Even though they’re short, there’s a good chance you’ll recognize them, and if you do, tell me what you think they are in the comment section at the bottom!
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!
Your Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Cthulhu Jr. versus Donald Duck! 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!
During the Memorial Day weekend, my kids were sitting around the dinner table talking horror movies, and I mentioned how scary it was when my younger sister and I watched the 1972 made-for-TV movie Gargoyles. It’s probably considered hokey by today’s standards, but I’d just turned ten years old, and my sister was a couple years younger, and let me tell you, it was creepy! With that in mind, the cartoon version of Gargoyles, so well-captured here by Ed Griffie, is the perfect piece of art for Cool Comics this week. 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 as long as 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 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 .
Cool Comics In My Collection
Contemporary Cool Comics
#1241 — Star Wars: Doctor Aphra #1, Marvel, June 2020.
While I’m light years from being the biggest Star Wars fan, I do recognize just how much fun and joy it’s brought to so many lives, and I was there when it originally launched! And you know what else has launched? You guessed it, new comic books! Star Wars: Doctor Aphra #1 is better late then never, and it was a pleasure to go out and purchase this one yesterday. I have yet to read the Doctor Aphra series that preceded this but having read a couple volumes of the earlier Darth Vader series, I have familiarity with her and enjoyed this start to her new adventures. Through novels, comic books, and video games, Star Wars has built a big galaxy in which to immerse yourself, should you choose to. I recommend giving them a try. The cover price of Star Wars: Doctor Aphra #1 is $3.99, while the current value is $4. The Key Collector Comics value is $4.
Cool Comics from the Quarter Bin
#1242 — Karate Kid #5, DC, December 1976.
If you’re like me, hearing the name “Karate Kid” immediately brings actor Ralph Macchio, as Daniel LaRusso, to mind, rather than DC character Val Armorr. Not that Val would play second fiddle to Daniel-san, because he’d mop the floor (and probably paint the fence, too!) with the poor youngster from New Jersey. So why isn’t there as much name recognition for Val, who’s existed since 1966, springing from the mind of Jim Shooter? Hollywood, that’s why. While comic books are cool (we’ve always known that, right?), movies get all the glory and all the money. If the crowds who flock to the newest superhero hit would also buy some comic books, it would be a great boon to the industry. Anyway, as I admitted upfront, Karate Kid makes most of us think of the movies (not that there’s anything wrong with that), so it’s our job to let those who don’t know who Val Armorr is know just who he is and why he’s worth learning about (click on his name and find out for yourself!). Remember, kids, fishing around in quarter bins can lead to great discussion topics! The cover price of Karate Kid #5 is 30¢, while the current values are $10 on CBR and $8 on ZKC.
Halloween ComicFest Cool Comics
#1243 — The Adventures of Cthulhu Jr. and Dastardly Dirk , Source Point Press, October 2019.
Cthulhu Jr. and Dastardly Dirk is a winner for all ages! This is a fun story with some great familiar monster tropes, excellent writing, and art that will leave you wanting more. At first glance, you see this cover and think, “Nah, this isn’t for me,” but you might be wrong. And that’s part of the genius of these free comic book promotions. The reason I picked this one up last October for Halloween ComicFest is because I’ve met the writer, (Dastardly) Dirk Manning, on a couple of occasions at conventions and enjoyed his book Write or Wrong: A Writer’s Guide to Creating Comics, along with some of his Nightmare World comics. The price was right (free!), and the story delivers. The best news of all is that on the back of the comic it tells us that the full story is coming sometime this year! The cover price of The Adventures of Cthulhu Jr. and Dastardly Dirk is free, while the current value is $1.
Cool Comics Kids
#1244 — Donald Duck Adventures #22 , Disney Comics, March 1993.
If you’ve been reading Cool Comics for a while, then you know that I’ve come to appreciate…no, that’s not a strong enough word…LOVE the Disney ducks! I can’t tell you why specifically, I just do. Yet for decades of my life, I didn’t really care. I’ve seen them on plenty of cartoons, but it took comic books to really make me care. On the cover we see that Donald is being proclaimed as a master landscapist, and it turns out-shockingly enough-he is! Yet no matter how good he may be, disaster always seems to strike. Then in the next story, oddly enough, we see his nephews Huey, Dewey, and Louie trying to accomplish some yardwork at Donald’s house with broken down old tools. What happened to The Master Landscapist? These Disney duck stories are lots of fun, and if you’re putting together a library of comics for little ones, this is a great issue to look for (I found it in a quarter bin, so it can be found for cheap). The cover price of Donald Duck Adventures #22 is $1.50, while the current value is $4.
Cool Comics Classics
#1245 — Police Action #1, Atlas / Seaboard, February 1975.
When Martin Goodman left Marvel Comics in the early Seventies, he wasn’t too happy when his son didn’t get the position the new owners promised. Hence, he started up another comic book company. But to compete with Marvel, he knew he’d need to bring in talent and to pay higher rates. Unfortunately for him, the venture didn’t turn out well, and the Atlas / Seaboard line was just a blip on the radar screens of collectors (if you want to know more, click the link at Altas / Seaboard and sit back for an interesting comic book history lesson, courtesy of TwoMorrows). As a matter of fact, Police Action is tied with several other titles for putting out the second most amount of issues, which, unfortunately was just three (another handful produced 4 issues each). If you missed out on these comics in the Seventies, and you feel that pull of nostalgia, you might just find yourself digging through back issue boxes at your local comic shop, like I do. The stories in this issue, while not ground-breaking entries into the Comic Book Hall of Fame, are, none-the-less, fun and entertaining. The first story features Sam Lomax, N.Y.P.D., written by Jack Younger, with pencils by Mike Sekowsky. And even though the comic title is Police Action, the second story features a private investigator, Luke Malone, Manhunter, by artist-writer Mike Ploog. The cover price of Police Action #1 is 25¢, while the current value is $18. The Key Collector Comics value is $5.
Cool Collected Editions with Dr. Omnibus
Saga of the Swamp Thing by Alan More Vol 2 (DC)
Dr. Omnibus score: 8.5 out of 10
So far, Alan Moore has proven to be one of, if not my favorite, comic writers. That opinion is based mainly on the awesomeness that is V for Vendetta and Watchmen, but recently I started his Swamp Thing run, so let’s see how this ongoing title stacks up against his epic maxi-series works.
The Book Itself
Still just a bare bones trade paperback on newsprint. There was a very small art gallery in this volume, though, which shared some covers and poster art.
The Story
By Alan Moore
I am feeling a bit less lost this time, and I feel very comfortable with the characters now. Interactions between Abby and Swamp Thing feel very real and believable. This volume seems considerably more like a horror book; I enjoy that because it further breaks my superhero comic expectation that I had going into this. There was one issue that really broke theme and went pretty silly. Anthropomorphic characters from space come to earth seeking a suitable planet to sustain them. Just a bit too cutesy for me in a horror title.
The Art
By Stephen Bissette and John Totlebean
The art is still magnificent, although the colors seem a bit brighter in this one. Still, this is a gorgeous book to look at.
The Gist
The quality was so consistent with that of the first volume, so I think I’m going to just write the rest of the series as one review, instead of doing each TPB as its own. I am super excited to move on to the next chapters; this has been a real page-turner. The final issue in this TPB is possibly one of the most powerful comic stories I have read. It is the perfect marriage of beautiful images and well-chosen words telling a powerful story.
Damian Starr is a long-time collector of comics who, in recent years, has converted his focus to reading—almost exclusively—trade paperbacks, hardcovers, and Omnibus editions. Additionally, he is a frequent contributor to the MCBCFA Play Network YouTube channel (check out his Dr. Omnibus playlists). To add one more layer to his geekery, he is an amateur comic author and co-founder of Illuminatus Comics .
Cool Comics Reader Reviews!
Jungle Action #23 (Marvel 1976)
By Steve “Atom” Baum
A bit of introduction: I’m Steve “Atom” Baum and I write comic reviews that nobody ever asked for. I don’t usually write reviews of new comics or comics that would be of interest to collectors for how much they are “worth.” To me, the “value” of a comic is in the enjoyment of it.
If you like what you see here, then join me on a journey through the forgotten depths of those longboxes of dollar back issues in your local comic shop and visit my blog, LONGBOX JUNK , where you’ll discover HUNDREDS of reviews you never asked for!
And now, an exclusive “Short But Sweet” Longbox Junk Retro Review for the Cool Comics Crowd!
A LIFE ON THE LINE (Reprinted from Daredevil #69, 1970)
SCRIPT: Roy Thomas
PENCILS: Gene Colan
COVER: John Byrne
THE COVER:
Legendary artist John Byrne knocks it out of the park with a stunning character portrait of Black Panther framed perfectly with contrasting deep black and bright, rich yellow. THIS is the kind of cover that makes me buy a comic book without even opening it up!
THE STORY:
Daredevil and Black Panther cross paths after Daredevil foils a warehouse robbery where a young boy named Lonnie is injured. At the hospital, Black Panther reveals that he is the boy’s high school teacher (in his secret identity as Luke Charles) and that he has been tracking the same street gang after Lonnie’s big brother joined up with them and Lonnie quit school to follow.
After learning that they are on the same trail, Daredevil tells Black Panther he can lead him to the gang’s next robbery. The two heroes agree to team up to take them down once and for all. Later, during a brutal battle in another warehouse, Black Panther is surprised to find Lonnie’s big brother joining the heroes in fighting the gang. When it’s all over, Daredevil reveals that Lonnie’s brother was working as an informant for the D.A.’s office and is not a gang member at all.
Back at the hospital, Lonnie and his brother are happily reunited. Daredevil and Black Panther agree that there’s more to this gang than meets the eye, and they need to work together to get to the bottom of things.
The End.
THE REVIEW:
Overall, it’s a pretty simple story. Heroes team up to take down a street gang and reunite two brothers is what it boils down to. I was pleasantly surprised to find myself liking the Daredevil/ Black Panther team a lot. They work very well together, and I was getting some serious Green Lantern/Green Arrow (from the same era) vibes from this comic in the gritty, street-level story focus and in the banter between the two heroes.
Although well-written, you can DEFINITELY tell that this story is firmly fixed in the 70’s from the outdated slang and somewhat forced and preachy “Street Issues” of racism and poverty that were a fixture of the more “grounded” comics of the time (like Green Arrow/Green Lantern). As a Bronze Age child myself, I found it 70’s-Tastic. Others might find it a bit too “in your face.”
Like the story, the art is dark and gritty…bringing us right down into the dirty streets and into a low-level adventure that the Avengers probably wouldn’t have the time for. Gene Colan is one of my favorite Bronze Age artists, and every panel on every page of this comic is a fantastic example of his work. This is one GREAT looking comic!
From the awesome John Byrne cover, to Roy Thomas’ gritty street-level story, to Gene Colan’s dark and fluid artwork, this issue is a fine example of Bronze Age superhero comics at their best! There are those who might find some of the story beats to be a bit forced and preachy, but other than that fair warning, I highly recommend this comic for anyone looking for a fun 70’s-Tastic team-up in the mighty Marvel style!
Until next time, remember that comics are worth more than money!
Would you like to write a review of a comic book or graphic novel for all the Internet to see? Our Cool Comics Reader Reviews section is looking for fans just like you to submit reviews of 500 words or less (introductions about yourself don’t go against the word count), along with a cover image of the comic, 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!
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/
Never Miss an Episode of Cool Comics!
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.
Join our Facebook Group!
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 Kickstarter campaigns. And don’t forget the prizes. Yes, Cool Comics gives away cool prizes. Be sure and join today!
Create a Gravatar!
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.
May 21, 2020
That Time When I Plucked Shadowman #1 From the Quarter Bin!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection Episode 243, 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 (except for of digital issues, which don’t have collectible value). This is 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 some are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use here. 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 243…
Cool Comics News!
Last week I received an email from Adam Lawson, the writer/director of the YouTube Original series “Escape The Night,” and the gaming shows “Tabletop” and “Spellslingers.” It turns out he’s also a comic book creator and currently has a campaign running on Indiegogo for The Eighth, which, straight from his email, “is the epic and painful story of teenagers, David Wells and Emma Adachi, who unlock a piece of ancient Sumerian armor, but mismanage its power and end up committing murder. Before they know it, they find themselves on a terrifying journey to change or destroy the world with no going back.” There are several different levels of perks and stretch goals available if you decide to support The Eighth, including the entire 200-page comic, or individual digital issues, along with a cool shirt! Adam allowed me to read the first issue, which is well-written, the art captures the intensity and emotion of the plot, and the overall story does a great job of moving forward and leaves you wanting to know what comes next in issue 2! But take note that this is a title meant for a mature audience, so you’ve been cautioned! If you want to see more of what The Eighth is about, click the Indiegogo link above, watch the video near the top, and scroll through the rest of the page. Adam and Jorin Evers, the artist, appreciate your support of the campaign!
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!
Your Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Shadowman versus Moon Knight! 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 artistic creation comes to us from…me…when I was a bit younger! We’ve been having some fantastic drawings here from some awesome artists, and it makes me wonder if some of you want to participate but are perhaps a little intimidated, considering the high quality of work that’s been showcased. So, fear no longer, fellow fans, as I’m exposing my lack of talent with this rendition of the Hulk, casually backhanding a tree. Did the tree make Hulk angry, or was it something General Ross said? We may never know the truth of it, but here it is, captured for your viewing pleasure (or displeasure!). I’m betting most of you out there can do better than me, and you can prove me right by submitting some of your awesome art to Cool Comics! See the paragraph below for details on just how you can do that.
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 as long as 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 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 .
Cool Comics In My Collection
Contemporary Cool Comics
#1236 — Action Comics #6, DC, April 2012.
I’ve mentioned on here a few times that I wasn’t actively buying or reading comics when DC’s New 52 initiative launched. Which is probably good, because I’m sure I would have spent lots of money on many of the titles! Yet now that I’m collecting full force once again, I’ve continued to whet my curiosity from time to time by grabbing some of these when I find them in discount boxes. And to be honest, it really isn’t hard to find them. Therefore, I need to be a bit selective, or home and hearth will once more be threatened by the incredible multiplying white boxes! Action Comics is the granddaddy of comic book titles, in my opinion, regardless of how good or bad sales happen to be during different periods. My father once owned an Action Comics #1, and though it ended up getting a watery death (his comic collection was sent to a cousin who was serving on a ship that ended up getting sunk during WW2…the cousin was able to survive, but my dad’s collection didn’t make it), Superman and Action Comics give me great memories of my late father, and for me, that’s part of what this hobby is about. This creators on this issue are Grant Morrison and Andy Kubert, names familiar to most fans. The cover price of Action Comics #6 is $3.99, while the current value is $4.
Cool Comics from the Quarter Bin
#1237 — Shadowman #1, Valiant, May 1992.
Not many Valiant comic books have joined the ranks of Cool Comics, but you’ll certainly see more as time goes by (in other words, if you’re a fan, keep a watchful eye out by continuing to read Cool Comic In My Collection each week…and if you want to be sure not to miss an episode, subscribe to the newsletter!). As I’ve mentioned here before, during my third phase of comic collecting (1993-2003) I got interested in Valiant but didn’t buy issues when they were new at the comic shops. Instead, I searched discount boxes in several stores in the Atlanta, GA, area where I was living at the time. And I was able to get quite a few (most certainly over 100, but I don’t have an exact count) on the cheap! But one weekend, sometime around 2010-2011, I had a mighty garage sale because I had TOO many comic books, and I made the decision to sell all my unread Valiant issues. Now that I’m collecting again, I’ve caught Valiant fever once more, and I’ve found lots of great stuff from the original run for just a quarter each! I never thought I’d be able to find this particular issue in a quarter bin, but hard work paid off and now I own a beautiful copy of the first issue from the original run, without even breaking the bank! The cover price of Shadowman #1 is $2.50, while the current value is $25. The Key Collector Comics value is $20.
Halloween ComicFest Cool Comics
#1238 — Star Wars: Boba Fett #1 , Marvel, December 2019.
During my current collecting phase (phase IV…but not to be confused with the 1974 movie about creepy, intelligent ants!), I’ve picked up a few free Halloween ComicFest issues from my local comic shop, yet haven’t taken the time to read them. So, with Free Comic Book Day 2020 postponed, this seems like the perfect time to check them out and fill a void in Cool Comics! Our first look is this special Star Wars issue, which was originally published as Star Wars: Age of Rebellion – Boba Fett #1, with a cover date of July 2019. Which means that it had been out just a few months before reissuing it for the special October celebration. Since I didn’t buy it previously and knew that I wanted to read some of the new Star Wars comics from Marvel, it made perfect sense to select this as one of my free choices (like FCBD, most comic shops will limit you on how many you can take for free). The story, written by Greg Pak, was fairly solid, and Marc Laming’s pencils look great. And I also want to give credit to Neeraj Monon because the colors are fantastic and really bring this issue to life. The cover price of Star Wars: Boba Fett #1 is free, while the current value is $1.
Cool Comics Kids
#1239 — Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures #13 , Archie, August 1990.
Kids love the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (as do many adults!), so I decided to pull another one out of my Cool Comics Kids box, give it a read, and grant it Cool Comics immortality! Okay, you can stop laughing now…we all know Cool Comics will neither last that long nor be remembered forever, but sometimes I like to pretend! If you’re looking to get some older TMNT comics for the little ones in your life, I strongly suggest checking out the ones published by Archie Comics, like this one. They will make you think of the Playmates action figures and the cartoons, because they aim for a younger crowd. I can’t really claim to be knowledgeable when it comes to these “heroes in a half-shell,” but this comic is good clean turtle fun! The cover price of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Adventures #13 is $1, while the current values are $5 on CBR and $3 on ZKC.
Cool Comics Classics
#1240 — Moon Knight #8, Marvel, June 1981.
While Moon Knight was born into the world of comic books in an issue of Werewolf By Night (#32), smack dab in the middle of my favorite four color period (yes, you got that right, people playing at home, the answer is 1975!), I don’t recall having any knowledge of the character until my second phase of comics, which lasted about nine months in 1982. At some point in 1978…or maybe even early 1979…I’d kicked the habit because I was in high school and didn’t want to appear uncool (now look how “Cool Comics” are today!), and until a college roommate got me interested again in 1982, I had no idea what was going on between the pages of our favorite hobby. Moon Knight did have a few other appearances in the Seventies, but 1980 saw this very different kind of hero get his first solo series. Did I read it in 1982? No. But now I wish I had. Still, the discount bins have been good to me, and I found this one, along with several others from his first series, in a quarter box a little over a year ago. Some people don’t care much for the character, and I can understand why, but if you read a few of his comics he tends to grow on you. This issue was penned by Doug Moench and illustrated by Bill Sienkiewicz. The cover price of Moon Knight #8 is 50¢, while the current values are $5 on CBR and $10 on ZKC. The Key Collector Comics value is $20.
Cool Collected Editions with Dr. Omnibus
Umbrella Academy Volume 2: Dallas (Dark Horse Comics)
Dr. Omnibus score: 7.5 out of 10
Umbrella Academy Volume 1: Apocalypse Suite was not really my cup of tea. To quote myself, “The story was interesting, but not great.” Yet it was good enough that I kept going and read Volume 2, which is titled Dallas. I figure I had to at least read Volume 2 since it will, in theory, be the source material for the second season of the show, which airs on Netflix later this year. Between reading Volume 1 and 2 of this book, I learned that Gerard Way is the lead singer of the band My Chemical Romance (just a random little fact for you in case, like me, you didn’t know that).
The Book Itself
It’s just your run of the mill, standard sized trade paperback with glossy thin paper and no bells or whistles. Nothing of note here.
The Words
By Gerard Way
The story in this volume was a little more my speed. It was considerably darker, had a strong time travel element, and is centered around a real conspiracy theory that everyone in America is familiar with. I’m a sucker for a good conspiracy theory. While many of the relationships have changed due to the events of the first volume, the character and relationship building is maintained as one of the stronger points of Gerard’s writing. All the cast make several appearances in the book, but it is heavily focused on one or two of the seven main characters. This, coupled with an increased familiarity with the characters, really helped the story be more palatable. Overall, I would say this volume is much improved over the last.
The Art
By Gabreil Bá
There is not a significant change in the artwork from Volume 1 to Volume 2. The only really noteworthy difference is that Dallas features WAY more blood and gore than Apocalypse Suite did. It also introduced some very creepy looking characters, despite the fact they’re unremarkably unique designs.
The Gist
Dallas provided more of the same but done slightly better than its predecessor. If you have a sick and/or twisted sense of humor like me, then you are likely to enjoy this. If senseless violence is not something you desire to read about, you may want to skip this one. Now that I think of it, I wonder if Gerard Way took some inspiration from Jhonen Vasquez’s cult classic Johnny the Homicidal Maniac? Also, this incorporates time travel into a conspiracy theory, so how bad could it be?
Damian Starr is a long-time collector of comics who, in recent years, has converted his focus to reading—almost exclusively—trade paperbacks, hardcovers, and Omnibus editions. Additionally, he is a frequent contributor to the MCBCFA Play Network YouTube channel (check out his Dr. Omnibus playlists). To add one more layer to his geekery, he is an amateur comic author and co-founder of Illuminatus Comics .
Cool Comics Reader Reviews!
Would you like to write a review of a comic book or graphic novel for all the Internet to see? Our Cool Comics Reader Reviews section is looking for fans just like you to submit reviews of 500 words or less (introductions about yourself don’t go against the word count), along with a cover image of the comic, 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!
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/
Never Miss an Episode of Cool Comics!
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May 14, 2020
Four Star Spectacular, The Defenders, & Bang!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection Episode 242, 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 (except for of digital issues, which don’t have collectible value). This is 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 some are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use here. 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 242…
Cool Comics News!
Comic book fans, with stores starting to open once more in many locations and new comics now shipping, it’s time to support your local comic shop once again! Also, there’s a special campaign, with multiple phases, that is focusing on helping comic shops recover after the financial hardships they faced due to COVID-19. Read the details at this link and see how you can participate in these worthy efforts!
If you’ve been enjoying our recent Cool Comics additions, which include art and reviews from pros and fans alike, please consider submitting a sketch or review for an upcoming episode. It’s a fun way to show off your talents to your family and friends and to let them know just how cool comics really are! For details, see the italicized sections of Cool Comics Creations and Cool Comics Reader Reviews below.
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!
Your Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Namor versus Wonder Woman! 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 creation comes to us from Robert A. Kraus (aka RAK), creator of Chakan and many other fantastic works of art, along with cool games he’s developed. This awesome SUPERFREAKS art features the Justice League of America! To learn more about RAK, be sure to visit his website at http://www.rakgraphics.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 as long as 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 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 .
Cool Comics In My Collection
Contemporary Cool Comics
#1231 — Bang! #1 (Ashcan), Dark Horse Comics, December 2019.
By far, most of comics books that I read and collect are published by Marvel and DC, and currently I’m not reading anything published by Dark Horse Comics. It’s not that I have anything against the company, but aside from their first Stranger Things mini-series, nothing they’ve put out has grabbed my attention. But a few months ago, the owner of my local comic shop happened to slip me this ashcan of Bang! (which I put off reading for a while), and I’ve gotta say that this was a really intriguing, fun read. And an extremely short read, too. Currently, comiXology has issue #1 free, so you may want to give this full digital edition a try (I’m looking forward to it since the Ashcan has just seven pages of story…but it was enough to get me wanting to know more!). I read more capes and tights comics than anything else, but this action/adventure/crime comic by Matt Kindt and Wilfredo Torres has really caught my interest. The cover price of Bang! Ashcan edition #1 is free, while the current value is $5. The Key Collector Comics value is $25.
Cool Comics from the Quarter Bin
#1232 — The Defenders #52, Marvel, October 1977.
Misunderstandings are a way of life in the four-color world of superhero comics, and perhaps no one is more misunderstood-and misunderstands others more often-than old Jade Jaws himself, the Incredible Hulk! And when we mix the oft-confused Hulk with the Avenging Son, Namor the Sub-Mariner, it’s usually not long before they come to blows. These two hotheads have stood side-by-side in battle over and over, serving as Defenders, but they’ve also given us great fights against each other over the years, and this issue, plucked straight from a quarter bin, is no exception as they pummel one another with mighty blows that will have you shaking your fist and shouting “Imperious Rex!” This gem from the Seventies was brought to us by writer David Kraft and artists Keith Giffen and Chic Stone. The cover price of The Defenders #52 is 30¢, while the current values are $5 on CBR and $6 on ZKC.
FCBD the Cool Comics Way
#1233 — We Can Never Go Home / Young Terrorists , Black Mask Studios, May 2016.
If you don’t mind your comics being packed with violence and bloodshed (not to mention language that isn’t meant for younger readers), this might be something you’re interested in. While this Mature Rated Free Comic Book Day issue isn’t really my cup of tea, I understand that these kinds of stories do have an audience, and during FCBD in 2016, Black Mask Studios gave fans an opportunity to sample what they were offering. And there were certainly some intense, intriguing moments in these stories that will keep readers turning pages. “We Can Never Go Home” is written by Matthew Rosenberg & Patrick Kindlon and illustrated by Josh Hood, while “Young Terrorists” is written by Matt Pizzolo and illustrated by Amancay Nahuelpan. The cover price of We Can Never Go Home / Young Terrorists is free, while the current value is $1.
Cool Comics Kids
#1234 — Mickey Mouse #57 , Dell, December 1957.
After reading several of these older Mickey Mouse comics over the last couple years, I wanted to be sure to mention how impressed I am with the variety of adventure stories the writers and artists have given us. More often than not it seems that Mickey isn’t looking for an escapade, but ends up on one because Goofy decides to sell his house (seems to be a recurring theme!) to buy something outrageous with the money, and being the good pal that he is, Mickey goes along with him to keep a watchful eye on his friend. This time around, Goofy buys a steamboat in Alaska, and of course Mickey tags along. “River Race to Blubber Bay” is a fun story that I think older kids will enjoy. This issue also gives us a one-page Chip & Dale prose short story; The Li’l Bad Wolf in “The Big Boo Boo”; and the issue closes with Mickey Mouse in “Run-Around Rock-Hounds,” which I’d previously read as a reprint in a Gold Key issue. You can’t go wrong with Disney comics, regardless of date or publisher, when it comes to building a Cool Comics Kids library! And all this issue cost me was a quarter…that’s right, quarter bin diving always pays off. The cover price of Mickey Mouse #57 is 10¢, while the current value is $75.
Cool Comics Classics
#1235 — Four Star Spectacular #5, DC, December 1976.
This reprint anthology DC published in 1976 was, unfortunately, short-lived. Out of the six issues, I’ve found #4 and #5 in discount boxes, but before I’d found them a couple years ago, I wasn’t even aware this series existed. DC has a long, rich heritage, and while I try to learn as much as I can about this hobby, the one thing I’ve learned for certain is that there is so much out there that I’ll never be able to read it all. But I never give up the fight! This issue contains “The Man Who Hunted Superboy” from Adventure Comics #303 (1962), “The Unlucky Horseshoe” from Adventure Comics #194 (1952, featuring Vigilante Greg Sanders of Earth-2), “The Rainbow Archer” from Adventure Comics #246 (1958, featuring Green Arrow and Speedy), and “Demon of the Depths” from Wonder Woman #7 (1953). Back when this was published, there weren’t as many ways to get your hands on older comics, so these were fun additions for those who appreciated the history of the characters. The cover price of Four Star Spectacular #5 is 50¢, while the current values are $12 on CBR and $10 on ZKC.
Cool Collected Editions with Dr. Omnibus
X-Factor Epic Collection Vol. 1 (Marvel)
Dr. Omnibus score: 7.5 out of 10
Continuing with My Marvel mutant chronological read-through…I am now to the dawn of X-Factor. The first half of this collection runs concurrently with the second half of the Uncanny X-Men issues in X-Men Ghosts, which I reviewed in episode 236. As a kid in the 90’s, X-Factor was my favorite Marvel mutant title. So, when I got back into collecting about six years ago, one of the first runs I went after was X-Factor. Granted, the issues I loved featured a team led by Havok, but I am a completionist, so I started at the beginning. I did read all these issues a few years ago, but I am not letting that stop me from doing so again during this massive read-through I am working on.
The Book Itself
Epic Collections are pretty awesome. They are a line of thick trade paperbacks that reprint all of the Volume 1 runs of many Marvel titles. Most are 400-500 pages, and each series collects or will collect the entire first volume. The spines are very well matched up within each series and will look fantastic on your shelf. This one collects Avengers (1963) #263; Fantastic Four (1961) #286; X-Factor (1986) #1-9, Annual #1; Iron Man Annual #8; Amazing Spider-Man (1963) #282; and material from Classic X-Men #8 & 43.
The Story
By Bob Layton and Louise Simonson
Unfortunately, I can’t talk about this series without giving away one big spoiler……Jean Grey is back. The Fantastic Four and Avengers tell the story of how she came back. What a mess that is, but oh well, it’s comics, these things happen. Bob Layton wrote the first five issues of X-Factor, and they sure feel like Bob Layton wrote them. They are very reminiscent of his run on Iron Man. Overall the whole story was just a bit sloppy. The exception being X-Factor Annual 1, as that issue was great. Then, in issue 6, Louise Simonson takes over the book and she starts to course correct. She takes on the task of fixing a couple pretty remarkably glaring plot holes, and she does it pretty well. Both writers did a great job of painting a picture of how much the general populace fear mutants, which is the main theme of the story, and I look forward to reading further into the series to see if that is maintained until the new team takes over in issue 71.
The Art
By Jackson Guice
Jackson did issues 1-7 and I found the art to be underwhelming. It was fine, but I just wasn’t into it. The art in all the tie-in issues and issues 8-9 were better, still nothing too amazing though. I always feel like I am a harsh critic of any comic art done before the mid 90’s, and I don’t mean to, it’s just not my thing.
The Gist
Many times while reading this I thought to myself, “This reminds me of a soap opera,” which sounds horrible, but it is actually something I lump into the pros column for this book. What makes soap operas so appealing to those who enjoy them? That’s right, excessive drama! Drama brings up those feelings I love to have when I read. Bob Layton gave me no shortage of reasons to think Cyclops is the worst person on the planet. He really wrote Cyclops as a hateable character in this. Honestly, unless you are a huge Apocalypse fan, or care about the lead-up to Mutant Massacre, most people can probably skip this, but for me it is a must read.
Damian Starr is a long-time collector of comics who, in recent years, has converted his focus to reading—almost exclusively—trade paperbacks, hardcovers, and Omnibus editions. Additionally, he is a frequent contributor to the MCBCFA Play Network YouTube channel (check out his Dr. Omnibus playlists). To add one more layer to his geekery, he is an amateur comic author and co-founder of Illuminatus Comics .
Cool Comics Reader Reviews!
Would you like to write a review of a comic book or graphic novel for all the Internet to see? Our Cool Comics Reader Reviews section is looking for fans just like you to submit reviews of 500 words or less (introductions about yourself don’t go against the word count), along with a cover image of the comic, 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!
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/
Never Miss an Episode of Cool Comics!
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.
Join our Facebook Group!
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 Kickstarter campaigns. And don’t forget the prizes. Yes, Cool Comics gives away cool prizes. Be sure and join today!
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May 7, 2020
Daredevil Takes to the Sky while The Nightmare Sketchbook Lands!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection Episode 241, 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 (except for of digital issues, which don’t have collectible value). This is 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 some are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use here. 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 241…
Cool Comics News!
I got an email a couple weeks ago from Felipe Kroll, an artist I wasn’t familiar with, and he wondered if I could read a digital version of a new graphic novel that he illustrated, The Nightmare Sketchbook #1: The Summoning, and do a review for all you Cool Comics readers out there. As most of you know, it’s rare that I do actual reviews. I consider myself more of a comic book commentator and typically try to keep the hobby fun and entertaining this way. I replied to the email and told Felipe I’d give The Nightmare Sketchbook a look and talk about it in a future episode, and WOW am I ever glad I did! Written by Vincent V. Cava, this reading experience is both fun and creepy, and made me reminisce a bit about Night Force, a DC series from the early Eighties. This story has mystery, demons, occultism, greed, and a mysterious being known as “The Illustrator.” If you click the name of the title above, the link will take you to a special Nightmare Sketchbook website that gives you more details, samples of Felipe’s fantastic art, a shopping link to buy this 72-page story, and even a trailer, which I recommend watching. This story won’t be for everyone, and even though I typically like my comics to be on the fun side, I was entranced with this chilling story and can’t wait for issue #2!
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!
Your Cool Comics Battle of the Week is The Prowler versus Robin! 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 creation comes to us from illustrator Dan Gorman, a member of the National Cartoonists Society and one of the top sketch card artists on the planet. This card, featuring Princess Leia, is one of the 50 plus sketch cards Dan created for the Topps Star Wars Masterworks 2019 Set. For more about Dan and his art, please visit www.dangormanart.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 as long as 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 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 .
Cool Comics In My Collection
Contemporary Cool Comics
#1226 — Prowler #1, Marvel, December 2016.
The Prowler—the original Hobie Brown version—has been around since his first appearance in The Amazing Spider-Man #78 (November 1969), yet I feel like I hardly know him. I just haven’t read many comics he’s been in (although it may be more than I remember and it all just seems this way, as my mind could still be trapped in The Twilight Zone from our last episode!). And while I do believe he had a couple appearances in the Spider-Man cartoon from the Nineties, I can’t say for sure. The cover tells us this is a Clone Conspiracy Tie-In issue, but since it came out in 2016 and I wasn’t buying new comics at that time, I have no idea what the Clone Conspiracy was about. I was THERE when the original clone saga took place in Spider-Man (I was very caught up in the story!), and I was there again when we found out that Peter’s clone was still alive and took on the name Ben Reilly. Yet I’m lost when it comes to this clone storyline. In doing a little background check, I found out that Hobie is himself now a clone…it seems that Marvel went a little clone crazy! I found this issue in a quarter bin, and since there are a bunch of years in which I didn’t purchase new comics, I decided to give this one a try for the price. Not a bad story, and someday I may have to read more Clone Conspiracy tales. The cover price of The Prowler #1 is $3.99, while the current value is $4.
Cool Comics from the Quarter Bin
#1227 — DC Comics Presents: Batman #1, DC, September 2004.
During my digs in discount bins, it’s always fun to try some comics I missed out on when I took a super-sized comic book sabbatical from mid-2003 to mid-2017. Many of you are probably familiar with the old DC Comics Presents title back in the 20th Century, so the powers that be must have decided that nostalgia has a way of pulling in readers, so why not a few special one-shots? This issue consists of two stories, the first one, titled “The Batman of Two Worlds,” written by Geoff Johns and penciled by Carmine Infantino, and makes a play on the Batman ’66 TV series. The second story, named “The Ratings War,” is written by Len Wein, with art by Andy Kuhn. Both stories are fun, with lots of bright colors, and certainly more than worth the quarter I plunked down for the issue. The cover price of DC Comics Presents: Batman #1 is $2.50, while the current value is $3.
FCBD the Cool Comics Way
#1228 — Comics Festival! , Legion of Evil Press, May 2009.
This week and next I’m diving into a couple Free Comic Book Day issues I came into possession of via buying a longbox stuffed with 419 comics for just the paltry sum of $20. When you make a purchase like that, there’s no telling what’s inside, and it contained both good and bad comics. And because I’m finally finished with the FCBD issues from 2019 and the 2020 FCBD issues are on a delay due to unfortunate worldwide circumstances, I decided to forage around for issues that were distributed for free that I haven’t talked about here yet. This Comics Festival issue from Legion of Evil Press is an anthology that has more stories than I’ve ever seen in a regular-sized comic…or any comic, for that matter. The table of contents lists 23 stories…and yes, many of them are quite short. Some were fun, so were strange, and some just didn’t do it for me. But I do think it’s pretty cool that they were able to fit so many individual stories in one regular-sized issue! The cover price of Comics Festival! Is free, while the current value is $0.
Cool Comics Kids
#1229 — Richie Rich #24 , Harvey Comics, July 1994.
Though this comic is from the Nineties, I have a memory of seeing a girl, who was a few years older than me, in her backyard, sitting at a small table with a little stack of comics, and she had at least one Richie Rich issue. This was back in the Seventies, and the only comics I cared about back then were superheroes, especially of the Marvel brand. Nowadays when I find discount Richie Rich titles and add them to my Cool Comics Kids library, I often get that image in my head of being a kid and the girl with the Richie Rich in her collection. In our fast-paced world of constant worries about bills, putting food on the table, filing taxes, and trying to avoid diseases, maybe that girl who had a stack of kiddie comics had a great plan to escape from the worries of the world for a few hours. I know that when I read these comics now, they take me away to a world of feeling like I’m twelve again, and I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that. If you like time travel adventure, this issue fits the bill. We also have fun with Little Dot and wrap things up with Little Lotta. The cover price of Richie Rich #24 is $1.50, while the current value is $3.
Cool Comics Classics
#1230 — Daredevil #225, Marvel, December 1985.
I didn’t start collecting Daredevil until my college years, which just happened to coincide with Frank Miller’s run with Elektra, her death at the hands of Bullseye, and Matt Murdock’s attempts to deal with the pain. But it was a short-lived period of collecting (#181-191), and I didn’t come back to comics until 1993. I got interested in Daredevil again during the Fall From Grace storyline (#319-325), probably because it was being talked about in magazines and comic shops at the time. But I’ve never been a constant purchaser of Daredevil during my collecting periods, although I’m truly enjoying the current run. Every once in a while, I stumble across Daredevil comics in quarter bins (where this one came from) or purposefully look through back issues for older editions (especially from the Sixties) in less than stellar—but affordable—condition. Because I didn’t collect for long in the Eighties, it’s always fun to find issues from the decade and see what certain characters were up to, and it’s even more interesting when a hero goes up against a villain who is usually seen fighting a different hero, such as the Vulture here facing Daredevil, rather than Spider-Man. This also makes me realize just how many cool stories I missed out on in the Eighties. The cover price of Daredevil #225 is 65¢, while the current value is $4.
Cool Collected Editions with Dr. Omnibus
Snowpiercer Volume 2, The Explorers (Titan Comics)
Dr. Omnibus score: 8.25 out of 10
Continuing with my read through of the Snowpiercer series in preparation for the upcoming show, I am now at volume 2 of 4. I had heard that Volume 1 was the best of them and that the others could be skipped. Well, I’ll be the judge of that.
The Book Itself
This book, for the most part, is just like Volume 1. Not too many bells and whistles, but there was a page or two more of backmatter.
The Words
By
Claude-Jacques
Legrand
This story takes place after the events of Volume 1, but (spoilers ahead) takes place on a different train. For the most part it has all the same elements of the first story but seems a bit more personal and gives a more in-depth look at the extreme political themes. It also contains a decent love story. There is a clear main character who is quite interesting and makes some radical changes that are believable, yet shocking. It would have been nice if this transition had been a bit more drawn out. At times there are some not very well explained time jumps, which lead to momentary confusion. This is exaggerated by the lack of breaks in the story, no division of individual issues, or indicators that you are entering a new chapter. Breaks do actually exist, but they are just very subtle and easily missed.
The Pictures
By J
ean-Marc Rochette
The art in this volume was markedly better than that in Volume 1, but lacked some of that simple, unique style seen in the first book. Much like in the first volume, I take issue with the lettering in this one, but for an entirely different reason. This time, instead of having word balloons pointing all over the place, the balloons overlapped but didn’t feature closed bubbles, so it looks like one balloon per panel despite the words coming from three different characters.
The Gist
This is a fantastic expansion to the original story. Almost every aspect of it seemed just a hair better and it was a story of its own. Granted, you need to read Volume 1 before reading this, but the ideas were fresh and fun and didn’t feel like the same dang book. I am looking forward to moving forward in this read through, much more so than I was heading into this book.
Damian Starr is a long-time collector of comics who, in recent years, has converted his focus to reading—almost exclusively—trade paperbacks, hardcovers, and Omnibus editions. Additionally, he is a frequent contributor to the MCBCFA Play Network YouTube channel (check out his Dr. Omnibus playlists). To add one more layer to his geekery, he is an amateur comic author and co-founder of Illuminatus Comics .
Cool Comics Reader Reviews!
Would you like to write a review of a comic book or graphic novel for all the Internet to see? Our Cool Comics Reader Reviews section is looking for fans just like you to submit reviews of 500 words or less (introductions about yourself don’t go against the word count), along with a cover image of the comic, 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!
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/
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April 30, 2020
A Comic Book Journey Into…The Twilight Zone!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection Episode 240, 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 (except for of digital issues, which don’t have collectible value). This is 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 some are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use here. 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 240…
Cool Comics News!
Cool Comics is pleased to announce that the winner of the Dr. Omnibus Umbrella Academy 3 Volume Set is Jon Frater from New York! Congrats, Jon, we hope you enjoy them.
Recently, writer Peter Breau asked me if I’d consider reading a digital issue of a comic he wrote about the origin of a character named Starbolt, published by Nerdanatix. The cover lists the price at $9.99, and Peter said it should be available soon, but isn’t sure when it will show up at shops, due to COVID-19. This issue contains three stories, Starbolt (written by Peter Beau), The Last Day Warrior – Part I, and The Legend of Sargus. From what I could gather, all three are related and seem to belong to the same universe, but that may not be entirely accurate. At the beginning, we get a forward from Jim Hatchey, the creator of Starbolt, which tells us a little about his ideas behind creating Starbolt. All three stories have different artists, with quite different styles, and I found myself appreciating each the more I continued reading. And while the storylines are Christian in nature, there is some superhero style violence. Each story certainly kept my interest and I enjoyed the experience. If you like to try new comics, perhaps this is an issue you want to consider getting when it becomes available.
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!
Your Cool Comics Battle of the Week is The Twilight Zone (the concept of it) versus Ren & Stimpy! 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 Cool Comics is looking at “Twilight Zone” kinds of comic weirdness, and while there is nothing weird about Ed Griffie’s art, Svengoolie feels like a good fit for our theme! 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 as long as 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 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 .
Cool Comics In My Collection
Contemporary Cool Comics
#1221 — The Twilight Zone #1, Dynamite, December 2013.
Does the current state of the world make you feel like we’re all in one big Twilight Zone episode? In no way am I aiming to belittle the pandemic and the tragic consequences, I’m just commenting on how surreal the whole thing has been. I’m sure many of you readers out there are fans of The Twilight Zone franchise, whether you watched the original series when episodes first aired; or became a fan through reruns, including marathons of the original series on holidays; or perhaps via an iteration of one of the newer launches of the show; or maybe you discovered it through one of the several series of comic books put out over the decades. As I was searching through boxes of unread comics for this episode, once I came across this one, I decided to go with a bit of a Twilight Zone theme for the entire episode…meaning that the comics I discuss this week are a little on the crazy or bizarre side, much like our lives these days. Written by J. Michael Straczynski (probably a familiar name to many of you) and illustrated by Guiu Vilanova, I found myself completely absorbed by the story and somewhat disappointed that it continues in issue #2, which I don’t have…yet. The cover price of The Twilight Zone #1 is $3.99, while the current value is $4.
Cool Comics from the Quarter Bin
#1222 — What The-?! #1, Marvel, August 1988.
Doesn’t the title of this Cool Comic from the Quarter Bin fit the tone of how strange everyday life has become? And again, I don’t want to be insensitive, because many people around the world have been affected, whether they’ve suffered from COVID-19 themselves or one of their friends or loved ones have. So Cool Comics is just trying to lighten your burdens a bit with a little fun each week, and What The-?! may help take you there. I’ve found several issues in quarter bins that are now part of my collection, but this is the first time I’ve read one. The result? It wasn’t as funny as I thought it might be. In the Seventies I’d buy an issue of Mad Magazine or Cracked every once in a while, and I enjoyed the comedy and parody back then. But perhaps now I wouldn’t like either very much, considering I’m at a completely different place in life. With this in mind, I might have appreciated What The-?! if I’d read it at a younger age. And then again, maybe it’s just not as good as the other two. Regardless, the comic title fits the theme of this episode quite well. The cover price of What The-?! is $1.25, while the current values are $4 on CBR and $10 on ZKC.
FCBD the Cool Comics Way (Week 52)
#1223 — CBLDF: Defend Comics Issue 2019 , Comic Book Legal Defense Fund, May 2019.
Here we are, the last Free Comic Book Day issue from the 2019 batch, with the 2020 FCBD comics now expected someday in the future, if at all. This is another one that I wouldn’t think most people would select when getting to pick from a limited selection. As a matter of fact, I’m not even sure if many stores order it (although perhaps the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund gives some issues to retailers at no cost…but I really don’t know). I thought this comic wouldn’t be very entertaining, and I was wrong. It’s chalk-full of bizarre stories that will keep you reading to the end. I think my favorite is one called “Apocalypse Taco,” but there were a couple others that would also work well in a Twilight Zone issue. If you happen to someday stumble across this one and the price is low enough, you may want to give it a try. For the next couple episodes, we’ll look at Two FCBD issues that came in a longbox stuffed with 419 comics that I bought for just $20 (I’ve you’ve been reading Cool Comics long enough, you may remember our “Cool Comics Done Dirt Cheap” segment that was comprised of those issues). After that, I think I’ll finally start reading and commenting on some of my Halloween ComicFest free issues that have been neglected over the last few years. Will all this be enough to get us to FCBD 2020? Stay tuned to find out! The cover price of CBLDF: Defend Comics Issue 2019 is free, while the current values are $0 on CBR and $1 on ZKC.
Cool Comics Kids
#1224 — The Ren & Stimpy Show #1 , Marvel, December 1992.
Back in the Nineties, I remember being in the toy section of a store with my wife, and on the other side of an aisle, we heard a mother respond to her child that no, she wouldn’t buy them that toy because “Randy and Stanky are dirty and nasty.” We looked at each other and tried not to laugh out loud, and ever since then I’ve always thought of this odd team as Randy and Stanky. I’ve never seen the cartoon, and this is my first comic of the strange duo, thankfully snatched out of a quarter bin, because cheap is good when you’re not sure what you’re getting into! This one, though not in a bag, still had a scratch and sniff sticker of Stimpy shoved inside, which just adds to the strangeness and fun of it all. This number one issue contains several stories within, but the most notable thing I discovered is that it’s written by Dan Slott. Maybe that makes owning it a little cooler, right? The cover price of The Ren & Stimpy Show #1 is $2.25, while the current values are $10 on CBR and $4 on ZKC.
Cool Comics Classics
#1225 — From Beyond the Unknown #23, DC, August 1973.
This is my first issue of From Beyond the Unknown, and it turns out that the comic is reprints of stories packaged together for this former DC anthology series. I’m fine with this being reprints, since I’ve never read any of the tales contained between the covers, and besides, I got it for just one dollar. The first story (which is the one pictured on the cover) is called “Secret of the Man-Ape,” written by Otto Binder, with art by Carmine Infantino, and the ape is much more than meets the eye. It was originally published in Strange Adventures #75 in 1956. Next up is “Language-Master of Space,” a story by Gardner Fox with art by Sid Greene, and first told in Mystery In Space #67 in 1961. Finally, we get “World of Doomed Spacemen,” written by Gardner Fox, with art by Mike Sekowsky, and originally brought to fans in Strange Adventures #104 in 1959. These were all a lot of fun to read, and while we don’t get the original ads from when each came out, the 1973 ads are really a blast! The cover price of From Beyond the Unknown #23 is 20¢, while the current values are $22 on CBR and $18 on ZKC.
Cool Collected Editions with Dr. Omnibus
Umbrella Academy Vol 1 – Apocalypse Suite (Dark Horse Comics)
Dr. Omnibus score: 7.0 out of 10
Just over a year ago, Netflix released season 1 of Umbrella Academy. Mrs. Omnibus showed some interest in watching it, so I waited to watch it. Well, I’m still waiting and season 2 will air sometime this year, exact date TBD. So, I decided since I haven’t ruined the book by watching the show yet, I would go ahead and give the source material a read before season 2 comes out, and then I will stop waiting and watch them both.
The Book Itself
I found the first volume trade paperback on sale for 50% off at an LCS during Halloween ComicFest, so I grabbed it. It’s just your run of the mill standard sized TPB, with glossy thin paper and no bells or whistles. It does have a Foreword and Afterword, but I didn’t bother with them. I rarely do but will on occasion if a piece really moves me.
The Story
By Gerard Way
Things start off pretty weird in this one. At the exact moment that a wrestler beats an alien in a fight, 43 children are born, yet the mothers weren’t pregnant before that moment. Many of these children die, but some survive and are adopted by an alien. Six out of Seven of these adoptees possess extraordinary abilities and are raised to save the world and be heroes. They start saving the world before they are even teenagers. After that we jump around in time a bit and get to see these kids all grownup. Some have moved on to live seemingly ordinary lives, some aren’t around at all anymore, and some are dedicated to living the hero life. For reasons which I won’t share, they are reunited, and this is where we get into some real character building. The relationships are interesting and feel real. The family dynamic is certainly where one could see this comic being turned into a TV show. The action is silly and over the top sci-fi stuff. I don’t want to get too far into spoilers, so I will just say that the story was interesting, but not great. It’s kind of hard to keep the seven main characters straight, as there wasn’t a huge degree of character building done for some of them.
The Art
By Gabreil Bá,
Colors by Dave Stewart
The pencils have a very Mike Mignola look to them; not an especially “finished” style and a bit cartoony. This is complemented well by coloring reminiscent of that used in the series Invincible, which also had a lighter feel to it. But don’t let that verbiage fool you, because this has no shortage of graphic violence and is not for the kids. Still, the art is very fun, not distracting. The cartoony look misplaces expectations, which was interesting to me. To see maimed bodies in the cartoony style was just fun to a self-described misfit like myself.
The Gist
Overall, it felt like just another comic story. Nothing too earth-shattering despite the opportunity to provide just that. The character interactions are where this story shines, but there are so many it gets tough to manage. Reading it really makes me wonder how they got a show out of the series, so it has managed to increase my interest in watching it, but more from a “how did they pull it off” standpoint instead of a “I am interested in learning more about this world” standpoint. Hopefully, the next volumes will touch more on how these characters came into the world.
Damian Starr is a long-time collector of comics who, in recent years, has converted his focus to reading—almost exclusively—trade paperbacks, hardcovers, and Omnibus editions. Additionally, he is a frequent contributor to the MCBCFA Play Network YouTube channel (check out his Dr. Omnibus playlists). To add one more layer to his geekery, he is an amateur comic author and co-founder of Illuminatus Comics .
Cool Comics Reader Reviews!
BEOWULF #1 ( DC 1975)
By Steve “Atom” Baum
A bit of introduction. I’m Steve “Atom” Baum and I write comic reviews that nobody ever asked for. I don’t usually write reviews of new comics or comics that would be of interest to collectors for how much they are “worth.” To me, the “value” of a comic is in the enjoyment of it.
If you like what you see here, then join me on a journey through the forgotten depths of those dusty longboxes of dollar back issues in the rear of your local comic shop and visit my blog LONGBOX JUNK, where you’ll discover HUNDREDS of reviews you never asked for!
And now an exclusive “Short but Sweet” Longbox Junk Retro Review for the Cool Comics Crowd!
THE CURSE OF CASTLE HROTHGAR
WRITER: Michael Uslan
ARTIST: Ricardo Villamonte
COVER: Ricardo Villamonte
THE COVER:
A fine example of a Bronze Age spinner rack eye-catcher! It’s got a scantily clad damsel in distress, a menacing monster, and a powerful hero swinging into action! Add the awesome contrast between the title and background and you get the kind of comic cover that immediately grabs attention. Very nice.
THE STORY:
After receiving a message from a mysterious person known as “The Shaper,” the mighty hero Beowulf and his companions set forth on a journey for Castle Hrothgar in Daneland, which has been coming under nightly attack by a monster called Grendel.
On the way, Beowulf and company make an unintended detour into the Underworld after the crew of his ship become bewitched by a Siren’s song. After defeating the awaiting demons, Beowulf discovers that the Siren is actually a Swedish Scyfling warrior named Nan-Zee, who was herself bewitched by demonic powers.
After rescuing Nan-Zee, she joins Beowulf and his companions as they continue to Castle Hrothgar. Upon arrival, Beowulf is at first greeted with suspicion, but when he announces his intention to destroy the monster Grendel, he is welcomed. . .but as Beowulf and company go to meet the King, a villainous wizard named Unferth casts a spell, sending the hero and his friends to a faraway swamp filled with lizard-like creatures that rush to the attack!
To be continued. . .
THE REVIEW:
Action! Adventure! Magic! Monsters! Beautiful women! All the ingredients are here for the beginning of a fantastic Bronze Age “swords & sorcery” journey. . .and writer Michael Uslan takes those ingredients and serves the reader a very tasty stew indeed!
Although obviously influenced by the hugely popular Marvel Conan comic on the stands at the time, Beowulf has a distinct flavor of its own that just makes me want to jump right into the next issue to find out what happens. It’s just a really fun read, full of bombastic dialogue and action that moves so quickly that you’re done before you know it and want more!
The art is a perfect complement to the epic story at hand, with dynamic figures and panels that really give a great sense of movement. This issue is simply packed from the first page to the last with great Bronze Age art by a lesser-known artist that deserves a moment in the spotlight, even if that spotlight has to be in a review that nobody ever asked for!
CONCLUSION
Beowulf #1 is simply a great comic in almost every way. From the awesome cover to the final page cliffhanger, this issue is full of fantasy action and adventure that’s sure to please any fan of sword & sorcery fiction.
Although it doesn’t look like Beowulf has ever been collected (and I don’t see it on comiXology), I found all six issues of this series in dollar boxes here and there, so they shouldn’t be too hard to track down for a very affordable Longbox Junk price. I highly recommend not only this first issue, but the whole series to anyone interested in some great Bronze Age fantasy adventure that ISN’T Conan-related.
Until next time, stay safe and remember that comics are worth more than money!
Would you like to write a review of a comic book or graphic novel for all the Internet to see? Our Cool Comics Reader Reviews section is looking for fans just like you to submit reviews of 500 words or less (introductions about yourself don’t go against the word count), along with a cover image of the comic, 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!
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/
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April 23, 2020
Cool Comics Brings You Starman, Batgirl, & Swamp Thing!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection Episode 239, 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 (except for of digital issues, which don’t have collectible value). This is 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 some are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use here. 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 239…
Cool Comics News!
Cool comics come in many shapes and forms, often from big publishers, but also Indie creators. And one of the current tools used to both fund and announce comics that you might miss out on is Kickstarter. Writer Gerard J. Jones has a passion for comics and writing, and now you can get onboard with Episode 1.0 of his new 12-part series called Driver.Eight from Limitless Comics. I was fortunate enough to get an early look at the digital edition of Episode 1.0, currently on Kickstarter, where you can support this comic at several different levels, including a digital copy, paper version, variant covers, stickers, trading cards, etc. I ended up liking Driver.Eight more than I thought I would at first glance and look forward to what comes next! If you want to learn more about this cool comic, click the link (the word Kickstarter in bold font), watch the short video clip, explore the cover variants and sample art, then make your support selection today!
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!
Your Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Batgirl & Starman versus Guardians of the Galaxy! 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 Cool Comics brings you another fantastic piece of art by the one and only Aaron Archer! This is an awesome drawing of Chakan, the forever man. Aaron has illustrated several of the Chakan graphic novellas, and this drawing makes it easy to understand why. If you want to see more from Aaron, visit his 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 as long as 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 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 .
Cool Comics In My Collection
Contemporary Cool Comics
#1216 — Batgirl #11, DC, July 2017.
Our Contemporary Cool Comics segment is looking a bit different now since no new comics are being issued. And just so you readers of Cool Comics are in the know, we divide our time periods in a more simple manner: comics published in the year 2000 and beyond are considered contemporary, while those published before the turn of the century can fall into several other buckets, including Cool Comics from the Quarter Bin, Cool Comics Kids, and Cool Comics Classics. Hence, sometimes be seeing some older stuff (perhaps dating all the way back to the year 2000), along with occasional indie comics, such as Prowl from our last episode. When it comes to DC’s Rebirth, none of these comics are really that old, so they fit in well when placed in our Contemporary bucket. Like so many of the back issues you typically see here at Cool Comics, the answer is yes, I did get this out of a quarter bin. When Rebirth hit the stands, Cool Comics existed, but I didn’t start buying new comics until a little over halfway through 2017. Lots of these have good stories, so I like to grab them when I find them at such a great price. And while I’m not the biggest Batgirl fan around (although I admit that I had a crush on her in the Batman ’66 TV series when I was a wee lad), I was happy enough to get several of her comics for a fraction of the original cost. The cover price of Batgirl #11 is $3.99, while the current value is $4.
Cool Comics from the Quarter Bin
#1217 — 1st Issue Special #12, DC, March 1976.
Until recently, I didn’t know much about 1st Issue Special. I’d seen mention of it in an article or two in Back Issue magazine, but a few months ago, as I was scrounging around in a quarter bin at my local comic shop, feeling perfectly safe with no worries about social distancing, I noticed an older DC comic with STARMAN in bold letters on the cover, and just above that the title “1st Issue Special.” Obviously I wasn’t going to make a mistake and leave it there, so the issue practically jumped into my clutching fingers and nearly deposited itself on top of my stack of comics that was growing so big I was afraid I might not make it out alive if they tumbled down on top of me! The title ran just 13 issues, from 1975 to 1976, and at that time I was pretty much just buying Marvel (with the exception of DC 100 Pages for 60¢ issues…see our last episode for more on that). “If only I’d bought all of these when they released,” I say to myself now, but if we questioned all of our comic book choices from yesteryear, it would steal some of the fun and thunder from us today when we discover these lost treasures! Presented by Gerry Conway as writer/editor, with artists Mike Vosburg and Mike Rover, this is a fun story of a character you may (or may not) think hasn’t gotten enough appearances in the DCU. I liked it and wouldn’t mind seeing more of Starman. The cover price of 1st Issue Special #12 is 30¢, while the current value is $14. The Key Collector Comics value is $10.
FCBD the Cool Comics Way (Week 51)
#1218 — The Overstreet Guide to Collecting 2019 , Gemstone Publishing, May 2019.
While it’s probably the rare comic book reader who wants to make this a selection on Free Comic Book Day (remember, most shops limit free comics, typically allowing you to choose just a certain number…such as two issues, or in some cases up to five…it’s left to the discretion of the shop), this is my second year getting this issue and I appreciate it for what it represents. Plus, they make it fun, and comics are supposed to be fun and entertaining, right? While we get some comic book style information about collecting, this 2019 volume also gives us six pages of an article called, “Remembering Stan Lee.” And while that still may not have been enough to get you to choose this issue, I’m able to get my hands on the entire collection of FCBD comics, and I actually enjoy this one. The cover price of The Overstreet Guide to Collecting 2019 is free, while the current value is $1.
Cool Comics Kids
#1219 — New Terrytoons #26 , Gold Key, June 1974.
I remember seeing some Heckle and Jeckle cartoons when I was a kid (it aired from 1969-1971 on NBC), but to be honest, I couldn’t recall if I liked them or not. The comic series is called New Terrytoons, and until I looked it up, I had no idea why…but if you want to know more of the story, click the Paul Terry link (first line of the article) at the Heckle and Jeckle Wikipedia page. Also of interest is that this comic anthology series features different characters, so Heckle and Jeckle aren’t the headliners of each issue. And now I have to pose this question: Is it just me, or are most cartoon birds a little on the obnoxious side (these two, Woody Woodpecker, the Road Runner, and even Tweety sort of bother me)? Still, I did enjoy the comic book, and it has a variety of other characters such as an elephant named Silly Sidney and a mouse family featuring Hashimoto-San. If you’re building a Cool Comics Kids library, it might be fun for them to see some of these classic characters from way back when. The cover price of New Terrytoons #26 is 20¢, while the current values are $16 on CBR and $10 on ZKC.
Cool Comics Classics
#1220 — Marvel Presents #11, Marvel, June 1977.
Back Issue #119, dated April 2020, is the most recent issue, and had special coverage of the Guardians of the Galaxy, mostly focusing on the original group of Guardians. That’s right, before Star-Lord, Rocket, Groot, Gamora, and Drax, the Guardians consisted of characters like Charlie-27, Martinex, Nikki, Starhawk and a couple names non-followers might know, such as Yondu and Major Vance Astro. If you haven’t kept up with the Guardians and just know them by the movies, you might be surprised at some of the characters who have been part of that crew in the comics. It took a couple decades from their beginnings to finally getting a title of their own, and you can see that this comic is named Marvel Presents, one of the many anthology titles Marvel published in the Seventies (and I do love them!). While I was reading my copy of Back Issue, I saw a cover I really liked, one of the main reasons being that in the bottom corner it says, “The Psychic Vampires of Arcturus!” Seventies comics have some of the coolest things written on their covers, no doubt, and I knew I had to find a copy of this issue once social distancing would allow us to return to our beloved comic book shops. Yet I discovered that within the confines of my filing cabinet of magical unread comics, I already have it! For those who like to know such things, this issue was written by Roger Stern and penciled by Al Milgrom. The cover price of Marvel Presents #11 is 30¢, while the current value is $12.
Cool Collected Editions with Dr. Omnibus
Saga of the Swamp Thing by Alan Moore Vol 1
Dr. Omnibus score: 8.75 out of 10
Before I started reading this, I had read approximately five total issues that had Swamp Thing in them. He was not the focus of the story in those issues, so I had no idea what to expect from Alan Moore’s run on Saga of the Swamp Thing. What I did know is that Alan Moore wrote Watchmen and V for Vendetta, both of which I love, so I had high hopes despite my complete ignorance.
The Book Itself
In late 2019, DC released an Absolute edition containing the first 12 issues of Alan Moore’s run on Swamp Thing. Well, when it came out, people were finding that it had a common defect in the binding, which was causing these things to just fall apart, not to mention they recolored/modernized the art and ruined the feel of the series for the Absolute. So, despite loving that format, I opted to just pick up the trade paperbacks. It’s your run of the mill trade paperback, and has old-school newsprint pages, true to the paper from the singles. There is very little backmatter (bonus material in the back) in this volume, making it very bare bones.
The Words
By Alan Moore
Based purely on the fact that Alan Moore wrote this, I had high expectations. I felt a bit lost at the beginning. This book starts at issue 20, and I didn’t read issues 1-19, but enough was revealed over the first couple of issues that I wasn’t lost too long. As should be expected, this is a story with some deep themes that will span the entire run. Alan is great at creating introspective characters and making the reader really feel for those characters. He does just that with this story. This is just a great blend of horror and superhero comics.
The Art
By Stephen Bissette and John Totlebean
I was blown away by the art in this book. I have mentioned several times over the past couple of months that, generally speaking, I am not a fan of art from before the 90’s. This is one of those exceptions. The use of shadows and attention to detail are just stunning. There is so much texture on Swamp Thing, and the Floronic Man, and the backgrounds. When I finished reading this volume, I decided I would upgrade to the Absolute in spite of the binding issues, and that’s when I found out about the recoloring. It’s really a shame that they didn’t think this art deserved that glorious over-sized treatment. Truly tragic.
The Gist
This is a must read for any horror fan and anyone who appreciates highly detailed hand-drawn art. I cannot wait to read the next five volumes of this series. I am going to get the TPB omnibus collection with the Len Wein and Bernie Wrightson issues, too. I did dog on the recoloring in the Absolute edition a bit, despite not actually owning that book. The recoloring looks neat and may open the series up to a younger generation of readers, but it’s just not for me. I’ll take the classic art this time.
Damian Starr is a long-time collector of comics who, in recent years, has converted his focus to reading—almost exclusively—trade paperbacks, hardcovers, and Omnibus editions. Additionally, he is a frequent contributor to the MCBCFA Play Network YouTube channel (check out his Dr. Omnibus playlists). To add one more layer to his geekery, he is an amateur comic author and co-founder of Illuminatus Comics .
Cool Comics Reader Reviews!
Would you like to write a review of a comic book or graphic novel for all the Internet to see? Our Cool Comics Reader Reviews section is looking for fans just like you to submit reviews of 500 words or less (introductions about yourself don’t go against the word count), along with a cover image of the comic, 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!
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/
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April 16, 2020
Cool Comics on the PROWL!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection Episode 238, 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 (except for of digital issues, which don’t have collectible value). This is 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 some are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use here. 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 238…
Cool Comics News!
Dr. Omnibus, the writer of our popular new Cool Collected Editions segment, is offering a chance for one of our newsletter subscribers to win all three trade paperback volumes of The Umbrella Academy (free U.S. shipping…if you are international and want to enter, you pay the shipping). So, if you aren’t signed up, make sure you do it now before you miss out! Because sometime next week we’ll send out a special newsletter announcement that will be your gateway to entering the contest!
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!
Your Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Spider-Man versus Plastic Man! 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 creation comes to us from Robert A. Kraus (aka RAK), creator of Chakan and many other fantastic works of art, along with cool games he’s developed. This awesome SUPERFREAKS art takes you back to the Sixties when Captain America gets thawed out and joins the Avengers! To learn more about RAK, be sure to visit his website at http://www.rakgraphics.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 as long as 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 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 .
Cool Comics In My Collection
Contemporary Cool Comics
#1211 — Prowl #1, Midnight27 Studios, January 2017.
Saturday April 4, while most of the nation was social distancing due to COVID-19, I attended a comic convention. As far as I know, everyone in attendance maintained six feet. How was this possible? You see, Pajama Con, held by artist and writer Adam Fields, was live via Facebook at The Art of Adam Fields. The ongoing pandemic isn’t helping the comic book industry, but you have to love it when creators find ways to overcome adversities and sell products. Not only did I buy a package containing the first seven issues of Adam’s comic Prowl (just $30 for all seven), but I also bought a couple of his awesome cryptid prints (which I can’t wait to frame!). My copy of Prowl #1, as you can see from the cover (if the image is too small, just click on it), is a second print that was revised in June 2019, and sports Adam’s signature. As another plus, these comics came bagged (resealable bags) and boarded. It often takes Indie creators longer to get comics complete and ready for an audience (which should be no surprise since they also tend to hold fulltime jobs and are usually dependent on a small team of other people), so I find it pretty amazing that he recently put out #7. As for this first issue, we get to know a bit about the players, the town, and even a little history, all to set the scene for the appearance of the werewolf near the end. And that’s no spoiler, because you can see him right there on the cover. What is a surprise is that the werewolf…okay, I’m going to stop there! If you want to know what I was going to say, go to https://www.midnight27studios.com/ and order your own copy of Prowl. I’m really looking forward to reading the next six issues! With the halt in new comic production, this is a perfect opportunity to see some of the cool stuff others are producing. The cover price of Prowl #1 is $5.
Cool Comics from the Quarter Bin
#1212 — The Amazing Spider-Man #219, Marvel, August 1981.
As someone who’s been quarter bin diving for the last few years, it’s no lie when I tell you that finding older issues of The Amazing Spider-Man doesn’t happen all that often. Peter Parker’s alias has been one of Marvel’s most popular heroes since he first showed up on the scene in Amazing Fantasy #15 in 1962, so it’s no surprise that cheap copies of older issues aren’t as easy to come by. But this isn’t a typical Spider-Man story, as we see from the cover that Peter Parker is behind bars and we are told he’s a criminal! This issue was written by Denny O’Neil, penciled by Luke McDonnell, and inked by Jim Mooney. Now you know who to blame for your favorite hero being tossed in the slammer! The cover price of The Amazing Spider-Man #219 is 50¢, while the current values are $15 on CBR and $16 on ZKC.
FCBD the Cool Comics Way (Week 50)
#1213 — Under the Moon: A Catwoman Tale, DC Ink, May 2019.
Much like the DC Free Comic Book Day issue I covered in the last episode of Cool Comics, this preview sample is aimed at a younger audience…which is a good thing since we want our favorite hobby to grow. But could someone who grew up reading Seventies gems enjoy the simplistic stories contained here? You bet! The first tale (or perhaps tail would be more appropriate for it) here, written by New York Times bestselling author Lauren Myracle and illustrated by Isaac Goodhart, is called Under the Moon: A Catwoman Tale, and shows us a younger Selina Kyle, during her high school days, as she adopts a stray kitten that changes her outlook on what’s going on in her life. But things don’t always work out the way we hope they will. The coloring, which mostly uses blue, is very effective for the mood of the story. Next up is Teen Titans Raven, written by New York Times bestselling author Kami Garcia and illustrated by Gabriel Picolo. Like the Catwoman story, this one also makes good use of color, along with a bit of a mystical feel. There are more in the series besides these two previews, so be on the lookout for the full graphic novels as they make great gifts for younger readers. The cover price of Under the Moon: A Catwoman Tale is free, while the current value is $1.
Cool Comics Kids
#1214 — Donald Duck #121 , Gold Key, September 1968.
It will probably take a little work to find this gem from 1968 as cheap as I did (yes, I snagged this fun Donald Duck issue out of a quarter bin!), but if you do, you’ll more than likely feel it was worth the effort. If you’re like me and you really enjoy flipping through discount bins, these days of store closures due to COVID-19 should have you really appreciating the way things used to be. Still, you can try to find comics online, and this is a nice one to add to your Cool Comics Kids library. This issue comes with three complete comic stories, Gold Key Comics Club News, and a one-page short story that has a couple illustrations included. The first story, The Buffaloed Buffalo, is an adventure that the little ones in your life are sure to enjoy. The cover price of Donald Duck #121 is 15¢, while the current value is $48.
Cool Comics Classics
#1215 — Detective Comics #441, DC, July 1974.
I’ve mentioned on here before that during the Seventies, when I first started buying comic books, I was buying Marvel, with the exception of these DC “100 Pages For Only 60¢” issues because the store where my father worked as a pharmacist often had these on their magazine racks and I got a discount. At the time, I didn’t realize that many of the stories in each comic were reprints, which didn’t really make a difference because they were all new to my eyes. I liked the way they had characters featured on the covers, such as this one that has them in circles at the bottom. I can’t remember ever seeing this particular issue when it came out, but when I spotted it at a local comic shop a few months back for just $4, it was an easy enough decision to add it to my collection. Before this one, I didn’t own any of the eight issues of Detective Comics that came in this format. As a matter of fact, I have just 19 out of 96 of these 100-page comics that came out during this period…which means I have lots more fun to look forward to! The reprint stories in this issue include Plastic Man #3 (1946), Detective Comics #42 (1940), Ibis from Whiz Comics #95 (1948, originally published by Fawcett), House of Secrets #66 (1964), Crack Comics #25 (1942, originally published by Quality), and Batman #38 (1946). The two new stories are “Judgment Day,” featuring Batman, and “Cathedral Perilous,” starring Manhunter (Paul Kirk). You certainly get a nice variety of stories, and back when they were first published, the price made them a no-brainer. By the way, this issue contains the first appearance of Harvey Bullock. The cover price of Detective Comics #441 is 60¢, while the current value is $110. The Key Collector Comics value is $65.
Cool Collected Editions with Dr. Omnibus
Mighty Morphin Power Rangers Shattered Grid DLX Hardcover
Dr. Omnibus score: 8 out of 10
Moving along in my journey through the Power Rangers comics, I find myself at what is the last collection I have, Mighty Morphin Power Rangers Shattered Grid DLX Hardcover. You may recall that in episodes 231 and 234 I reviewed the first two hardcovers in this three book set. I liked the second volume more than the first and was looking forward to seeing some things play out in Shattered Grid….
The Book Itself
Much the like the previous two volumes, this one has a beautiful graphic cover, this time featuring the white ranger, and the spine matches perfectly with the other volumes. Also, like the two before it, this one features an extensive cover gallery, but it is not annoyingly large this time. I did have some trouble with the binding. In two spots, the signatures (individual sections of a book) are separating from the binding glue. This is pretty disappointing, but if it worsens, I am confident in my ability to fix it.
The Words
By Kyle Higgins
This story blew me away. It had just about everything I could ask for in a Power Rangers story, including all sorts of time travel and interdimensional super “meta” sci-fi fun. The story centered very much on a couple Rangers, and the others were very much just supporting characters. This worked well and provided a way for Mr. Higgins to finally get me to care about one of these kids. It did get confusing at times, since we meet dozens of Power Rangers from across all of time and space, and sometimes I felt they were thrust upon readers without enough introduction. But I can overlook that, because to properly introduce all these Rangers would take several series of comics.
The Pictures
By lots of people
The first thing I noticed when pulling this off my shelf was that Hendry Prasetya was not involved in the volume. This instantly made me fearful, as I really enjoyed his work in the previous volumes. This was further exacerbated by the fact while I was relaxing the spine, I saw a few pages that just weren’t in a similar style at all to what I had been expecting. Well, as it turns out, my fears were for naught. The art throughout the book is just fine, and although it’s maybe a small step back from the previous volumes, overall, it’s an adequate substitute for the original.
The Gist
Each volume of this series is better than the one before it. That being the case, I think anyone who starts Power Rangers needs to read at least this far. It’s only about 30 to 40 issues, and the payoff is worth the journey. If I’m not mistaken, there is another hardcover coming out this fall. I suppose I’ll pick it up since each volume has gotten consistently more enjoyable. At C2E2 2020, I had the opportunity to meet Kyle Higgins, and I told him I was not a fan of Power Rangers before reading the comics and that now he was well on his way to making me one. I mentioned that I had just finished reading “Year 2” and that I really enjoyed the growth in the story and where it was heading. He laughed and said, “If you liked Year 2, you’re going to love Shattered Grid.” He was right.
Damian Starr is a long-time collector of comics who, in recent years, has converted his focus to reading—almost exclusively—trade paperbacks, hardcovers, and Omnibus editions. Additionally, he is a frequent contributor to the MCBCFA Play Network YouTube channel (check out his Dr. Omnibus playlists). To add one more layer to his geekery, he is an amateur comic author and co-founder of Illuminatus Comics .
Cool Comics Reader Reviews!
Nova #1 (Marvel 1976)
By Steve “Atom” Baum
A bit of introduction. I’m Steve “Atom” Baum and I write comic reviews that nobody ever asked for. I don’t usually write reviews of new comics or comics that would be of interest to collectors for how much they are “worth.” To me, the “value” of a comic is in the enjoyment of it.
If you like what you see here, then join me on a journey through the forgotten depths of those dusty longboxes of dollar back issues in the rear of your local comic shop and visit my blog LONGBOX JUNK where you’ll discover HUNDREDS of reviews you never asked for!
And now an exclusive “Short But Sweet” Longbox Junk Retro Review for the Cool Comics Crowd!
WRITTEN BY: Marv Wolfman
ART BY: John Buscema & Joe Sinnot
COVER BY: Rich Buckler
I know, I know. . .this ain’t exactly a dollar comic. I found it in my comic-lovin’ daughter’s collection while trying to find some stuff a little on the lighter side of things. She didn’t realize it was “worth” a few bucks (it’s in really nice shape, too), and doesn’t really care. Neither do I. I just think it’s a pretty fun comic that’s worth a Longbox Junk look-see. Let’s do it!
THE COVER:
Pure Bronze Age glory! I mean, just LOOK at it! The colors! The composition! The action! THIS is a beautiful example of a spinner rack eye catcher. It’s the sort of thing that takes me on a ride in that sweet paper time machine back to the days when comics were sold in every grocery store, and I could buy three of them for a buck earned from raking the yard.
THE STORY:
Seventeen-year-old Richard Rider is a bit of a loser with no self-confidence. He’s bullied and taunted on a regular basis and has convinced himself he’ll never amount to anything. BUT THEN. . .A mysterious alien ship comes into Earth orbit and the dying pilot sends out a powerful thought blast that circles the planet, seeking a worthy person to take on his power and avenge his destroyed homeworld.
The beam strikes Richard Rider, sending him into a coma where he has strange mental visions as the dying alien communicates telepathically. He is told that he has been chosen to take on the powers and rank of Centurion Nova-Prime, and that he is to avenge a dead world by defeating the evil Zorr, who has come to Earth and will destroy that world as well if Rider fails in his new mission.
After he recovers from the coma, Richard is convinced that it was all a dream. . .until he begins manifesting strange abilities, such as the power to instantly solve complex math problems. It’s not long before a blast of energy completely transforms the bullied teen into the powerful form of NOVA!
Richard quickly learns that he now has the power to fly, has super-human strength and ability to resist damage, and can pick up radio signals through his helmet. He realizes that he has been given these powers for a purpose, and that he must use them for the greater good by seeking out and defeating Zorr before he destroys Earth.
It isn’t long at all before Richard Rider. . .now Nova. . .has the chance to make good on his vow. Zorr The Conqueror is attacking New York City! Nova attacks the evil alien and a brutal battle begins. Due to his inexperience, Nova almost causes the death of a building full of people, but he manages to save them while also fending off Zorr.
But then, in the middle of their fight, Zorr mysteriously disappears! Nova is confused, but WE, the reader, learn that the dying alien in orbit above Earth used the last of his power to defeat the weakened Zorr before finally perishing himself, leaving the huge empty vessel abandoned and undetected above Earth.
The End.
THE REVIEW:
In the comic, there’s an introduction page by Marv Wolfman where he explains that he wanted to create a new hero not connected with any other hero or team. One that would take him back to the Silver Age days of fun and adventure and inspire him to create stories that would inspire others just as he had been. Due to the fact that Nova is still around in a starring role 44 years later, I’d say that he succeeded!
This story is actually a pretty humble beginning, and truthfully a bit by the numbers. There’s definite shades of Green Lantern to be found here, but Wolfman himself admitted he had to stand on the shoulders of others before he could expect others to stand on his. I don’t see anything wrong with that admission.
So, beyond a familiar feeling to the origin story itself, I found this to be a great read. It’s extremely condensed, with Richard Rider going from nobody to Nova in a matter of pages, but that’s Bronze Age (or Silver Age homage) storytelling. I have practically no knowledge of Nova beyond a very basic sketch based on appearances in other comics (Like Guardians of The Galaxy), so I can say that this was a great introduction to the character for new readers. I think he’s transformed over the years, but THIS introduction was good enough to make me want to read some more comics about THIS Nova.
As far as the art goes, I really shouldn’t have to say more than that it’s by the legendary John Buscema. It’s Bronze Age superhero art at its best. . .but I actually found the scenes between the action to be the best showcase of Buscema’s skills.
CONCLUSION
What we have here is a Bronze Age throwback to Silver Age superhero adventure with a sci-fi twist and great art by one of the legends of the industry. It’s a nicely condensed introduction to a (then) brand new hero that has stood the test of time, presented in an extremely new reader-friendly way.
There’s really nothing more I could ever ask for from a comic book!
Is it the best comic I’ve ever read? No. But it IS a really fun and very readable example of Bronze Age superhero comics that I would certainly recommend for anyone who wants to get into a bit of that Mighty Marvel 70’s nostalgia. . .whether you (like me) are a child of the 70’s or just want to get a little taste of what it was about.
So, until next time, stay safe and remember that comics are worth more than money!
Would you like to write a review of a comic book or graphic novel for all the Internet to see? Our Cool Comics Reader Reviews section is looking for fans just like you to submit reviews of 500 words or less (introductions about yourself don’t go against the word count), along with a cover image of the comic, 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!
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/
Never Miss an Episode of Cool Comics!
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April 9, 2020
More Cool Comic Fun with Empyre, Archie, Little Dot, & Thor!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection Episode 237, 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 (except for of digital issues, which don’t have collectible value). This is 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 some are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use here. 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 237…
Cool Comics News!
What kind of comic books are you reading these days? While we are in a holding pattern for new issues, this is a great time to catch up on comics you’ve bought but never read. And here at Cool Comics Central, we have lots of back issues that have yet to be explored. If you don’t have any sitting around the house, digital is another great way to go. Many libraries loan out digital comics, and don’t forget that Marvel Unlimited and DC Universe each have over 20,000 digital editions. If you want to read comics from companies other than the “Big2,” comiXology is currently offering a 60-day free trial period. If you’ve changed your comic reading habits during these days of social distancing, let us know what you’re doing in the comment section below.
Dr. Omnibus, the writer of our new Cool Collected Editions segment of the blog, is offering a chance for one of our newsletter subscribers to win all three trade paperback volumes of The Umbrella Academy (free U.S. shipping…if you are international and want to enter, you pay the shipping). So if you aren’t signed up, make sure you do it now before you miss out! Then, sometime during the week of April 20, we’ll send out a special newsletter announcement that will be your gateway to entering the contest!
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!
Your Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Archie versus Little Dot! 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 creation comes to us from illustrator Dan Gorman, a member of the National Cartoonists Society and one of the top sketch card artists on the planet. This card featuring Qi’ra from the Han Solo movie is one of the 50 plus sketch cards Dan created for the Topps Star Wars Masterworks 2019 Set. For more about Dan and his art, please visit www.dangormanart.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 as long as 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 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 .
Cool Comics In My Collection
Contemporary Cool Comics
#1206 — Road to Empyre: The Kree/Skrull War #1, Marvel, May 2020.
If you read current comics, I’m sure that by now you’ve seen something like 500 different one-shots, mini-series, and tie-in issues solicited for Marvel’s big Empyre event that was supposed to launch in a big way last week on April 1. But we were all April Fooled by just how serious the Coronavirus turned out to be, and thus, no new comics. This special “Road to Empyre…” edition, which came out March 25, does a nice job of setting us up for everything to come and gives us some background as to how the craziness gets started. This issue is written by Robbie Thompson, with art by Mattis De lulis, Javier Rodriguez, and Alvaro López. The cover price of Road to Empyre: The Kree/Skrull War #1 is $4.99, while the current value is $5. The Key Collector Comics value is $5.
Cool Comics from the Quarter Bin
#1207 — Archie #162, Archie Comics, May 1966.
From Zombies to Vampires to Werewolves to Predators (and even a gig with the B-52’s), sometimes it’s nice to get away from the offbeat stuff and just enjoy an issue of Classic Archie. In the Seventies, I found myself buying and reading Archie on a pretty regular basis for a while, and this issue that I plucked out of a quarter bin made me reminisce about those days. But even better, this issue is from the Sixties and contains stories I’d never read before. Finding older issues of Archie and his friends for that cheap doesn’t happen often, so when I see comics like this one in discount boxes, I pull them out right away. When I decided to read this issue for the blog this week, I looked over the cover and wondered if some younger people today might mistake his transistor radio for a cellphone. It would be an easy enough mistake to make. This issue comes with five stories, a pin-up, a two-page spread on Archie Club News (the cost was 15¢ to join and you received an OFFICIAL ARCHIE CLUB BUTTON and a PRESS CARD, making you a “real reporter” and giving you a chance to win prizes!), and wonderful ads. This was a genuine pleasure to read. The cover price of Archie #162 is 12¢, while the current value is $35.
FCBD the Cool Comics Way (Week 49)
#1208 — Dear Justice League, DC, May 2019.
Last year in May, when I had in hand the entire collection of Free Comic Book Issues for 2019, I placed them in a weekly reading order that had some meaning. Such as putting the Bloodshot issue in Cool Comics just before the theatrical release, scary comics in October, etc. Both of the DC comics included in the batch didn’t impress me much, being ashcan size and obviously geared towards a younger audience. I decided I was in no hurry to read them, so they ended up near the end of the stack in my FCBD box. Yet Dear Justice League, which consists of a couple chapters from the graphic novel with the same name (Superman and Hawkgirl are the heroes), turned out to be much better than I thought it would for someone from my generation. I didn’t think it would be bad or boring, but I didn’t count on actually liking the stories as much as I did. In my opinion, DC did a nice job, and I think the full trade edition would make a nice gift for younger readers. The cover price of Dear Justice League is free, while the current value is $1.
Cool Comics Kids
#1209 — Little Dot #133 , Harvey Comics, October 1970.
It’s not too often I find Harvey Comics in the quarter bins, but when I do, I’m sure to grab them all. And this issue of Little Dot from 1970 is a fantastic find, in my opinion, because these old Harvey Comics are always fun and entertaining, which makes them a great edition for your ever-growing library of comics for kids. I’m betting that many kids today have no idea who Little Dot is, and these comics are a neat way to educate them on characters you may have grown up with. This issue contains two stories featuring Little Dot, two with Little Lotta (though this character wouldn’t be considered politically correct today, Little Lotta is actually pretty cool, has entertaining stories, and is a hero), and a Richie Rich story at the end. If your kids are familiar with any of these characters, Richie Rich is the one they’ll know, as they may have seen the movie with Macaulay Culkin. The stories are fun, the art is great, and the ads are terrific! The cover price of Little Dot #133 is 15¢, while the current values are $30 on CBR and $10 on ZKC.
Cool Comics Classics
#1210 — Thor #218, Marvel, December 1973.
If you’re reading the current Thor series, then you know he’s become a herald of Galactus, and together they are off to stop something called the Black Winter (and Thor, by the way, doesn’t behave like a typical herald, which makes the story that much more interesting). But back in 1973, Thor found himself waging war against another cosmic entity with the color black in the aptly named story (which we don’t see until we’re halfway through the comic), “Where Pass the Black Stars There Also Passes Death!” You may think that title is too long, but I love nearly everything about these old comics, and the title works for me. Written by Gerry Conway, with art by John Buscema, this comic contains so much of why I’m a big Thor fan, and even gives us a look at an equine alien that might just remind readers a bit of another wielder of a mystical hammer. If you’re a fan of the Mighty Thor, this is a cool comic to have in your collection! The cover price of Thor #218 is 20¢, while the current values are $25 on CBR and $20 on ZKC.
Cool Collected Editions with Dr. Omnibus
Infinity Wars by Gerry Dugan: The Complete Collection (Marvel)
Dr. Omnibus score: 7 out of 10
This is a direct follow up to The Guardians of the Galaxy run by Duggan. I was not super impressed with that run of Guardians. It wasn’t bad…it just wasn’t anything too special; let’s see how Duggan ties the story up.
The Book Itself
This is an oversized hardcover, but it is actually a bit thicker than Duggan’s omnibus. If it were my call, I would have combined the two books and made one thick omnibus from it and had a contained story. It has got all the standard stuff, dust jacket, graphic cover, solid binding, which we have grown to expect from Marvel. It did, however, have a misprint in it. A few pages in Issue 3 of the main event were printed in the incorrect order. This is not an unheard-of occurrence, but it sure can get confusing. It even affected a 2-page spread in which the right side of the spread was printed first, then 2 pages later you get the left side of that spread.
The Story
By Gerry Duggan
This book starts off with a deeper examination into one of the ending plotlines of the aforementioned omnibus, and an abrupt end to what seems like the main storyline throughout the Guardians run. I feel that perhaps Duggan had a plan and then editorial asked him to wrap it up and get this Infinity story rolling a bit faster. Aside from the lackluster conclusion to that one plotline, this book was pretty fun. It had a good mix of characters without being stretched too thin over every title, which is probably safely attributed to the fact that many tie-ins were not included. Overall, it was just another story about the infinity stones, white noise in the total cosmic marvel universe. Some unexpected team-ups and unlikely heroes make it a bit better. It did include an origin story for Drax that was kind of cool, and some twists about how the stones are used, as well as a very fun storyline concerning Loki and his companion.
The Art
Illustrated by a large assortment of artists
Much like the story, the art was just so-so. It’s nothing special-not bad-just not very interesting. I really don’t have much else to say that isn’t implied by what I have already said.
The Gist
Unless the events have some bearing on some future storyline, I would say you are OK to skip this. If the printing issue were universal, I would say 100 percent do not buy this book. But I haven’t been able to find information suggesting this is a widespread issue. It may be isolated to just my copy. I do not believe it is a universal issue. It was alright, but maybe you should read it digitally on Marvel Unlimited or something. In my opinion, don’t drop $125 on this.
Damian Starr is a long-time collector of comics who, in recent years, has converted his focus to reading—almost exclusively—trade paperbacks, hardcovers, and Omnibus editions. Additionally, he is a frequent contributor to the MCBCFA Play Network YouTube channel (check out his Dr. Omnibus playlists). To add one more layer to his geekery, he is an amateur comic author and co-founder of Illuminatus Comics .
Cool Comics Reader Reviews!
Would you like to write a review of a comic book or graphic novel for all the Internet to see? Our Cool Comics Reader Reviews section is looking for fans just like you to submit reviews of 500 words or less (introductions about yourself don’t go against the word count), along with a cover image of the comic, 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!
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/
Never Miss an Episode of Cool Comics!
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.
Join our Facebook Group!
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 Kickstarter campaigns. And don’t forget the prizes. Yes, Cool Comics gives away cool prizes. Be sure and join today!
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April 2, 2020
Superboy & the Legion Meld, The Lone Ranger & Tonto Dissolve!
Welcome to Cool Comics in My Collection Episode 236, 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 (except for of digital issues, which don’t have collectible value). This is 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 some are certainly worse. But to simplify it, that’s the scale I use here. 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 236…
Cool Comics News!
Yesterday there were no new comic books to buy…not to mention that many comic book shops are closed due to various state rules and laws taking place because of COVID-19. It felt strange not making that trip to my local store yesterday. But more importantly, I stayed home. Because while we love our four-color entertainment, our health, along with the health of our friends and loved ones, is much more important. We’ll make it through this, but we need to be vigilant about washing our hands and continue to follow guidelines about social distancing. If we follow these guidelines, it will make a big impact on the battle. Meanwhile, Cool Comics will do it’s best to give you a few minutes of entertainment each week to, hopefully, lift your spirits. Be smart and stay safe, comic book fans.
Dr. Omnibus, the writer of our new Cool Collected Editions segment of the blog, is offering a chance for one of our newsletter subscribers to win all three trade paperback volumes of The Umbrella Academy (free U.S. shipping…if you are international and want to enter, you pay the shipping). So if you aren’t signed up, make sure you do it now before you miss out! Then, sometime during the week of April 20, we’ll send out a special newsletter announcement that will be your gateway to entering the contest!
Cool Comics Battle of the Week!
Your Cool Comics Battle of the Week is Hellions versus Legion of Super-Heroes! 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 we showcase another fantastic piece of art by Ed Griffie, a lifelong comic book fan who started drawing Kawaii and Chibi style versions of pop culture icons and superheroes about five years ago. Ed’s creation is the Mad Titan Thanos, a Marvel character who probably wasn’t known by many people outside of the comic book community, but now, thanks to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, is familiar to millions of fans. Ed, thanks for letting us share your cool creation!
You can check out Ed’s 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 as long as 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 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 .
Cool Comics In My Collection
Contemporary Cool Comics
#1201 — Hellions #1, Marvel, May 2020.
The title for this newest X-Men offering could just as easily been called Troublemakers (which sounds a little more family friendly, but then again, this comic has “Parental Advisory” written on the cover), which seems apparent from looking at the characters on the cover. Written by Zeb Wells and illustrated by Stephen Segovia, this new team consists of Havok, Orphan-Maker, Nanny, Wild Child, Empath, Scalphunter, Mr. Sinister, and Psylocke. Were a few of the names unfamiliar to you? Well, they were to me, as I know nothing about Orphan-Maker, Nanny, Empath, and Scalphunter. I think I read a comic or two in the past with Wildchild, but he’s still a stranger to me. These guys, who are coming under the leadership of Mr. Sinister and Psylocke, are going to be trouble, especially considering that Manuel de la Rocha (Empath) can control the emotions of others, and he’s taking full advantage of this to keep himself entertained. And this is certainly not a good thing when you have all these volatile mutants around. This issue was an interesting beginning for the title, to say the least. The cover price of Hellions #1 is $4.99, while the current value is $5. The Key Collector Comics value is $5.
Cool Comics from the Quarter Bin
#1202 — The Lone Ranger and Tonto #1, Topps Comics, August 1994.
What? According to the cover, this crime fighting duo from the old west break up! Could it be that they’re just practicing good social distancing? When teams and groups break up, it tugs at the old heartstrings, doesn’t it? First, we had to deal the end of Martin and Lewis, then the Beatles called it quits, and now The Lone Ranger and Tonto are no more? Life as a fan isn’t always easy. Sigh. Anyway, this comic that I found in a quarter bin was published by Topps Comics. Maybe some of you remember when the company famous for sports cards and sometimes non-sports cards dipped their toes into the comic book arena from 1993-1998. They put out a Kirbyverse line (yes, Jack Kirby…and a few famous comic creators were involved in these besides Jack, such as Kurt Busiek, Gerry Conway, Tony Isabella, Steve Ditko, and Don Heck, to name a few); literary comics that included Dracula, Elric, and Zorro; movie adaptations such as Jurassic Park and James Bond; TV adaptations like the X-Files and Xena; and lots more. Some of the stuff was pretty good and entertaining, although I don’t think many people search for back issues of this line today. But I liked it at the time and wouldn’t mind adding a few more to my collection. This issue was written by Joe R. Lansdale (yes, the same one who writes those fantastic novels), with art by Timothy Truman. If you’re a Lone Ranger fan, this is a Topps Comics series you could put in your collection. By the way, if you missed episode 235 of Cool Comics (it’s never too late to go back in time and read it!), make sure to check it out, because you’ll find more love for The Lone Ranger in our new Cool Comics Reader Reviews category. The cover price of The Lone Ranger and Tonto #1 is $2.50, while the current value is $3.
FCBD the Cool Comics Way (Week 48)
#1203 — Street Fighter: Sakura vs. Karin #1, UDON Entertainment, May 2019.
I can’t say I’m a fan of Street Fighter, especially since the last gaming console I owned was Intellivision by Mattel, many, many moons ago (and I guess I can’t really claim it, as mine was actually the Sears Super Video Arcade system, which used the same games, but cost my parents less money), but I don’t mind comics based on gaming universes if they are entertaining enough. And this Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) issue does have moments that even I enjoyed, and I’m far from being the target audience. Looking at the cover, I think you can guess that these girls are a bit antagonistic towards each other, as one broke the other’s record playing an arcade fighting game, and now they decide to battle each other. Probably the best part of the story is the little twist at the end with Karin’s father. The cover price of Street Fighter: Sakura vs. Karin #1 is free, while the current value is $1.
Cool Comics Kids
#1204 — Beep Beep The Road Runner #51 , Whitman/Gold Key, July 1975.
While Saturday morning cartoons are a thing of the past, those of us who experienced them cherish those memories. I can remember studying TV Guide preview issues, trying to figure out which channels to flip to at certain times to ensure I wouldn’t miss out on my favorite cartoons, or new ones that I wanted to try. Some of the networks also had specials on TV, getting kids fired up to watch these animated stars while chomping away on whatever overly sweetened cereals were being advertised. And while The Road Runner wasn’t one of my favorite characters (he really didn’t have much to say, except “Beep Beep,” unlike the comic books in which he and his sons speak in rhyme), it was always decent entertainment you could count on. The best part was always seeing what crazy new plans and tools that Wile E. Coyote came up with or purchased from ACME. And to tell the truth (and I’m betting there are others out there), I was hoping that somehow, someway, Wile E. could win, just once. But of course, that would be the end of the star. And guess what? He doesn’t win in the comics either. The writers had to keep coming up with clever ideas, but clever ideas that were doomed to failure. If you have happy Saturday morning cartoon memories, why not add some Beep Beep The Road Runner comic books to your Cool Comics Kids library? The cover price of Beep Beep The Road Runner #51 is 25¢, while the current value is $16.
Cool Comics Classics
#1205 — Superboy #198, DC, October 1973.
In 1973, starting with the issue just before this one, Superboy ended up sharing cover space in the title with The Legion of Super-Heroes. Now in the indicia, the comic book is still just called Superboy, but most people don’t pay much attention to the small print, so it almost looks like the powers that be at National Periodical Publications (they officially became DC in 1977) felt that young Clark could no longer pull his own weight (actually, he can pull it pretty easily!). To be honest, I don’t know the full story behind all that, but if you’re a Legion fan, this is a cool run of Superboy that you probably want to get. The Legion of Super-Heroes have had lots of runs, and while I haven’t read that many issues with this super team from a far-off future, the early Eighties, during The Great Darkness Saga, is what I like best, because that’s when I first started reading them. And while I may be getting a bit sentimental over the Legion, the teenager of steel is still the headliner in this story, written by Cary Bates and illustrated by Dave Cockrum. I wasn’t much of a DC reader in the Seventies, but these days it’s a lot of fun to look back and see what I missed. The cover price of Superboy #198 is 20¢, while the current values are $26 on CBR and $22 on ZKC.
Cool Collected Editions with Dr. Omnibus
X-Men: Ghosts (Marvel)
Dr. Omnibus score: 7.5 out of 10
About a year ago I started doing a read through of the entire Marvel mutant line. Collecting these books is the primary focus of my collection, and I have a pretty solid run for most titles. I believe I have every issue of each ongoing mutant title from the beginning, with X-Men #1 through all of 1992, including X-Men, Uncanny X-Men, New Mutants, X-Factor, Excalibur, Wolverine, X-Force, etc. Now I just need 19 books to finish everything through 2005, and then things get a bit sparser. Anyway, this read through has brought me to X-Men: Ghosts.
The Book Itself
This is a thick trade paperback containing Uncanny X-Men issues 199-209 and annual #10. The paper used is typical of the average trade paperback, low-gloss thin paper. This really helps the colors pop versus newsprint, but at the cost of added glare.
The Words
By Chris Claremont
There are a lot of really great storylines going on in this run. Magneto has taken leadership of the X-Men because Charles is away with Lilandra. This, for obvious reasons, doesn’t sit well with the X-Men and leads to some dramatic flare-ups. Storm is still powerless, thanks to Forge in previous issues, and it is fun seeing her continue to be a member of the team despite not bringing much to the table from a combat standpoint. But the real fun in this collection surrounds Rachel Summers and her battle with guilt about being a “Hound” in the timeline she comes from (Days of Future Past) and her internal struggle with the decision to not tell Cyclops that she is his daughter, which will never be because her mother is dead in this timeline. This is compounded when Cyclops’ son is born to Madelyn Pryor, his current wife. It’s all very soap opera-like and dramatic, and I love it.
The Art
By John Romita Jr, Rick Leonardi (201), June Brigman (204), Barry Windsor-Smith (205)
The art is not amazing in this collection. Barry Windsor-Smith’s issue was AMAZING, and Rick Leonardi’s was great, too. But I just can’t get behind John Romita Jr. I try not to judge art too harshly since I myself am not a talented artist, and I read for the story first and foremost. As long as the art doesn’t pull me out of the story, I am good with it. Unfortunately, when I see some of JRJR’s art I have to stop and ask myself why he was given the opportunity to draw such a great title like X-Men.
The Gist
I felt the early Claremont Era X-Men writing was a bit of a slog, but he really hit his stride around issue 155 and has maintained it through this book. X-Men: Ghosts is a terrible place to jump into X-Men, and there aren’t too many good jumping on points between issue 94 and this story. So, if you are thinking of jumping into X-Men, start with Vol. 1 of the Uncanny X-Men omnibus By Claremont. It’s a long haul but trying to jump in anywhere else will leave you lost. If you are familiar with the Claremont era X-Men, be sure to read Secret Wars II before this volume, as the first few issues of this collection cross over with the end of that crossover event.
Damian Starr is a long-time collector of comics who, in recent years, has converted his focus to reading—almost exclusively—trade paperbacks, hardcovers, and Omnibus editions. Additionally, he is a frequent contributor to the MCBCFA Play Network YouTube channel (check out his Dr. Omnibus playlists). To add one more layer to his geekery, he is an amateur comic author and co-founder of Illuminatus Comics .
Cool Comics Reader Reviews!
Star Wars: Vader Down
By Steve Adams
Fellow comic geeks, I am back with another Star Wars review (see Steve’s previous review in episode 234). I have been reading the first Darth Vader series from Marvel, which ran for 25 issues, and took place in the immediate aftermath of Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope. The Emperor is not pleased with Vader, and essentially demotes him. This series follows Vader’s efforts to get back in his master’s bad graces, find out who the pilot was that blew up the Death Star, and fend off rivals clamoring for Vader’s spot at the Emperor’s right hand. Vader learns the identity of the pilot, and his location on a planet called Vrogas Vas, the home of an old Jedi temple. It is here that this week’s review picks up, the Star Wars/Darth Vader crossover, Vader Down.
Writers Jason Aaron and Kieron Gillen have crafted an amazing story. Honestly, this would make a mind-blowing miniseries for Disney+. The story is nearly flawless. The art is well done by veterans Mike Deodato and Salvador Larocca.
The story begins as Vader comes out of hyperspace over Vrogas Vas…and right into three squadrons of Rebel fighters. What happens next is shocking, as Vader unleashes the Dark Side with a fury never before seen. He almost destroys all the fighters by himself before Luke brings him down. On the planet, it gets even worse, as Vader effortlessly slaughters the Rebel troopers trying to catch him. One of the best parts of Rogue One was watching Vader try to get the stolen plans for the Death Star and seeing him finally be the murderous villain he was always made out to be. This series takes it even further. Vader’s power is horrifying. You get the feeling the Rebels are outnumbered 1 to 1,000 here. They are trapped on the planet with him, not the other way around. There is a legitimate feeling of desperation on the part of our main heroes, as they simply try to escape with their lives.
Other strong points of the Vader series have been the supporting cast, all on full display here. Doctor Aphra tries to help Vader any way she can, with the aid of 000, a psychotic, murderous protocol droid, and BT1, a fully armed and loaded astromech droid. And if all this wasn’t enough to convince you to read Vader Down, I have two words for you: Wookie fight! Chewbacca faces off against Krrsantan Black, a bounty hunting Wookie with previous experience with Han and Chewbacca.
All in all, I cannot recommend Vader Down highly enough. In fact, I would almost consider it required reading for all Star Wars fans.
That’s it for this time. Once my library reopens, I will be able to continue with the other series I am reading now, Marvel’s Runaways.
Til next time, Excelsior.
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