This week, we all get excited about new Morrison

Elsewhere: I talked about last week's episode of Dollhouse over at The Factual Opinion.

One link:  This Darryl Cunningham strip amused me.

New comics this week (Wednesday, 1/20/10):

Avengers vs Atlas #1

Your Marvel book of interest for the week is by Jeff Parker, which is no surprise.  I'm kind of a whore for him, and this one sees his pet team go up against some version of the Avengers (the original lineup?) in an adventure having to do with the collapse of spacetime and that sort of craziness.  Sounds like fun, and it should look pretty damn nice, what with Gabriel Hardman on art.  Look for a full review tomorrow on Comics Bulletin.  Yep.

Cowboy Ninja Viking #3

I liked the first two issues of this oddball series about a crazy hitman with at least three different deadly personalities, so here's part three.  It looks like he's going up against a bunch of other similar "triplets", like the gladiator/pirate/deep sea diver he fought in #2.  Fun times; check it out.

Fables #92

I never have anything to say about new issues of this series, except that I can't wait to read them.  I should be getting to the most recent Jack of Fables collection soon, so then I'll be all ready for the next collection, "The Great Fables Crossover".  Bring it on, Willingham!

Garth Ennis Battlefields Happy Valley #2

Garth Ennis war comics, you can't beat them.  The first issue: good, the kind of matter-of-fact story about soldiers doing their jobs that Ennis does so well.  Of course, it's all going to go to hell at some point, probably mid-way through this issue.  Rock it, Ennis!

Glamourpuss #11

Dave Sim doesn't quit.  He's still at it with this bizarre comic, and this issue is about Stan Drake and possibly drawing cars, with a cover and backup feature by Russ Heath.  I may just read it someday.

Joe The Barbarian #1

Here's the exciting release of the week, the one the internet won't be able to shut up about for the next week or so.  It's the new Grant Morrison series from Vertigo, about a kid who either has an overactive imagination or actually gets transported to some sort of fantasy realm where he is joined by all his toys and action figures in a fight against evil.  Looks pretty cool, with some nice art by Sean Murphy.  I thought about waiting for the collection on this one, but I don't think I can avoid the discussion for that long, so I'll go ahead and buy it, dammit.  Don't let me down, Morrison!  Yeah, I doubt he will.

Kids Of Widney High One Shot

Apparently, the titular kids of this comic are a real-life band composed of special-ed students who attend the (also titular) high school, and they've gained a low level of fame by appearing on Howard Stern and in movies like The Ringer.  I'm not sure if this thing is supposed to be autobiographical, but it's written by the actual kids, with art by talents like Chuck BB, Robbi Rodriguez, Jim Mahfood, and others.  Those guys make it notable, but I'm sure it's also quite inspirational and shit, so it's got that going for it too.

Rasl #6

I believe this ends the second arc of Jeff Smith's dimension-hopping series, which has been quite enjoyable so far, if it is sometimes a bit hard to remember what is going on from issue to issue.  I think the format is switching to shorter, more frequent releases after this issue, so hopefully that won't be a problem any longer.  Whatever; I'll dig it either way, I'm sure.

Zombies That Ate The World #8

Here's the final issue of this reprint of the Euro-satire by Jerry Frissen and Guy Davis, which hopefully means a collection is coming soon.  I'm looking forward to finally reading the damn thing.  Took long enough.

Cleaners Vol 1 Absent Bodies TP

I haven't heard much of anything about this crime(/supernatural?) series from Dark Horse, about a team of crime-scene cleaners who also debunk occult superstitions and maybe also battle actual occult threats.  Or something like that.  It does sound interesting, but not enough to get much attention, at least in the circles I frequent.  Has anybody read it?  Anyone?  Hello?

Goon Vol. 0 Rough Stuff Revised Edition TPB

A new version of the first volume of Eric Powell's signature series, which he originally self-published in black and white.  There's some really funny stuff here, so be sure to give it a look if you haven't delved into the earliest parts of the series.  This edition adds color to the art and includes a bunch of sketches and concept designs; sounds like something to add to the bookshelf.

King Of RPGs Vol 1 GN

Maybe this should go in the manga section? Why do I separate out the manga anyway?  Um, yeah, this originates in the West, but it has a very strong Japanese influence, being Manga: The Complete Guide author Jason Thompson's version of a shonen series, following a college student who rolls lots of those multi-sided dice.  It looks quite enjoyable; I should get around to reading it soon.  Maybe.

Loverboy Irwin Hasen Story TPB

Here's an interesting book: a new graphic novel by classic cartoonist Irwin Hasen, about a short guy who likes tall women, which sounds like a Woody Allen sort of concept.  It might well be something to be aware of this year.  Yes, there's a hell of a nonsensical recommendation.  Oy.

Troublemakers HC

Ooh, here's a notable one, which may have already been available, but I haven't seen it.  It's the latest of Gilbert Hernandez's graphic novels which are movies that one of his Love and Rockets characters starred in. This one appears to be a sex, drugs, and rock-n-roll type story, and I bet it's awesome.  I can't wait to read it.  Here's the usual Fantagraphics slideshow/preview.

Veil TP

How about this one?  Has anybody read this series from IDW, about a private eye who can communicate with the dead?  I didn't hear anything about it, so it could be noteworthy, or it could be not.  Let me know, people who read anything and everything.

Young Liars TP Vol 03 Rock Life

I never did read any of this Vertigo series, so I'm one of those to blame for it getting cancelled, I guess.  I heard it was totally nuts, which might or might not be something I would like.  I have heard many people singing its praises though, so I figure I should at least give it a try, even if I'm not the biggest fan of David Lapham.  To the library!

All My Darling Daughters TP

Manga section!  This is the latest (translated) release by Fumi Yoshinaga, about a salarywoman and her romantic travails.  I've heard tons of praise for Yoshinaga, but I still have yet to read any of her manga.  I don't know if this will be my chance, but I'm eager to give her a try.

Black Butler Vol 1 GN

Yen Press has this goofy-sounding series about a super-competent Victorian-era butler who might not be human.  Kind of a wacky manga version of Jeeves and Wooster?  Or maybe more serious?  I dunno, it could be worth a look, right?

Moyasimon Vol 1 Tales Of Agriculture GN Corrected Edition

I think this volume has shown up in bookstores, but I guess this is its entry in the direct market.  I certainly enjoyed it, so if it sounds like something you would like, or if you're just curious about the bizarreness of a manga about a kid who can communicate with microbes, give it a look.  It's certainly pretty crazy.

Not Simple GN

Another interesting release from one of those more artsy manga creators, Nastume Ono, about a guy traveling across the world in search of his missing sister, told backwards as it is related by a reporter writing a book about the story.  Or something like that.  It's always good to see manga releases that are more in the "indie" genre rather than the usual shonen/shojo axis.  I'll have to try to get my hands on this one.

Pluto Urasawa x Tezuka Vol 7 TP

It's the second-to-last volume of Naoki Urasawa's Tezuka-interpretation tour de force, and I'm on the edge of my chair to see how it wraps up.  This is one of my favorite current comics, and as sad as I'll be to see it end, I can't wait to see how it does.

Real Vol 7 GN

I've gotten behind on this wheelchair basketball series from Takehiko Inoue, but I do want to catch up pretty badly; it's a damn good character piece, full of subtlety and emotion.  Seven volumes, so far; I've got some reading to do.

RIN-NE Vol 2 TP

The second installment of Rumiko Takahashi's current series, which I think is a hoot, even if some don't find it all that great.  Maybe that was due to the first volume, which focused mostly on introducing the concept and doing fairly simple one-off stories.  Since then, it's gone more toward multi-chapter arcs and fun, goofy adventures, some of which must be included here.  So, yes, I give it my recommendation, if that means anything.

Tezukas Black Jack TP Vol 09

Vertical is still pumping out the Tezuka awesomeness, with the continuing adventures of the rogue surgeon coming at a steady clip.  I need to get caught up on these too...

Vagabond Vizbig ED GN Vol 06
Vagabond Vol 31 TP

And to close out the weekly roundup, it's another great Takehiko Inoue series, in two different formats.  The VIZBIG version collects three regular volumes at a time, so this one would include book 16-18.  And there's also the latest collection of the series, which I believe is getting close to wrapping up, so there's probably some great excitement and dramatics in there.  Inoue is pretty great; I've gotta catch up on this one too, someday.

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So, yeah, that's the week.  Yup, comics.  Hey, maybe I can get some blogging done sometime too.  Yeah, we'll see how that goes.

This week, I've got nothin' (much)

Seriously, only a tiny bit of comics worth mentioning this week.  Which is good; I can keep trying to catch up on 2009.

New comics this week (Wednesday, 1/13/10):

Anchor #4

Phil Hester and Brian Churilla keep plugging (punching?) along with this supernatural action book, and I'm still digging it.  Check it out if you haven't already.

Daytripper #2

I was going to try to check out the first issue of this Fabio Moon/Gabriel Ba series, but my store sold out, so I didn't get it.  I do really want to read this, but I might just have to wait for the collection.  Oh, the agony of anticipation.

DMZ #49

Brian Wood, still doing his thing.  Wow, almost 50 issues already.  When's the next collection?

Ed Hannigan Covered One-Shot

Ed Hannigan was apparently the designer of many of Marvel's covers in the late 70s and early 80s, and now he's struggling with multiple sclerosis, so Marvel and the Hero Initiative are putting out this benefit comic that shows off a bunch of examples of his work and contains tributes to him by some of today's creators, with proceeds going to help him out.  Sounds like a good cause, and something that's definitely worth a look.

Invincible Iron Man #22

Matt Fraction continues doing his thing.  Tony still hasn't woken up; comas make for exciting comics, don't they?

Muppet Show ongoing #1

The first real issue of Roger Langridge's Muppet comic, the version that continues indefinitely rather than limiting itself to a miniseries format.  These have been pretty great, with really funny cartooning and a wonderful translation of the original show to comics.  I guess if you haven't been reading it, here's a chance to jump on.  So jump on already, everybody!

Nation X #2

Marvel's latest anthology miniseries thing that ties into whatever X-Men event is going on.  Usually, these aren't really worth mentioning, but this issue contains an eight-page Gambit story by Becky Cloonan, so it's at least notable.  Also, a Northstar story by Tim Fish, if that interests you.  Probably still not worth buying though.

Punishermax #3

Jason Aaron and Steve Dillon, still being violent.  The MAX version of the Kingpin is pretty mean.

Strange #3

Mark Waid and Emma Rios, continuing with whatever is going on with Dr. Strange.  I've liked the first couple issues.

Sword #3

Ditto for Kieron Gillen's outer space hijinx.  Enjoyable, but would be more so without the Dark Reign intrusions.  We'll see how long it lasts.

Weekly World News #1

IDW is putting out this odd comic that features various characters (Bat Boy! Space aliens!) from the now-cancelled weirdo newspaper that I always liked looking at as a kid when I was in supermarket checkout lines with my mom.  They've got a "comic" version and a "newspaper" version, which is black and white and printed on newsprint.  Maybe a fun and goofy thing to take a look at, who knows.

Agents of Atlas Turf Wars Prem HC

The second, and I think final, collection of the recently-cancelled series, which sees the team go up against the Hulk, meet Namor, and fight a rival organization in China.  Good stuff, with great writing by Jeff Parker and mostly-good art, especially whatever Gabriel Hardman drew.  I recommend it, if you missed it the first time around.

Calamity Jack

This is a sequel to the children's graphic novel Rapunzel's Revenge, featuring her boyfriend, who seems to be a version of Jack of Fables, or at least the character from "Jack and the Beanstalk".  The Rapunzel book is supposed to be pretty good, so I bet this one is too.  Maybe I'll check them both out someday.

Complete Torpedo Vol 1 HC

Ooh, here's something I want to read.  This week's most interesting entry in the Golden Age of Reprints collects a Spanish crime/gangster series that was written by Enrique Sanchez Abuli and illustrated by Alex Toth and Jordi Bernet.  From what I've heard, it features some pretty rough stuff, lots of sex and violence and nihilism.  I can't wait to check it out.

Human Target Chance Meetings TP

In connection with the TV series of the same name (which, from the commercials I've seen, doesn't really seem much like the comic), Vertigo is putting out reprints of Peter Milligan's run on the series, which is pretty good.  From what I can tell, I think this includes the original four-issue miniseries illustrated by Edvin Biukovic, and the Final Cut one-shot drawn by Javier Pulido.  Good stuff, from what I remember, although I don't know if I've read all of it.  I guess this is my chance to catch up...

Little Adventures In Oz Book 1 TP

IDW also has this collection of some of Eric Shanower's adaptations of the various Oz books by L. Frank Baum.  Shanower is pretty good; maybe I should check some of these out at some point, along with the Marvel adaptation's he's doing with Skottie Young.  He's a veritable Oz factory.

Lola: A Ghost Story HC

Oni has this graphic novel by J. Torres and Elbert Orr, about a kid who can see ghosts and must confront his fears of them or something.  It looks kind of cute and cartoony; maybe it's a kiddie sort of thing, or maybe it's not.  I'd take a look either way.

No Hero TP

Avatar collects this miniseries by Warren Ellis and Juan Jose Ryp, about people becoming superheroes and sacrificing their humanity, basically turning into monsters.  At least, I think that's what it's about.  I do like most of Ellis' work for Avatar, including his last project with Ryp, Black Summer, so I'll probably end up getting it. Don't let me down, Ellis!

Runaways Escape To New York Prem HC

I think this is the second collection from the second volume of this series, and it's quite good, from what I remember.  Fun storytelling and character work from Brian K. Vaughan, and nice art by Adrian Alphona and Takeshi Miyazawa.  Read it, if you haven't already, says I.

Nana Vol 20 TP

Aw, crap, I'm way behind on this.  One of these months, I'm going to have to do a manga catchup binge, and just power through all the volumes of various series I've got sitting in various piles around my house.  That should be fun.

Natsumes Book Of Friends Vol 1 TP

Not that I need to add more to my list of series to get behind on, but I've heard that this is a pretty good series, about a boy who can see various spirits and supernatural creatures, and goes on some sort of quest involving his grandmother, who had the same abilities.  I might have to check it out.

Sand Chronicles Vol 7 GN

And here's one more series that I like, hopefully containing previously unread (by me) material in this volume.  It's good stuff, full of girly drama that I enjoy for some reason, and I've missed out on reading it.  I'll get back into it, yes I will.

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That's everything?  Probably!  More stuff coming this week, and maybe I'll get closer to my best of 2009 post.  Maybe!

This week, I get shorter

New job, busy holidays, being sick, that means I'll try to be brief this time around.  We'll see if that sticks.

Still got some links though: Jordan Crane, Sammy Harkham, and Ted May have launched an online comics site, What Things Do, which is pretty awesome; I'm especially excited to read as much of Crane's work as I can, but it will also be good to check out the other guys' stuff as well.  The internet is truly a place of riches.

And here's some good news: Dan Hipp is going to be posting all three volumes of his series Gyakushu! online, which means we'll finally get to read the third one and find out how it all ends.  I love this series, so I'm stoked to get to finish it.  The blog where the comics will be posted doesn't appear to be up yet (edit: it goes live on 1/11), but Hipp talks about it here, along with some updates on other stuff he's been doing.  Exciting!

New comics this week (Wednesday, 1/6/10):


Daffodil #1

The latest in Marvel's line of imported French comics, this one has to do with vampires taking over a town and some agents of a Vampire Parliament trying to stop them and their leader, Nosferatu.  Hey, it's vampires, those are hot right now, right?  This looks like the cartoony, somewhat furry style of recent Soleil efforts, which might or might not render it readable.  Maybe worth a look?

King City #4

Brandon Graham keeps on rockin' it.  I'm digging this series, and I can't wait for the new material to kick in.  I'll take the little extras and whatnot while I can though.

Marvel Boy The Uranian #1

Your Jeff Parker comic of the week; there's always gotta be at least one.  It's kind of odd that Agents of Atlas was cancelled, but all these spin-off comics are still coming out; this one is an origin of the title character, who can't make up his mind what to be called.  It's okay so far, with some interesting art by Felix Ruiz and a couple backups reprinting some of his earliest appearances.  We'll see how it goes.  I'll have a more extensive review up tomorrow at Comics Bulletin.

Orc Stain #1

Ooh, here's a cool one.  A new series from Image by James Stokoe (Wonton Soup), with lots of violent fantasy battling and whatnot.  I dig Stokoe's style, and while I'm not necessarily the best audience for the recent trend of RPG-influenced comics (Lower Regions, Prison Pit, etc.), I can definitely enjoy them when done by the right artist.  Let's hope this is one of the ones I can get behind. Here's an interview/profile/preview.

Stumptown #2

Greg Rucka's Portland-based private eye series continues.  I've heard good things about the first issue, even if I haven't read it, so maybe I'll try to take a look at this one.

Wasteland #27

The coolest post-apocalypse book on the stands keeps going.  If I remember right, this arc is following the goings-on in Newbegin?  It'll look nice; that's my prediction.

Bringing Up Father Vol 1 From Sea To Shining Sea HC

Here's the golden age of reprints book of the week, from IDW, collecting a bunch of the classic newspaper strip by George McManus.  I bet it's good readin'.

Chill HC

The latest entry in the Vertigo Crime line, by Jason Starr and Mick Bertilorenzi, about a serial killer in New York City and an (immortal?) Irish cop who might hold the key to tracking her down.  I still haven't read any of these, but there are several I'm interested in.  This one sounds like it could be good (since plot descriptions are such great indicators of quality), but I know nothing about the creators.  Looks like one to grab from the library...

Invincible Iron Man Prem HC Vol 03 World's Most Wanted Book 2

It's the back half of Matt Fraction's long tear-it-down arc on Tony Stark, and while the Dark Reign tie-in business might get tiresome, there's some good stuff in here, like Madam Masque's craziness when confronting Tony, or Tony's crumbling mental abilities, which Fraction makes truly tragic.  If you've gotta read a Marvel comic, this is one of the ones I would urge you to consider (after exhorting you to search for quality elsewhere, of course).

Kazu Kibuishi's Copper GN

Kibuishi's long-running webcomic gets a print collection, which will certainly look nice, although, as I always mention with this sort of thing, it can be read for free online.  I've checked out this series here and there, and while it certainly looks gorgeous, it's never grabbed me.  It reminds me of those Calvin & Hobbes strips where the characters would talk philosophy while sledding down a hill or walking through the woods or something, which were never my favorites of that strip.  Still, good for Kabuishi.  Now I just need to read the second volume of Amulet...

Missile Mouse GN Vol 1 Star Crusher

And here's another kid-targeted comic, spinning out of the Flight Explorer volume that came out a year or two ago.  It looks cool, following a space-faring mouse who has sci-fi adventures, with some invitingly cartoony artwork by creator Jake Parker.  Comics are for everybody!

Muppet Show Treasure Of Peg Leg Wilson TPB

The second collection of Roger Langridge's Muppet comics, which I still haven't read, but need to, because what I've seen of the series is excellent and hilarious.  The main plot on this one involves hidden treasure within the theater, which sounds like a classic gag situation.  I bet Langridge makes it sing.  Read this, everybody!

Unwritten Vol 1 Tommy Taylor Bogus Identity TPB

And here's the latest Vertigo collection, although word has it that it's a case of a story arc "ending" by simply marking a point at which several issues can be gathered together into a volume rather than providing a stopping point.  I'm interested in this series, having liked the first issue, so we'll see if I ever get around to reading more of it.  It's supposed to be decent, right?  Right?

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That appears to be the extent of comics which I feel worthy of mentioning this week, which either means it's a light week or I'm just keeping it shorter these days.  We'll see if I can get more posting done; I have plenty of things to write about, but a shortage of time and energy to do so.  And I do need to get to a "best of 2009" list, but I've got several more books to read first.  Soon?  Hopefully?

This week, I'm early on the resolutions

I'm considering revamping what I do with these weekly preview posts, although that might be a strong word to use.  I feel like they're getting kind of long, with too much "Maybe I'll read this someday" commentary, so I'm going to try to only mention the stuff that I plan to buy or find especially notable.  Or if I think of a funny joke about something; I can rarely pass those up.  We'll see how it goes.

New comics this week (Wednesday, 12/23/09):

Beasts of Burden #4

Is it here already?  This is the end of the excellent miniseries by Evan Dorkin and Jill Thompson, although I'm fervently hoping that it's not the last we'll see of the characters.  The series has seemed to be leading to bigger, scarier plots, but they're waiting ominously in the future rather than actually playing out yet.  From what I've heard, sales haven't been especially good, but hopefully the eventual collection will reverse that trend.  If you haven't been reading this, do so!  It is really, really good.

Chew #7

Having recently read (and written about) the first collection of this series, I've become a fan; it's fun, unique, and bizarre, and what I found notable is that each issue of the first five stood alone as its own story but fitting into a larger narrative, while still explaining its concept without expository.  One could conceivably pick up any installment and not feel left behind; if you haven't tried it out, I recommend grabbing an issue and giving it a read; it's easy to see why it's been a hit.

Chimichanga #1

Eric Powell!  He seems to be taking a break from The Goon for a little bit in order to do this miniseries, which he is self-publishing through his Albatross Exploding Funny Books label.  I think it's about some circus sideshow freaks, including the mustachoied little girl of the title.  I bet it will be raucous, goofy fun, and feature some really nice art.  Don't let me down, Powell!

Criminal: The Sinners #3

This series has been consistently good throughout its history, and this latest story is no exception.  Ed Brubaker is laying out the mystery methodically, but as always, I expect it will really start moving and the shit will hit the fan in later installments.  Pacing!  Gotta love it.

Crossed #8

I think this is the final issue in Garth Ennis and Jacen Burrows' zombie-ish series, which, from what I hear has been pretty goddamn depraved.  I might check it out at some point, if I feel especially misanthropic.

Garth Ennis Battlefields Happy Valley #1

And speaking of Ennis, here's the latest miniseries in his line of war comics for Dynamite.  All of the previous stories have been quite good, so I expect this will be no different.  Art here is provided by PJ Holden, and the story involves an Australian commander leading a crew of Englishmen in a bombing squadron over 1942 Germany.  I expect many amusing accents.

Hellboy Bride of Hell One-Shot

The latest in Dark Horse's "single issue story" initiative, it's another Hellboy story written by Mike Mignola with art by Richard Corben.  I've dug their previous collaborations on the character, so I expect this will also be good.  Yea, verily, it shall rock.  Here's a four-page preview.

Last Days of American Crime #1

Rick Remender is writing this miniseries from Radical, with art by Greg Tocchini, and it seems like it might be interesting.  It involves a sort of sci-fi concept in which the US government is going to broadcast a signal that will inhibit anybody from committing crimes (which doesn't necessarily make sense without some explanation, but it might work as a storytelling conceit), but some guys got wind of it and are planning to carry out a heist just before the broadcast goes into effect.  Judging by the preview art, it looks to be a pretty nihilistic affair, full of sex and violence.  Could be a decent crime book; we'll see.

Punisher #12

Part two of the "Franken-Castle" storyline, by Remender again, with some really nice art by Tony Moore.  I only mention this because I should have a review up at Comics Bulletin tomorrow.  Find out whether I like it then!

Agents of Atlas Dark Reign TPB

The subtitle here might be a dissuading factor for some, if you're not interested in the tiresome over-plot that's been running at Marvel for the last year, but if you like Jeff Parker, I would still give this one a recommendation.  He does have his characters deal with Norman Osborn and company, along with the Avengers ("New" version), but he uses them well, and he's still advancing his own plots and telling good, fun, action-packed stories.  The art varies, but whenever Gabriel Hardman takes over, it looks great.  This collection also includes some short stories from various event tie-ins, and the issue of Marvel Adventures Avengers in which the Agents guest-starred.  Good times, at least in terms of mainstream Marvel superhero comics.

Alec The Years Have Pants Life Size Omnibus

Ah, finally!  The huge (640 pages!) collection of Eddie Campbell's autobiographical comics finally comes out, just in time to fit onto lists of the best comics of 2009 (and also the decade, natch).  Thanks, Eddie, like I wasn't already far enough behind.  I'm really looking forward to diving into this one, since I love his work.  It puts the various books in chronological order, includes some stuff that was either never printed or was previously only available in hard-to-find places, and features a new story that sort of brings things up to date.  So: awesome.  I expect greatness: don't let me down, Eddie!  Here, have a preview.

Atomic Robo Vol 3 TPB

Ah, I do love me some Atomic Robo.  This third volume of the series began with a story in which the character fought a giant supernatural creature that emerged from H.P. Lovecraft's head (literally), but who knows where it went from there, since I didn't read the later issues.  I may just have to just buy this to remedy that.  Also available this week: a new printing of the first volume, which I highly recommend if you haven't read the series yet.  It's full of funny dialogue and rousing action that spans the 20th century; don't miss out.

Dark Reign Sinister Spider-Man TPB

Another example of halfway-decent comics that tie in to Marvel's big, tiresome event.  This one follows Venom as he eats people, antagonizes J. Jonah Jameson, and starts a gang war.  Mostly lighthearted, at least as far as violent nihilism goes.  Chris Bachalo does some of the art, but not all of it; even so, it looks pretty nice.  I don't know if I would really recommend it, but if you want to sample some of the better stuff from Marvel these days, this is one to consider.

Fantastic Four TP Master of Doom

This is the end of the much-vaunted Mark Millar/Bryan Hitch run on the FF, and it kind of finished with a whimper, with neither creator fully involved in the final issue.  I wouldn't actually call it good, but it does feature some interesting ideas, and Hitch delivers some pretty nice imagery.  Worth a look for the curious, but don't expect to get a great value for your money.

Footnotes in Gaza HC

The other major release that's squeaking in under the wire at the end of the year, this is the new book by Joe Sacco, sure to be another great example of his journalistic comics.  This one looks at the the past 50 years of war and violence town of Rafah in the Gaza Strip.  Sure to be on a lot of lists of the best comics of the year, since Sacco is really fucking good at what he does.  I know I'll be reading it as soon as I can.

The Mighty Vol 1 TPB

So, this series from DC (which isn't part of the "DC Universe", or Wildstorm, or Vertigo, but stands on its own) is rumored to be pretty good, but maybe that's just grading on the curve compared to Outsiders and Titans.  I think it follows a superhero who is mostly a tool of the government/corporations, and maybe he's also somewhat mentally disabled or something?  Whatever the case, it's destined to only be a twelve-issue series, since it has been cancelled, meaning that this is the first half of the story.  I'll have to pay attention to reviews and whatnot to see if it's something worth seeking out.

The More Than Complete Action Philosophers TP

I certainly enjoyed this series quite a bit when it was being serialized; it was a funny, educational look at various figures throughout history, with Fred Van Lente explaining their writings in engaging, hilarious manner and some great cartooning by Ryan Dunlavey.  This book collects the entire series in one big volume, rearranging them into chronological order so you can see the development of philosophy through the ages.  Great stuff; I highly recommend it.

Olympus TP Vol 01

I'm not sure if this is an ongoing series or a miniseries, but here's the first collection, and I haven't heard much about whether the issues included were any good or not.  It certainly looked interesting, with some strikingly bright-colored art, and while the story didn't seem all that unique, it could have been decent, something about gods passing as mortals and fighting each other.  I guess I'm asking if anybody read it and if it's worth checking out.  Well?

Runaways True Believers Prem HC

I haven't been able to keep track of the various hardcover and softcover reprints that Marvel has been doing on this series, but here's the latest release (reprint?), if you're interested.  It includes the first story of the second volume, in which the team started fighting crime on their own in LA and ended up going against another team that consisted of former kid heroes who were in a support group to quit superheroing.  Enjoyable stuff that's worth reading if you haven't already.  I'd wait for a cheaper paperback version though, if I were you.

Sublife GN Vol 02

Fantagraphics has this latest short story collection from John Pham, with some stories following characters introduced in the first volume and others standing alone.  Looks like some interesting stuff here, some sci-fi, some post-apocalypse, and some modern urban street-level life.  I bet it's good reading, although I still need to check out the first one.  Fanta has the usual slideshow/preview.

The Unclothed Man in the 35th Century AD HC

Fantagraphics also has this latest book from Dash Shaw, which ties into (that is, contains storyboards, character designs, and scripts for) the series of short animated films he recently did for IFC.com (which you can watch here) and includes various other short pieces that ran in MOME.  That's a kind of odd combination; myself, I'm much more interested in the latter than the former.  Shaw is a hell of a talent though, full of ideas and energy; a chance to catch up on those stories that I missed by not reading MOME is one that I'll try to take.  Here: slideshow/preview.

Winterworld HC

Finally, here's a book that collects a comic I previously was not aware of: a three-issue miniseries by Chuck Dixon and Jorge Zaffino that was published by Eclipse in 1987.  It appears to be a post-apocalyptic story set in a new ice age, and this volume also includes a new sequel called "Wintersea".  For anybody who read this when it originally came out (or at some point in the twenty years since then), how is it?  Any good?  Should I try to give it a read?  Not that I want to add to my stack of book to read or anything...

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And that appears to be the week, and also the year, at least in terms of stuff that Diamond is shipping to comics shops.  I've still got a bunch to read before I can attempt to formulate a Best of 2009 list, but I'm looking forward to doing so, since list-making is one of those activities that is compulsory during this season.  Also, I'll do more writing, since that is also expected of me.  Yes.

This week, only Jim Rugg excites me at all

Link: Kurutta has another Taiyo Matsumoto short up, called "Universe". Nice.

New comics this week (Wednesday, 12/16/09):

Astonishing X-Men #33

I'm not sure what's going on in the current arc of Warren Ellis' corner of X-land, but I think it has something to do with the Brood and sentinels made of meat. Or something? Weird shit, kinda gross, but possibly actually interesting, which is a standard the X-line often fails to meet. Whee!

Authority The Lost Year #4

Hey, how is this going? Keith Giffen and company continue Grant Morrison's run, and it probably continues to fail to impress. Wake me up when it's over.

Captain America Reborn #5

I guess this is late, which probably can go without saying when Bryan Hitch is doing the art on a comic. But however Captain America gets reborn, he's already showing up in other comics, so there's not a whole lot of tension as to whether the Red Skull is actually going to take over his body and do evil Nazi stuff with it. Enjoy, detail fetishists!

Champion One Shot

What's with the meme lately of superheroes getting sick of helping everybody and turning evil? You've got Boom!'s Irredeemable, and The Boys sort of hits on the theme, and now this one from Arcana Studios. Maybe it's a sign that people are sick of superheroes, which would sure be nice, since I know I am, and I require the rest of the world to fall in line with my tastes. Anyway, this comic looks to fall into that subgenre, and who knows? Maybe it won't suck.

Complete Alice in Wonderland #1

Leah Moore and John Reppion seem to be establishing a cottage industry of adapting classics to comics, what with Dracula, Sherlock Holmes, and now this, which purports to be the first time that Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, Through the Looking-Glass, and a "lost chapter" called "The Wasp in a Wig" are all adapted into one complete story. And they're going to manage to do that all in four issues, somehow. Enjoy, classic literature lovers who don't want to read the actual books!

Ex Machina #47

Almost to the end; how will Mayor Hundred meet his unfortunate downfall (which we know is coming ever since the first issue)? Hopefully it's not a Spitzer-style sex scandal, but you never know. I need to read that most recent collection...

Fables #91

The magical fairy tale stuff keeps on coming. New collection, please.

Forgetless #1

This is a new (mini-?)series from Image, about some girls at a nightclub who are assassins trying to kill some guy, or something like that. It seems like it might be interesting, and kind of stylish, with pseudo-manga art and nice colors. Maybe worth a look? Here's an interview with a few pages of preview art.

Godland #30

Edging closer to the finale. I'll miss it when it's gone; hey, how about another collection sometime soon?

Incorruptible #1

Speaking of Irredeemable (which I did, above), is it really time for a spinoff already? Mark Waid and Boom! seem to think so, with this new series that takes place in the same universe and features an opposite narrative arc: villain decides to become a hero. That's even less original than the main story; maybe Waid has a plan to do something interesting (which he's kind of doing with the other book, even if he's not setting the shelves on fire with awesomeness or anything), but it all seems kind of unnecessary to me. Not that any of what I talk about is ever really necessary...

Next Issue Project #2: Silver Streak Comics #24

Wow, this took its sweet time coming out, didn't it? This "Next Issue Project" seemed like a cool idea when it was announced, what, two years ago or so? But then after the first issue showed up, nothing, and considering the talent involved with this second issue, maybe most of the players lost interest. While the first installment featured creators like Ashley Wood, Mike Allred, and Jim Rugg, this one has Erik Larsen and Paul Grist as the "name" talent, along with Steve Horton, Alan Weiss, and Michael T. Gilbert, whoever they are. And while the whole idea is kind of fun, considering the only so-so results last time around, I think I can safely skip this one. Here's a preview, if you're still interested.

Nomad Girl Without a World #4

Sean McKeever is still telling tales of teenaged angst and mind control, sort of tying into Captain America and Marvel comics in general. Not terrible so far; yet another great recommendation from yours truly!

Spider-Man 1602 #3

Backhanded recommendation number two: as lame as the whole "Elizabethan Marvel Universe" idea is, Jeff Parker does his best to make it enjoyable. Maybe there will be some swashbuckling or something in here, to satisfy people who must have Spider-Man in every type of story they read.

Ultimate Comics Armor Wars #3

Warren Ellis keeps going with the robots fighting each other all over the world; it's pretty good stuff, full of cool technological ideas and nice action. If Ellis has to write superhero comics, this is probably the ideal way to do so.

Underground #4

Jeff Parker and Steve Lieber keep plunging their characters deeper and deeper into trouble (ha ha, get it?); this series has been very good, with the rock-climbing knife fight of last issue being very intense. See, this is what Parker should be doing, not wasting his creativity doing lame Marvel superhero nonsense. I'm sure he'll drop the good-paying gigs for more work like this now, because I requested it.

Art Of Ditko HC

Ditko is really hot right now, isn't he? IDW has this big hardcover collection of some of his lesser-known comics and art, edited by Craig Yoe and featuring essays from the likes of P. Craig Russell and John Romita, Sr. Looks like a good coffee table book, and hopefully quite illuminating on the man himself and his work. I really need to read more Ditko, so maybe I'll look for this someday.

Best Of Battle TP

Titan Books has this collection of a bunch of classic British war comics, featuring some titles and characters that sound pretty awesome, like D-Day Dawson, the Bootneck Boy, Major Eazy, Hold Hill 109, Darkie's Mob, Panzer G-Man, Joe Two Beans, Hellmann of Hammer Force, Fighting Mann, and Death Squad. Those names alone are good reading; I'd love to check this out. Also included is Charley's War, which I've heard is a great series from writer Pat Mills. Yep, another one of those reprints that would be good to have. Someday? Someday.

Black Jesus GN

This graphic novel from Arcana Studios is apparently based on an upcoming movie about a kid with special powers that gets hailed as a Messiah or something. Huh. That's about all I can tell about what it's about; maybe it's interesting? Here's a short preview, and you can also watch a trailer on Arcana's site which contains live-action footage that might or might not be from the movie. Yes, this exists; I don't know if I have anything else to say about it.

Boys HC LTD ED Vol 03 Good for the Soul
Boys HC LTD ED Vol 04 We Gotta Go Now

If you want to spend more money, here are the more expensive versions of these volumes of the series. I'm fine with softcovers, but some people apparently have to have those limited editions of their satirical superhero decadence.

Complete Little Orphan Annie HC Vol 4

I still haven't read any of this series, but I always hear it's good. Maybe I'll get to it someday. Here's another volume to add to the pile.

Connie Vol 1 Captives Of The Space Pirates TP

Connie Vol 2 Battle For Titan TP

I had never heard of this, but it's apparently a sci-fi newspaper comic strip from 1939 by Harold and Frank Godwin, following a sexy lady adventurer (you can see a couple example strips on Wikipedia). Two complete stories in each volume; probably some interesting reading. Your golden age of reprints continues!

Crypt Of Horror #7

I guess this is an ongoing series of reprints of classic horror comics? I don't know if I've ever heard of it before, but publisher AC Comics appears to have a bunch of stuff along these lines. This one is a thick collection, with work by Jack Kirby, Dick Ayers, Bob Powell, and others. Neat?

Dead Run Vol 1 TP

Did anybody read this post-apocalyptic/zombie series from Boom!? I didn't. Is it any good? If I do end up checking it out, I guess I'll let you know. Somebody has to, right?

Drawing Down the Moon Art of Charles Vess HC

Dark Horse has this artbook about the fantasy illustrator who has worked on a bunch of good stuff, like Sandman and the Bone prequel Rose. I bet it's pretty. Not really something that I can afford, but I would pick it up and look at the pictures if I saw it on a shelf.

Engineer HC

I'm not sure if this is a collection of the previous issues of this series that came out or something new, but it garners some interest for featuring the work of Brian Churilla, who has gone on to do comics like We Kill Monsters and The Anchor. He's got a cool style, and the concept of this book, about a guy who fights other-dimensional monsters who eat spacetime with his cosmic pipe organ, is pretty awesome. This hardcover is only 10 dollars, so I'll probably buy it if I see it.

Gahan Wilson 50 Years Of Playboy Cartoons HC

Just what the title says. Here's the usual Fantagraphics slideshow/preview, if you need more info.

Giant Monster HC

I think AiT/PlanetLar originally published this Steve Niles/Nat Jones series/GN, but Boom! has it now, and I think this is their second edition. I still haven't read the thing, but it looked enjoyable enough, so maybe I'll finally give it a look.

Gravel Vol 02 The Major Seven

Warren Ellis and Mike Wolfer are still plugging away at this series about their long-running William Gravel character, and I have yet to read any of this iteration of his adventures (which are apparently less strange than they used to be). Maybe I'll get to it someday, but I'll probably start with the first volume rather than this one.

Life And Times Of Savior 28 TP

Hey, here's another example of the "superhero turns bad" genre I was talking about up top. Maybe he doesn't go evil, but he suffers a disgrace or something, right? Or maybe I'm wrong; I haven't read it. I suppose I could give it a try someday, if only because I like the talent involved, J.M. DeMatteis and Mike Cavallaro. But I'm less and less interested in superheroes these days, so I would appreciate somebody who actually read it telling me what they thought. Is that too much to ask?

Nightmare World Vol 1 Thirteen Tales Of Terror TP

This is apparently a webcomic, along the lines of The Twilight Zone or Tales from the Crypt, written by Dirk Manning and illustrated by various artists.. This volume would be the first print collection, although as I always say when it comes to webcomics, you can read it for free online. I don't know if it's any good, but there you go.

One Model Nation GN

New Jim Rugg! He's an illustrator I'm always excited to see new comics from, and this new graphic novel, written by Courtney Taylor of The Dandy Warhols, looks pretty interesting, about a musical/political revolution in 1977 Germany. Cool. Here's an interview/preview, to whet the appetite.

Punisher Frank Castle Max Welcome To The Bayou TPB

Up until the current Jason Aaron/Steve Dillon series, I haven't followed much of the Punisher MAX comic after Garth Ennis' departure, but I think this story might be the best-regarded of the lackluster bunch, having to do with redneck cannibal types in Louisiana, or something like that. I bet having Goran Parlov on art helps. Maybe it's worth reading, maybe not. Or maybe I should get around to reading that Ennis run already...

Rocketeer Complete Collection HC Vol 1

I don't know if this counts as Golden Age of Reprints material, but IDW is collecting Dave Stevens' comic, with new coloring by Laura Martin. Maybe I'll finally get around to reading it now. Or maybe not; whatever, man.

Secret Warriors Vol 1 Nick Fury Agent Of Nothing TPB

I've read some of this Jonathan Hickman-written series here and there, and it's all right, I guess, but not really anything exceptional. Fairly standard Nick Fury spy stuff, with attempts at conspiracy and "everything you know is wrong". I was hoping Hickman would bring some cool, crazy ideas to Marvel, but he seems to just be doing standard superhero stuff. Now I'm hoping he gets back to his creator-owned work as soon as possible.

Thor Ages of Thunder TPB

This Matt Fraction-written series of comics were pretty good, retelling some of the classic mythology surrounding Thor and acting as a kind of origin for his Marvel adventures. Decent stuff, pretty good art, not terrible. There I go again with the backhanded recommendations. Enjoy, people who can't bear to read anything not published by Marvel or DC!

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And with that note of derision, we finish the look at another week. Let's see if I manage to get some writing done this time around...

This week, the manga will crush us all

Obnoxious satisfaction dept.: I was hoping if I whined enough, people would finally respond to my call for contest entries, so I was excited to get the following image from Mr. Tim Callahan:

Hell yeah! Steve McQueen! It was all worth it just for that.

Links: The latest Myspace Dark Horse Presents is up, and the highlight this month is "Duke Armstrong, the World's Mightiest Golfer", by Jim Rugg and Brian Maruca. It's awesome. There's also a cute two-pager by Damon Gentry and Aaron Conley (of Invade My Privacy), and a well-illustrated, if fairly dumb, horror thing by Cody Goodfellow and Jeff Wamester. Check them out, says I.

Kurutta, a blog which often highlights strange Japanese ephemera, posted two really cool Taiyo Matsumoto short comics (in color!) last week, "Off TV" and "Moment". They're pretty great; now I really can't wait to read GoGo Monster.

New comics this week (Wednesday, 12/9/09):

Amber Hagerman Deserves Justice A Night Owl Story One Shot

What better way to kick off the usually snide and jokey weekly round-up than with a self-published comic written by a 14-year-old about the murder of the 9-year-old girl who inspired the AMBER Alert system? You can't criticize something like that! This sort of thing is not usually an indicator of high quality, but you never know, and at the very least, it means well. You can learn more about it here.

Anchor #3

Okay, this is more like it. Badass monster-punching, demon-scheming, and amnesia-fighting, with some nice art and plenty of weird and interesting shit. I've been digging this thing, so give it a look if you haven't already.

Anywhere #1

And now comes the snark. This one is an ostensible comedy, even written by a Comedy Central producer (which could mean anything from The Daily Show to Li'l Bush), about two slacker guys who have the power to go anywhere they want, but "are more interested in unlocking the nude code in Tomb Raider than saving the day". Ooh, topical! What other references straight out of 1997 will be included? Maybe they'll kidnap Leonardo Dicaprio from the premiere of Titanic! Or dance to the song "Barbie Girl"! Yeah, this is most likely pretty awful; if you want to know more, here's an interview with some art samples.

Citizen Rex #6

Gilbert (and Mario) Hernandez's latest series finishes, just in time for me not to read it before compiling a "best of 2009" list. I'm looking forward to getting the collection though, so hopefully it won't take too long to come out.

Days Missing #5

I've found this series about some powerful alien dude with the ability to alter time and space sporadically interesting, but ultimately not all that good. However, this issue, which I believe is the final one of the miniseries, sees the return of the first issue's creative team, Phil Hester and Frazier Irving, and it seems like they might end up revealing some secrets or something, so maybe it will wrap things up satisfyingly? Considering the nature of the comic, it probably won't be either creator's best work, but it might be worth a read. Yes, I'm as backhanded as ever with my recommendations.

Daytripper #1

Ooh, here's a really good-looking release. This new Vertigo series (or miniseries, rather, scheduled for ten issues) by Fabio Moon and Gabriel Ba looks gorgeous and fascinating. I love pretty much everything those guys have done, and they just keep getting better. This appears to be about a writer living in their home city of São Paulo, Brazil, although there are probably going to be magical-realist touches and whatnot; I'm trying not to learn too much about it before reading. I'm sort of planning to wait for the collection, but I might not be able to; I expect I'll at least pick up the first issue. Anyway, here's a preview.

DCU Holiday Special 2009 #1

I really don't plan to buy or read this, since these things are generally pretty awful with maybe one or two decent stories among several, but this one is at least worth mentioning because Jeff Lemire has a story in it. I doubt his style will go over very well with regular superhero fans, but you never know, maybe it will spark a revolution in mainstream artistic technique, and soon he'll be illustrating Wonder Woman or something. We can all hope.

Deathlok #2

Some people seemed to like the first issue of this weird-ass series, but I found it just bizarre and mostly incomprehensible. I guess the idea of corporations in the future fighting wars that are televised and treated like sports is kind of funny and satirical, but I found it just sort of ugly and gross. Maybe I'll like the second issue better? I'd recommend un-bleeping the naughty words though; we all know what they're saying.

DMZ #48

Your Brian Wood for the week, with more from the New York war zone. Now this is satire I can get behind, if you can call it that. I'm waiting for the next collection, as always.

God Complex #1

Here's the latest series from Michael Avon Oeming, co-written by Daniel Berman and illustrated by John Broglia, about Apollo wanting to be a human and having to fight the other gods to do so. This seems to be a popular sort of comics plot lately, doesn't it; maybe mythology is in right now for some reason. Anyway, here's an interview/preview, if you want to see what it looks like (which is Broglia imitating Oeming, apparently).

Groo Hogs of Horder #2

Groo! I always get excited about him. It's the second part of the latest miniseries, as our mendicant "hero" continues to deal with analogues for the financial crisis. Don't tell me nobody's going to be able to afford cheese dip anymore!

Incarnate #3

It's the final issue (for now?) of Nick Simmons' manga-ish vampire/monster/whatever series. This thing took a surprising turn in the second installment, morphing into a sort of school comedy or something, although it did contain plenty of action and violence. What a weird comic. I'll try to do a sort of wrap-up of the series if I end up getting a review copy.

Invincible Iron Man #21

Tony Stark continues to have coma-tastic adventures, which always makes for excitement. Actually, I don't know what's going on in this issue, but Matt Fraction has definitely brought the series in an interesting direction. Hopefully it will be good; he's managed to build up some good will after the last arc.

Muppet Show Vol 2 #0

Roger Langridge's Muppet comic is dispatching with the "series of miniseries" format and becoming a monthly ongoing, starting with this issue, which, in a surprising and hopefully temporary turn, is only written by Langridge, and illustrated by Shelli Paroline. I'm sure it will still be funny, but hopefully Langridge will be back on art duties soon. The story involves the making of a "Pigs in Space" movie. Fun?

Punishermax #2

Jason Aaron and Steve Dillon keep their awkwardly-titled run going, doing more stuff with the MAX versions of Kingpin and Bullseye, one expects. Probably enjoyable, and as good as we're likely to get without Garth Ennis.

Spider-Man and the Secret Wars #1

I have no idea what's going on with Spider-Man lately, but Marvel seems to be intent on retelling various stories from his past for some reason, possibly for the purpose of ironing out continuity issues caused by deals with the devil. Only in comics do we get stuff like this, where somebody has to write a story for the sole purpose of explaining what happened in a past story after later writers changed that story in order to make their later story make sense. Why should anybody care about this? It's completely ridiculous. It's written by Paul Tobin, who might be able to make it interesting and make some sort of sense, but really, he should be ashamed that he even has to bother, as should anybody who reads the damn thing. There's plenty of fiction and entertainment out there that isn't just different versions of things you've already read. Expand your horizons, people!

SWORD #2

I enjoyed the first issue of this series about the guys who defend the Earth against aliens, so hopefully this one will also be good. Find out more tomorrow, when I write about it for Comics Bulletin. Don't let me down, Kieron Gillen!

Wolverine Under the Boardwalk

I guess Wolverine isn't content to do his normal thing (at which he is the best, although said thing is purported to not be pleasant), so now he's crooning old pop songs about making love while people are walking above. Stuart Moore and Tomm Coker tell us all about it; way to bring the romance back into Marvel comics, guys!

3-2-3 Detective Agency in The Disappearance of Dave Warthog TP

Well, this certainly seems like a cute bit of kids' comics, about a bunch of animals who all meet on a train and form a team of detectives. That'll cleanse your palate after the inevitable blood and violence of Wolverine massacreing a bunch of Atlantic City vacationers. You can see some samples of the art here, along with a description of the cover design process. Cute?

Batman The Cult TPB New Printing

I've never read this Jim Starlin/Berni Wrightson story, but from what I've heard, it's pretty damn crazy, about Batman fighting a crazy religious leader who organized an army of Gotham City's homeless. I'll have to check it out if I get the chance.

Boys Definitive ED HC VOL 2 W/Slipcover

For those who have lots of money, here's the second half of the fancy presentation of most of the series to date, taking you up to issue #30 with extras and whatnot. If you can afford it, I won't try to dissuade you, but think of all the other good Garth Ennis comics that could be bought with that money. Also, the children, why doesn't anyone ever think of them?

Crossing the Empty Quarter & Other Stories HC

Dark Horse is publishing this collection of various short comics stories by Carol Swain, including two brand-new ones. I don't know that I've ever read anything of hers, but this looks quite nice; it might be one to check out. You can see a short preview here, and a longer one in "flip book" format here.

Dark Reign Underside TPB

I really dug the Joe Casey/Nathan Fox Dark Reign: Zodiac miniseries that came out earlier this year; it actually did something interesting with the concept, and was full of crazy energy, shocking violence, and awesome art. If you missed out on the single issues, here's the collected format, but unfortunately you have to pay for Dark Reign: Mr. Negative and Dark Reign: Lethal Legion as well. Those might not be bad (I didn't read them), but considering the general level of quality at Marvel these days, I wouldn't expect too much. Still, that Casey/Fox joint was pretty fucking awesome, so maybe it'll lift the others up to the level of "tolerable" simply through proximity.

Ex Machina Vol 8 Dirty Tricks TPB

My must-buy trade collection of the week, containing the most recent storyline and a Halloween special. I think this is the one where Brian K. Vaughan and Tony Harris make an in-story appearance as comics biographers of Mitchell Hundred? That's cool. This series has kind of lost its luster for me now that I'm not reading it each month (or whenever it comes out), but I'm still looking forward to catching up, and I hope it all ends well. Don't let me down, BKV!

Kindling James Jean Poster Book

Twelve 12" x 16" posters for 30 bucks, so if you want to festoon your walls with some gorgeous work, here you go. See samples here. I sure do like me some James Jean.

Love Buzz GN

A new graphic novel from Oni Press, written by Len Wallace and illustrated by Michelle Silva and Dave Tuney. It's apparently about a couple's relationship struggles, which get turned into fodder for the comics that one of them makes. When it comes to romance-type stories, I do prefer ones that are about a couple learning to live with each other rather than a will-they-or-won't-they retread about falling in love. This one might be worth a look. You can read a 22-page preview here.

MMW Golden Age Sub-Mariner HC Vol 3

Another volume of pricey reprints of old comics. Probably some good stuff here by Bill Everett, and some backup stories by Basil Wolverton. Too expensive for me though. Library?

Portable Grindhouse Lost Art Of VHS Box Vol 1 TP

Fantagraphics' latest non-comics book, collecting a whole bunch of covers for exploitation movies from the 70s and 80s. Sounds cool, if you like that sort of thing. Here's their usual slideshow/preview.

Return Of King Doug HC

Another Oni Press graphic novel, this one appears to be about a kid who got transported to your standard fantasy kingdom and tasked with saving it from evil or something, but instead of rising to the occasion, he fled. 25 years later, as an adult, he has to finish the job; maybe it's all a metaphor for facing your fears or something? The book was optioned for a movie adaptation by Ben Stiller, which, depending on your tolerance of him, might or might not be a sign of quality. It might be all right; Katherine Dacey has a review here.

Runaways Good Die Young TPB

This is Marvel's latest reprint of the third collection of the first volume of the series, which finished up the initial "kids vs. parents" storyline in an exciting manner. It was pretty damn good stuff, from what I recall. If you haven't read it before in some form or other, this is as good as any.

Sky Doll TP Vol 01

And here's another collection from Marvel, showing how weirdly-priced their translations of the French Soleil books are. The three individual issues of this series were six dollars each, and this softcover collection of said issues is 20 bucks. That's just a bad deal in every format. I did like the first issue when I read it, but I just can't justify spending that much, even though I'm certainly interested in the book. Maybe I can get it at the library; I'm sure they jumped at the chance to have this sort of cartoony sexiness on their shelves.

Tale Of Despereaux Movie The Graphic Novel HC

It's a sign of the times: comics are popular these days, so animated kids' movies get graphic novel adaptations. Is it any good? I dunno, was the movie any good? It looked kind of cute, so the book probably is too? Backhanded recommendations? Yes!

Vietnam Journal Vol 1 Indian Country TPB

This was apparently an acclaimed series from the late 80s about, well, what the title says, the creator's experiences in the Vietnam War. Now it's getting a collected version, so the rest of us can find out if it deserves the praise. You can read the first issue for free here.

Azumanga Daioh Collected Edition TP

There's quite an onslaught of manga coming this week, especially from Yen Press and Viz. The former has another version of this four-panel series from Hideo Azuma, creator of Yotsuba&!, which is supposed to be good, or so I hear. I've never read it, but it seems to get a new edition every year or so. Maybe I'll get to it one of these days.

Cirque Du Freak Vol 3 Tunnels Of Blood GN

Yen also has this volume of the multimedia series about a vampire circus or something. I've been curious about it, but still haven't read it, or watched the movie. Isn't John C. Reilly in that one as a vampire? Crazy.

Detroit Metal City Vol 3 TP

Oh man, I'm behind on this series already; I still haven't read volume 2. I thought the first one was pretty hilarious, so I imagine this one continues the trend. Rape me with your music, Lord Krauser!

Dogs Bullets & Carnage Vol 2 GN

I also liked the first (zeroth?) volume of this series, and thus am behind on it as well. I'm not as frantic to catch up on it, but maybe someday. Guns and genetic mutations: that's fun, right?

GoGo Monster HC

Taiyo Matsumoto! I'm very excited to read this new (to Westerners) book of his, about a kid who imagines himself into some sort of magical fantasy world. That might sound like a tired concept, but Matsumoto should be able to make it sing. The book is kind of expensive at $28, but it's a hardcover with a slipcase, so it's sort of worth it, probably. I hope.

Naoki Urasawa's 20th Century Boys Vol 6 TP

And here's another one I'm behind on. I'm all caught up with Pluto though, so that's something. This series is pretty epic though; it should be awesome to see what Urasawa does over the course of twenty-some volumes. I'll be there to the end, man.

Ooku The Inner Chambers Vol 2 GN

More old-Japanese gender-swapped political intrigue. I haven't read the first volume, but it's one I'd like to get to at some point. Oh, someday, always someday with these books...

Pandora Hearts Vol 1 GN

This seems to be another example of the Japanese interest in Alice in Wonderland, and also maybe The Wizard of Oz. You've got a kid named Oz, who gets saved from assassination by a black rabbit named Alice. I can't tell if it's a magical sort of fantasy thing, or a modern espionage thriller. Or if I should care, but I'm at least intrigued by the description. It's a maybe.

Raiders Vol 1 GN

This one (which, judging by the name of the creator, appears to be manhwa rather than manga) looks like it's going for an Indiana Jones vibe, with a teenage girl archaeologist gaining immortality by finding the Holy Grail and drinking the blood of Christ. And then she fights monsters or something. Fun?

Sarasah Vol 1 GN
Sarasah Vol 2 GN

Another manhwa, this time featuring a goofy time travel premise, something having to do with a girl being sent to the past to try to make sure she falls in love with the boy she likes, or something like that. Sounds like a goofy shojo soap opera twist on Back to the Future or something. Huh.

Time And Again Vol 1 GN

Horror manhwa, with a collection of ghost stories following the adventures of an exorcist. Could be decent.

Yotsuba Vol 7 GN

And for your final Yen offering, it's the latest volume in everybody's favorite comic about a cute little girl and all the wacky stuff that happens around her. I should try to catch up on this series at some point; as everybody on earth seems to attest, it's charming as hell. I think this one catches us up to the Japanese releases, so it might be a while before the next volume shows. Fans have been shown to be patient though, what with the drought between volumes; they'll be waiting for the next time a little green-haired girl comes knocking at their door.

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Whew, that's a lot of stuff. Comics, always comics, they never stop coming. I'm working on getting caught up on reading 2009 releases, so hopefully I'll keep writing about them. Watch this space.

This week, I realize how many 2009 books I still have left to read

I don't believe I have anything new to say, so let's get to it:

New comics this week (THURSDAY, 11/3/09):

Boys #37

The problem with listing these alphabetically is that this title always ends up at the top, and I never have anything to say other than that I look forward to reading it when it's collected. Garth Ennis, Darick Robertson, superhero decadence of the quality sort. I still need to read Herogasm...

Cinderella from Fabletown with Love #2

One of your Fables-related titles for the week, which I'll end up reading once it's collected. Hmm, that probably gets pretty tiresome when I say that about multiple comics every week. Sorry, tiny readership! Anyway, if you want to read what I thought was a good review, check out Nina Stone's take on the first issue, and then read the comments for some superhero-fan whining. Gotta love the internet.

Dingo #1

It seems like Boom! Studios is constantly releasing these little miniseries, many of them written by Michael Alan Nelson. This one is "a supernatural crime story in the vein of 100 Bullets" (which wasn't supernatural), something about a dude who wants a box and probably kills people to get it. If Nelson learned anything from Quentin Tarantino, we'll probably never find out what was in the box, but who knows. It might be interesting to read, maybe some good action? I can never tell if these are just a bunch of rejected film scripts that Nelson has lying around or something. That doesn't mean they aren't good, but it's weird that Boom! makes so many of them.

Empowered One-Shot

Aw, yeah, a dose of Adam Warren before the year ends. This is part of Dark Horse's current "one-shot" initiative that sees single-issue releases related to several of the series they publish. That means a standalone Empowered story, although it's in black and white rather than the color that I would hope for in a pamphlet-style release like this. Still, I'll take anything by Warren that I can get. Here, have a preview.

Fall of the Hulks Alpha

I really shouldn't care about whatever sort of event/crossover is going on in the Hulk line of books, but since Jeff Parker is involved, I guess I'm obligated, since I do tend to worship at his feet. I don't know how the rest of the story will go, but this first part, in which Parker tells the secret history of yet another shadowy group of major players in the Marvel Universe, this one consisting of super-smart villains the Leader, the Mad Thinker, the Wizard, Egghead, and the Red Ghost. It's retcon-tastic blah-de-blah, Parker-style! If that sounds like fun to you, well, you're probably not reading stuff like Underground, where Parker is actually telling stories rather than carrying out editorial diktat. You're missing out. Enjoy your multicolored smashing, nerds.

Glamourpuss #10

Dave Sim, still carrying on with the history lessons and weird humor that only he really gets. This issue features a look at Gene Colan, which will probably be neat and informative, if you are one of the few who bother to read it.

Iron Man Requiem

Here's another weird Marvel thing: their current penchant for recoloring their old comics. I guess people like the shiny layers of digital paint slapped on top of 40-year-old linework? That's what we get here, with reprints of the first Iron Man story from Tales of Suspense #39 and the story about how Tony Stark met James Rhodes from Iron Man #144, along with a framing story by Matt Fraction and Kano that metafictionally points out the discrepancy between the original Vietnam War setting of the origin and the current version, which took place in Afghanistan. Good god, comics don't make much sense these days, do they? Fraction even makes fun of Stan Lee's goofy writing, possibly as an expression of annoyance because he's also chafing under editorial constraints. Hey, Matt, Iron Man is fun and all, but you should get back to writing Casanova! That's what you're really good at!

Jack of Fables #40

Another Fables-related comic, another obligatory mention from me. I need to read that most recent collection sometime before the next volume of the main book comes out...

King City #3

Brandon Graham, baby! I'm loving this reprint series, even though I already read the book. It looks great, it's cool, people are reading it. Don't stop anytime soon, please!

Secret History Book 7

I haven't read any of this European series that Archaia has been sporadically publishing, but I've heard it's good. Something about an alternate history and World War I? I dunno, it seems cool. Someday, maybe.

Starr the Slayer #4

Daniel Way and Richard Corben keep up the lowbrow comedy and violence here, I expect, and probably some other metafictional stuff. It's the finale, and I bet Starr wins. It's been an enjoyable little series, especially for Corben fans. Now let's have him do Ultimate Spider-Man or something; that would be interesting.

Starstruck #4

I don't think I've seen this revived fantasy series in stores, but it's one that I would definitely like to check out. Let's hope a collection comes out soon.

Strange #2

I liked the first, baseball-themed issue of this new series about ex-Dr. Strange (except he should still be a doctor, right? Eh, whatever), so we'll see how it goes as it continues. It looks like this issue focuses on the girl he helped out last time, who is probably going to be his new apprentice. I hope it's good; I should have a review up at Comics Bulletin tomorrow.

Sweet Tooth #4

I finally got around to reading Essex County recently (review coming soon, if it's not up already), and man, now I'm aboard the Jeff Lemire love train. Damn, that guy is good. So, yeah, I'll have to get around to reading this post-apocalyptic Vertigo series that he's doing. Let's have a collection soon, please.

Ultimate Comics Spider-Man #5

Ultimate Spidey fights Mysterio, which should be fun, with lots of cool David LaFuente art, even if Tucker Stone disapproves. Hey, I like it.

365 Samurai & Few Bowls of Rice SC

Dark Horse has this digest-sized volume from European creator J.P. Kalonji, and it looks pretty cool, an art-focused action story about a wandering swordsman that's told in full-page panels. Kalonji looks like a creator to watch out for. Here's a fairly lengthy preview that really gets across what a nice-looking book this is.

Batman The Cat And The Bat TPB

This is the collection of that one Batman Confidential story where Batgirl and Catwoman fight naked. I might have to buy it and then white out all the nipple-obstructing objects and draw them in myself, because that would be so hot.

Larry Marder's Beanworld Vol 3 Remember Here When You Are There HC

This might have come out already, or maybe not; I dunno. I might read it sometime, but I really need to check out the first two volumes. I've never been able to get into this series, but I think I just need to jump in and read it, just immerse myself until it makes sense. Dancing beans in a weird two-dimensional landscape! Yeah, that's the ticket! Comics will drive me insane yet!

Binky Brown Meets The Holy Virgin Mary GN

I don't know if there's a new version of this book or something, but it's on my local shop's list of stuff coming out this week. I've never read it, but it's apparently a groundbreaking bit of autobiographical cartooning from way back in 1972, about author Justin Green's struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder and Catholicism. So, yeah, I should definitely give it a read if I ever get the chance. Someday? That's what I always say, isn't it?

Dead She Said TP

IDW has this collection of the miniseries by Steve Niles and Berni Wrightson, some sort of ghost detective story. I heard it wasn't all that good, but I suppose I would look inside if I saw it on a shelf. Recommendations! That's what I do!

Doctor Grordbort Presents Victory HC

I think it's weird that Dark Horse publishes comics/books based on a line of replica rayguns produced by Weta, the special effects guys who worked on the Lord of the Rings movies, but here it is anyway. I guess this details a sort of alternate history full of retro-futuristic goofiness; maybe it's kind of fun? It's a bit pricey at $20 for a 64-page hardcover though. Here's a preview.

Electropolis TP

I think this collects a miniseries from a while back by Dean Motter, but it doesn't appear to be directly tied into his Mister X series, like so much of his other stuff. This one is about a robot detective in a futuristic city, and it does seem kind of cool. Maybe I might read it even, who knows? Here's a preview.

Ex Machina Deluxe Edition HC Vol 2

Just what the title says; it's the fancy hardcover version of the third and fourth volumes of the series. I like it just fine in paperback, or even single issues, but this is good too. It used to be one of my favorite series, but it seems pretty sporadic these days, even as it's nearing a conclusion. Absence doesn't always make the heart grow fonder.

Myspace Dark Horse Presents TP Vol 4

Wow, four volumes of this anthology already. How about that. And you can still read all of it online for free. This volume includes stories by Kate Beaton, Chris Onstad, David Malki, and plenty of others. Spend your money on it if you want, rich guy.

North World Vol 3 GN

I should probably try to read the second volume of this webcomics-to-print series, since I liked the first one. It's an odd sort of fantasy/modern hybrid that deals with relationships and whatnot in between the monster-slaying. I guess this one follows some supporting characters, rather than the main hero of the series. Maybe I'll catch up someday.

Nuns Without Guns GN

A weird title, a high concept, a probable lack of substance: yes, this is a Jason M. Burns graphic novel. I haven't been too impressed with what he's written in the past (The Expendable One, Curse of the Were-Woman, etc.), but man, that guy is prolific. This one involves nuns that fight demons, presumably hand-to-hand. Who knows, maybe he's turned a corner and doesn't suck as much now?

Popeye HC Vol 4 Plunder Island

I know this latest collection of the classic E.C. Segar strip is out in some places, because I saw it on the shelf at Quimby's a couple weeks ago. But here it is on the shipping list, so check it out if you haven't seen it yet. Popeye! Cool! I think this is an epic storyline from the good old days. Me, I still need to get through the first volume, but maybe I'll get caught up at some point. It's good stuff. Here, Fantagraphics has the usual slideshow/preview.

Stinky SC

It's the softcover version of Eleanor Davis' entry in the Toon Books line, about a monster who lives in a swamp and his boy pal. I hear it's good. Only five bucks! I can't pass that up if I see it.

Transmetropolitan Vol 5 Lonely City New Ed TPB

The next volume in the new edition of the Transmet reprints; I should really try to catch up on these. I think this is the first one after the election storyline? I dunno.

Unthinkable TP

Here's the collection of Boom!'s miniseries about a think tank that tried to come up with terrorist attacks in order to be prepared to fight them, but then the attacks start happening for real. It looked good, but I never did read it. Maybe I can remedy that now. Mark Sable writes, Julian Totino Tedesco draws, the TSA provides extra security screenings. Enjoy, paranoiacs!

Butterflies Flowers Vol 1 GN

This is the latest shojo/josei manga that Viz is pushing, and it looks like a good one, about a woman from a rich background who has to work in an office after her family goes bankrupt, and her boss is mean, which probably means he has a crush on her. Workplace romance manga? Yeah, that's the good stuff. Hopefully, people will buy it.

Emma Vol 10 TP

The final volume in the popular Victorian romance series. I really need to read this.

Honey And Clover Vol 8 GN

All right, it's a new volume of one of my favorite Shojo Beat titles! I can finally get caught up with my pretend art school pals! This is the first volume that contains new material that wasn't serialized in the magazine, so I'll be reading the hell out of it. Don't let me down, Chica Umino!

Moyasimon Vol 1 GN

I guess the release of this volume was delayed, possibly due to translation revisions? It's good stuff, about a college kid who can see bacteria, which causes him to get into wacky situations. I liked it. And hey, the contest in which I'm giving away copies of this volume is still open, so you might not even have to buy it!

One Piece East Blue 1-2-3 TP

I guess this is the omnibus edition of the first three volumes of the series, a pretty good deal at $15. I still haven't read hardly any of it at all, but I do plan to at some point. If you're like me and want to get into it, here's your chance.

Red Snow HC

Here's the artsy manga release of the week, from Drawn and Quarterly. It's about life in the Japanese countryside in the early 20th century, with some fantastical trappings and an emphasis on angst and loneliness, from what I understand. By Susumu Katsumata. It's always good to get this sort of classic stuff translated into English; I'll have to try to read it.

Sayonara Zetsubou-Sensei The Power Of Negative Thinking Vol 4 GN

It's also good to get weird, silly comedy series like this, which, from what I understand, is full of untranslatable in-jokes, references, and puns, but remains funny even for Westerners who don't understand any of that stuff. I do want to check it out. Someday, someday.

Slam Dunk Vol 7 GN

Aagh, I'm behind on this series! I really need to catch up, because I love it; it's one of the funniest manga I've ever read, and it's got some pretty exciting sports action too. I hope somebody gives me a bookstore gift card for Christmas, with all this stuff I'm going to need to buy...

Yokaiden Vol 2 GN

Finally, here's a non-manga manga pick, originating in the United States from creator Nina Matsumoto, but being all about supernatural Japanese creatures and whatnot. I actually received a review copy of this one, so I'll have to give it a read, even though I haven't read the first volume. I've heard it's good though, and I like Matsumoto's art. Let's hope it doesn't disappoint.

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Okay, enough blathering. I've got more comics to read and write about.