Review: BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER SEASON 9 #6

"Nikki the Vampire Slayer"
BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER SEASON 9 #6
DARK HORSE COMICS

WRITER: Andrew Chambliss
PENCILS: Georges Jeanty
INKS: Karl Story
COLORS: Michelle Madsen
LETTERS: Richard Starkings and Comicraft’s Jimmy Betancourt
ALTERNATE COVER: Georges Jeanty with Dexter Vines and Michelle Madsen (Cover A by Phil Noto)
28pp, Color, $2.99 U.S.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 8 is a comic book series that debuted in 2007 and ended in 2011. Produced by the creator of the Buffy the Vampire Slayer television series, Joss Whedon, the comic book expanded on the events of the TV show’s last televised season, which was Season 7. Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 9 is a sequel to Season 8, and both series are canonical, meaning that the events in these comic book series are part of the television series’ universe and continuity.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 9 #6 (“On Your Own” Part One) opens in New York City in 1973, where it finds the Pam Grier-like slayer, Nikki, and her Watcher, Crowley, dealing with vampires. Nikki, however, has an even bigger problem that may actually be more complicated than dealing with slaying vampires.

Back in the present, Spike stands in for Buffy. The bleached-blond vampire assists San Francisco Police Department Detective Dowling in dealing with zompires, and also gives the cop some information on vampires, in general. Meanwhile, Buffy’s own personal problems lead her to Nikki’s son, Robin Wood, and a momentous decision.

I think that it’s been about five years since I’ve read a Buffy comic book, although I did read an issue of Angel & Faith last year (which I liked). I doubt that this ninth issue of Buffy the Vampire Slayer Season 9 will create many new Buffy fans (if any), but I think Buffy fans will likely enjoy it.

This story isn’t necessarily about slaying, although there is some slaying. On Your Own is a story of mother and child, and it is a bit surprising, even poignant. It shows the dramatic side of Buffy, and the character drama is what makes Buffy the Vampire Slayer like no other vampire thing.

B+

"Study Group" Holds Study Session in Fantagraphics Bookstore Exhibition

Study Group Comix Exhibition at Fantagraphics Bookstore & Gallery on May 12th

A movement is emerging of resourceful young artists and cartoonists forming regional associations to publish and distribute small press comix and zines. Portland, Oregon is home to some of the most promising participants in this developing approach to contemporary comix production. Fantagraphics Bookstore & Gallery is pleased to present a group show of these cartoonists with “Study Group,” curated by Portland cartoonist and small press publisher Zack Soto.

The “Study Group” exhibition features original art, prints and book works by a diverse group of cartoonists including Aidan Koch, Jennifer Parks, Farel Dalrymple, Kazimir Strzepek, Levon Jihanian, David King, Malachi Ward, Tom Neely, Ian MacEwan, François Vigneault, and more. The exhibition takes its name from Portland artist Zack Soto’s new periodical and publishing imprint. Many of these artists self-publish or are involved in small press cooperative publishing approaches. Their work reflects an independent aesthetic presented in unorthodox formats. These often handcrafted publications reveal a great deal of the artists’ creative process.

The exhibition opens Saturday, May 12 from 6:00 to 9:00 PM. Many exhibiting artists will be present. The show continues through June 6, 2012. Fantagraphics Bookstore is located at 1201 S. Vale St., minutes south of downtown Seattle. Open daily 11:30 to 8:00 PM, Sundays until 5:00 PM. Phone 206.658.0110. This event coincides with the colorful Georgetown Art Attack featuring art, music, and more throughout the historic neighborhood.

Listing information:
“Study Group” An Exhibition of Emerging Cartoonists curated by Zack Soto
May 12 – June 6.
Opening reception Saturday, May 12, 6:00 – 9:00 PM.

Fantagraphics Bookstore & Gallery
1201 S. Vale Street Seattle, WA
206.658.0110

DC Comics from Diamond Distributors for May 9 2012

DC COMICS

MAR120200 BATGIRL #9 (NIGHT OF THE OWLS) $2.99

MAR120184 BATMAN #9 (NIGHT OF THE OWLS) $3.99

MAR120187 BATMAN #9 COMBO PACK (NIGHT OF THE OWLS) $4.99

MAR120196 BATMAN AND ROBIN #9 (NITE OF THE OWLS) $2.99

JAN120384 BATMAN ARKHAM CITY SER 2 BATMAN (TEC MODE) AF PI

JAN120383 BATMAN ARKHAM CITY SER 2 CATWOMAN AF PI

JAN120385 BATMAN ARKHAM CITY SER 2 HUSH AF PI

JAN120382 BATMAN ARKHAM CITY SER 2 RIDDLER AF PI

MAR120237 BATMAN ARKHAM UNHINGED #2 $2.99

JAN120300 BATMAN HC VOL 01 THE COURT OF OWLS $24.99

JUL110248 BIBLE HC $29.99

FEB120255 BRIGHTEST DAY TP VOL 02 $19.99

FEB120262 DC UNIVERSE LEGACIES TP $24.99

MAR120224 DEATHSTROKE #9 $2.99

MAR120220 DEMON KNIGHTS #9 $2.99

MAR120274 FAIREST #3 (MR) $2.99

MAR120217 FRANKENSTEIN AGENT OF SHADE #9 $2.99

MAR120204 GREEN LANTERN #9 $2.99

MAR120207 GREEN LANTERN #9 COMBO PACK $3.99

MAR120223 GRIFTER #9 $2.99

MAR120277 IZOMBIE #25 (MR) $2.99

FEB120250 JUSTICE LEAGUE INTERNATIONAL TP VOL 01 SIGNAL MASTERS $14.99

MAR120233 LEGION LOST #9 (THE CULLING) $2.99

AUG110255 LEGION OF SUPER HEROES ARCHIVES HC VOL 13 $59.99

MAR120281 MYSTERY IN SPACE #1 (MR) $7.99

MAR120238 NIGHT FORCE #3 (OF 6) $2.99

MAR120219 RESURRECTION MAN #9 $2.99

MAR120267 SCOOBY DOO WHERE ARE YOU #21 $2.99

MAR120225 SUICIDE SQUAD #9 $2.99

MAR120182 SUPERBOY #9 (THE CULLING) $2.99

FEB120265 SUPERMAN GROUNDED TP VOL 01 $17.99

Marvel Comics from Diamond Distributors for May 9 2012

MARVEL COMICS

MAR120577 AMAZING SPIDER-MAN PARALLEL LIVES #1 $4.99

MAR120696 ASTONISHING X-MEN BY WEAVER POSTER $8.99

MAR120677 ASTONISHING X-MEN TP VOL 07 MONSTROUS $16.99

MAR120645 AVENGERS ACADEMY PREM HC SECOND SEMESTER $24.99

MAR120548 AVENGERS ASSEMBLE #3 $3.99

MAR120644 AVENGERS BY BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS PREM HC VOL 03 $29.99

DEC110697 AVENGERS CROSSING OMNIBUS HC DEODATO DM VAR ED $99.99

DEC110696 AVENGERS CROSSING OMNIBUS HC SCHERBERGER CVR $99.99

DEC110703 AVENGERS PRIVATE WAR OF DR DOOM PREM HC $29.99

DEC110704 AVENGERS PRIVATE WAR OF DR DOOM PREM HC DM VAR ED 89 $29.99

MAR120698 AVENGERS VS X-MEN BY OPENA POSTER $8.99

MAR120570 AVENGING SPIDER-MAN #7 $3.99

MAR120583 CAPTAIN AMERICA #11 $3.99

MAR120585 CAPTAIN AMERICA AND HAWKEYE #630 $2.99

MAR120658 CAPTAIN AMERICA BY ED BRUBAKER PREM HC VOL 02 $19.99

FEB128243 DEADPOOL #51 2ND PTG JOHNSON VAR (PP #1018) $2.99

FEB128244 DEADPOOL #52 2ND PTG JOHNSON VAR (PP #1018) $2.99

MAR120627 DEADPOOL #54 $2.99

MAR120695 ESSENTIAL BLACK PANTHER TP VOL 01 $19.99

MAR120687 HALO FALL OF REACH COVENANT TP $16.99

MAR120592 HULK #51 $2.99

MAR120551 HULK SMASH AVENGERS #2 (OF 5) $2.99

MAR120697 INCREDIBLE HULK BY KORMARCK POSTER $8.99

MAR120602 JOURNEY INTO MYSTERY #637 EXILED $2.99

MAR120675 MAGNETO NOT A HERO TP $14.99

MAR120610 MARVEL UNIVERSE AVENGERS EARTHS HEROES #2 $2.99

MAR120599 MARVEL ZOMBIES DESTROY #1 (OF 5) $3.99

DEC110708 MMW AVENGERS HC VOL 12 $59.99

DEC110709 MMW AVENGERS HC VOL 12 DM VAR ED 179 $59.99

MAR120542 NEW AVENGERS #26 AVX $3.99

MAR120670 OZ OZMA OF OZ GN TP $19.99

FEB120643 POWERS PREM HC VOL 06 SELLOUTS (MR) $24.99

MAR120607 PUNISHER #11 $2.99

MAR120576 SCARLET SPIDER #5 $2.99

DEC110714 SILVER SURFER PARABLE PREM HC $24.99

DEC110715 SILVER SURFER PARABLE PREM HC DM VAR ED 91 $24.99

MAR120691 SPIDER-MAN IDENTITY CRISIS TP NEW PTG $24.99

JAN120731 SPIDER-MAN SEASON ONE PREM HC WITH DIG CDE $24.99

MAR120632 TAKIO #1 $3.95

DEC110716 THING SERPENT CROWN AFFAIR PREM HC $24.99

DEC110717 THING SERPENT CROWN AFFAIR PREM HC DM VAR ED 92 $24.99

MAR120561 ULTIMATE COMICS ULTIMATES #10 $3.99

MAR120563 ULTIMATE COMICS X-MEN #11 $3.99

DEC110720 ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN HC VOL 12 $39.99

MAR120615 UNCANNY X-FORCE #25 $4.99

MAR120617 WOLVERINE #306 $3.99

MAR120540 WOLVERINE AND X-MEN #10 AVX $3.99

MAR120546 X-MEN LEGACY #266 AVX $2.99

NOV110604 X-MEN MUTANT GENESIS 2.0 HC $49.99

IDW Publishing from Diamond Distributors for May 9 2012

IDW PUBLISHING

FEB120390 ANNE RICE SERVANT OF THE BONES HC $24.99
JAN120480 ARCHIE SUNDAYS FINEST HC $49.99
MAR120390 DEAD RISING ROAD TO FORTUNE TP $17.99
MAR120314 DOCTOR WHO CLASSICS SERIES IV #4 (OF 6) $3.99
FEB120326 DUNGEONS & DRAGONS FORGOTTEN REALMS #1 $3.99
MAR120318 FRANKENSTEIN ALIVE ALIVE #1 $3.99
MAR120326 GI JOE VOL 2 ONGOING #13 $3.99
FEB120379 MEMORIAL #5 (OF 6) $3.99
MAR120377 NIGHT OF 1000 WOLVES #1 (OF 3) $3.99
MAR120372 TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES COLOR CLASSICS #1 $3.99
FEB120358 TRANSFORMERS IDW COLLECTION HC VOL 06 $49.99
MAR120320 TRIO #1 $3.99

Dark Horse Comics from Diamond Distributors for May 9 2012

DARK HORSE COMICS

MAR120048 ALABASTER WOLVES #2 (OF 5) $3.50
JAN120107 BLOOD BLOCKADE BATTLEFRONT TP VOL 02 $10.99
MAR120046 BTVS SEASON 9 FREEFALL #9 JEANTY VAR CVR $2.99
MAR120045 BTVS SEASON 9 FREEFALL #9 NOTO CVR $2.99
FEB120072 DRAGON AGE II EMBROIDERED PATCH CHANTRY $4.99
FEB120073 DRAGON AGE II EMBROIDERED PATCH KIRKWALL $4.99
FEB120074 DRAGON AGE II EMBROIDERED PATCH QUANARI $4.99
FEB120075 DRAGON AGE II EMBROIDERED PATCH TEMPLARS $4.99
JAN120105 FLCL OMNIBUS GN $19.99
MAR120041 LOBSTER JOHNSON THE BURNING HAND #5 (OF 5) $3.50
JAN120102 SAVAGE SWORD OF CONAN TP VOL 11 $19.99
MAR120016 STAR WARS KNIGHTS OF THE OLD REPUBLIC WAR #5 (OF 5) $3.50

Image Comics from Diamond Distributors for May 9 2012

IMAGE COMICS

FEB128169 AMERICAS GOT POWERS #1 (OF 6) VAR CVR 2ND PTG $2.99
JAN120576 ARTIFACTS #17 $3.99
MAR110542 CHOKER TP VOL 01 (MR) $16.99
MAR120482 FATALE #5 (MR) $3.50
FEB120432 FORGETLESS TP LIVE TO SEE LAST CALL NEW ED (MR) $14.99
FEB120435 GREEN WAKE TP VOL 02 LOST CHILDREN (MR) $14.99
JAN120590 INVINCIBLE #91 $2.99
FEB128149 MANHATTAN PROJECTS #2 VAR CVR 2ND PTG $3.50
DEC110563 MORNING GLORIES #18 (MR) $2.99
MAR120443 PRO ONE SHOT (NEW PTG) (MR) $7.99
FEB128170 SAGA #2 VAR CVR 2ND PTG (MR) $2.99
FEB128171 SECRET #1 VAR CVR 2ND PTG $3.50
MAR120503 SKULLKICKERS #14 $3.50
MAR120446 SPAWN 20TH ANNIVERSARY POSTER #2 (OF 4) $9.99
FEB128172 THIEF OF THIEVES #3 VAR CVR 2ND PTG $2.99
MAR120507 WALKING DEAD #97 (MR) $2.99
FEB120500 WITCHBLADE #149 VIRGINIA COMIC CON EXC $10.00

Comics and Magazines from Diamond Distributors for May 9 2012

COMICS

FEB121135 2000 AD #1778 $5.25

FEB121184 AI ORE GN VOL 05 $9.99

JAN121241 ATOMIC ROBO TP VOL 06 GHOST OF STATION X $18.95

FEB121150 AVALON WEB OF MAGIC OMNIBUS TP VOL 01 $14.95

MAR121075 BABYS IN BLACK HC $24.99

FEB120754 BETTY & VERONICA DOUBLE DIGEST #201 $3.99

FEB121151 CERTAIN SCIENTIFIC RAILGUN GN VOL 04 $11.99

FEB121224 CHARMED #21 (MR) $3.50

DEC110795 CONQUEST O/T PLANET O/T LIVING DEAD ONE SHOT $3.50

MAR121141 COURTNEY CRUMRIN ONGOING #2 $3.99

MAR120798 CROSSED BADLANDS #5 (MR) $3.99

MAR120799 CROSSED BADLANDS #5 TORTURE CVR (MR) $3.99

MAR120800 CROSSED BADLANDS #5 WRAP CVR (MR) $3.99

MAR120783 DAN THE UNHARMABLE #1 (MR) $3.99

MAR120784 DAN THE UNHARMABLE #1 WRAP CVR (MR) $3.99

DEC111019 DARK SHADOWS #5 $3.99

MAR120952 DEJAH THORIS & WHITE APES OF MARS #2 (MR) $3.99

FEB121013 DF DEJAH THORIS WHITE APES #1 GARZA EXC CVR $14.99

MAR120809 DICKS COLOR ED #4 (MR) $4.99

MAR120810 DICKS COLOR ED #4 OFFENSIVE CVR (MR) $4.99

JAN121260 DPD DOKTORMENTOR JAIL BABE SURGEON #6 (MR) $9.95

MAR120812 FERALS #5 (MR) $3.99

MAR120813 FERALS #5 GORE CVR (MR) $3.99

MAR120814 FERALS #5 WRAP CVR (MR) $3.99

FEB121191 FLUFFY FLUFFY CINNAMOROLL GN VOL 03 $7.99

JAN120783 FRACTURE TP VOL 01 $9.99

JAN121172 GON GN KODANSHA ED VOL 05 $10.99

FEB120998 GOOD MORNING GN (MR) $12.95

OCT111285 GRIMM FAIRY TALES THE LIBRARY TP $15.99

FEB121186 HANA KIMI 3-IN-1 ED VOL 02 $14.99

FEB121193 HARUKA BEYOND THE STREAM OF TIME GN VOL 16 $9.99

MAR120853 HIGHER EARTH #1 MAIN CVRS $1.00

FEB120837 INCORRUPTIBLE #29 $3.99

FEB121199 INU YASHA VIZBIG ED GN VOL 11 $17.99

JAN121337 JURASSIC STRIKE FORCE 5 #4 A CVR CACAU (MR) $2.99

JAN121338 JURASSIC STRIKE FORCE 5 #4 B CVR QUALANO (MR) $2.99

MAR120900 LADY DEATH (ONGOING) #17 (MR) $3.99

MAR120901 LADY DEATH (ONGOING) #17 SULTRY CVR (MR) $3.99

MAR120902 LADY DEATH (ONGOING) #17 WRAP CVR (MR) $3.99

JAN121057 LORD OF THE JUNGLE #4 (MR) $3.99

FEB120759 MEGA MAN #13 $2.99

JAN121159 MEGALEX COMPLETE STORY HC (MR) $29.95

FEB121183 NARUTO TP VOL 56 $9.99

JAN121091 NONNONBA GN (MR) $26.95

FEB121185 ONE PIECE TP VOL 62 $9.99

FEB121194 ORESAMA TEACHER GN VOL 08 $9.99

MAR120915 OZ WONDERLAND CHRONICLES TP VOL 02 $19.99

JAN121080 PATRICIA BRIGGS ALPHA & OMEGA CRY WOLF VOL 01 #7 $3.99

FEB121190 POKEMON BLACK & WHITE GN VOL 07 $4.99

FEB121197 PSYREN GN VOL 04 $9.99

FEB120993 ROBERT JORDAN WHEEL OF TIME EYE O/T WORLD #24 $3.99

FEB121187 SKIP BEAT 3-IN-1 ED VOL 02 $14.99

FEB120868 SPACE DUCKS HC INFINITE COMIC BOOK MUSICAL $19.99

FEB121195 STORY OF SAIUNKOKU GN VOL 07 $9.99

FEB121198 TEGAMI BACHI GN VOL 09 $9.99

JAN121209 TICK #100 TICK MEETS INVINCIBLE $6.99

MAR121145 WASTELAND #37 (MR) $3.99

FEB120763 WORLD OF ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #17 $3.99

MAGAZINES
FEB121250 COMICS BUYERS GUIDE #1690 JUN 2012 $5.99
OCT111322 DC SUPERHERO CHESS FIG COLL MAG #4 PENGUIN BLACK KNIGHT $16.00
DEC111286 DC SUPERHERO CHESS FIG COLL MAG #5 CATWOMAN WHITE QUEEN $16.00
JAN121404 SCREAM MAGAZINE #10 $8.99
FEB121304 SFX #221 $10.99
MAR121404 STAR TREK MAGAZINE #40 NEWSSTAND ED $9.99
MAR121405 STAR TREK MAGAZINE #40 PX ED $9.99
MAR120706 TERRY MOORE HOW TO DRAW #2 EXPRESSIONS (O/A) $4.99

The Story of Saiunkoku: Shurei the Cheater?

I read The Story of Saiunkoku, Vol. 7

I posted a review at the Comic Book Bin (which has FREE smart phone apps and comics).

Negromancer Reviews "The Avengers"

Over at my movie review blog, Negromancer, I reviewed the record-setting The Avengers.

Here's the link: http://www.negromancer.com/2012/05/avengers-movie-review.html

Stephen King: Tax Me, for F_ _ k's Sake!

Stephen King at The Daily Beast:

Tough shit for you guys, because I'm not tired of talking about it. I've known rich people, and why not, since I'm one of them? The majority would rather douse their dicks with lighter fluid, strike a match, and dance around singing "Disco Inferno" than pay one more cent in taxes to Uncle Sugar. It's true that some rich folks put at least some of their tax savings into charitable contributions. My wife and I give away roughly $4 million a year to libraries, local fire departments that need updated lifesaving equipment (Jaws of Life tools are always a popular request), schools, and a scattering of organizations that underwrite the arts. Warren Buffett does the same; so does Bill Gates; so does Steven Spielberg; so do the Koch brothers; so did the late Steve Jobs. All fine as far as it goes, but it doesn't go far enough.

Read more here.

VIZ Media Manga Mondays in May

VIZ MEDIA OFFERS 40% OFF ON SELECT VOLUME 1 DIGITAL MANGA TITLES EVERY MONDAY IN MAY ON VIZMANGA.COM AND VIZ MANGA APP FOR iPAD, iPHONE AND iPOD TOUCH

Latest Digital Update For The First-Half Of May Also Features The Launch Of HIGH SCHOOL DEBUT, MISTRESS FORTUNE, SEIHO BOYS HIGH SCHOOL And EXCEL SAGA

Manga publisher VIZ Media encourages fans across North America to visit VIZManga.com and the VIZ MANGA App for the Apple iPad®, iPhone® and iPod® touch every Monday throughout the first-half of May to take advantage of a special 40% off discount on select Volume 1 digital titles (Reg. MSRP: $4.99, Sale Price: $2.99). Five different opening volumes from various manga series will be offered each week, from the hit debuts of BLEACH and BAKUMAN｡, to the non-stop action of DRAGON BALL Z and psychological tension of DEATH NOTE, to the romance of BLACK BIRD and DENGEKI DAISY.

Discount Manga Titles for May 7th Include:

BAKUMAN｡ Vol. 1 • Rated ‘T’ for Teens

DEATH NOTE Vol. 1 • Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens

DRAGON BALL Z Vol. 1 • Rated ‘A’ for All Ages

ROSARIO + VAMPIRE II Vol. 1 • Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens

TORIKO Vol. 1 • Rated ‘T’ for Teens

Discount Manga Titles for May 14th Include:

ABSOLUTE BOYFRIEND Vol. 1 • Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens

ARATA: THE LEGEND Vol. 1 • Rated ‘T’ for Teens

BLACK BIRD Vol. 1 • Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens

DENGEKI DAISY Vol. 1 • Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens

HYDE & CLOSER Vol. 1 • Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens

VIZ Media also delivers a substantial digital manga update during the first-half of May with the announcement of the launch of 4 new series. The new series include the romantic shojo fun of MISTRESS FORTUNE, HIGH SCHOOL DEBUT, and SEIHO BOYS HIGH SCHOOL, as well as the zany sci-fi comedy action of EXCEL SAGA.

The VIZ MANGA APP is available for free through the iTunes Store and all manga volumes are generally available for purchase and download in the U.S. and Canada within the application for $4.99 (U.S. / CAN) per volume. More than 55 series and 500+ volumes are currently available for download.

MISTRESS FORTUNE • by Arina Tanemura • Rated ‘T’ for Teens • Available May 7th
Fourteen-year-old Kisaki Tachibana has psychic powers. She works for PSI, a secret government agency that fights aliens. She's in love with her partner Giniro, but PSI won't allow operatives to get involved. Just when Kisaki thinks she may be getting closer to Giniro, she finds out she's going to be transferred to California!

HIGH SCHOOL DEBUT Vol. 1 • by Kazune Kawahara • Rated ‘T’ for Teens • Available May 14th
Hapless Haruna needs help finding a boyfriend! After failing to win the eye of any guy in high school, Haruna enlists the help of cute upperclassman Yoh to coach her on how to make herself more appealing to the male species. Yoh agrees, with one catch: Haruna had better not fall for him!

SEIHO BOYS HIGH SCHOOL Vol. 1 • by Kaeneyoshi Izumi • Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens • Available May 14th
Remote, lonely and surrounded by the ocean – this isn't Alcatraz we're talking about – it's Seiho Boys' High School, where the student body is rife with sexually frustrated hunks! How can these young men get girlfriends when they're stuck in the middle of nowhere? These are the stories of the students of Seiho High and the trouble they get into as they awkwardly pursue all girls who cross their paths.

EXCEL SAGA Vol. 1 • by Rikdo Koshi • Rated ‘T’ for Teens • Available May 14th
Question: What happens when you try to act like an anime character in real life? Answer: EXCEL SAGA. Two groups of neighbors in an apartment building lead secret lives. One thinks they're trying to take over the city of Fukuoka. The other thinks they're trying to defend it. Only their bosses, would-be conqueror Lord Il Palazzo and obsessed bureaucrat Dr. Kabapu, know the truth behind this increasingly dangerous private game. Too bad neither lets their underlings in on it!

VIZ Media’s multiple digital manga platforms allow for universal access to read manga from an iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, and now, on VIZManga.com for desktop/laptop PC-enabled computers as well as Android-powered devices with built-in web browsers. The free VIZ Manga App is the top application for reading manga and features a rapidly growing library of the most popular manga series in the world. For more information, please visit VIZManga.com or www.VIZ.com/apps.

ComiXology to Offer New and Classic Valiant Comics

VALIANT AND COMIXOLOGY ANNOUNCE EXCLUSIVE DIGITAL DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT

All-New Upcoming Valiant Titles To Be Available Same Day As Print

Get X-0 Manowar #1 Digitally Today At ComiXology.com

Classic Valiant Titles Also Available Today!

Valiant Entertainment is proud to announce that it has reached an exclusive digital comics distribution agreement with comiXology, the world's largest digital comics platform available on iPhone, iPad, Android, Kindle Fire and the Web with over 60 million comic and graphic novel downloads to date.

Beginning May 2nd with the release of the all-new X-O Manowar #1 by New York Times best-selling author Robert Venditti (The Surrogates) and Eisner Award-winning artist Cary Nord (Conan), comiXology will offer same-day as print digital releases for all of Valiant's upcoming titles. Additionally, Valiant's expansive back catalog of classic content will also be exclusively available via comiXology.

"There's tremendous excitement around Valiant's return, and they're bringing with them one of the greatest libraries of comic characters and stories in comics," said comiXology CEO and co-Founder David Steinberger. "We couldn't be more proud to partner with Valiant in the digital marketplace. We're sure to see the original Valiant fans energized by making these great comics available across the globe, while also bringing in a whole new generation of readers."

Set for a much anticipated summer 2012 relaunch, Valiant will soon return with four new series, all of which will debut as same-day as print digital releases on comiXology - X-O Manowar #1 on sale today, Harbinger #1 on June 6th, Bloodshot #1 on July 11th, and Archer & Armstrong #1 on August 8th.

Moreover, in conjunction with the today's release of X-O Manowar #1, comiXology is adding the first-ever digital editions of three classic storylines from Valiant's vast archive of best-selling comics to comiXology's library of more than 20,000 issues:

X-O Manowar (1992) #0-6 by Jim Shooter, Bob Layton, Barry Windsor-Smith & Joe Quesada


Harbinger (1992) #0-6 by Jim Shooter & David Lapham


Bloodshot (1993) #0-4 by Kevin VanHook & Don Perlin

"For the first time, through comiXology's platform, Valiant Comics will be available anywhere in the world," said Valiant CEO Jason Kothari. "With Valiant's return now in full effect with today's release of X-O Manowar #1, the timing couldn't be better to remind people once again of the incredible characters and stories that made Valiant a household name."

As part of the exclusive agreement, Valiant Entertainment titles will also be available through comiXology's Digital Retailer Storefront program. This enables retailers to sell Valiant's digital comics through their own website while comic book fans can purchase digital comics from their local comic store's digital storefront with a portion of each purchase going directly to the retailer.

Future digital releases on comiXology will delve deeper into the Valiant catalog, and feature classic series including Archer & Armstrong, Rai, Ninjak, Shadowman, Eternal Warrior, and Quantum & Woody.

In the meantime, today fans everywhere can now add all-new Valiant material to their digital comics libraries with X-O Manowar #1, from writer Robert Venditti and artist Cary Nord, available now on the Comics by comiXology platform - available on iPhone, iPad, Android, Kindle Fire and the Web.


About Valiant Entertainment
Valiant Entertainment is a character-based publishing and licensing company that owns and controls some of the most cherished comic characters ever created across all media worldwide. Since their creation in 1989, Valiant characters have sold 80 million comic books and have been the basis of a number of successful video game franchises. Valiant's extensive library includes over 1,500 characters, such as X-O Manowar, Bloodshot, Harbinger, Shadowman, and Ninjak. Visit www.valiantentertainment.com.

About comiXology
Founded in 2007 with the mission of bringing comics to people everywhere, comiXology - in just five short years - has revolutionized the comic book and graphic novel world. From creating the industry leading platform for digital comics to tools and services for brick and mortar retailers, comiXology has lead the charge in exposing new audiences to the rich history and culture of comic books. With the development of the Comics by comiXology digital comics platform - available across iPhone, iPad, Android, Kindle Fire and the Web - comiXology provides the easiest way worldwide for people to enjoy comics at just the click of a button! Regularly ranking as the top grossing iPad app in the entire iTunes App Store, Comics by comiXology was recently selected as a preloaded app on Amazon's Kindle Fire. Providing digital comics across multiple platforms, comiXology will not stop until everyone on the face of the earth has been turned into a comic book fan.

Psyren: Melzez Door

I read Psyren, Vol. 4: Melzez's Door

I posted a review at the Comic Book Bin (which has FREE smart phone apps and comics).

I Reads You Review: JUSTICE LEAGUE #6

"The Jim Lee Project"
JUSTICE LEAGUE #6
DC COMICS

WRITER: Geoff Johns
PENCILS: Jim Lee
INKS: Scott Williams with Sandra Hope, Batt, and Mark Irwin
COLORS: Alex Sinclair with Tony Avina and Hi-Fi
LETTERS: Patrick Brosseau
COVER: Jim Lee and Scott Williams, with Alex Sinclair
VARIANT COVER: Ivan Reis and Joe Prado with Rod Reis
40pp, Color, $3.99 U.S.

So two months after I read the fifth issue, I finally read Justice League #6 (entitled “Part Six” or Justice League Part Six”). This new Justice League comic book series, launched the last week of August 2011, is essentially the flagship title of “The New 52,” DC Comics’ re-launch of its superhero comic book line, which also began the last week of August 2011.

As the issue begins, seven superheroes: Superman, Wonder Woman, Batman, Aquaman, Green Lantern, The Flash, and Cyborg, who are not part of a team and who are not all friends, have gathered to stop an alien invasion of Earth. Wonder Woman, Aquaman, Green Lantern, The Flash, and Cyborg, in a united front, try to takedown the leader of this invasion, Darkseid. Meanwhile, on Darkseid’s world, Batman attempts to rescue Superman, who is being tortured by Desaad.

For this opening story arc of the new Justice League, writer Geoff John’s offers what is simply just one big battle that allows him to introduce his new version of the Justice League team lineup. It’s a fairly good story, but, it is also really a single-issue (at most, two-issue) story stretched to six issues i.e. trade paperback size.

To be honest with you, dear reader, I am following this series for Jim Lee’s art. When I review issues not drawn by Lee, you better believe that I got those as freebies. Back to Lee’s art: what glorious art it is! Lee summons his inner Jack Kirby by delivering pencil art full of super powers on display and super-beings in motion. Lee brings out the Kirby bat on such delicious splash pages and spreads as the one featuring Wonder Woman stabbing Darkseid in the eye, Superman flying into Darkseid’s midsection, and the Cyborg boom tube explosion. Ahhh, I think I need a cigarette.

A-

There is a Pandora back-up by Geoff Johns (writer), Carlos D’Anda (artist), Gabe Eltaeb (colors), and Sal Cipriano (letters).

The Avengers to Assemble for Free Comic Book Day 2012

National Free Comic Book Day Hits Saturday, May 5th; Over 3.5 million comics to be given away free to comic shop customers

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--On May 5th, over two thousand comic book shops across North America and around the world will share the magic of comic books with their communities when they give out over 3.5 million comic books—free of charge—during Free Comic Book Day, which marks its eleventh anniversary this year.

There’s literally a free comic book available for everyone’s taste, including such favorites as The Avengers, Yo Gabba Gabba!, Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Transformers…there’s even a comic book on Animal Planet’s The World’s Most Dangerous Animals.

Comic book publishing heavyweights Dark Horse Comics, DC Entertainment, IDW Publishing, Image Comics, and Marvel Comics are among the many sponsors creating special titles for Free Comic Book Day 2012. The free books are designed to appeal to a broad range of tastes, including action-packed super-hero stories featuring Superman and Spider-Man; sci-fi adventures set in the universes of Star Wars and Transformers; classic tales starring Charles Schulz’s Peanuts and Walt Disney’s Donald Duck; and great kids comics for younger fans featuring The Smurfs, Sonic the Hedgehog, and Owly.

“Free Comic Book Day is a perfect occasion for customers to discover comic books,” said FCBD spokesperson Leslie Bowser, “especially if they’re new to the wide variety of titles that are being published today. On May 5th, we encourage new and current readers to use Free Comic Book Day as an opportunity to learn about the great comic books and pop-culture merchandise to be found at their local comic book shop. Hopefully, they’ll walk away with free comics they can't wait to read, then keep coming back to their local shop for more!”

Along with free comics, many comic book shops will feature events during the day including creator signings, appearances of favorite super-heroes or cosplayers and great deals on exclusives and sale items.

Customers can check out the full list of available titles on the Free Comic Book Day website, http://www.freecomicbookday.com/, and use the FCBD Store Locator to find a participating comic book shop in their area.

Look for more FCBD news and updates on the FCBD website, www.freecomicbookday.com; become a fan at Facebook (www.facebook.com/freecomicbook); and follow us on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/freecomicbook.


ABOUT FREE COMIC BOOK DAY— Celebrating its eleventh year, Free Comic Book Day is an annual event where participating comic book specialty shops across North America and around the world give away comic books absolutely free to anyone who comes into their shops. The event is held the first Saturday in May and is the perfect opportunity to introduce friends and family to the many worlds of wonder available at local comic book shops. From super-heroes to slice of life to action/adventure and beyond, Free Comic Book Day has a comic book for everyone!

© 2012 Diamond Comic Distributors, Inc. and Free Comic Book Day, Inc. All rights reserved.

Fantagraphics Bookstore and Donald Duck Do Free Comic Book Day 2012

Fantagraphics Bookstore Celebrates Free Comic Book Day On May 5 with Classic Collectible Comix!

Don’t miss Free Comic Book Day at Fantagraphics Bookstore & Gallery in Seattle. On Saturday, May 5, the Georgetown shop will be giving away free copies of specially produced comic books by master cartoonists like Carl Barks, Crockett Johnson and, while supplies last, the coveted Unseen Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz.

Celebrating its 10th year in 2012, the annual Free Comic Book Day promotion is a national effort on the part of publishers and retailers to attract new readers to the medium as well as show appreciation to loyal customers.

Seattle-based Fantagraphics Books offers two new titles for Free Comic Book Day this year, appealing to readers of all ages. Donald Duck Family Comics features 34 pages of full color comics by the great Carl Barks. Join Donald, his nephews, Uncle Scrooge and others on amazing adventures in some of the most acclaimed comics ever created. Also in store is Barnaby and Mr. O’Malley by Crockett Johnson. This rollicking strip follows the tyke Barnaby and his mischievous fairy godfather Mr. O’Malley. These wonderful cartoons will soon be collected in a handsome edition by Fantagraphics Books.

The first 50 customers at Fantagraphics Bookstore on May 5 will receive a free copy of Unseen Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz. This delightful edition serves as both an introduction to the classic strip and a treasury of fascinating oddities designed to appeal to even the most fervent Peanuts fans. First issued by Fantagraphics Books for Free Comic Book Day five years ago, Unseen Peanuts became an instant collectible.

Fantagraphics Bookstore is located at 1201 S. Vale St. (at Airport Way S.) in the heart of Seattle’s historic Georgetown arts community. Open daily 11:30 to 8:00 PM, Sundays until 5:00 PM. Phone 206.658.0110.

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DC Comics from Diamond Distributors for May 2 2012

DC COMICS

MAR120176 ACTION COMICS #9 $3.99

MAR120179 ACTION COMICS #9 COMBO PACK $4.99

FEB120289 AMERICAN VAMPIRE TP VOL 02 (MR) $17.99

MAR120215 ANIMAL MAN #9 $2.99

FEB120247 ANIMAL MAN TP VOL 01 THE HUNT $14.99

FEB120258 BATMAN AND ROBIN TP VOL 03 BATMAN ROBIN MUST DIE $17.99

MAR120195 BATWING #9 (NIGHT OF THE OWLS) $2.99

MAR120189 DETECTIVE COMICS #9 (NIGHT OF THE OWLS) $3.99

MAR120192 DETECTIVE COMICS #9 COMBO PACK (NIGHT OF THE OWL) $4.99

MAR120153 DIAL H #1 $2.99

MAR120145 EARTH 2 #1 $3.99

MAR120155 GI COMBAT #1 $3.99

MAR120174 GREEN ARROW #9 $2.99

FEB128248 JUSTICE LEAGUE #6 2ND PTG $3.99

JAN120299 JUSTICE LEAGUE HC VOL 01 ORIGIN $24.99

MAR120163 JUSTICE LEAGUE INTERNATIONAL #9 $2.99

MAR120211 RED LANTERNS #9 $2.99

FEB120298 SANDMAN TP VOL 09 THE KINDLY ONES NEW ED (MR) $19.99

MAR120235 SMALLVILLE SEASON 11 #1 $3.99

SEP110190 SPIRIT WORLD HC $39.99

MAR120221 STORMWATCH #9 $2.99

FEB128227 SUPERMAN #1 3RD PTG $2.99

MAR120213 SWAMP THING #9 $2.99

MAR120285 SWEET TOOTH #33 (MR) $2.99

MAR120228 TEEN TITANS ANNUAL #1 (THE CULLING) $4.99

MAR120147 WORLDS FINEST #1 $2.99

Marvel Comics from Diamond Distributors for May 2 2012

MARVEL COMICS

MAR120626 AGE OF APOCALYPSE #3 $2.99

MAR120571 AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #685 ENDS $3.99

FEB120675 AMAZING SPIDER-MAN SECRET ORIGINS TP $14.99

MAR120544 AVENGERS ACADEMY #29 AVX $2.99

FEB120647 AVENGERS ART OF AVENGERS HC SLIPCASE $49.99

FEB120651 AVENGERS ASSEMBLE TP VOL 03 $34.99

MAR120581 AVENGERS BLACK WIDOW STRIKES #1 (OF 3) $2.99

DEC110698 AVENGERS KREE SKRULL WAR HC $34.99

MAR120530 AVENGERS VS X-MEN #3 (OF 12) AVX $3.99

FEB120664 AVENGERS X-SANCTION HC $24.99

MAR120608 DAREDEVIL #12 $2.99

MAR120606 DEFENDERS #6 $3.99

MAR120579 DOROTHY AND WIZARD IN OZ #6 (OF 8) $3.99

MAR120601 EXILED #1 $2.99

MAR120629 FURY MAX #1 (MR) $3.99

DEC110712 HULK RETURN OF MONSTER PREM HC $29.99

DEC110713 HULK RETURN OF MONSTER PREM HC DM VAR ED 90 $29.99

MAR120550 HULK SMASH AVENGERS #1 (OF 5) $2.99

MAR120589 INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #516 $3.99

FEB128084 MARVEL SUPER HEROES #1 $4.99

MAR120549 MARVELS AVENGERS AVENGERS INITIATIVE $2.99

FEB120646 MARVELS AVENGERS PRELUDE TP $14.99

FEB128213 SUPERCROOKS #1 (OF 4) 2ND PTG YU VAR (MR) (PP #1017) $2.99

MAR120612 TOY STORY #3 (OF 4) $2.99

MAR120560 ULTIMATE COMICS SPIDER-MAN #10 $3.99

MAR120565 VENOM #17 $2.99

MAR120614 WOLVERINE AND X-MEN ALPHA AND OMEGA #5 (OF 5) $3.99

MAR120621 X-FACTOR #235 $2.99

MAR120619 X-MEN #28 $3.99

IDW Publishing from Diamond Distributors for May 2 2012

IDW PUBLISHING

MAR120384 30 DAYS OF NIGHT ONGOING #7 $3.99

FEB120383 DOCTOR WHO CLASSICS SERIES IV #3 (OF 6) $3.99

FEB120371 DOROTHY OF OZ PREQUEL #2 (OF 4) $3.99

MAR120345 DUNGEONS & DRAGONS FORGOTTEN REALMS TP VOL 03 $19.99

MAR120335 GI JOE 2 RETALIATION MOVIE PREQUEL TP $17.99

MAR120337 GI JOE A REAL AMERICAN HERO #178 $3.99

MAR120367 GODZILLA KINGDOM OF MONSTERS TP VOL 03 $17.99

MAR120354 LOCKE & KEY TP VOL 04 KEYS TO THE KINGDOM $19.99

MAR120313 STAR TREK CLASSICS TP VOL 03 ENCOUNTERS W/ UNKNOWN $21.99

FEB120351 STAR TREK ONGOING #8 $3.99

Dark Horse Comics from Diamond Distributors for May 2 2012

DARK HORSE COMICS

MAR120032 SKELETON KEY COLOR SPECIAL ONE SHOT $3.50

Image Comics from Diamond Distributors for May 2 2012

IMAGE COMICS

DEC110545 AVENGELYNE #8 CVR A LIEFELD $2.99
FEB120497 BLUE ESTATE #11 (MR) $2.99
FEB120498 BULLETPROOF COFFIN DISINTERRED #4 (OF 6) (MR) $3.99
FEB128147 DANGER CLUB #1 VAR CVR 2ND PTG $2.99
MAR120425 DOGS OF MARS TP (MR) $15.99
MAR120415 EPIC KILL #1 $2.99
FEB120504 HACK SLASH #15 CVR A SEELEY & ROSENBERG (MR) $3.50
FEB120505 HACK SLASH #15 CVR B EID (MR) $3.50
FEB128148 HELL YEAH #2 VAR CVR 2ND PTG $2.99
JAN120525 MARKSMEN TP VOL 01 $15.99
MAR120401 MIND THE GAP #1 CVR A $2.99
MAR120402 MIND THE GAP #1 CVR B $2.99
FEB128254 MIND THE GAP #1 SHARED EXC CVR $2.99
JAN120600 PIGS #7 (MR) $2.99
MAR120504 SPAWN #219 $2.99
FEB128150 SUPREME #63 VAR CVR 2ND PTG $2.99
MAR120505 SUPREME #64 $2.99
FEB120526 VESCELL #7 (MR) $2.99
FEB120530 WITCHBLADE #150 TOP COW STORE EX VAR CVR $20.00

Comics and Magazines from Diamond Distributors for May 2 2012

COMICS

FEB120752 B & V FRIENDS DOUBLE DIGEST #224 $3.99

FEB120816 BART SIMPSONS PAL MILHOUSE #1 $2.99

JAN121179 BELA LUGOSI TALES FROM GRAVE #2 (RES) $4.99

NOV111101 BLANKETS GN (NEW PTG) (STAR19060) $29.95

MAR120936 BOYS #66 (MR) $3.99

MAR121158 CONNIE TP UNSEEN AVENGER (RES) $14.95

FEB121021 DF AVENGERS ASSEMBLE #1 HAESER REMARK ED $49.99

DEC111062 DF WARLORD OF MARS DEJAH THORIS #11 EXC RISQUE RED CVR $14.99

JAN121093 FALLEN WORDS GN (MR) $19.95

MAR120843 FANBOYS VS ZOMBIES #2 MAIN CVRS $3.99

MAR120887 GARFIELD #1 $3.99

FEB121214 GFT MYTHS & LEGENDS #16 A CVR SEJIC (MR) $2.99

FEB121215 GFT MYTHS & LEGENDS #16 B CVR ATKINS (MR) $2.99

MAR121314 GIRLS ON TOP PIN UP ART OF MATT DIXON TP (O/A) (MR) $14.95

JAN121332 GRIMM FAIRY TALES TP VOL 11 (MR) $15.99

JAN120821 GWAII SC (O/A) $14.95

JAN120814 HOWARD LOVECRAFT & UNDERSEA KINGDOM GN $12.95

AUG111212 ICE #4 (OF 4) $3.99

JAN120944 INCORRUPTIBLE TP VOL 06 $16.99

MAR121268 INFLUENCING MACHINE SC $16.95

JAN121254 KIKI DE MONTPARNASSE GN (MR) $24.95

JAN121063 KIRBY GENESIS SILVER STAR #5 $3.99

AUG110785 KUNG FU PANDA DIGEST GN VOL 02 ELEMENTAL $6.95

FEB120758 LIFE WITH ARCHIE #19 $3.99

MAR121115 LOU GN VOL 02 SUMMERTIME BLUES $8.95

JAN121173 LOVE HINA OMNIBUS TP KODANSHA ED VOL 03 $19.99

MAR121160 MAN OF GOD #1 (OF 6) $3.50

JAN120815 MARLOW GN (MR) $14.95

FEB121153 MUCH THE MILLERS SON HC VOL 03 $20.00

FEB121078 NEGIMA GN VOL 34 (MR) $10.99

JAN120816 NETHER WORLD GN $19.95

JAN120817 NETWORK GN $14.95

MAR121138 NINJAGO GN VOL 01 CHALLENGE OF SAMUKAI (O/A) $6.99

OCT111127 ONE TP (GG STUDIO) VOL 01 $18.99

FEB120839 PLANET OF THE APES TP VOL 02 $14.99

FEB120738 RED LIGHT GN (MR) $14.95

NOV110945 RED SONJA #66 $3.99

FEB120981 RED SONJA WITCHBLADE #3 $3.99

FEB120806 REX ZOMBIE KILLER ONE SHOT $3.50

FEB120845 RICH JOHNSTONS THE AVENGEFULS #1 $3.99

JUL110801 RICHIE RICH TP VOL 01 WELCOME TO RICH RESCUE $14.99

FEB120711 ROBERT WELLS TRILOGY GN VOL 01 SACRIFICE $24.95

FEB120875 ROGER LANGRIDGES SNARKED TP VOL 01 $14.99

FEB120820 SIMPSONS ILLUSTRATED #2 $3.99

FEB120761 SONIC THE HEDGEHOG #236 $2.99

FEB120853 STAN LEE STARBORN TP VOL 03 $14.99

FEB121322 STAR WARS SCOURGE MMPB $7.99

MAR121117 SUMMER CAMP SCIENCE MYSTERIES VOL 02 NIGHTMARE CABIN THIEF $6.95

MAR121118 SUMMER CAMP SCIENCE MYSTERIES VOL 03 HUNT FOR HIDDEN TREASURE $6.95

MAR120878 SUPURBIA #3 (OF 4) $3.99

MAR121185 TANGLES STORY ABOUT ALZHEIMERS MY MOTHER & ME GN $14.95

JAN120963 TANPOPO COLLECTION HC VOL 01 $24.99

FEB120895 TEEN BOAT HC GN $14.99

MAR120987 THE LONE RANGER #5 $3.99

MAR120920 THE SPIDER #1 $3.99

JAN121207 THREE STOOGES GN VOL 01 BED BUGGED $6.99

JAN121208 THREE STOOGES HC VOL 01 BED BUGGED $10.99

FEB121081 TOKYO MEW MEW OMNIBUS TP VOL 03 $19.99

MAR120976 VOLTRON YEAR ONE #2 $3.99

MAR121222 X-O MANOWAR (ONGOING) #1 PULLBOX NORD CVR $3.99

MAR121221 X-O MANOWAR (ONGOING) #1 REG RIBIC CVR $3.99

FEB121073 YOUNG LOVECRAFT GN VOL 01 NEW PTG $19.95

FEB121074 YOUNG LOVECRAFT GN VOL 02 $19.95

MAGAZINES
FEB121251 COMICS REVUE PRESENTS APR 2012 $19.95
MAR121399 DOC SAVAGE DOUBLE NOVEL VOL 58 $14.95
FEB121259 DR WHO MAGAZINE #446 $8.99
JAN121148 HEAVY METAL MAY 2012 (MR) (NOTE PRICE) $7.95
MAR121374 LITTLE SHOPPE OF HORRORS #28 (NOTE PRICE) $9.95
DEC111332 MONSTERS FROM THE VAULT #30 $9.98
MAR121401 SHADOW DOUBLE NOVEL VOL 60 $14.95
MAR121410 STAR WARS INSIDER #133 SPECIAL NEWSSTAND ED $6.99
MAR121411 STAR WARS INSIDER #133 SPECIAL PX ED $6.99

May I Reads You Inform You?

It's the first day of May 2012.  Welcome to I Reads You, my blog about the things I read: mostly comic books, comics, and related books. Sometimes, I’ll write about or link to other topics: typically books, politics, and entertainment.

I’m Leroy Douresseaux, and I have another blog: http://www.negromancer.com/. I also write for the Comic Book Bin (which also has smart phones apps and comics).

All images and text appearing on this blog are copyright © and/or trademark their respective owners.

Naruto: The 411 on Volumes 1 to 43

I read Naruto: The Official Character Data Book

I posted a review at the Comic Book Bin (which has free comics).

Leroy Douresseaux Reviews: RED SPIKE VOLUME 1

RED SPIKE VOLUME 1
IMAGE COMICS/BENAROYA PUBLISHING

CREATORS: Michael Benaroya and Jeff Cahn
STORY: Jeff Cahn with Dave Elliot
SCRIPT: Jeff Cahn
ARTISTS: Salvador Navarro and Mark Texeira
COLORS: Ifansyah Noor of Imaginary Friends Studios
LETTERS: John Aitken
COVER: Mark Texeira
ISBN: 978-1-60706-487-9, paperback
144pp, Color, $14.99 U.S.

From Benaroya Publishing, Red Spike is a comic book miniseries created by Michael Benaroya and Jeff Cahn. Written by Cahn and drawn by Salvador Navarro and Mark Texeira, the series is set in a secretive black operations program called Project Red Spike. The entire five issues of the miniseries were recently collected in the trade paperback, Red Spike Volume 1.

Project Red Spike, like many over a 70-year period, was started as a program to create the first super-soldier. Using a process that manipulates and regulates the adrenal gland in human males, Project Red Spike actually succeeded in creating a super-soldier, and they did it twice. Now, Colonel Moyer, the hard-nosed prick who controls Red Spike, is testing the limits of his two new super-human toys, Gregory “Greg” Dane and Matt Cutler. But there are complications, of course.

Greg is having an affair that turns into a full romance with Dr. Margaret Downey, the woman who is supposed to be monitoring his (and Matt’s) mental health. Dane isn’t exactly the obedient solider, and as his behavior grows more insubordinate, he clashes with the straight-arrow Matt Cutler, who obediently follows orders and instructions. Colonel Moyer, who now sees Dane and Cutler as his property, seeks to further experiment with the limits of how much Red Spike can alter these two young men. Meanwhile, Henry Coughlin, formerly directly involved with Project Red Spike, plots to wrest control of the program from Moyer.

My first encounter with Red Spike was the third issue. I noted that it had the “rock solid plotting found in tightly-written, big-budget action movies.” I also mentioned that it had “elements of Captain America and the Jason Bourne films,” and that “it most reminds me of Universal Soldier, the 1992 Van Damme film.” I wrote, “Like the Van Damme films from the late 1980s to the mid-1990s, Red Spike is violent and testosterone-filled, but with a humanist lead character who fights because he must.”

Now, that I’ve read the entire miniseries in Red Spike Volume 1, I have to reassess. As a whole, personally, I find the series lacking in action scenes, considering that this book is about a super-soldier program. Artist Salvador Navarro and Mark Texeira offer a few nicely composed fight scenes that left me really wanting more.

This is not to say that Red Spike is overall lacking in pleasures. Despite what the covers for the miniseries suggest, Red Spike is a science fiction/military drama mixed with the elements of a workplace drama and a political soap opera, and it is fun. I enjoyed the backbiting and squabbling. Writer Jeff Cahn sometimes cut back and forth between two scenes, each scene featuring a character doing something to defeat the other character. This reminds me of the best inter-office politics moments of the 1995 film version of Clear and Present Danger.

In my earlier review, I describe the art by Navarro and Texeira as “uninspired” and wrote that it “put a damper on my enjoyment” of the series. Now, that art seems perfect for what Red Spike really is, which is a thriller more than it is an action comic book.

http://www.benaroyapublishing.com/

Leroy Douresseaux Reviews: KING CONAN: The Phoenix on the Sword #1

"Old Man Conan"
KING CONAN: THE PHOENIX ON THE SWORD #1 (OF 4)
DARK HORSE COMICS

WRITER: Timothy Truman
ART: Tomás Giorello
COLORS: José Villarrubia
LETTERS: Richard Stakings & Comicraft
VARIANT COVER: Gerald Parel (Andrew Robinson-regular cover)
28pp, Colors, $3.50 U.S.

During his three-decade career in comic books, did the industry or the public ever consider Tim Truman A-list talent? By the breath and scope of his talent and his work, he certainly was/is, if it is even appropriate to categorize him with what are the usual and the standard in comic books. The terms “eclectic” and “diverse” seem a tad bit understated when describing Truman’s body of work.

Even as Lonesome Dove, Dances with Wolves, and Unforgiven made the Western cool again, Truman was looking at the past, present, and future of the Western and frontier storytelling (Jonah Hex, The Kents, Scout, Wilderness, etc.). Before Christopher Nolan and Guillermo del Toro, among others, were surprising people with their re-imaginations and interpretations of superheroes and classic fantasy characters, Tim Truman was bold and visionary on Hawkworld, JLA: Gatekeeper, and The Spider, among many.

In his comics, Truman, as a writer, artist, and writer/artist, offers muscular storytelling presented with surprising grace in beautiful graphics. So Truman is one of those rare creators who are actually ideal to create Conan the Barbarian comic books. Many are good, but few can capture both the splendor of Howard’s prose and the darkness and brutality of which this prose tells.

When it appeared in the cover-dated December 1932 issue of the famed pulp fiction magazine, Weird Tales, “The Phoenix on the Sword” became the first published story featuring the character, Conan the Barbarian. Tim Truman as writer and Tomás Giorello as artist have adapted that story in King Conan: The Phoenix on the Sword, a four-issue comic book miniseries from Dark Horse Comics. The fourth and final issue recently arrived in comic book shops shortly.

King Conan: The Phoenix on the Sword #1 introduces us to a gray-haired Conan, King of Aquilonia, and to Pramis, a scribe who is chronicling the story of King Conan’s rule. Conan tells Pramis of a time early in his reign – a time of unrest – and the story travels back to that time.

Although Conan freed Aquilonia from a despotic king, he is now despised by Aquilonians, from the common man to the elite. Rinaldo, the poet and bard, who once sang his praises, now stirs unrest against Conan and is part of a plot to unseat Conan and replace him on the throne with a pure blood Aquilonian, Baron Dion. The mysterious Ascalante is the ringleader, but even more mysterious is Ascalante’s companion, a long-time enemy of Conan, the wizard Thoth-Amon.

I find King Conan: The Phoenix on the Sword to be an unusual Conan story. It is not as if I haven’t read a Conan story like this – one that is a conspiratorial drama, but this is not the Conan comic book norm. There is more dark drama here than there is edgy drama; in fact, the only fight scene is Conan’s palace workout at the beginning of the story.

That is not at all a bad thing. Tim Truman fashions a story filled with political machinations and intrigue, but at its heart, it examines what happens when you get what you thought you wanted and then find it to be a prison. As a monarch, Conan is trapped, and the interesting twist that Truman gives this story is that his enemies may be about to get what they wanted, but in the worst way.

Truman has a wonderful collaborator in Tomás Giorello, who takes Truman’s script and transforms it into comic book art that is a tapestry of exotic backdrops, a striking cityscape, strange costumes, and shadowy backrooms (includes a fine double page spread). This art is not only perfect for Conan, but for just about any Robert E. Howard story. Giorello could probably deliver a stunning comic book vision of Tolkien.

This comic book also includes a 4-page preview of Conan the Barbarian #1 by Brian Wood, Becky Cloonan, Dave Stewart, and Richard Starkings & Comicraft, with cover art by Massimo Carnevale.

http://www.ttruman.com/

Excel Saga: Mission: Isshiki Impossible

I read Excel Saga, Vol. 23

I posted a review at the Comic Book Bin (which has free comics).

I Reads You Review: ARCHIE #631

"Jungle Fever"
ARCHIE #631
ARCHIE COMICS

SCRIPT/PENCILS: Dan Parent
INKS: Rich Koslowski
LETTERS: Jack Morelli
COLORS: Digikore Studios
COVER: Dan Parent
32pp, Color, $2.99

The CBS Saturday morning animated series, Josie and the Pussycats in Outer Space (originally broadcast during the 1972-73 television season), was very important to me. It was the singular work that introduced me to and got me interested in comic books, science fiction, and all-things-fantasy. By the time I discovered that there was such a thing as a Josie and the Pussycats comic book, the title had been discontinued.

During a recent infrequent visit to a comic book shop in the region, I was scanning the shelves for a copy of Rocketeer Adventures Vol. 2 #1, when I spotted the cover of Archie #631. I saw its depiction of Archie Andrews cradling Pussycat Valerie Smith as the two kissed, and I quickly snatched the comic off the shelf.

Apparently, Archie and Valerie have been eyeing each other for some time, much to the chagrin of Archie’s longtime, dual love interests, Betty Cooper and Veronica Lodge. Now, Valerie, her parents, and her little, brother Trevor AKA “Trev,” are moving to Archie and gang’s hometown of Riverdale. Now, that Archie and Valerie are closer, their fledgling romance takes flight. Not everyone is happy, but maybe Archie’s friends and Valerie’s band mates will just have to deal.

The Archie Comics creator of which I’m most acquainted is Dan DeCarlo, and I think of him when I think of Archie Comics. I can, however, learn to really like Dan Parent, who scripts and pencils Archie #631. He modernizes the characters and settings, but retains the eternally retro charm that is inherently Archie. The story moves at a lively pace and the dialogue and characterizations are funny and even a bit peppery, while staying in the zone that is Archie Comics’ version of “all ages.”

I bought Archie #631 because Josie and the Pussycats are in it, but I didn’t plan on really liking it. Dan Parent makes me want more.

http://www.archiecomics.com/

DC Comics from Diamond Distributors for April 25 2012

DC COMICS

FEB120229 ALL STAR WESTERN #8 $3.99

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Marvel Comics from Diamond Distributors for April 25 2012

MARVEL COMICS

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IDW Publishing from Diamond Distributors for April 25 2012

IDW PUBLISHING

MAR110472 ART OF AMANDA CONNER HC $29.99
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Dark Horse Comics from Diamond Distributors for April 25 2012

DARK HORSE COMICS

JAN120075 ABE SAPIEN TP VOL 02 DEVIL DOES NOT JEST $17.99
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Image Comics from Diamond Distributors for April 25 2012

IMAGE COMICS

FEB120493 ACTIVITY #5 $3.50
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Comics and Magazines from Diamond Distributors for April 25 2012

PREVIEWS PUBLICATIONS
MAR120005 PREVIEWS #284 MAY 2012 PI

COMICS
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MAGAZINES
MAR121371 FANGORIA #313 $9.99
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20th Century Boys: Humanity in the Balance

I read Naoki Urasawa's 20th Century Boys, Vol. 20

I posted a review at the Comic Book Bin (which has free comics).

Voltron Force: Meet the Cadets

I read Voltron Force, Vol. 1: Shelter from the Storm

I posted a review at the Comic Book Bin (which has FREE smart phone apps and comics).

I Reads You Review: KULL: THE CAT AND THE SKULL #4

KULL: THE CAT AND THE SKULL #4
DARK HORSE COMICS

WRITER: David Lapham
ART: Gabriel Guzman
COLORS: Garry Henderson
LETTERS: Richard Starkings & Comicraft’s Jimmy Betancourt
COVER: Jo Chen
28pp, Colors, $3.50 U.S.

Kull the Conqueror (also known as Kull of Atlantis) is a fictional character created by Robert E. Howard (who also created Conan the Barbarian). Marvel Comics published the first comic book adaptations of the character in 1971. Now, Dark Horse Comics has the license to published Kull comic books.

The publisher’s latest Kull comic book miniseries is Kull: The Cat and the Skull. This story is an adaptation of a Kull short story first published in 1967, “Delcardes’ Cat” (also known as “The Cat and the Skull”). The series revolves around Kull’s encounter with Delcardes, one of the most beautiful women in the Seven Kingdoms, and an even more interesting creature, Delcardes’ traveling companion, the cat named Saremes. Because it is rumored that Saremes is of the old race, Kull is anxious to hear her counsel, as he takes on a serpent cult that is rallying under a powerful and mysterious wizard.

As Kull: The Cat and the Skull #4 begins, Kull’s trusted ally, Brule, returns to the palace, as Queen Igraine lies stricken. Meanwhile, the great serpent carries Kull to the world beneath the Forbidden Lake, where he encounters an ancient people enraged at his trespass. However, it is here where Conan will learn more about the fortune-seeing cat. Also, the identity of his true enemy is revealed.

I did not read the first three issues of this miniseries. I had forgotten about its existence until Dark Horse Comics was nice enough to send me a box of comics and books for review, and Kull: The Cat and the Skull #4 was among the books. First, I must say that the art by Gabriel Guzman and Garry Henderson (colors) is quiet pretty. It has an old timey feel that recalls Burne Hogarth’s Tarzan comic strip and Alex Raymond’s work on Flash Gordon. Thus, Guzman and Henderson’s work looks as if it belongs to the era when the Robert Howard short story, upon which this comic book is based, was written. [“Delcardes’ Cat” was first published three decades after Howard’s death.]

As for the script for this issue, it offers what amounts to at least two issues worth of story, yet there is no tension and little sense of conflict. Writer David Lapham presents every confrontation here as a chance for conversation. Seriously, everyone talks, threatens, begs, or makes grand proclamations. It’s so odd… and a little boring, and that’s a shame. There are imaginative scenarios and scenes here and some interesting soap-operatic subplots, but it all sort of dribbles away to anticlimax.

C+

Tenjo Tenge: Masataka Rising

I read Tenjo Tenge, Vol. 6 (Full Contact Edition)

I posted a review at the Comic Book Bin (which has free comics).

Review: STAR WARS: DAWN OF THE JEDI – Force Storm #1

STAR WARS: DAWN OF THE JEDI – FORCE STORM #1 (OF 5)
DARK HORSE COMICS

["Star Wars Central" review page is here.] 

STORY: John Ostrander and Jan Duursema
SCRIPT: John Ostrander
PENCILS: Jan Duursema
INKS: Dan Parsons
COLORS: Wes Dzioba
LETTERS: Michael Heisler
COVER: Gonzalo Flores - variant (Jan Duursema – main cover)
36pp, Color, $3.50 U.S.

In the Star Wars Expanded Universe timeline, there is a period known as “Before the Republic.” This era occurs from 36,000 to 25,000 years before the Battle of Yavin, the climatic battle in the 1977 film, Star Wars, in which Luke Skywalker destroys the Death Star. Star Wars: Dawn of the Jedi is a new series of comic book miniseries situated in the “Before the Republic” age.

The first miniseries is Star Wars: Dawn of the Jedi – Force Storm. It takes place a few centuries before that time, 36,453 before the Battle of Yavin (also known by the acronym, BBY). The series takes readers back to the beginnings of the Jedi, then known as the Je’daii. On the planet Tython, in the center of the galaxy, these Je’daii (a word in the Bendu language that means “mystic center”) form an order of warrior monks that strives to maintain peace and to balance the mysterious power known as the Force.

In Star Wars: Dawn of the Jedi – Force Storm #1, Je’daii Master Ketu recounts the birth of the order to two of his students. This includes the first great conflict in which the Je’daii must take an active role, The Despot War (a conflict that takes place 12-years before Ketu tells the story). Meanwhile, on the lush world of Tatooine, Predor Tul’Kar of the Infinite Empire culls Force sensitives with the help of his Force Hound, Xesh.

I was surprised when Dark Horse Comics sent me a copy of Star Wars: Dawn of the Jedi – Force Storm #1. It must be obvious to them (and even some of you, dear readers) that I enjoy reading Star Wars comic books. I certainly enjoyed reading the Star Wars: Dawn of the Jedi – Force Storm comic book.

The first 11 pages of issue #1 recount the beginnings of what would become the Jedi Order (thus, the term, “Dawn” in the title). I expected a different story. To me, at least, it lacks grandeur, as if this was something Stan Lee and Steve Ditko cobbled together for Strange Tales back in the 1960s. The story that is set in the present (Infinite Empire) is more interesting, and the character, Xesh, seems like a budding star.

The art by Jan Duursema is good, looking as right for Star Wars as any other comic book art. The storytelling is good, though a bit calm for Star Wars, but the Ostrander-Duursema team is a good one for Star Wars comic books.

[This comic book also includes a 4-page preview of Conan the Barbarian #1 by Brian Wood, Becky Cloonan, Dave Stewart, and Richard Starkings & Comicraft, with cover art by Massimo Carnevale.]

Dorohedoro: The En of History

I read Dorohedoro, Vol. 6

I posted a review at the Comic Book Bin (which has free comics).

DC Comics from Diamond Distributors for April 18 2012

DC COMICS

JAN120392 AME COMI RAVEN ANGEL OF AZARATH VAR PVC FIG (RES) $70.00

JAN120393 AME COMI RAVEN DEMON DAUGHTER VAR PVC FIGURE (RES) $70.00

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Marvel Comics from Diamond Distributors for April 18 2012

MARVEL COMICS

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IDW Publishing from Diamond Distributors for April 18 2012

IDW PUBLISHING

FEB120381 DOCTOR WHO ONGOING VOL 2 #16 $3.99
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Dark Horse Comics from Diamond Distributors for April 18 2012

DARK HORSE COMICS

FEB120048 3 STORY SECRET FILES O/T GIANT MAN ONE SHOT $3.50
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FEB120052 DARK HORSE PRESENTS #11 FRANCAVILLA VAR CVR $7.99
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JAN120094 FEAR AGENT TP VOL 06 $16.99
DEC110084 GANTZ TP VOL 22 $12.99
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DEC110083 KATSUYA TERADA THE MONKEY KING TP VOL 02 $16.99
DEC110082 OH MY GODDESS RTL TP VOL 41 $12.99
FEB120027 RAGEMOOR #2 $3.50
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FEB128144 STAR WARS DAWN O/T JEDI FORCE STORM #1 (3RD PTG) $3.50
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Image Comics from Diamond Distributors for April 18 2012

IMAGE COMICS

FEB128069 BLOODSTRIKE #26 VAR CVR 2ND PTG $2.99
AUG110511 BOMB QUEEN VII QUEENS WORLD #3 (OF 4) (MR) $3.50
JAN128232 DARKNESS #101 VAR CVR 2ND PTG (MR) $2.99
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JAN120610 WITCHBLADE #155 CVR A CHRISTOPER $2.99
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Comics and Magazines from Diamond Distributors for April 18 2012

COMICS

DEC111181 2000 AD #1772 $5.25

JAN121233 2000 AD #1773 (NOTE PRICE) $5.25

JAN121234 2000 AD #1774 (NOTE PRICE) $5.25

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FEB120751 ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #228 $3.99

FEB120986 ARMY OF DARKNESS OMNIBUS TP VOL 02 $29.99

FEB121131 ASTERIX OMNIBUS SC VOL 03 $19.95

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FEB120753 BETTY & VERONICA #259 $2.99

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JAN121261 BLOOD FEAST #1 $3.50

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JAN121292 CROSS GAME TP VOL 07 $14.99

DEC110763 DAMAGED GOODS GN (MR) $17.99

SEP111045 DANGER GIRL ARMY OF DARKNESS #5 $3.99

AUG111227 DARKSTALKERS ULTIMATE ED TP $49.99

DEC118227 DCD SUMMIT 2012 AVENGERS VS X-MEN #2 (OF 12) INKED VAR PI

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JAN121296 EXCEL SAGA TP VOL 23 $9.99

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MAGAZINES
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