I Reads You: Heroic Age

Showing posts with label Heroic Age. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 27, 2024

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #127

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #127

DC COMICS

STORY: Derek Fridolfs; Sholly Fisch

PENCILS: Walter Carzon; Scott Neely

INKS: Horacio Ottolini; Scott Neely

COLORS: Silvana Brys; Heroic Age

LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Dezi Sienty

EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Alex Antone (reprint)

COVER: Derek Fridolfs with Silvana Brys

32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (June 2024)

Ages 8+

“Dog Tag”

Welcome, dear readers, to my continuing journey through the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series, which began publication in 2010. I continue to renew my subscription so that I can continue to review this series for you, dear readers.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #127 opens with “Dog Tag,” which is written by Derek Fridolfs and drawn by Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini. The story finds Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma enjoying a night of “Laser Tag.” However, what Shaggy calls the “Freaky Fright Stalker” is taking the fun out of the game. Can the gang solve this mystery?

As usual, the second story, “Con Games,” is a reprint story. It is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Scott Neely. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You #25 (cover date: November 2012).] The story finds Mystery Inc. attending “MonsterCon.” It's packed with authors, filmmakers, sci-fi fans, and cosplayers. The con's organizer, Woody K. Wackerstein, is certainly happy about the turnout. But when the “Phantom of the Con” makes his regularly scheduled appearance, the apparition threatens to put an end to the convention fun.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #127 has as its theme fandom and fan gatherings. “Dog Tag” is set in a “Laser Tag” entertainment center, and although people have been playing it since the 1980s, “Laser Tag” remains popular. The monster in the story visually references the alien, “Predator” that first appeared in the 1978 film, Predator, and also appeared as recently as the Hulu original film, the Emmy-nominated, Prey (2022).

I enjoy stories set in the world of science fiction and comic book conventions. I still fondly remember author Sharyn McCrumb's 1988 satirical novel, Bimbos of the Death Sun, which is set at a science fiction convention. This issue's second story is set set at a con, and features a number of pop culture references. Woody K. Wakerstein, the organizer of “MonsterCon,” is a substitute for Forest J. Ackerman, an author and magazine editor. Ackerman was also one of the founders of science fiction fandom. Another substitute character is “Walt Palace,” who is based on director William Castle (1960s 13 Ghosts), who is known for his B-movie horror flicks for which he used gimmicks to promote.

The best thing about this issue is that it features the art of two of the best Scooby-Doo comic book artists, Walter Carzon and Scott Neely. Each artist's illustrations also features gloriously shimmering bright coloring from Silvana Brys and Heroic Age, respectively.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #127 is a good issue, much better than the previous one, #126. So grab your “Scooby Snacks” and read it, and maybe watch a Scooby-Doo movie, later. And until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

B+

[This comic book includes a seven-page preview of the DC Comics original graphic novel, “Dear DC Super-Villains” by Michael Northrop, Gustavo Duarte, Cris Peter, and Wes Abbott.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Tuesday, June 18, 2024

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You #125

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #125

DC COMICS

STORY: John Rozum

PENCILS: Randy Elliot; Robert Pope

INKS: Randy Elliot; Scott McRae

COLORS: Silvana Brys; Heroic Age

LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Randy Gentile

EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Jeanine Schaefer (reprint)

COVER: Randy Elliot with Silvana Brys

32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (February 2024)

Ages 8+

“No Laughing Matter”

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #125 opens with “No Laughing Matter,” which is written by John Rozum and drawn by Randy Elliot. The story finds Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma opens stuck with the aftermath of their jaunt to the country. They ended up needing a local farmer and his tractor to help with a Mystery Machine breakdown.

The farmer, however, tells them that they were lucky not to break down after dark because they might have run into the local monster, “the Hyena Man.” The creature has been terrorizing the area outside of Coolsville for the past month or so. As they head back into town, they encounter Katie Yoder, a local reporter who has been covering the mystery of the Hyena Man. Mystery Inc. offers to help Katie solve the mystery, but the countryside outside Coolsville is full of places where the Hyena Man can be or will not be...

As usual, the second story, “The Boy Who Cried Werewolf,” is a reprint story. It is written by John Rozum and drawn by Robert Pope and Scott McRae. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo #132 (cover date: July 2008).] The story finds Mystery Inc. investigating a strange case. A local youngster claims that a werewolf damaged his father's vintage muscle car, but his father believes his son damaged the car and is trying to avoid taking responsibility for his actions. So it's back to the scene of the monster crime, but maybe the werewolf has a reason for not wanting an investigation.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #125 has as its theme “therianthropy,” which is the ability of humans to metamorphose into animals or animal hybrids via “shapeshifting.” Perhaps, the best known form of therianthropy is “lycanthropy,” the ability to be become a wolf or wolf-like hybrid, both of which are known as the “werewolf.”

The first story, “No Laughing Matter,” is produced by two of my favorite Scooby-Doo creators, writer, John Rozum, and artist, Randy Elliot. Rozum offers a story that feels down-home Scooby-Doo and is a comfy fit for readers' Scooby-Doo imaginations. Elliot always captures the classic look and feel of old-school Scooby-Doo, especially of the 1969-70 Saturday morning cartoon series, “Scooby-Doo, Where Are You! And like the episodes of that beloved series, “No Laughing Matter” has some key kooky and quirky characters.

The reprint story, “The Boy Who Cried Werewolf,” is written by Rozum and is drawn by another of my favorite Scooby-Doo art teams, Robert Pope (pencils) and Scott McRae (inks). This story is a nice morality and father-son tale about owning up to one's irresponsible actions.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #125 is a fun read, and like issues #123 and #124, it is an exceptional issue. So grab your “Scooby Snacks” and read it, and maybe watch a Scooby-Doo movie, later. And until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

B+

★★★½ out of 4 stars

[This comic book includes a seven-page preview of the DC Comics original graphic novel, “Diana and the Hero's Journey” by Grace Ellis and Penelope Rivera Gaylord.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Thursday, December 7, 2023

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #124

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #124

DC COMICS

STORY: Ivan Cohen; Sholly Fisch

PENCILS: Walter Carzon; Robert Pope

INKS: Horacio Ottolini; Scott McRae

COLORS: Silvana Brys; Heroic Age

LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Dezi Sienty

EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Kwanza Johnson (reprint)

COVER: Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini with Silvana Brys

32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (December 2023)

Ages 8+

“Driven to Crime”

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #124 opens with “Driven to Crime,” which is written by Ivan Cohen and drawn by Walter Carzon (pencils) and Horacio Ottolini (inks). The story finds Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma visiting the set of the television series, “Riding Around with Celebrities in My Town.”

The host, Len, informs the gang that he is planning a spin-off series, “Flying Around with Celebrities Above Town.” However, a gruesome ghost that calls itself “the Aviator” is totally against anyone flying around his unfriendly skies. Now, it's up to Scooby and company to ground this wraith.

As usual, the second story, “Just Plane Spooked,” is a reprint story and is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Robert Pope and Scott McRae. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #18 (cover date: April 2012).] The story finds Mystery Inc. visiting the owner of the airline company, “Receding Airlines.” It seems that his airline's flights are being haunted by the ghost of “Cordelia Fairheart,” a famous female aviator (“aviatrix”) who disappeared with her plane over the ocean over eighty years ago. Now, in order to solve this mystery, Shaggy and company will have to do something that absolutely scares him – take a flight!

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #124 has as a theme aviator ghosts. The new story, “Driven to Crime,” which is drawn by one of my favorite Scooby-Doo comic book art teams, Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini, is surprisingly different. The best part of it is its unusual ending, which is more about restorative justice than criminal justice.

The reprint story, “Just Plane Spooked,” is produced by another of my favorite Scooby-Doo creative teams, that of writer Sholly Fisch and artists Robert Pope and Scott McRae. Although the ending is typical, the story still stands out because the storytellers sell the idea that flying in an airplane practically drives Shaggy bonkers, and that turns out to be funnier than I expected.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #124 is a fun read, and is, like issue #123, an exceptional issue. So grab your “Scooby Snacks” and read it, and maybe watch a Scooby-Doo movie, later. And until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

B+

★★★½ out of 4 stars

[This comic book includes a seven-page preview of the DC Comics original graphic novel, “Young Alfred: Pain in the Butler” by Michael Northrop and Sam Lotfi.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Tuesday, June 27, 2023

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #121

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #121

DC COMICS

STORY: John Rozum; Sholly Fisch

PENCILS: Walter Carzon; Robert Pope

INKS: Horacio Ottolini; Scott McRae

COLORS: Sylvana Brys; Heroic Age

LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Dezi Sienty

EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Kwanza Johnson (reprint)

COVER: Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini with Sylvana Brys

32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (June 2023)

Ages 8+

“Local Legends”

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #121 opens with “Local Legends,” which is written by John Rozum and drawn by Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini. The story finds Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma are visiting the small town of “Pond Cove.” The town is beset by monsters: the Goat Man, the Lizard Man, and the Green Devil, in particular, but it has also been the longtime haunt of Bigfoot.

Professor Collier at the local “Intercontinental Museum of Cryptozoology”believes that there is more to these hauntings than people suspect. Mystery Inc. agrees, but can they unravel the mystery before someone gets away with something?

As usual, the second story, “Mummy Knows Best,” is a reprint story and is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Robert Pope and Scott McRae. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #24 (cover date: October 2012).] The story finds Mystery Inc. visiting the museum.

They are getting an early preview of the exhibit of the mummy of King Tookooforskool, which was discovered by the famous archaeologist and adventurer, North Dakota Smith. When the mummy comes to life, however, the gang has a new mystery to solve.

I usually find a theme shared between the two stories in each issue of Scooby-Doo, Where Are You?, but issue #121 doesn't seem to have one. I really like “Local Legends” because of the reason I usually like many of the stories in this series – it would make a good plot for an animated Scooby-Doo direct-to-DVD film. It has a main plot, but the secondary plot is the one to watch. That would play well in an animated film. Plus, “Local Legends” is written by a favorite Scooby-Doo comic book writer, John Rozum, and a favorite series artist, Walter Carzon.

I don't have a lot to say about the reprint story, “Mummy Knows Best.” It has some nice ideas, and I like Robert Pope and Scott McRae's odd art.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #121 is a fun read. So grab your “Scooby Snacks” and read issue #121 and maybe watch a Scooby-Doo movie, later. And until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

B-

[This comic book includes a seven-page preview of the DC Comics original graphic novel, “Shazam! Thundercrack” by Yehudi Mercado.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Wednesday, June 22, 2022

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #115

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #115
DC COMICS

STORY: Derek Fridolfs; Sholly Fisch
PENCILS: Walter Carzon; Robert Pope
INKS: Horacio Ottolini; Scott McRae
COLORS: Silvana Brys; Heroic Age
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Dezi Sienty
EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Kwanza Johnson (reprint)
COVER: Derek Fridolfs with Silvana Brys
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (June 2022)

Ages 8+

“Ready Player Run!”

Welcome, dear readers, to my continuing journey through the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series, which began publication in 2010. I continue to renew my subscription so that I can continue to review this series for you, dear readers.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #115 opens with “Ready Player Run!,” which is written by Derek Fridolfs and drawn by Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini. The story finds Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma at the headquarters of “Playtel,” the board game company. Fred answered an ad so that the whole gang could “playtest” Playtel's latest game.

But Playtel has a surprise for all the testers. They want to give players a new experience, and that means transporting players into virtual reality versions of their games via VR goggles. But there is a glitch … err … gremlin in the VR system. The “Grim Gamer” is out to win at all costs, and Mystery Inc. has a new mystery to solve.

The second story, “Endgame” is, as usual, a reprint story and is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Robert Pope and Scott McRae. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #10 (cover date: August 2011).] Mystery Inc. is attending the “World Video Game Championships,” which is sponsored by the video game company, Gamestation.

Competitors include the Tendo Brothers, Mario and Luigi, and the legendary player, Zelda. But a ghostly figure, “The Pinball Wizard,” is demanding that this championship tournament be shut down. Now, Gamestation's Laurie Kraft is desperate to save the tournament, so Mystery Inc. has another mystery to solve.

Right from the start, one reason for me to like “Ready Player Run!” is that it comes from Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini, one of my favorite Scooby-Doo comic book art teams. Combined with Sivana Brys' lovely colors, “Ready Player Run!” looks gorgeous. Writer Derek Fridolfs, another Scooby-Doo comics favorite, offers a cleverly constructed story right out of the kind of real-world corporate espionage that must be rampant in the video game industry. I like this story, and I think it would make a good plot for one of those direct-to-DVD Scooby-Doo movies.

“Endgame” is written by another of my favorite Scooby-Doo comic book writers, Sholly Fisch, and is drawn by another of my favorite Mystery Inc. art dream teams, Robert Pope and Scott McRae. The plot and the villain are good, but not great. However, the story has a crazy last act – Shaggy and Scooby in a dance-off! Yes, it's as fun as it sounds.

So, I recommend Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #115 to all Scooby-Doo fans because it is one of the best issues of the series in the last year or so. And until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

B+

★★★½ out of 4 stars

[This comic book includes a seven-page preview of the original graphic novel, “Primer” by Jennifer Muro, Thomas Krajewski, and Gretel Lusky.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Thursday, April 14, 2022

#IReadsYou: Review: Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #114

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #114
DC COMICS

STORY: Sholly Fisch; Alex Simmons
PENCILS: Valerio Chiola; Robert Pope
INKS: Valerio Chiola; Scott McRae
COLORS: Valerio Chiola; Heroic Age
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Travis Lanham
EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Michelle Siglain (reprint)
COVER: Derek Fridolfs with Jeremy Lawson
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (April 2022)

Ages 8+

“Jailhouse Shock”

Welcome, dear readers, to my continuing journey through the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series, which began publication in 2010. I continue to renew my subscription so that I can continue to review this series for you, dear readers.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #114 opens with “Jailhouse Shock,” which is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Valerio Chiola. The story finds Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma at a local police station, after closing their most recent case involving bank fraud and someone masquerading as a Yeti.

Before they can leave, they learn from Sarge, the head of the station, that the building is being haunted. The haunt is none other than the ghost of the notorious early twentieth century bank robber, Muggsy Derringer, who claims to want revenge. The real Muggsy, however, was hunted down a century ago in Chicago, so why would his ghost be haunting this police station? It is up to the gang to find out?

The second story, “Dead & Let Spy” is, as usual, a reprint story and is written by Alex Simmons and drawn by Robert Pope and Scott McRae. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo #106 (cover date: May 2006).] Mystery Inc. is meeting the spymaster “G,” who wants the gang to help his nephew, J.Z. Bang, a teen secret agent.

J.Z. is used to dealing with spies and secret agents, but his latest adversary, a freelance agent called “Cadaver,” uses spooky tricks, such as employing monsters and ghouls. The teen secret agent is trying to gather the ten pieces of a new invention created by the eccentric Dr. Ooh. He needs help fighting off a menagerie of creeps that look as if they are a rogues gallery from a horror film festival. Are the monster-hunting talents of Mystery Inc. just want J.Z. Bang needs?

The funniest thing about “Jailhouse Shock” is that Mystery Inc. knows from the beginning that the ghost of Muggsy Derringer is a fake. Well, at least Shaggy and Scooby-Doo are willing to sell the idea that they are facing a real ghost. While Sholly Fisch's story is funny, I still haven't bought into Valerio Chiola as an appropriate artist for a Scooby-Doo comic book. He draws the Mystery Inc. characters well enough, but all the other character are awkwardly drawn.

“Dead & Let Spy,” the reprint tale, is a better story and it is also drawn by one of the better Scooby-Doo comic book artists, Robert Pope, inked here by Scott McRae. Pope's graphical storytelling is fast paced, from beginning to end, and he offers an impressive menagerie of monsters. The monsters J.Z. Bang faces include the classic Scooby-Doo creep, the Yeti, which first appeared in “Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!” (1969-70) Season One, Episode 17 as the “Snow Ghost.” I think writer Alex Simmons has come up with a scenario that would make a nice Scooby-Doo graphic novel and perhaps, be excellent source material for an animated Scooby-Doo film.

6 out of 10

[This comic book includes a six-page preview of the original graphic novel, “Teen Titans Go! DC Super Hero Girls: Exchange Students!” by Amy Wolfram and Agnes Garbowska.]

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Wednesday, December 15, 2021

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #112

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #112
DC COMICS

STORY: Derek Fridolfs; Sholly Fisch
PENCILS: Scott Jeralds; Dario Brizuela
INKS: Scott Jeralds; Dario Brizuela
COLORS: Jeremy Lawson; Heroic Age
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte
EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Kristy Quinn (reprint)
COVER: Derek Fridolfs with Jeremy Lawson
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (December 2021)

Ages 8+

“Attack of the 8-Foot Amphibian!”

Welcome, dear readers, to my continuing journey through the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series, which began publication in 2010. I continue to renew my subscription so that I can continue to review this series for you, dear readers.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #112 opens with “Attack of the 8-Foot Amphibian!,” which is written by Derek Fridolfs and drawn by Scott Jeralds. The story finds Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma in the “Mystery Machine” are arriving at the “Coolsville Drive-In” movie theater. They are there for a screening of the classic monster movie, “The Ghoulie from Green Lagoon.” It seems, however, that the Ghoulie has, of late, been rampaging through the drive-in. Instead of a night at the movies, it's another mystery for Scooby and the gang.

The second story, “Creature Feature” is, as usual, a reprint story and is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Dario Brizuela. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #38 (cover date: December 2013).] The story opens on the set of the “Nocturna, Mistress of Midnight” television show. Horror movie hostess, “Nocturna,” is screening the monster movie, “Attack of the Cabbage People,” when a real cabbage monster terrorizes the set. It seems that “creepy creatures” from old movies have been plaguing the television studio for a few weeks.

Mystery Inc. arrives, offering to help solve the mystery. The gang discovers that Sybil, the actress who plays Nocturna; Lew Gordon, the show's producer; and Dennis Raye, the show's intern have different ideas about what is going on. Can Mystery Inc. solve the mystery of these old movie monsters before there are too many for anyone to handle?

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #111 was one of the best issues of the series that I had read in a long time. Shockingly, Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #112 makes it consecutive top-flight issues of a Scooby-Doo comic book series that has been mostly flat for the past few years.

First, the opening story, “Attack of the 8-Foot Amphibian!,” features the artwork of one of the very best Scooby-Doo comic book artists, Scott Jeralds. His beautiful “clear-line” drawing style retains the classic design of the Scooby-Doo characters and adds a quirky modern visual sensibility. The story is written by one of the better Scooby-Doo comic book writers, Derek Fridolfs, who is also an artist and who draws issue #112's cover.

Fridolf's script offers sly commentary about people's obsessions with their smart phones and about how people use camera phones to record events rather than live in those events themselves. It seems that the only ones concerned with “the Green Ghoulie” is analog-era Mystery Inc, who fit in perfectly with the story's setting, a drive-in movie theater. This offers an obvious contrast to the rest of the moviegoers who are too jaded to care about “old school” or “retro” things.

Like the reprint story in issue #111, issue 112's back-up story is also a reprint from an earlier issue of Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? rather than from the previous series, Scooby-Doo (1997-2010). “Creature Feature” (originally published in 2013) is not quite as entertaining as “Attack of the 8-Foot Amphibian!,” but it does offer “Nocturna, Mistress of Midnight,” an homage to the great, real-life horror-hostess, “Elvira, Mistress of the Dark.” For me, that's enough to make “Creature Feature” a winner.

So, I highly recommend Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #112 to Scooby-Doo fans. And until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

8 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Saturday, October 16, 2021

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #111

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #111
DC COMICS – @DCComics

STORY: Derek Fridolfs; Sholly Fisch
PENCILS: Valerio Chiola; Fabio Laguna
INKS: Valerio Chiola; Fabio Laguna
COLORS: Valerio Chiola; Heroic Age
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte
EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Kristy Quinn (reprint)
COVER: Derek Fridolfs with Valerio Chiola
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (October 2021)

Ages 8+

“Crash Test Mummies”

Welcome, dear readers, to my continuing journey through the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series, which began publication in 2010. I continue to renew my subscription so that I can continue to review this series for you, dear readers.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #111 opens with “Crash Test Mummies,” which is written by Derek Fridolfs and drawn by Valerio Chiola. The story finds Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma inside their beloved van, the “Mystery Machine.” They are in a death race against a mad drag racer that the gang calls the “Spooky Speedster.”

Unfortunately, Mystery Inc. gets the worst of it. The Mystery Machine crashes into a tree, taking on heavy and extensive damage, and the Spooky Speedster gets away. Luckily, a mechanic happens to arrive in his tow truck, but so does the local sheriff. The kids get away without getting a ticket, but the sheriff sends them to traffic school. More misfortune arrives when the gang discovers that the building where the school is held is haunted by a “Mumbling Mummy.” Can Scooby and company solve this mystery and get a passing grade in traffic school?

The second story, “On Your Marks, Get Set … Ghost!” is, as usual, a reprint story and is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Fabio Laguna. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #36 (cover date: October 2013).] The story opens at one of the most challenging “Modcar” racecourses anywhere, the “Terror Track.” There, we find Mystery Inc helping the world's greatest race car driver, Earl Daleheart. It seems that the Terror Track's mascot, “Terry the Terror,” has become a real-life monster, terrorizing the track and knocking Daleheart out of the race. Can the gang solve this mystery, and can Shaggy and Scooby drive a race care?

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #111 is one of the best issues of the series that I have read in a long time. “Crash Test Mummies” has some beautiful art drawn and colored by Valerio Chiola, and Chiola's graphic design of the characters is one of the best modern takes on the Scooby-Doo franchise – in animation or comic books. The story by Derek Fridolfs, who is himself quite an accomplished Scooby-Doo comic book artist, is a delight that offers two mysteries. Fridolfs also does double duty, delivering a striking cover illustration. As Scooby declares, “Scooby-Dooby-Two!”

This issue may be the first that I have read in which the backup story is a reprint story from this series rather than being from the long-running Scooby-Doo (1997-2010) comic book series, which is usually the source for the backup stories. Still, “On Your Marks, Get Set … Ghost!” is also a fun story from two other stalwart Scooby-Doo comic book creators, writer Sholly Fisch and artist Fabio Laguna. Also, some readers will enjoy the fact that the character, Earl Daleheart, is a reference to the late stock car driver and NASCAR racing legend, Dale Earnhardt.

So, I highly recommend Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #111 to Scooby-Doo fans. And until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

A-
7.5 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Friday, August 20, 2021

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #110

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #110
DC COMICS – @DCComics

STORY: Sholly Fisch; Paul Kupperberg
PENCILS: Randy Elliot; Fabio Laguna
INKS: Randy Elliot; Fabio Laguna
COLORS: Silvana Brys; Heroic Age
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Travis Lanham
EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Harvey Richards (reprint)
COVER: Randy Elliot with Silvana Brys
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (August 2021)

Ages 8+

“Pulp Friction”

Welcome, dear readers, to my continuing journey through the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series, which began publication in 2010. I continue to renew my subscription so that I can continue to review this series for you, dear readers.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #110 opens with “Pulp Friction,” which is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Randy Elliot. Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma arrive at “Sunshine Citrus Grove.” They've been called there by the grove's owner, Lyman Valencia, who needs the gang to save his business from the “the ghost of Jimmy Orangepeel.” But Shaggy and Scooby only want to enjoy the oranges, lemons, and limes.

The second story, “Over the Boardwalk,” is, as usual, a reprint story and is written by Paul Kupperberg and drawn by Fabio Laguna. [This story was originally published as the back-up story in Scooby-Doo #155 (cover date: June 2010).] Mystery Inc. is enjoying some time off at Coney Island. Shaggy and Scooby are enjoying a roller coaster ride and the food. Velma is taking the “walking tour” so that she can enjoy the history of the area. Daphne and Fred are going to enjoy the beach. However, an invasions of demons threatens everyone's fun.

The art team of illustrator Randy Elliot and colorist Silvana Brys make “Pulp Friction” (an awful name for this story) a fun read. Elliot's art is both pretty and stylish, and Brys' colors are radiant in a way that conveys the verdant state of the grove. The story is okay, but I can't help buy smile at the Johnny Appleseed riff.

“Over the Boardwalk” is nicely offbeat. I like the idea of the Mystery Inc. kids going their own way at a particular location to do their own thing. Like the new story, “Pulp Friction,” this reprint story has the theme of greed. In both cases, one business owner attempts to use the supernatural to scare away another business owner, so that he can swoop in a buy the other business. This is a theme that has been familiar throughout the half-century of the Scooby-Doo franchise.

So, I recommend Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #110 to Scooby-Doo fans. And until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

B-
5 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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-------------------------

Saturday, September 5, 2020

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #104

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? #104 (2010)
DC COMICS – @DCComics

STORY: Sholly Fisch; Scott Cunningham; John Rozum
PENCILS: Scott Jeralds; Karen Matchette; Matt I. Jenkins
INKS: Scott Jeralds; Karen Matchette; Matt I. Jenkins
COLORS: Rock Candy; Heroic Age
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Mike Sellers; Rob Clark Jr.
EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Michael Siglain (reprint); Harvey Richards (reprint)
COVER: Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini with Silvana Brys
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (July 2020)

Rated “E” for “Everyone”

“Get on Board”

Welcome, dear readers, to my continuing journey through the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series, which began publication in 2010. I renewed my subscription (for a second time), and this is the sixth issue of my third subscription run that I have received.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #104 opens with “Get on Board,” which is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Scott Jeralds. Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma have responded to a call from Toni, a young woman who is running the skateboarding event, the “Z Games” (a stand in for the real-world extreme sports event, “The X-Games”). It seems the games are being haunted by a gremlin with the power to destroy the competitors' skateboards. Can Mystery Inc. put an end to this gremlin and save the games?

The second story, “The Creature from the Rainbow Waterpark,” is, as usual, a reprint and is written by Scott Cunningham and drawn by Karen Matchette. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo #121 (cover date: August 2007).] On the road and looking for a chance to get away from the heat of the summer, the gang stops at “Rainbow Waterpark,” and immediately discover that some kind of fish-monster is plaguing the park. The park's owners, “the Rainbow Twins,” brothers Allen and Alfred, blame a rival park. But is there more to this monster attack sabotage?

The third story, “Car-Tastrophe,” is also a reprint story and is written by John Rozum and drawn by Matt I. Jenkins. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo #153 (cover date: April 2010).] When Mystery Inc. is on the road and the Mystery Machine blows a gasket, the gang calls into the talk show, “Car Chat,” on the National People's Radio network. Brothers Tim “Cling” Thunk-It and Roy “Clang” Thunk-It dispense the automobile repair advice, and lately, Fred has had to call them quite often. However, when a mysterious caller, naming himself “The Phantom of the Air,” starts haunting them over the air, the Thunk-It brothers turn to Mystery Inc. Can the gang solve this radio mystery and catch a wily phantom?

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #104 is probably the best issue of this series that I have read in at least a year. “Get on Board” is not a standout story, although I like the skateboarding competition setting and having the “monster” be a gremlin that dresses like... a “skater boy.” The solution to “The Creature from the Rainbow Waterpark” involves one of those “mazes for kids” puzzles that are includes in some comics and magazines aimed at young readers.

“Car-Tastrophe” is what makes Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #104 an exceptional entry in this series. The “Car Chat” radio show is a spoof of the real-life “Car Talk” radio show that aired on National Public Radio (NPR) from 1977 to 2012. This story also spoofs NPR with National Peoples Radio, and the “Thunk-It Brothers” spoof Car Talk's “Click and Clack, the Tappet Brothers” (who were really brothers, Tom and Ray Magliozzi). If you, dear readers, remember “Car Talk,” this story will work for you and come across as funny. If you are not familiar with the show, I am not sure that this story will really work for you.

I recommend Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #104 to fans of Scooby-Doo comic books with a heartier-than-usual recommendation. So, until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

B+
7 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

The text is copyright © 2020 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.

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Saturday, July 25, 2020

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #103

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? No. 103 (2010)
DC COMICS – @DCComics

STORY: Ivan Cohen; Robbie Busch; Sholly Fisch; John Rozum
PENCILS: Walter Carzon; Scott Jeralds; Scott Neely; Leo Batic
INKS: Horacio Ottolini; Jeff Albrecht; Scott Neely
COLORS: Silvana Brys; Heroic Age
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Mike Sellers; Swands
EDITORS: Jim Chadwick; Jeanine Schaefer (reprint); Harvey Richards (reprint)
COVER: Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini with Silvana Brys
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (April 2020)

Rated “E” for “Everyone”

“The Black Knight Returns”

Welcome, dear readers, to my continuing journey through the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series, which began publication in 2010. I renewed my subscription (for a second time), and this is the fifth issue (at least) that I have received from that renewal.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #103 opens with “The Black Knight Returns,” which is written by Ivan Cohen and drawn by Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini. Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma are V.I.P. guests on a movie set. There is going to be a reboot of Scooby-Doo's favorite film franchise, “Star: Dog Ranger.”

The original “Star” was a human in a dog costume, but in the modern take on the franchise, “Star” will be a composite of an on-set animatronic dog, Andy Circuit, and post-production computer effects. The “Star” reboot production may be haunted, however, as “The Black Knight,” a ghostly invader, frequently rides onto the set, declaring that the movie will never be completed. Can Mystery Inc. unravel the mystery of this seemingly cursed reboot?

The second story, “Abe Misbehavin',” is, as usual, a reprint and is written by Robbie Busch and drawn by Scott Jeralds and Jeff Albrecht. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo #120 (cover date: July 2007).] The “Ghostly Gorilla,” a glowing white and blue apparition, is haunting a movie set. Can Mystery Inc. solve this case, or is there more to this case than meets the eye?

There are two one-page stories. First is “Learn to Draw with the M.I. Gang – Learn to Draw: Fred,” which is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Scott Neely. [This feature was originally published in Scooby-Doo #123 (cover date: October 2007).] Shaggy and Scooby learn to draw Fred, with scary results.

Next is “Velma's Monsters of the World: Pricolici,” which is written by John Rozum and drawn by Leo Batic and Horacio Ottolini. [This feature was originally published in Scooby-Doo #158 (cover date: September 2010).] Readers, sit back as Velma regales you with the story of the Romanian werewolf known as the “Pricolici”.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #103 stands out a little from most of the recent run of issues in this series. “The Black Knight Returns” will remind readers of a frequent theme of Scooby-Doo cartoons, the old resenting the new. “Abe Misbehavin'” has a rather unique twist that I did not see coming. I also found myself intrigued by the Pricolici in this installment of “Velma's Monsters of the World.” In the real world, the Pricolici is a creature from Romanian folklore that is a werewolf fused with either a vampire or a dhampir (half-human and half-vampire), depending on the source material.

I recommend Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #103 to fans of Scooby-Doo comic books. So, until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

B
6 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

[This comic book includes a preview of the original graphic novel, Batman: Overdrive, by Shea Fontana and Marcelo DiChiara.]

The text is copyright © 2020 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.

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Saturday, January 18, 2020

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #101

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? No. 101
DC COMICS – @DCComics

STORY: Sholly Fisch; Robbie Busch; John Rozum;
PENCILS: Randy Elliot; Scott Jeralds; Robert Pope
INKS: Randy Elliot; Jeff Albrecht; Scott McRae
COLORS: Rock Candy; Heroic Age
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Mike Sellers
EDITORS: Jim Chadwick; Michael Siglain and Jeanine Schaefer (reprints)
COVER: Randy Elliot with Rock Candy
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (October 2019)

Rated “E” for “Everyone”

“Cow-nt Me Out!”

Join me, dear readers, in my continuing journey through the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series. I renewed my subscription (for a second time) and this is the third issue I received from that renewal.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #101 opens with “Cow-nt Me Out!,” which is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Randy Elliot. Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma have been called in for a most unusual case for them – an animal haunting. Farmer Dale and his two sons, Jedediah and Nathaniel, are being vexed by the glowing green “Ghost Cow.” Because a corporate farm operation, “Agritech,” wants to buy Dale's farm, Fred and company think that there is more to this haunting than a rampaging “Ghost Cow.”

The second story, “Dr. Krankenstone's Monster,” is, as usual, a reprint and is written by Robbie Busch and drawn by Scott Jeralds and Jeff Albrecht. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo #112 (cover date: November 2006).] Mystery Inc. is passing through the fairy tale-like village of “Krankonia.” They are just in time to see “Dr. Krankenstone's Monster” run away from the village after kidnapping Sylvia, a young maiden.

Mystery Inc. and the villagers chase the monster to the castle of Doktor Krankenstone, who insists that he has nothing to do with a monster... nor is he a mad scientist! It is up to Scooby, Shaggy, and the rest of the gang to discover what is fact and what is fiction when it comes to a notorious family and the legendary monsters they supposedly created.

The third story, “Velma's Monsters of the World,” is also a reprint and is written by John Rozum and drawn by Robert Pope and Scott McRae. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo #118 (cover date: May 2007) and was also reprinted in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #39 (January 2014).] In this two-pager, Velma transports her audience to South Carolina where she introduces them to the gruesome spirit known as the “Plat-eye.”

“Cow-nt Me Out!” isn't the first time that Mystery Inc. has investigated a case involving the ghost of an animal that is rampaging through a locale. However, there is a pair of people behind this haunting, and the story offers readers two pairs from which to choose. I like the story because I like Scooby-Doo stories set on farms or in rural areas.

“Dr. Krankenstone's Monster” has the feel of a classic episode of a Scooby-Doo animated series, and I like the interiors of the castle as drawn by Scott Jeralds. I have come across “Velma's Monsters of the World” as a reprint at least one other time during my subscription to this series. It actually is a nice little nugget.

Until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

B
6 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

The text is copyright © 2020 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.

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Thursday, November 14, 2019

I Reads You Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #100

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? No. 100
DC COMICS – @DCComics

STORY: Sholly Fisch; Jack Briglio
PENCILS: Walter Carzon; Roberto Barrios
INKS: Horacio Ottolini; Sebastian Bartolucci
COLORS: Silvana Brys; Heroic Age
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Travis Lanham
EDITORS: Lauren Bisom; Jeanine Schaefer
COVER: Dave Alavarez
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (October 2019)

Rated “E” for “Everyone”

“School Dazed”

I am continuing my journey through the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series. I renewed my subscription (for a second time) and (landmark, of sorts) issue #100 is the second issue I received from that renewal.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #100 opens with “School Dazed," which is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini. Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma are attending a dog obedience school reunion at Scooby's old school, “The Poochiversity.”

The school is famous for being the place that trained “Ring Ding Ding,” a canine star of early Hollywood, including appearing in some movies from the “Silent Film” era. Now, Ring Ding Ding has apparently returned as a green-hued ghost, haunting the reunion and terrorizing pure breeds, mutts, and 'fraidy cat-dogs alike.

The second story, “Secrets Unlimited,” is, as usual, a reprint and is written by Jack Briglio and drawn by Roberto Barrios and Sebastian Bartolucci. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo #133 (cover date: August 2008).] Mystery Inc. is attending a filming session of the reality television series, “Last Person Standing,” when suddenly a clay-covered monster attacks the set. Before Mystery Inc. can act, however, “Secrets Unlimited” arrives to chase the monster away.

What is and who are “Secrets Unlimited?” They are two guys, two girls, and a dog, and they fight monsters! They have their own reality show, and they are about to make Mystery Inc. irrelevant. That is unless Scooby, Shaggy, and the gang can unravel the truth about Secrets Unlimited and the monster that keeps appearing right before Secrets Unlimited arrives to save the day.

I find “School Dazed” to be an odd and entertaining story for two reasons. First, I simply can't imagine Scooby-Doo attending an obedience school. Secondly, the barking of the dogs in this story is translated as dialogue between the canines. I think this is the first time I have ever encountered any Scooby-Doo story, comics or animated film/TV, in which Scooby speaks coherently, at least to other dogs. In fact, this may be the first time that any writer has declared that Scooby attended obedience school. So for these reasons, I recommend Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #100, and I will call it a semi-landmark issue in this series.

“Secrets Unlimited” is also a novel story, simply for presenting Mystery Inc. with a rival group of fighters of the paranormal and supernatural. Honestly, these “rivals” seem more like front-runners since they really don't investigate anything, but they do show up to pose. Has Mystery Inc. ever faced off against a rival team in the various incarnations of the Scooby-Doo TV series?

By the way, Dave Alvarez once again illustrates a striking cover image for this series. See you next issue.

B+
7 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

The text is copyright © 2019 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.

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Sunday, September 22, 2019

I Reads You Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #99

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? No. 99
DC COMICS – @DCComics

STORY: Sholly Fisch; Paul Kupperberg

PENCILS: Walter Carzon; Fabio Laguna

INKS: Horacio Ottolini; Fabio Laguna

COLORS: Silvana Brys; Heroic Age

LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Travis Lanham

EDITOR: Lauren Bisom; Harvey Richards

COVER: Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini with Silvana Brys

32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (August 2019)

Rated “E” for “Everyone”

“Muddier on the Disoriented Express”

I am continuing my journey through the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series. I renewed my subscription, and issue #99 is the first issue I received from that renewal.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #99 opens with “Muddier on the Disoriented Express” which is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini. Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma receives free tickets for a luxury train trip through Europe. However, the gang is having a hard time enjoying the trip for two reasons.

First, the other passengers aboard this train are an unpleasant lot. There are two surly, “successful businessmen,” Mr. Rocco and Mr. Slugg. Next is a snob, “the Contessa,” and her belligerent assistant who accuses everyone of being paparazzi. Even the train's chef and conductor are acting kinda shady. Secondly, this luxury train is haunted by a ghost calling itself “the Spirit of Justice,” and it claims that it is after the “wicked” and the “villains” aboard the train so that it can dispense some justice.

The second story, “Over the Boardwalk,” is, as usual, a reprint and is written by Paul Kupperberg and drawn by Fabio Laguna. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo #155 (cover dated: June 2010).] Mystery Inc. is visiting Coney Island. Scooby and Shaggy are enjoying the rides and the food. Fred and Daphne want to sit on the beach. Velma plans a walking tour to discover the local history. However, Coney Island is suffering from a devilish infestation, and the gang may be forced to deal with it whether they want to or not.

Of course, “Muddier on the Disoriented Express” is a Scooby-Doo spin on Agatha Christie's classic mystery novel, Murder on the Orient Express. It has been adapted for film and television numerous times, and the novel has been the subject of parody and spoof countless times. Readers will find that “Muddier on the Disoriented Express” is true to Christie's novel, in a manner, when it comes to the resolution of the mystery of the “Spirit of Justice.” The story is well colored by Silvana Brys and also features Saida Temofonte's usual sharp lettering.

“Over the Boardwalk” also features nice coloring (by Heroic Age) and lettering (by Travis Lanham). I like the story, but I usually like Paul Kupperberg's Scooby-Doo stories. Also, the two artists for this issue, Walter Carzon and Fabio Laguna, are two of my favorite Scooby-Doo comic book artists. Overall, I enjoyed Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #99

See you next issue.

6 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

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Sunday, August 4, 2019

I Reads You Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #98

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? No. 98
DC COMICS – @DCComics

STORY: Derek Fridolfs; Terence Griep
PENCILS: Randy Elliot; Fabio Laguna
INKS: Randy Elliot; Fabio Laguna
COLORS: Silvana Brys; Heroic Age
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; John J. Hill
EDITOR: Harvey Richards
COVER: Derek Fridolfs with Pamela Lovas
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (June 2019)

Rated “E” for “Everyone”

“Highland Horror”

I am continuing my journey through the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series. Normally, I do this via my DC Comics subscription service, but I let that lapse for a few months. So, until my third subscription begins, I have been getting copies from my local comic shop (LSC).

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #98 opens with “Highland Horror” (written by Derek Fridolfs and drawn by Randy Elliot). Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma are attending the “Coolsville Celtic Faire.” In the midst of all the fun, however, a new creepy type, “the Mad Scott,” begins haunting the fairgrounds. And the Mystery Inc. kids have found their latest case.

The second story is “Sumo A-Go-Go” (written by Terrence Griep and drawn by Fabio Laguna). [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo #148 (cover dated: November 2009), and it was recently reprinted in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #91 (cover dated: May 2018).] Mystery Inc. is enjoying a sumo wrestling tournament when “The Tengu” appears, declaring that the tournament's opening ceremony is an insult. Now, it is up to the gang to stop him.

As stories in this series go, this one is a little above average. Writer Derek Fridolfs offers lots of factoids concerning Scottish culture, including about dancing, food, and kilts, and there are some bagpipe jokes. Also, Randy Elliot is one of the better modern Scooby-Doo comic book artists.

The second (and sometimes third) stories in Scooby Doo, Where Are You? have always been stories reprinted from the previous Scooby-Doo comic book series, simply entitled Scooby-Doo (159 issues, 1997-2010). The last year or so some of the back-up stories have been reprinted more than once. “The Freeloading Ghost” has been reprinted twice in half a year, and I have no idea why. Now, another recently reprinted story, “Sumo A-Go-Go,” makes another appearance, and it is actually a nice story. So anyone who has missed its previous appearances will get a chance to read it.

See you next time.

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

The text is copyright © 2019 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.

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Friday, May 24, 2019

I Reads You Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #97

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? No. 97
DC COMICS – @DCComics

STORY: Sholly Fisch; Darryl Taylor Kravitz; Scott Peterson
PENCILS: Walter Carzon; Karen Matchete; Scott Neely
INKS: Horacio Ottolini; Karen Matchete; Scott Neely
COLORS: Silvana Brys; Heroic Age
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Randy Gentile; Travis Lanham
EDITOR: Harvey Richards; Michael Siglain
COVER: Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini with Sylvana Brys
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (April 2019)

Rated “E” for “Everyone”

“The Gang's All Here”

I am continuing my journey through the renewal of my subscription to the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series. Join me, will you? A few months ago, I received the twelfth and final issue of that renewed subscription. I recently renewed for a second time, but it may be two months before I receive the first issue of my third subscription.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #97 opens with “The Gang's All Here” (written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini). Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma have stopped by the “Thirteenth National Bank” to withdraw some cash so that they can buy gas for the Mystery Machine. While there, however, the ghosts of infamous bank robbers, Connie and Floyd and Ron Derringer rob the bank. But why do ghosts want to rob a bank?

This issue has two reprint stories. The first is “The Freeloading Ghost” (written by Daryl Taylor Kravitz and drawn by Karen Matchete). [It was originally published in Scooby-Doo #127 (cover dated February 2008) and was also reprinted recently in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #94 (cover dated October 2018).] As the story opens, Mystery Inc. has just solved “The Mystery of the Crystal Key Ghosts.” Part of the process of solving the case meant that those “annoying kids” and their dog had to exorcise the ghosts haunting the creepy mansion that was at the epicenter of the mystery. Well, one of those ghosts is still around, and he wants a new home...

The second reprint story is “UFO-No!” (written by Scott Peterson and drawn by Scott Neely). [It was originally published in Scooby-Doo #109 (August 2006).] The story opens at night with the Mystery Machine traveling through some spooky woods. Mystery Inc. is lost! However, they follow a UFO to a stadium where singer “Pitty Swords” is in concert with “Jason Woodriver.” Those meddling kids arrive just in time to solve a new mystery. Why would a UFO steal Pitty's custom-made tiara?

“The Gang's All Here” is a weak story, although the art is nice. I also have to admit that I like seeing the Mystery Inc. kids engaged in something domestic like going to the bank to withdraw some cash. “UFO-No!” would make a good scenario for one of those direct-to-DVD Scooby-Doo movies, but it barely registers as a comic book story.

I have no idea why “The Freeloading Ghost” has been reprinted half a year after it was last reprinted. This is actually the third time I have encountered that story. It was also reprinted in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #45 (cover dated: July 2014). I wonder if that story was ever revisited, as the story ends with a ghost promising that Scooby-Doo has not seen the last of him.

See you... when my next subscription begins.

C+
5 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

The text is copyright © 2019 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.

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Saturday, November 24, 2018

Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You #95

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? No. 95
DC COMICS – @DCComics

STORY: Derek Fridolfs; Paul Kupperberg
ART: Scott Jeralds
COLORS: Silvana Brys; Heroic Age
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Travis Lanham
EDITOR: Harvey Richards
COVER: Derek Fridolfs with Pamela Lovas
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (December 2018)

Rated “E” for “Everyone”

I am continuing my journey through the renewal of my subscription to the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series. Join me, will you? I recently received the tenth issue of that renewed subscription.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #95 opens with “Mystery Mashing” (written by Derek Fridolfs and drawn by Scott Jeralds). Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma are attending the “Monster Truck Rally” at Coolsville Coliseum. However, a real life monster truck, “The Diesel Dragon,” is wrecking and crushing the competition, Now, there is indeed a new mystery to solve.

The second story is “The Night of the Undead” (written by Paul Kupperberg and drawn by Scott Jeralds). [It was originally published in Scooby-Doo #157 (August 2010).] It seems to start at a local shopping mall – the first appearance of a zombie. According to a group of students from the local university, a real virus, “Virus-Z,” is the cause of this zombie invasion, and that virus originated in a lab at the university. Mystery Inc. is on hand to discover the truth.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #95 is not one of the better issues in this second run of my subscription. Other than the monster truck designs by artist Scott Jeralds, “Monster Mashing” does not amount to much. In fact, I think that this plot is similar to a recent Scooby-Doo! / WWE straight-to-DVD animated film. The identity of the culprits behind the zombie attacks depicted in “The Night of the Undead” are obvious from the second page of the story, if not the first.

Anyway, I enjoy reading Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? – good, bad, or mediocre. See you next issue!

C+
5 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

The text is copyright © 2018 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.

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Friday, September 14, 2018

Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #94

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? No. 94
DC COMICS – @DCComics

STORY: Sholly Fisch; Darryl Taylor Kravitz; Terrance Griep
PENCILS: Randy Elliot; Karen Matchete; Scott Neely
INKS: Randy Elliot; Karen Matchete; Scott Neely
COLORS: Pamela Lovas; Heroic Age
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Randy Gentile; Swands
EDITOR: Harvey Richards
COVER: Randy Elliot with Pamela Lovas
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (October 2018)

Rated “E” for “Everyone”

Let's continue our journey through the renewal of my subscription to the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series. I recently received the ninth issue of that renewed subscription.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #94 opens with “Not Just Yeti” (written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Randy Elliot). Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma have been called by the owner of “Benjy Kord's Rockin' Gym,” a climbing gym, to solve the mystery of a abominable snowman or “yeti” that his been plaguing his place of business.

No true yeti would hang around a place with faux rock-climbing walls, so who is the real culprit? It is Hy Pique, owner of a rival climbing gym; Vertigo, a young lady who is one of Benjy's former customers; or is it Benjy's former employee, Tom Buldown?

This issue has two reprint stories. The first is “The Freeloading Ghost” (written by Daryl Taylor Kravitz and drawn by Karen Matchete). [It was originally published in Scooby-Doo #127 (February 2008).] As the story opens, Mystery Inc. has just solved “The Mystery of the Crystal Key Ghosts,” and part of the process of solving the case meant that those “annoying kids” and their dog had to exorcise the ghosts haunting the creepy mansion that was the epicenter of the mystery. Well, one of those ghosts is still around, and he wants a new home...

The second reprint story is “At Least That Beast” (written by Terrance Griep and drawn by Scott Neely). [It was originally published in Scooby-Doo #145 (cover dated: August 2009).] The Mystery Inc. kids are in the Congo to help a friend, John Arkizi. It seems that the “Mokele-Mbembe,” the legendary dinosaur that lives in the swamps around nearby Lake Tele, is causing a ruckus. The mastermind behind the dinosaur's behavior seems to be a witch doctor, Kwaheri, who is using the “Mokele-Mbembe” to vex a local mining operation. But who is the real mastermind, and what is his true motivation?

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #94 is a really fun read. It is probably the best issue of this current subscription run, and the reason is the two reprint stories. The new story, “Not Just Yeti,” is a shamelessly weak piece of work on the part of the storytellers. The reprint stories are quite good, especially “The Freeloading Ghost,” a story that has the potential to launch a new Scooby-Doo series or animated film. I hope to get more Scooby-Doo comic books like issue #94.

A-
7.5 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

The text is copyright © 2018 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.

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Tuesday, June 26, 2018

Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #92

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? No. 92
DC COMICS – @DCComics

STORY: Ivan Cohen; Scott Peterson; Frank Strom
PENCILS: Walter Carzon; Tim Levins; Scott Neely
INKS: Horacio Ottolini; Dan Davis; Scott Neely
COLORS: Silvana Brys; Heroic Age
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Mike Sellers; John J. Hill
EDITOR: Harvey Richards; Michael Siglain
COVER: Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini with Silvana Brys
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (June 2018)

Rated “E” for “Everyone”

Let's continue through the renewal of my subscription to the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series. I recently received the seventh issue of that renewed subscription.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #92 opens with “Too Many Sleuths” (written by Ivan Cohen and drawn by Walter Carzon and Horacio Ottolini). Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma are “Special Guests” at “Sleuth Con International.” When a collection of rubber masks based on Mystery Inc.'s earliest cases turn up missing, Mystery Inc. is on the case. But what will our young sleuths do when they learn that Edgar Allen Poe may be the culprit.

The second story is “Ravenous” (written by Scott Peterson and drawn by Tim Levins and Dan Davis). [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo #117 (cover dated: April 2007).] Staying in the vein of Mr. Poe, Shaggy is home alone reading comic books while the rest of the gang is away. When a raven suddenly swoops into the house, Shaggy thinks that it is an omen.

The third story is “In the Spirit” (written by Frank Strom and drawn by Scott Neely). [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo #151 (cover dated: February 2010).] Mystery Inc. arrives on the Pacific island of Tiki Tongo. This tropical paradise is the site of the “2009 International Surf Open,” but there is trouble in paradise. An aggressive ghost, “the Great Warrior Chief,” wants everyone off the island. Thus, when Mystery Inc. decides to solve this mystery, the ghost turns even more aggressive.

“Too Many Sleuths” offers an appearance by a character, “Old Man Carruthers,” a spin on the generic “Old Man so-and-so” character that usually played a crucial role in an episode of the original Scooby-Doo animated series, “Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!” I think the identity of the “villains” in “Too Many Sleuths” are obvious. “Ravenous,” a reprint story, is really good. Maybe, it is an Edgar Allen Poe thing for me, as I am a fan, but I thought this was a nice short, short story. As for “In the Spirit,” I like any Scooby-Doo story set on a tropical island, and I think this one has enough interesting elements to be worthy of being adapted for animation.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #92 is one of my favorite recent issues. As always, I recommend this title to Scooby-Doo fans, while I wait for the next issue to pop into my mail box.

B+
7 out of 10

Reviewed by Leroy Douresseaux a.k.a. "I Reads You"

The text is copyright © 2018 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog or site for syndication rights and fees.

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