#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”

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? #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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#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #122

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #122

DC COMICS

STORY: Derek Fridolfs; Sholly Fisch

PENCILS: Randy Elliot; Robert Pope

INKS: Randy Elliot; Scott McRae

COLORS: Sylvana Brys; Jason Lewis

LETTERS: Saida Temofonte

EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Alex Antone (reprint)

COVER: Derek Fridolfs with Sylvana Brys

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

Ages 8+

“The Key of Eeek”

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? #122 opens with “The Key of Eeek,” which is written by Derek Fridolfs and drawn by Randy Elliot.  The story finds Mystery Inc.:  Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma attending the “Coolsville Concerto in C Minor?”

Why, you ask?  This piano recital is being performed by the top students at a local piano school, and Daphne is one of those top students.  However, the mythological being, “Pan,” has decided to crash the recital.  Can Mystery Inc. solve this mystery before the entire recital is canceled?

As usual, the second story, “Monsters of Rock,” 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? #33 (cover date: July 2013).]  The story finds Mystery Inc. attending a concert by the glam-rock band, “Smooch” (a substitute for the real-life band, “Kiss”).

However, everyone's good time is ruined when the ghost of “Johnny B. Badd” crashes the concert.  So why is the spirit of a classic singer from the early day of rock 'n' roll haunting Smooch?  Hopefully, Mystery Inc. can solve this mystery before the haunting ruins Smooch's tour.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #122 features the theme of “haunted public musical performances.”  It offers a new story, “The Key of Eeek,” that presents another side of one of the character, Daphne.  Over the last three decades, various Scooby-Doo films and television series have expanded on the character of Daphne, making her smarter, more intelligent, and more well-founded than the early TV series did.  So, while this story isn't great, I like what it presents.  Besides, it is drawn by Randy Elliot, one of my favorite Scooby-Doo comic book artists.

Two years after “Monsters of Rock” was first published (2013), the members of the classic line-up of the band, Kiss, were the costars of the direct-to-DVD animated film, Scooby-Doo! and Kiss: Rock and Roll Mystery (2015).  Kiss also appeared in the Season Two episode of “What's New, Scooby-Doo?” (“A Scooby-Doo Halloween” – October 24, 2003, Episode #6).  In “Monsters of Rock,” Smooch pales in comparison to the real Kiss, but the fictional band is a nice substitute.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #122 is a fun read.  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, “Superman of Smallville” by Art Baltazar and Franco.]

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

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#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #119

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #119

DC COMICS

STORY: Derek Fridolfs; Sholly Fisch

ART: Randy Elliot; Dave Alvarez

COLORS: Silvana Brys; Candace Schinzler-Bell

LETTERS: Saida Temofonte

EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Aniz Ansari & Jessica Chen (reprint)

COVER: Derek Fridolfs and Silvana Brys

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

Ages 8+

“Centaur Attention”

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? #119 opens with “Centaur Attention,” which is written by Derek Fridolfs and drawn by Randy Elliot.  The story finds Mystery Inc.:  Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma arriving at the “Coolsville Equestrian Center.”  There, Daphne and her horse, Daisy, are participants in the “Coolsville Equestrian Meet.”  However, a monstrous centaur is determined to ruin the event.  Can the gang stop the creature in time to save the event?

The second story, “Knight Mare” is, as usual, a reprint story and is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Dave Alvarez.  [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #52 (cover date: February 2015).]  The story finds Mystery Inc. attending the “Renaissance Faire.”  Everyone is having fun until a ghost, “The Scarlet Knight,” arrives to ruin the event.  What's the story behind this ghostly knight, and will Shaggy and Scooby once again be coerced into being the bait for a trap to catch the the Scarlet Knight?

If Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #119 has a theme, it involves riding horses and ghostly villains that want to stop fun events from occurring.  Both stories, the new and the reprint, feature Scooby-Doo comics creators that are among my favorites.  That said, this is an average issue in the series, especially considering that there have been several above average issues published in the last year.  The villains are not that interesting, but both artists turn in some nicely drawn pages featuring excellent graphic design within the individual panels and overall pages.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #119 is a slight downgrade from issue #118.  Still, it is a Scooby-Doo comic book, Scooby-Doo fans.  So grab your “Scooby Snacks” and read issue #119 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, “My Buddy, Killer Croc” by Sara Farizan and Nicoletta Baldar.]

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

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#IReadsYou Review: THE BATMAN & SCOOBY-DOO MYSTERIES Extravaganza #1

THE BATMAN & SCOOBY-DOO MYSTERIES EXTRAVAGANZA #1
DC COMICS

STORY: Ivan Cohen; Sholly Fisch
ART: Dario Brizuela; Randy Elliot
COLORS: Franco Riesco; Silvana Brys
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte
EDITORS: Michael McCalister
COVER: Dario Brizuela with Franco Riesco
40pp, Color, $4.99 U.S. (August 2021)

Ages 8+

Batman created by Bob Kane with Bill Finger

“Glove Story” and “Going Bats”

The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries was a 12-issue comic book maxi-series that DC Comics published began publishing in 2021 and concluded this year (cover dated:  June 2021 to May 2022).  The series brought the characters from both the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? and Batman comic book series together.  Over the past five decades, Mystery Inc.:  Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma have joined Batman and (often) Robin to solve mysteries across various entertainment mediums.

The first few issues of The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries sold well enough that DC Comics published The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries Extravaganza #1.  This one-shot comic book reprinted The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries issues #1 and #2 (cover dated June and July 2021) under one cover as a double-sized issue.

The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries Extravaganza #1 begins with The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries #1 and the tale entitled “Glove Story.”  It is written by Ivan Cohen and drawn by Dario Brizuela.  “Glove Story” opens inside the “Gotham City Museum of Culture.”  Batman has called Mystery Inc. to help him with a mystery that even he cannot solve.  It seems that an exhibit featuring Batman's different costumes over the years has been robbed.  What's missing, you ask?  The gloves on one of the costumes are not the original ones.  So how can Scooby and the gang help Batman?  Well, it is a question of time in a story that guest stars Robin and Alfred Pennyworth.

Next up is The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries #2 and the story, “Going Bats.”  It is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Randy Elliot.  “Going Bats” opens with Mystery Inc. helping Batman and Robin capture The Joker in order to stop his latest plot.  As a reward, Batman takes Scooby, Shaggy, and the gang to visit the trophy room in the Batcave.  The visit is ruined when a ghost shows up in the Batcave and starts agitating the bats that live there.  Can Mystery Inc. and Batman and Robin solve this mystery before all the secrets of Batman and the Batcave are exposed.

THE LOWDOWN:  As a child, the most important characters in my life were Batman and Robin and Scooby-Doo and company (and Josie and the Pussycats).  Two of my all-time favorite animated television episodes are the team-ups of Batman and Scooby-Doo in two Season One episodes of “The New Scooby-Doo Mysteries” (1972-73).  They are “The Dynamic Scooby-Doo Affair” (Episode 2, September 16, 1972) and “The Caped Crusaders Affairs” (Episode 15, December 16, 1972).  So I'm always excited about such a union, except that I never got around to reading any issues of The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries until now via The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries Extravaganza #1.

“Glove Story” is a nonsensical tale of time travel, but it is drawn by one of my favorite Scooby-Doo comic book artists, Dario Brizuela.  “Going Bats” is the better of the two stories.  It is written by one of my favorite Scooby-Doo comic book writers, Sholly Fisch, and drawn by one of my other favorite Scooby-Doo comic book artists, Randy Elliot.  It is also a very clever Joker tale, which I won't detail, for you, dear readers, in order to avoid spoilers.  I can say that it is the reason that I am giving this issue the grade I am.

Colorists Franco Riesco (“Glove Story”) and Silvana Brys (“Going Bats”) dress these stories in beautiful hues; they helped to make The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries one of the prettiest DC Comics of 2021.  And it would not be a Scooby-Doo comic book without the lovely lettering of the great Saida Temofonte.

The first issue of a second The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries series recently hit comic book shops.  Fear not, dear readers, I have gone the subscription route this time, so I'll start posting reviews as soon as the issues start arriving.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS:  Fans of the union of the worlds of Batman and Scooby-Doo will want The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries Extravaganza #1.

B+
★★★½ out of 4 stars

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


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#IReadsYou Review: Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #116

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #116
DC COMICS

STORY: Derek Fridolfs; Sholly Fisch
PENCILS: Randy Elliot; Dario Brizuela
INKS: Randy Elliot; Dario Brizuela
COLORS: Silvana Brys; Candace Schinzler-Bell
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte
EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Jessica Chen and David Piňa (reprint)
COVER: Derek Fridolfs with Silvana Brys
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (August 2022)

Ages 8+

“Sight for Scared Eyes”

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? #116 opens with “Sight for Scared Eyes,” which is written by Derek Fridolfs and drawn by Randy Elliot.  The story finds Mystery Inc.:  Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma are tying up the case of “the Ogre of Oglesby Orchard” when Velma's glasses are broken.  So the gang is off to see the optometrist at “Made in the Shades,” where Velma can get an eye exam and new glasses.

However, the office is being haunted by a giant cyclops that keeps crashing around the place.  While Velma struggles to believe her eyes, the rest of Mystery Inc. sets its sights on solving the mystery of this one-eyed monstrosity.

The second story, “Jinkies” 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? #61 (cover date: November 2015).]  The story opens with Mystery Inc. in court for the trial of Rob Felony, who was haunting his condominium as “the Sublet Specter.”  While on the witness stand, Velma suddenly sees a ghostly jurist … that no one else sees!  If Mystery Inc. can't solve this strange new mystery, Velma's strange vision could help set Rob Felony free.

Both of the stories in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #116 have as a theme, Velma's eyesight and her glasses.  Also, both stories are produced by some of this series' best contributors, writer Sholly Fisch, artists Randy Elliot and Dario Brizuela, and also Derek Fridolfs, who has been both writer and artist for this series, and is a writer, here.

“Sight for Scared Eyes” works quite well because it accurately captures a few things one can expect during a visit to a doctor:  waiting rooms, grumpy patients in the waiting rooms, harried assistants, and testy doctors.  Fridolfs also casually drops a clue about the end of the story at the beginning.

“Jinkies” seems a bit more implausible, even beyond the usual implausibility of Scooby-Doo, but Sholly Fisch offers a nice spin on the threat of wireless technology.  He also uses as a premise something of which we Scooby-Doo fans rarely consider.  How would any of Mystery Inc.'s cases stand up in court?

So, I recommend Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #116 to all Scooby-Doo comic book fans.  Like issue #115, it is one of the best issues of the series of the last two years, and it is rare for this series to have consecutive exceptional issues.  And until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

B+

[This comic book includes a seven-page preview of the original graphic novel, “Green Arrow: Stranded” by Brendan Deneen and Bell Hosalla.]

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


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#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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#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #107

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? #107 (2010)
DC COMICS – @DCComics

STORY: Derek Fridolfs; John Rozum
PENCILS: Randy Elliot; Cameron Stewart
INKS: Randy Elliot; Andrew Pepoy
COLORS: Pamela Lovas; Paul Becton
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; John Costanza
EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Joan Hilty (reprint)
COVER: Derek Fridolfs with Pamela Lovas
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (February 2021)

Ages 8+

“Striking Terror”

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 ninth issue of my third subscription run that I have received.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #107 opens with “Striking Terror,” which is written by Derek Fridolfs and drawn by Randy Elliot.  Mystery Inc.:  Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma solved “The Mystery of the Terror-Dactyl” a day earlier.  Now, it's time for a day off, and the Coolsville bowling alley is the place to be on a Friday night.

The gang aren't the only ones that feel that way because “Coolsville Bowl” is packed.  However, electrical problems are causing the bowling pins on several lanes to freeze, which means the kids are going to have to wait for a lane to open up for them.  Lanes may become available soon though, as the the ghostly and headless “Skulldugger” is haunting the place.  Using his bowling ball, which glows with a cackling green skull inside, the Skulldugger wants everyone to leave the bowling alley.  Looks like Mystery Inc. will have a mystery to solve after all

The second story, “Witch Pitch,” is, as usual, a reprint story and is written by John Rozum and drawn by Cameron Stewart and Andrew Pepoy.  [This story was originally published as the back-up story in Scooby-Doo #37 (cover date: August 2000).]   Once again, Scooby and company are looking for an opportunity to sit down and have some fun.  This time they are at Maize Field for a game featuring Fred's favorite baseball team, the Nebraska Corndogs.  The evening is nearly ruined when a witch flies in on her broom and puts a curse on Corndogs pitcher Hector Martinez, just as she recently did to his teammate, “Spanky” Schultz.  Time to chase a witch!

Ever since I first started watching the seminal Scooby-Doo Saturday morning cartoon, “Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!” (1969-70), so many decades ago, I have been a fan of the green-hued specters and haunts that Mystery Inc. has chased.  “Striking Terror” is an average story as the stories in this series go, but I love the look of the Skulldugger as drawn by Randy Elliot and colored by Pamela Lovas.

“Witch Pitch” is a good story, and I would would like to see it adapted into one of those direct-to-DVD films that Warner Bros. Home Entertainment has been releasing since 1998's Scooby-Doo on Zombie Island.  Also, I think this is the first time that I have come across the idea that Fred is a baseball fan and that the kids like to bowl.

So, I recommend Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #107 to fans of Scooby-Doo haunted sports stories.  And until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

B
6 out of 10

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


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#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #106

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? No. 106 (2010)
DC COMICS – @DCComics

STORY: Sholly Fisch; Earl Kress
PENCILS: Randy Elliot; John Delaney
INKS: Randy Elliot; Terry Beatty
COLORS: Silvana Brys; Paul Becton
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Tom Orzechowski
EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Joan Hilty (reprint)
COVER: Randy Elliot with Silvana Brys
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (December 2020)

Ages 8+

“Trick of the Light”

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 eighth issue of my third subscription run that I have received.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #106 opens with “Trick of the Light,” which is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Randy Elliot.  Mystery Inc.:  Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma are at “The Museum of Holographic Art,” enjoying an exhibition of the holographic art of Randy Narwhal.  The museum's curator, Chris Marks, has called on Mystery Inc. because a ghost is haunting the museum.  She informs the gang that there are indeed a few people who could be behind the museum's troubles, but is she telling the whole story?

The second story, “Hear No Evil,” is, as usual, a reprint and is written by Earl Kress and drawn by John Delaney and Terry Beatty.  [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo #62 (cover date: September 2002).]  Mystery Inc. arrives at the mansion of billionaire, J. Paul Hughes, having been called there by his daughter, Laura Hughes.  It seems she wants the gang to find her missing mother, Melissa Hughes, whom Paul claims he can still hear talking to him.  Dealing with invisible people, disembodied voices, and secret passages, however, is making Scooby and Shaggy jump to conclusions.  Banished to the kitchen, can the cowardly duo find the real answers behind this mystery?

“Trick of the Light” is an unusual story, and that is what I look for in new Scooby-Doo comic book stories.  It has a nice twist in the solving of it.  My favorite story this issue is the reprint story, “Hear No Evil.”  It is a nice spin on the haunted house story, and I think it would make an excellent plot for the Scooby-Doo! straight-to-DVD film series that has been running for 22 years.

I also like that “Hear No Evil's” art team of John Delaney and Terry Beatty, gives the Scooby-Doo characters a different look.  I like it when a comic book artist uses his own drawing style to make the characters look slightly different from the classic visual style of the first Scooby-Doo animated television series, “Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!” (1969-1970).

So, I recommend Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #106 to fans of Scooby-Doo haunted house stories.  And 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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#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #102

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? No. 102
DC COMICS – @DCComics

STORY: Derek Fridolfs; Paul Kupperberg
PENCILS: Randy Elliot; Fabio Laguna
INKS: Randy Elliot; Fabio Laguna
COLORS: Silvana Brys; Dave Tanguay
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Travis Lanham
EDITORS: Jim Chadwick; Harvey Richards (reprints)
COVER: Randy Elliot with Pamela Lovas
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (February 2020)

Rated “E” for “Everyone”

“Pet-Trified”

Welcome, dear readers, to 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 fourth issue I received from that renewal.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #102 opens with “Pet-Trified,” which is written by Derek Fridolfs and drawn by Randy Elliot.  Mystery Inc.:  Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma are enjoying a day of not chasing ghosts and goblins at “Coolsville Bark Park,” a park for dogs.  Unfortunately, a ghost “Siren,” a winged creature from Greek mythology, has decided to ruin his day for humans and dogs alike.  In order for Mystery Inc. to solve this case, Scooby will have to be the bait!

The second story, “Sunday in the Park with Scooby!,” is, as usual, a reprint and is written by Paul Kupperberg and drawn by Fabio Laguna.  [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo #143 (cover date: June 2009).]  Scooby-Doo and Shaggy are enjoying a day at the park with no mysteries to solve.  But will it be that easy?  No one is chasing Scoob and Shag, but there are some rather benign mysteries that (apparently) only they can solve.

Well, it's obvious, isn't it.  Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #102 has a day-at-the-park theme.  At first, “Pet-Trified” didn't seem like much of a story, but the story's “Becky” twist-ending makes it real-world relevant.  “Sunday in the Park with Scooby!” plays out in such an unexpected way that its oddness is what makes it delightful.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #102 is not an exceptional issue in this series, but I like its off-beat spirit.  So, until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

[This comic book includes a preview of the original graphic novel, Superman of Smallville by Art Baltazar and Franco.]

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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#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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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.

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

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.

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

I Reads You Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #91

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? No. 91
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 H. Hill
COVER: Derek Fridolfs with Pamela Lovas
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (May 2018)

Rated “E” for “Everyone”

We continue to peruse the renewal of my subscription to the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series.  I recently received the sixth issue of that renewed subscription.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #91 opens with “TranceSylvania” (written by Derek Fridolfs and drawn by Randy Elliot).  Mystery Inc.:  Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma are attending the annual fundraiser in support of the “Coolsville Guys and Gals Club.”  The opening act of the night's entertainment is the hypnotist, “The Amazing Amado,” but he is nothing compared to the kooky phantom that crashes the festivities.  He is “The Hypno-Haunt,” and he has just hypnotized Mystery Inc. into switched identities.

The second story is “Sumo A-Go-Go” (written by Teremce Griep and drawn by Fabio Laguna).  [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo #148 (cover dated: November 2009).]  The gang 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.

First, I like artist Derek Fridolfs and colorist Pamela Lovas' cover for Scooby-Doo, Where Are You #91.  The story, however, is a trifle, and it would be better if it were longer.  That is the case with many of this series' stories – if they were only longer.  I do like “The Hypno-Haunt” that is haunting this story, if for no other reason than his character design.  A longer story could have had a lot of fun with the fact that this creep forced the members of Mystery Inc. to switch identities.

The second story has some nice details about the culture of sumo wrestling.  The villain, The Tengu, would make a nice super-villain, but this story is less than super.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #91 is one of this series' lesser issues, but it still makes me excited about the next issue (which just arrived in my mailbox).  As always, I recommend this title to Scooby-Doo fans.

B
6 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.

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

I Reads You Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #88

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? No. 88
DC COMICS – @DCComics

STORY: Derek Fridolfs; John Rozum
PENCILS: Randy Elliot; Fabio Laguna
INKS: Randy Elliot; Fabio Laguna
COLORS: Sylvana Brys; Heroic Age
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; John J. Hill
COVER: Derek Fridolfs with Pamela Lovas
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (February 2018)

Rated “E” for “Everyone”

I am still enjoying the fruits of the renewal of my subscription to the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series.  I recently received the third issue of that renewed subscription.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #88 opens with “Used Scars” (written by Derek Fridolfs and drawn by Randy Elliot).  All that mileage!  Maybe, it is time for Mystery Incorporated to replace the Mystery Machine.  The need for something affordable takes Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma to “Earnest Eddie's Used Car Emporium.”  The gang does indeed find low prices, but our heroes also find rundown vehicles and a monster called “the Slimmer Man.”

The second story is “Fright Ride” (written by John Rozum and drawn by Fabio Laguna), a story originally published in Scooby-Doo #151 (cover dated: February 2010).  Ryan is a reporter for the New Kirk City Daily News, but he is stuck covering items that belong in the local society page.  He believes he needs to find the kind of story that will break him into serious journalism.

Ryan thinks that he may have that potential breakthrough story in Mystery Inc.  He decides to ride along with Fred, Daphne, Velma, Shaggy, and Scooby-Doo as these mystery-solvers search for a new supernatural case to tackle.  When a weird painting keeps appearing and disappearing at “Andrew's Art Gallery,” Ryan thinks that he is finally in on some action, but Mystery Inc. seems to have run into a case that it cannot solve.

There is something neat and whacky about “The Slimmer Man,” the villain in “Used Scars.”  I think this character would really shine in animation, where animators can make him wriggle, shimmy-shake, and twerk.  He certainly works as a comic book boogeyman, even in story that is underdeveloped in terms of narrative, which I like anyway.

“Fright Ride” is quite enjoyable, and I would say that it is one of my favorite Scooby-Doo comic book stories.  Writer John Rozum fills the story with delightful twists and turns.  All those narrative sleights of hand make for a surprise ending, of sorts.  Karma can be a witch.

It has happened again.  Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #88 makes me ready for the next issue.

A-
7.5 out of 10

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


The text is copyright © 2017 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog for syndication rights and fees.

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I Reads You Review: SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU #86

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? No. 86
DC COMICS – @DCComics

STORY: Ivan Cohen; Paul Kupperberg
PENCILS: Randy Elliot; Fabio Laguna
COLORS: Sylvana Brys; Heroic Age
LETTERS: Saida Temofonte; Travis Lanham
EDITOR: Robin Levin; Harvey Richards
COVER: Scott Gross
32pp, Color, $2.99 U.S. (December 2017)

Rated “E” for “Everyone”

Several years ago, I had a subscription to the Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? comic book series.  I let it expire after a year, but I had been putting off renewing it, which I did a few months ago.  I recently received the first issue of that new subscription.  Let me share some news about my first subscription issue with you.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #86 opens with “Medical Mystery Tour” (written by Ivan Cohen and drawn by Randy Elliot).  Mystery Incorporated has just solved a case and disaster strikes!  When Velma Dinkley is forced to stay awake in a hospital bed for 24 hours, Scooby-Doo and the rest of Mystery Inc., do their best to keep their resident super-brain occupied.  Are there schemes, however, keeping them from seeing the truth?

The second story is “It's a Mystery!” (written by Paul Kupperberg and drawn by Fabio Laguna).  It was originally published in Scooby-Doo #155, a 2010 issue of the Scooby-Doo comic book series that began in 1997.  This is another Velma story.  It is her birthday, and her Mystery Inc. pals have created a fake mystery based on the work of Velma's favorite mystery novelist, Cal Melvin Cullins, for her to solve.  But fate and bad timing throws Velma into a case that is real and is closer to home than the Mystery Inc. gang realizes.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #86 is a pointed reminder for me that I should have renewed by subscription to this series back in 2014.  I missed three years of a comic book that I really liked.  At the end of my review of Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #50, I asked, “Should I continue past Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #50?  I am having a good time...”  I didn't continue.

Both of these stories are quite good, and similarly are about misdirection.  Although most readers will probably figure out what's going on midway through both stories, they are fun because they depict the closeness of the characters.  Mystery Incorporated is a family, and the cartoon series that have broken up the family into a smaller unit, such as “The New Scooby and Scrappy-Doo Show” (1983) and “Shaggy & Scooby Get a Clue! (2006).  These two series are not the same as the series which feature the entire original cast – and are not as good as the ones with the full cast, as far as I'm concerned.

I like that the two stories that make up Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #86.  They put the family in “Scooby gang.”  Also, Scott Gross' cover art for this issue is one of the most imaginative visuals and striking designs that I have ever seen on a Scooby-Doo comic book cover.

A-
7.5 out of 10

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


The text is copyright © 2017 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog for syndication rights and fees.

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Leroy Douresseaux on CONAN: Island of No Return #2

CONAN: ISLAND OF NO RETURN #2 (OF 2)
DARK HORSE COMICS

WRITER: Ron Marz
PENCILS: Bart Sears
INKS: Randy Elliot
COLORS: Mark Roberts
LETTERS: Troy Peteri
COVER: Stjepan Sejic
32pp, Color, $3.50

What do I hate about Conan: Island of No Return? I hate that it’s over. I also love Stjepan Sejic’s cover, which reminds me of the covers for The Savage Sword of Conan, one of my all time favorite comic books,

Conan: Island of No Return is a two-issue miniseries that, according to Dark Horse Comics, will act as an interlude to the main series, Conan: Road of Kings. Island of No Return follows Conan and half-sisters/thieves, Brenna and Venya, to a remote island that is supposedly home to the fabled treasure hoard of late Prince Mikkinos.

As Conan: Island of No Return #2 begins, Conan and the sisters learn that they aren’t the only ones on the island looking for treasure. As the stakes rise, Conan begins to wonder how much not to trust the sisters. If he thinks they’re dangerous, wait until he meets the thing guarding the treasure.

[This comic book includes an episode of “The Adventures of Two-Gun Bob” by Jim and Ruth Keegan.]

THE LOWDOWN: Because the second issue was very enjoyable to read, I can stand by what I said about the first issue of Conan: Island of No Return. Ron Marz has written a fast moving tale that has some of the best things that make Conan great – sword-fighting, sorcery, monsters, lost treasure, and treacherous gorgeous women.

Bart Sears, whose art I enjoyed in the first issue, actually improves. His sinewy pencils capture the sharp edges in both plot and character motivation, but in this issue, the compositions are more robust. They capture Conan’s brawny physique and cat-like grace and give power to the fight scenes. The inking by Randy Elliot, which seemed too heavy over Sears’ pencils in the first issue, actually improves and embellishes the best aspects of the art. I was not really crazy about the colors, but now the colors make this book sparkle and bring to life the ruins, rubble, and caverns that are the setting for this tale.

A

Leroy Douresseaux on CONAN: ISLAND OF NO RETURN #1

CONAN: ISLAND OF NO RETURN #1 (OF 2)
DARK HORSE COMICS

WRITER: Ron Marz
PENCILS: Bart Sears
INKS: Randy Elliot
COLORS: Mark Roberts
LETTERS: Troy Peteri
COVER: Michael Kutsche
32pp, Color, $3.50

I have not read a new Conan comic book since 1994 when I read Conan vs. Rune (Marvel Comics). Since then, I’ve read a few original Conan works by the character’s creator, Robert E. Howard, including Howard’s only full-length Conan novel, The Hour of the Dragon (1935). Now, I’ve just read a comic book that makes me want to return to reading Conan the way I did as I teenager – monthly.

Conan: Island of No Return is a two-issue miniseries from Dark Horse Comics. According to the publisher, it is an interlude to the main series, Conan: Road of Kings.

As Conan: Island of No Return #1 begins, Conan the Cimmerian (Barbarian and Thief) has just been fired as a bodyguard for… dereliction of duty? On the run from a cadre of guards, the half-sisters, Brenna and Venya, who are also thieves aid Conan. They just so happen to be in need of a strong back to help them with an upcoming treasure hunt.

Their destination is a small, jagged island and an abandoned cliff-top castle, where the treasure hoard of the late Prince Mikkinos lies deep in the bowels of the ruins of his palace. In order to help the sisters, not only must Conan scale sheer cliffs, but he must also deal with a haunted island.

While it may be a brief interlude to the main Conan storylines (as well being a break from the main series for the publisher), Conan: Island of No Return is an action-packed short story. It offers what many Conan tales usually have – beautiful women, haunted treasure spots, and Conan on a heist with shifty allies, plus it is a rippin’ read.

The script, written by Ron Marz, is efficient and powerful, with each panel a sharp jab that keeps this fast moving tale… well, moving fast. Bart Sears’ sinewy pencils capture the sharp edges in both plot and character motivation, as well as encapsulating Conan’s brawny physique and cat-like grace. Randy Elliot’s heavy inks have mixed results over Sears’ art and the coloring is merely acceptable, while Michael Kutsche’s cover is quite good. I can’t wait for the conclusion.

A-