I Reads You: children's comics

Showing posts with label children's comics. Show all posts

Thursday, November 7, 2024

#IReadsYou Review: SABRINA Annual Spectacular #1

SABRINA ANNUAL SPECTACULAR, NO. 1

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Ian Flynn; Dick Malmgren; George Gladir; Frank Doyle

PENCILS: Steven Butler; Dick Malmgren; Bob Bolling; Dan DeCarlo

INKS: Lily Butler; Jon D'Agostino; Rudy Lapick;

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore

LETTERS: Jack Morelli; Bill Yoshida

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante; Vincent Lovallo; Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Steven Butler and Lily Butler with Rosario “Tito” Peña

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (October 2024)

Rating: All-Ages

Sabrina in “Awakening!”

Sabrina the Teenage Witch is an Archie Comics character that was created by writer George Gladir and artist Dan DeCarlo. Sabrina Spellman first appeared in Archie's Madhouse #22 (cover-dated: October 1962).

Archie is releasing a trio of “annual spectaculars” that involve the machinations of a new character, “Mother Striga.” She makes her debut in Sabrina's Annual Spectacular, No. 1. Her debut story will continue in the forthcoming Archie Halloween Spectacular, No. 1 (October 2, 2024) and Josie and the Pussycats Annual Spectacular, No. 1 (November 6, 2024).

Sabrina Annual Spectacular offers four reprint stories and opens with the new five-page story that introduces Mother Striga, “Awakening!” It is written by Ian Flynn; drawn by Steven Butler (pencils) and Lily Butler (inks); colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

“Awakening!” opens in the neighborhood of “Eyegore Estates,” the place that hosts all the things that go “bump in the night.” Sabrina the Teenage Witch and her cat, Salem, are shocked to discover that everyone is acting like zombies... even the zombies.

Soon, Sabrina learns that her nemesis, Amber Nightstone, has unleashed an evil more powerful than she expected. It's Mother Striga, the first witch and the mother of all witches!

THE LOWDOWN: Over the last few years, Archie's marketing department has been sending PDF copies of some of their titles for review. One of the most recent is the new one-shot comic book, Sabrina Annual Spectacular, No. 1.

In the the opening story, “Awakening!,” writer Ian Flynn teases big things to come, but this first chapter can really only tease. The stars here are the art team of penciller Steven Butler, inker Lily Butler, and colorist Glenn Whitmore. They create a playfully macabre and pop Gothic sensibility that really sells this story's setting, plot, and characters. Whitmore's other-worldly, almost psychedelic colors are the perfect accompaniment to the Butlers' Charles Addams' like aesthetic in this story. Also, Jack Morelli's lettering puts the finishing touch to this delightful tale. Although “Awakening!” is only five pages long, it is really a classically cool comics story.

Two of the reprint stories are from Sabrina's creators, George Gladir and Dan DeCarlo. The classic Sabrina story, “Haunt Taunt,” is written by Gladir and drawn by Bob Bolling and Rudy Lapick and originally published in Sabrina, the Teenage Witch #60 (cover dated: June 1980). DeCarlo pencils “Strange Love,” written by Frank Doyle and published in Sabrina, the Teenage Witch #1 (cover dated: April 1971).

Dear readers, I will always recommend classic and classic-style Archie Comics stories.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics and of Sabrina the Teenage Witch will definitely want to get a copy of Sabrina Annual Spectacular, No. 1.

★★★★ out of 4 stars

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

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Wednesday, October 30, 2024

#IReadsYou Review: ARCHIE: The Decision #1

ARCHIE: THE DECISION, NO. 1

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Tom King

PENCILS: Dan Parent

INKS: Bob Smith

COLORS: Rosario “Tito” Peña

LETTERS: Jack Morelli

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante; Vincent Lovallo; Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Dan Parent with Rosario “Tito” Peña

VARIANT COVER ARTIST: Stephen Byrne

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (October 2024); on sale in comic book shops August 28, 2024

Rating: All-Ages

“Everyone Flips Out!”

Eternal high school student and teenage boy, Archie Andrews, and his friends made their debut in M.L.J. Magazines' Pep Comics #22 (cover dated: December 1941), and before long, Archie was the publisher's headliner character. In 1946, the company changed its named to Archie Comic Publications, also known as “Archie Comics.”

For decades, Archie's affections have been split between two girls: nice girl, Betty Cooper, who debuted with Archie in Pep Comics #22, and spoiled rich girl, Veronica Lodge, who first appeared in Pep Comics #26 (cover dated: April 1942). Now, in a new comic book, Archie finally chooses between the two. It all happens in Archie: The Decision, No. 1. The story is written by Tom King; drawn by Dan Parent (pencils) and Bob Smith (inks); colored by Rosario “Tito” Peña; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

As Archie: The Decision, No. 1 (“Everyone Flips Out!”) opens with the declaration, “I, Archie Andrews, am finally going to decide between Betty and Veronica!!” How is Archie going to make this momentous decision? He's going to flip a coin, but when the coin flip goes awry, Archie and best pal, Jughead, go on a mad chase.

And what of Betty and Veronica? Well, each has mixed feelings, but neither is going to give up the chance of finally being “the one.” Will Archie really be able to make “the Decision?” This issue also features appearances by classic Archie Comics characters, including Reggie, Moose, Dilton, Midge, Ethel, Nancy, Chuck, Mr. Weatherbee, Miss Grundy, Josie and the Pussycats, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and “Hot Dog” the dog, to name a few.

THE LOWDOWN: For several years, Archie's marketing department has been sending me PDF copies of some of their titles for review. One of the most recent is Archie: The Decision, No. 1.

Apparently, acclaimed comic book writer, Tom King, is a big Archie Comics fan, so he proposed writing a kind of ultimate story about Archie finally choosing between Betty and Veronica. Archie Comics obviously jumped at the chance to have a big name like King's write a comic book for them.

The resulting book, Archie: The Decision, No. 1, is not on the level of other Tom King first issues, such as The Omega Men #1 (2015), The Sheriff of Babylon #1 (2016), and Mister Miracle #1 (2018), which were all published by DC Comics. King offers a thin plot and executes it into a 21-page chase story that is filled with cameo appearances by a host of Archie Comics characters. In fact, two of my childhood faves, Josie and the Pussycats and Sabrina the Teenage Witch, each get one page to themselves. But this special one-shot comic book isn't among Tom King's best work. It's his love letter to Archie Comics, seemingly mostly written to himself.

Even artist Dan Parent doesn't really offer a “Wow!” factor. If there is such a thing as a modern superstar Archie Comics artist, it's Parent. Archie: The Decision, No. 1 isn't his best work; it isn't even his best recent work. It's pleasingly pleasant, which is probably the best thing I can say about King's script. Colorist Rosario “Tito” Peña and letterer Jack Morelli do really good work.

So Archie: The Decision, No. 1 is a big deal in one way, and not so much in many other ways. Still, it is a classic-style Archie Comics title, so I'll take it rather than leave it.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics will want to find a copy of Archie: The Decision, No. 1.

[In a bonus feature, Tom King and Dan Parent pick their favorite Archie Comics stories.]

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

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Wednesday, October 23, 2024

#IReadsYou Review: DARKWING DUCK Volume 1 #3

DARKWING DUCK VOLUME 1 #3

DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Amanda Deibert

ART: Carlo Lauro

COLORS: Carlo Lauro

LETTERS: Jeff Eckleberry

EDITOR: Nate Cosby

COVER: Lesley “Leirix: Li

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (March 2023)

Rated “All Ages”

“Darkwing Duck” was an animated superhero comedy television series produced by Walt Disney Television Animation. It originally aired for three seasons (for a total of 91 episodes) from 1991 to 1992, both as part of the syndicated programming block, “The Disney Afternoon,” and as part of ABC's Saturday morning lineup. “Darkwing Duck” focused on a suburban duck, Drake Mallard, and his superhero alter-ego, “Darkwing Duck.” The character was a parody of the pulp fiction vigilante character, The Shadow, and his alter-ego, Kent Allard.

Over a 15-year period, beginning with Disney Comics in 1991, “Darkwing Duck” was adapted into comics and comic books. The current license holder is Dynamite Entertainment, and they have launched Darkwing Duck Volume 1. The series is written by Amanda Deibert; drawn and colored by Carlo Lauro; and lettered by Jeff Eckleberry.

Darkwing Duck Volume 1 #3 opens in St. Canard, the city hyper-vigilantly defended by the terror that flaps in the night, the ferocious fowl who plucks the evil eye from the face of foul play... Darkwing Duck! Today, however, Darkwing Duck is nowhere to be found, and all the gardeners from St. Carnard City Park have vanished! So where is the city's hero, asks Mayor Owlson? Where is he when the city really needs him, she wonders.

Drake Mallard and his daughter, Gosalyn, are in the wilderness of Transylvania because Drake has a proposal to make to his girlfriend, the sorceress Morgana Macawber. The proposal isn't quite what Morgana expects, and her father, Moloculo Macawber, and his new partner, Launchpad McQuack(!), have something to say about it anyway.

THE LOWDOWN: Since July 2021, Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department has been providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles. One of them is Darkwing Duck Volume 1 #3, the third Darkwing Duck comic book that I have read.

I have never watched an episode of the “Darkwing Duck” animated series, although I have always wanted to do so, nor have I previously read a Darkwing Duck comic book … although I have wanted to do so. However, the magic that writer Amanda Deibert brings to this Darkwing Duck comic book makes me want to hurry up and watch some episodes. This is simply a joy to read, and I lack the words to describe how happy reading this makes me. Clever dialogue and sparkling fantasy characters: it all comes together in hugely entertaining stories.

Artist-colorist Carlo Lauro's work here is now among my all-time favorite Disney comic book art and graphical storytelling. Lauro fills his pages with fantastic images and action that pops off the page. This is all-ages comics genius.

As I said in my review of the first two issues: I hope that Dynamite can find success with this title and with its other recent Disney release, Gargoyles. They are both excellent, and Darkwing Duck Volume 1 is flat-out great.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of Darkwing Duck will want to try Dynamite's new Darkwing Duck comic book series.

A+

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

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Tuesday, September 10, 2024

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #126

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #126

DC COMICS

STORY: Derek Fridolfs; Sholly Fisch

PENCILS: Valerio Chiola; Scott Jeralds

INKS: Valerio Chiola; Scott Jeralds

COLORS: Valerio Chiola; Silvana Brys

LETTERS: Saida Temofonte

EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Brittany Holzherr (reprint)

COVER: Derek Fridolfs with Valerio Chiola

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

Ages 8+

“Girls Night Ouch!”

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? #126 opens with “Girls Night Ouch!,” which is written by Derek Fridolfs and drawn by Valerio Chiola. The story finds Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma making some plans. Not everyone has the same plans for this evening. Scooby and Shaggy have an all-you-can-eat buffet to attend, and Fred is going to investigate a haunted kitchen.

Meanwhile, Daphne and Velma are going to a local bookstore for a release party for the second book in the popular, teenage vampire romance book series, “Once Bitten.” The series' author, Steven Majors, is going to read from “Twice Bitten,” the new book, but his appearance is nothing compared to a surprise appearance. It seems that the book series' star, the vampire Danté, has arrived and is tearing the bookstore apart. Can Daphne and Velma solve this mystery alone?

As usual, the second story, “Ghost Writers,” is a reprint story. It is written by Sholly Fisch and drawn by Scott Jeralds. [This story was originally published in Scooby-Doo, Where Are You #76 (cover date: February 2017).] The story finds Mystery Inc. investigating a haunted library. Paige the librarian wants to know why the ghosts of Edgar Allen Poe and William Shakespeare are haunting her library. Now, Scooby and the gang have to discover what these literary ghosts want.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #126 has as its theme literary hauntings. The new story is set in a book event at a local book store, and of course, there is an obvious reference to author Stephenie Meyer's Twilight book series. Readers familiar with Twilight will enjoy the references to the book and to its fans and – dare I say it – its devoted, cult-like following.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #126 is not a particularly good issue compared to recent issues. Still, it's 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!

C+

[This comic book includes a seven-page preview of the DC Comics original graphic novel, “Metropolis Grove” by Drew Brockington.]

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

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Thursday, August 1, 2024

#IReadsYou Review: DARKWING DUCK Volume 1 #2

DARKWING DUCK VOLUME 1 #2

DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Amanda Deibert

ART: Carlo Lauro

COLORS: Carlo Lauro

LETTERS: Jeff Eckleberry

EDITOR: Nate Cosby

COVER: David Nakayama

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (February 2023)

Rated “All Ages”

“Darkwing Duck in… Quackerjack!”

Darkwing Duck Volume 1 #2 (“Quackerjack!”) opens in St. Canard, the city hyper-vigilantly defended by the terror that flaps in the night, the ferocious fowl who plucks the evil eye from the face of foul play... Darkwing Duck! Today is the grand opening of “Q.B. Toy Store,” and Drake Mallard's daughter, Gosalyn, is super-excited, of course.

However, that nefarious ne'er-do-well and bane of Darkwing Duck's existence, the villainous Quackerjack, is also at this store opening. With his cadre of silly and dangerous, Quackerjack is ready to take down Darkwing Duck. However, Darkwing, a particularly overprotective father, is worried about Gosalyn and how his heroic lifestyle affects her. Maybe, he thinks, it is time for him to... retire from being a superhero?!

THE LOWDOWN: Since July 2021, Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department has been providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles. One of them is Darkwing Duck Volume 1 #2, the second Darkwing Duck comic book that I have read.

The creative team of writer Amanda Deibert and artist-colorist Carlo Lauro offered a wonderful first issue, but … The second issue is even better! Darkwing Duck Vol. 1 #2 would be outstanding in any golden, silver, copper, bronze, and modern age of Disney comic books.

Deibert's story is exciting and funny and actually quite thoughtful about Darkwing Duck's personal relationships, especially that of his daughter Gosalyn, but also about his sidekick, Launchpad McQuack. Lauro's art and colors make the story pop and electric slide across the page so that the reader's imagination will follow the action scenes from one page to the next. Jeff Eckleberry's excellent lettering captures the exciting and dramatic moods of this issue.

As I said in my review of the first issue: I hope that Dynamite can find success with this title and its other recent Disney release, Gargoyles. There is an audience for these titles … if it can find them. But really, if you don't like Darkwing Duck Vol. 1 #2, you probably don't really enjoy reading comic books, dear readers. They might be a fetish … but are you really down to have fun reading comic books?

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of Darkwing Duck will want to try Dynamite's new Darkwing Duck comic book series.

A+

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

https://twitter.com/DynamiteComics

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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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Wednesday, June 12, 2024

#IReadsYou Review: THE BATMAN & SCOOBY-DOO MYSTERIES (Volume 2) #2

THE BATMAN & SCOOBY-DOO MYSTERIES (2022) #2

DC COMICS

STORY: Ivan Cohen

ART: Dario Brizuela

COLORS: Franco Riesco with Carrie Strachan

LETTERS: Saida Temofonte

EDITOR: Kristy Quinn

COVER: Dario Brizuela with Franco Riesco

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

Ages 8+

Batman created by Bob Kane with Bill Finger

“Rash Decisions”

The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries was a 12-issue comic book limited series that DC Comics published in 2021 and 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, Scooby-Doo and friends have joined Batman and (often) Robin to solve mysteries in various animated television series and comic books.

The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries sold well enough that DC Comics began a second series in October 2022. I did not subscribe to the first series, but I did subscribe to the new one. I will try to review each issue for you, dear readers, although some kind of glitch has kept me from receiving the first issue, so...

The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries #2 (“Rash Decisions”) is written by Ivan Cohen; drawn by Dario Brizuela; colored Franco Riesco; and lettered by Saida Temofonte. This issue guest-stars Batgirl/Barbara Gordon and Poison Ivy.

The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries #2 opens in front of the Gotham Police Department. Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma is meeting with Police Commissioner Jim Gordon. When Batman finally arrives, the group heads to the police charity ball. Just as the event is beginning, the commemorative corsages arrive and start spewing a green mist that causes an allergic reaction. Soon, all the police officers present are beset by an itchy rash.

Even Barbara Gordon is affected, so Batman asks Daphne to take her home. Soon, Daphne finds herself inside “the Clock Tower,” from where Barbara keeps her eyes and ears on Gotham City. It is also the occasional home of Batgirl. And considering her condition, Barbara asks Daphne to assume her identity as “Batgirl!” Will this bit of high-stakes cosplay turn out to be a rash decision?

THE LOWDOWN: As a child, the most important characters in my life were Batman and Robin and Scooby-Doo and company (and also 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).

To this day, I am always excited about the worlds of Batman and Scooby-Doo coming together. Obviously, The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries is one of those comic book series that is perfectly made for me.

The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries #2 has a villain, a mean-spirited Poison Ivy who does not mind making people sick. However, the real story of “Rash Decisions” is Mystery Inc.'s Daphne Blake. Writer Ivan Cohen offers a pleasantly surprising plot – Daphne playing Batgirl, and it works. Barbara and Daphne make a great team, and I would enjoy them reunited in a future comic book.

As usual, Dario Brizuela's illustrations and Franco Riesco's colors are animation-inspired, with Brizuela summoning the ghosts of old Hanna-Barbera cartoons. Everything about the story, art, and graphics, including Saida Temofonte's lettering, creates the vibe of classic kids' comic books that were based on television cartoon characters. I can't wait to read the next issue.

Holy comics review, Batman! Hopefully, this is the first of many reviews of The Batman & Scooby-Doo Mysteries. I enjoyed this issue, so until next time, Scooby-Dooby-Doo!

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

[This comic book includes a 7-page preview of the original graphic novel, “Teen Titans Go! Undead?!,” by Michael Northrop and Erich Owens,]

A-

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

You can buy THE BATMAN SCOOBY-DOO MYSTERIES 3" trade paperback collection at Amazon.

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Tuesday, June 4, 2024

#IReadsYou Review: LILO & STITCH #1

LILO & STITCH VOL. 1 #1

DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Greg Pak

ART: Giulia Giacomino

COLORS: Giulia Giacomino

LETTERS: Jeff Eckleberry

EDITOR: Nate Cosby

COVER: Joshua Middleton

VARIANT COVER ARTISTS: David Nakayama; Jennifer Meyer; Craig Rousseau; Joshua Middleton

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (January 2024)

Rated “All Ages”

Lilo & Stitch is a 2002 animated science fiction and action-comedy film produced by Walt Disney Feature Animation. The film's story revolves around an orphaned Hawaiian girl named Lilo Pelekai, and an extraterrestrial creature, “Experiment 626.” Lilo adopts the alien as her “dog” and renames him “Stitch.” After some trials and tribulations, the two bond, and Stitch uses his powers to keep his “ohana” or extended family (which includes Lilo's older sister, Nani), together.

Dynamite Entertainment has been producing licensed comic books based on Disney characters and IP for over a year. The latest is Lilo & Stitch Volume 1. It is written by Greg Pak; drawn and colored by Giulia Giacomino; and lettered Jeff Eckleberry. The series continues the adventures of the title characters as they face new alien threats.

Lilo & Stitch Volume 1 #1 opens on Planet Turo at the Galaxy Defense Industries Sub-Facility 12B, which is in the midst of a break-in. It seems that someone is searching for the records of Dr. Jumba Jookiba and his “Experiment 626,” which was designed to break everything it touches.

Meanwhile, on Earth, specifically the island of Kaua'i, Hawaii, Lilo, Stitch, Dr. Jumba, and alien Agent Pleakley are enjoying some fun as only they can. Their activities lead to words of wisdom from Nani and her boyfriend, David Kawena. It's all about “ohana” (family) and “kuleana” (responsibilities). The family time, however, is interrupted by the arrival of robots in service of the “Cluster Sovereign.” They want Stitch, but can they find him after he finds the perfect place in which to blend?

THE LOWDOWN: Since July 2021, Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department has been providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles. Lilo & Stitch Volume 1, Issue #1 is the latest, and is also the first Lilo & Stitch comic book that I have read.

It's been almost two decades since I last saw the film, Lilo & Stitch. I don't remember much about it, other than a few characters and that I really liked it. I'm curious about the upcoming live-action version of Lilo & Stitch being produced by Walt Disney Pictures.

This Lilo & Stitch comic book is nice, but it isn't directed at my demographic. This is a children's comic book, and that's a good thing. Writer Greg Pak has fashioned a gentle adventure that promises to pick up the pace in the second issue. I have to admit to being curious about what comes next. Artist Giulia Giacomino captures the Disney animated aesthetic with her illustrations and colors, and it is also kids' comics friendly.

So, if Lilo & Stitch is your thing, Lilo & Stitch Volume 1 #1 is worth a buy, especially if you want to give it to a young reader.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of Dynamite Entertainment's Disney comic book series will want to read Lilo & Stitch Volume 1.

★★★ out of 4 stars

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

https://twitter.com/DynamiteComics

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Tuesday, May 7, 2024

#IReadsYou Review: DARKWING DUCK Volume 1 #1

DARKWING DUCK VOLUME 1 #1

DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Amanda Deibert

ART: Carlo Lauro

COLORS: Carlo Lauro

LETTERS: Jeff Eckleberry

EDITOR: Nate Cosby

COVER: David Nakayama

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (January 2023)

Rated “All Ages”

“Darkwing Duck in… The Dark Flight Returns”

Over a 15-year period, beginning with Disney Comics in 1991, “Darkwing Duck” was adapted into comic books. Disney Adventures Magazine published Darkwing Duck comics stories. Marvel Comics, BOOM! Studios, Joe Books, and IDW Publishing also published Darkwing Duck comic books. The current license holder is Dynamite Entertainment, and they are debuting Darkwing Duck Volume 1. The series is written by Amanda Deibert; drawn and colored by Carlo Lauro; and lettered by Jeff Eckleberry.

Darkwing Duck Volume 1 #1 (“The Dark Flight Returns”) opens in St. Canard, the city hyper-vigilantly defended by the terror that flaps in the night, the ferocious fowl who plucks the evil eye from the face of foul play... Darkwing Duck! Today, the city is unveiling a statue of their hero to honor him for all he has done to protect the city from evildoers.

However, one of those evildoers, the electrified villain, Megavolt, puts the shock on everyone, turning Darkwing Duck's adoring followers into followers that want to “get him!” Can Darkwing Duck save the day? With the help of his trusty sidekick, Launchpad McQuack, and his adorable adopted daughter, Gosalyn, Darkwing Duck just might be able to deliver a shock of his own.

THE LOWDOWN: Since July 2021, Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department has been providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles. One of them is Darkwing Duck Volume 1 #1, the first Darkwing Duck comic book that I have read.

I have never watched an episode of the “Darkwing Duck” animated series, although I have always wanted to do so, nor have I previously read a Darkwing Duck comic book … although I have wanted to do so. So it is with great pleasure that I tell you that I found pleasure in reading Darkwing Duck Volume 1 #1, my first Darkwing Duck comic book.

The work of artist-colorist Carlo Lauro here is quite good. It reminds me of the kind of comic book art that readers would have found in Gladstone and Disney Comics back in the 1980s and 1990s. Also, writer Amanda Deibert's story provides a nice, concise overview of the action, characters, and settings.

I hope that Dynamite can find success with this title and its other recent Disney release, Gargoyles. There is an audience for these titles … if it can find them.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of Darkwing Duck will want to try Dynamite's new Darkwing Duck comic book series.

★★★★ out of 4 stars

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

https://twitter.com/DynamiteComics

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Thursday, April 18, 2024

#IReadsYou Review: WORLD OF ARCHIE DOUBLE DIGEST #136

WORLD OF ARCHIE (JUMBO COMICS) DOUBLE DIGEST #136

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Ian Flynn; Daniel Kibblesmith; with Mike Pellowski; Bill Golliher; Frank Doyle; and various

PENCILS: Holly G!; Steven Butler; with Stan Goldberg; Bill Golliher; Dan DeCarlo, Jr.; and various

INKS: Jim Amash; Lily Butler; with Bob Smith; Rudy Lapick; James DeCarlo; and various

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore; with Barry Grossman and various

LETTERS: Jack Morelli; with Bill Yoshida

COVER: Dan Parent with Rosario “Tito” Peña

192pp, Color, $9.99 U.S. (March 2024); on-sale January 10, 2024

Rating: All-Ages

“One Shot Worth a Million,” “The Perfect Specimen”

World of Archie (Jumbo Comics) Double Digest is part of “The Archie Digest Library” series. Debuting in late 2010, World of Archie Double Digest is a mini-trade paperback-like series that features stories reprinted from across the publishing history of Archie Comics. Sometimes, however, these digests offer original stories.

World of Archie (Jumbo Comics) Double Digest #132 reintroduces three characters from the “Golden Age” of Archie Comics (when it was known as M.L.J. Magazines, Inc.). These characters return in two new stories.

The first new story is “One Shot Worth a Million.” It is written by Ian Flynn; drawn by Holly G! (pencils) and Jim Amash (inks); colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli. It introduces modern versions of two characters.

The first is “Fran Frazer,” who first appeared in MLJ'S Top Notch Comics #9 (cover dated: October 1940). She was one of those female “roving-reporters” characters, and she roamed the world as a photo journalist. She had a miniature camera, which she disguised as various fashion accessories, and Fran used it to collect evidence against the wicked and the corrupt. Fran was usually accompanied by the second reintroduced character, Hal Davis. The modernized Fran Frazer is a freelance photographer and journalist for “Strife Media.” The modernized Hal Davis is her romantic rival and is also now an African-American character.

Fran Frazer in “One Shot Worth a Million”:

Why is Archie Andrews skulking around the docks in the dead of night? Veronica Lodge wants to know. Well, Archie is assisting freelance photographer and journalist, Fran Frazer, in her investigation of criminal syndicate activity at the docks. And it involves Lodge Industry, which Veronica's father, Hiram Lodge, owns.

By the way, why is Veronica skulking around the docks? Well, she is assisting Hal Davis, Fran's (romantic) rival. Can Archie and Veronica stop bickering in time to help Fran and Hal unmask corruption at the docks?

The second new story is “The Perfect Specimen.” It is written by Daniel Kibblesmith; drawn by Steven Butler (pencils) and Lily Butler (inks); colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

The story reintroduces “Young Dr. Masters,” a physician who engages in dangerous adventures and misadventures to help patients. The character had his own comic book, The Adventures of Young Dr. Masters, which ran for two issues (cover dated: August and November 1964). The series was apparently an adaptation of the 1962 novel, Young Doctor Masters (Belmont Books), written by Frank Haskell. That Frank Haskell is not to be confused with Frank A. Haskell (1828-1864), the author and Union Army officer who served during the American Civil War. The modernized Dr. Masters is a television doctor and author.

Young Dr. Masters in “The Perfect Specimen”:

During his television show, Dr. Masters announces that he is about to embark on a six-city book tour for his upcoming book, “The Perfect Specimen! Health, Beauty, and You!” The tour will kick off in Riverdale, where Masters hopes to find the one “local teen” who “truly embodies the spirit of health and beauty.” That person would be the “perfect specimen” to appear on the book cover and to accompany Dr. Masters on his book tour.

Betty and Veronica each believes that she is the “perfect specimen.” Thus, begins their latest battle of the beauties, but can these two friends and rivals survive a health and beauty war of attrition?

THE LOWDOWN: For many years now, Archie's marketing department has been sending PDF copies of some of their titles for review. World of Archie (Jumbo Comics) Double Digest #132 is the latest.

“One Shot Worth a Million” and the “The Perfect Specimen” exemplify how Archie Comics has perfected the six-page humor story over the last several years. Archie Comics has always been good at humor short stories and stand-alone tales, as they've been doing it for decades. However, these new, tight, six-page tales that pepper Archie digests and single-issue anniversary specials are concise in their delivery of a beginning, middle, and end with a substantial plot. But there is a problem...

Often, I come across six-page stories that would be better served by being at least twice their length. That is the case with both these stories, but especially with “One Shot Worth a Million.” Writer Ian Flynn mixes espionage, teen humor, and comic romance with flair in this story, a hybrid with potential that demands to expanded into a longer story. The art team of Holly G! (pencils) and Jim Amash (inks) certainly have the storytelling chops to keep the humor and comic action humming along for longer than six pages. Alas, it was not to be.

The rest of World of Archie Double Digest #132 is a mixture of winter-themed tales and high school hijinks, which Archie fans will always welcome. I should warn you, dear readers. I will always recommend classic-style Archie Comics.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics will want World of Archie Double Digest.

B+

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

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Thursday, April 4, 2024

#IReadsYou Review: Disney's GARGOYLES #1

DISNEY'S GARGOYLES #1

DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

STORY: Greg Weisman

ARTIST: George Kambadais

COLORS: George Kambadais

LETTERS: Jeff Eckleberry

EDITOR: Nate Cosby

COVER: David Nakayama

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (December 2022)

Rated “Teen”

“Here in Manhattan” – Chapter One: “A Little Crazy”

“Gargoyles” was an animated television series produced by Walt Disney Television Animation that ran for a total of 78 episodes over three seasons, from October 24, 1994, to February 15, 1997. The series focused on “gargoyles,” a species of nocturnal creatures that had spent a thousand years in an enchanted petrified state. Reawakened in modern New York City, they are stone by day, but when day falls, they are warriors, the city's night-time protectors.

“Gargoyles” has been adapted into comic books by both Marvel Comics (1995) and Slave Labor Graphics (2006-09). Dynamite Entertainment is the new license holder and begins its publication with Gargoyles Volume 1. The series is written by “Gargoyles” creator Greg Weisman; drawn and colored by George Kambadais; and lettered by Jeff Eckleberry. The series will act as a “Season 4” of the original television series, following Weisman's preferred story line.

Gargoyles Volume 1, #1 (“A Little Crazy”) opens at night in Manhattan. Elisa Maza, an NYPD detective from the twenty-third precinct, is in on the action as the Gargoyles do what they always do – at night. However, a gang war is brewing, and it may be worse than the previous one. Meanwhile, deep underground in the “Labyrinth,” something momentous is about to happen.

THE LOWDOWN: Since July 2021, Dynamite Entertainment's marketing department has been providing me with PDF review copies of some of their titles. One of them is Gargoyles #1, the first Gargoyles comic book that I have read.

Although I was aware of the “Gargoyles” animated series, I never got around to watching it, but I do remember that it had a substantial fandom. I was aware of Slave Labor Graphics' comic book series, but unaware of Marvel's series – neither of which I read.

I am aware of Greg Weisman's work in animation. I have really enjoyed some of the comic books that he has written. He wrote the majority of comic book series that adapted the first “Young Justice” (2010-13) animated series. I also really enjoyed his Star Wars comic book, Star Wars: Kanan (2010) for Marvel Comics, which focused on one of the main characters from the Disney animated series, “Star Wars Rebels (2010-2014).

I like Weisman's set-up for this first issue of Gargoyles. Weisman uses this first issue to acquaint readers with the franchise's characters, although many people reading this first issue are already in the know. He ends this first issue with a last act filled with intriguing sub-plots.

I also immensely enjoyed artist George Kambadais' art on Dynamite's recent John Carter of Mars miniseries. The dynamic illustrations and shimmering colors he brought to John Carter, Kambadais transports to Gargoyles. Gargoyles #1 looks good, and the lettering by Jeff Eckleberry makes the story pop and gives the dialogue some edginess.

I think the second issue of Gargoyles is where the story will really kick into gear, but Gargoyles #1 is a good start. Hopefully, this series, which will act as a Season Four (I think) of the original animated TV series, will please fans, new and old.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of the Gargoyles franchise will want to try Dynamite's new Gargoyles comic book series.

A-

★★★½ out of 4 stars

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

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Thursday, February 1, 2024

#IReadsYou Review: ARCHIE Valentine's Spectacular #1 2023

ARCHIE VALENTINE'S SPECTACULAR #1 (In-stories and on digital Wed., Feb. 1st)

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Jamie Lee Rotante; Greg Crosby; Craig Boldman; Dan Parent

PENCILS: Holly G!; Pat Kennedy; Rex Lindsey; Dan Parent

INKS: Jim Amash; Jon D'Agostino; Rich Koslowski; Rudy Lapick

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore; Barry Grossman

LETTERS: Jack Morelli; Bill Yoshida

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante; Vincent Lovallo; Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Dan Parent with Rosario “Tito” Peña

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

Rating: All-Ages

“More Than Meets the Eye: Rise of the Sports King!”

Archie Comics frequently publishes themed one-shot comic books featuring Archie's characters (sometimes referred to as “the Archie Gang”). One of them is the Archie Valentine's Spectacular No.1. It features one new story and four reprint stories. Entitled “More Than Meets the Eye: Rise of the Sports King!,” the new story stars Archie Comics' newest character, “Cassie Cloud.” The story is written by Jamie Lee Rotante; drawn by Holly G! (pencils) and Jim Amash (inks); colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

Introducing Cassie Cloud in “More Than Meets the Eye: Rise of the Sports King!”:

The story opens at the "Valentine's Spectacular Dance." The newest student at Riverdale High is Cassie Cloud, who recently transferred from Centerville. Cassie is tall, confident, funny, and catching all the guys’ attention – much to the chagrin of the girls. Betty and Veronica notice, however, that Cassie doesn't seem interested in the attention of the most popular boys in school, including Archie and Reggie. So Ethel and Midge join them for some research into Cassie.

Why is the hot new girl hanging out with the likes of Dilton, Toño, Raj, Randolph, and even Simon a.k.a. “Prankenstein” – all known as nerds? And do the girls have something to learn from her about learning to love the “short kings?”

THE LOWDOWN: I have been reading comic books, on and off, for the better part of five decades. I have sporadically read Archie Comics titles over that time, so I usually miss the publisher's introduction of new characters. Thus, Cassie Cloud isn't the only character that is new to me in Archie Valentine's Spectacular No. 1.

I think she has a lot of potential, as set up in this nice five-page story that is “More Than Meets the Eye: Rise of the Sports King!” Cassie is similar to classic Archie female characters like Betty and Veronica, but she is different enough, especially in terms of her interests, to create hopefully exciting new story scenarios across all Archie titles. Writer Jamie Lee Rotante and artist Holly G! have created a winning story for this character, and hopefully, they will do more.

The rest of Archie Valentine's Spectacular No. 1 is comprised of reprints: three “Veronica” solo stories and one “Jughead” solo. One Veronica story, “Valentine's Day Dilemma,” finds Archie struggling to figure out what kind of Valentine's Day gift he could give to the rich girl (Veronica) who already has had a better version of anything he can afford. In “Sweets to the Sweet,” Jughead is sure that he has the perfect way to scam the girls of Riverdale out of their Valentine's candy.

If you are like me and love classic-style Archie Comics, you will love these stories. And Archie Valentine's Spectacular is for you.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics will want to find a copy of Archie Valentine's Spectacular No. 1.

A-

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

https://archiecomics.com/

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Tuesday, January 23, 2024

#IReadsYou Review: JOSIE ANNIVERSARY SPECTACULAR #1

JOSIE ANNIVERSARY SPECTACULAR #1

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Holly G!; Frank Doyle; Tom DeFalco

PENCILS: Holly G!: Dan DeCarlo; Kennedy Bros.

INKS: Jim Amash; Rudy Lapick

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore

LETTERS: Jack Morelli; Vincent DeCarlo; Bill Yoshida

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante; Vincent Lovallo; Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Dan Parent with Rosario “Tito” Peña

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (January 2024); on-sale November 8, 2023

Rating: All-Ages

Josie and the Pussycats in “Rock Cats”

In December 1962, Archie Comics published a comic book entitled She's Josie. She's Josie #1 (cover date: February 1963) gave a starring role to a level-headed redhead named “Josie Jones” and focused on her fanciful life and times as a teenager. Created by Dan DeCarlo, Josie first appeared in Archie's Pals 'n' Gals #23 (cover dated: Winter 1962-1963).

Josie Jones would become "Josie James," and later, she would take the name by which most readers and fans know her, “Josie McCoy.” She's Josie was renamed Josie with issue #17 (cover dated: December 1965). The series became Josie and the Pussycats with issue #45 (cover date: December 1969), in which Josie and her friend, Melody, formed a band called the Pussycats. The two friends added bassist, Valerie Smith, the new girl in school and one of the first major African-American comic book characters. The trio donned leopard print band uniforms that came with long tails and cat-ear headbands. Hanna-Barbera adapted this new-look Josie into the Saturday morning animated television series, “Josie and the Pussy Cats” (1970-71), and the follow-up, “Josie and the Pussycats in Outer Space” (1972-73).

2023 is the year Archie Comics is celebrating the sixtieth anniversary of Josie's debut. Archie has just published the one-shot comic book, Josie Anniversary Spectacular, No. 1. The comic book features one new story, “Rock Cats.” It is written by Holly G!; drawn by Holly G! (pencils) and Jim Amash (inks); colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

Josie and the Pussycats in “Rock Cats”:

The story opens with Josie and the Pussycats: Josie McCoy, Valerie Brown, and Melody Valentine being launched into space aboard the first Lodge/Cabot rocket for an extraordinary concert event. It's a first – Pussycats in orbit! There is trouble in space, however, and soon the girls have lost contact with their fans back on Earth. Can a passing space fan save the day and the concert?

The story features a host of characters from the world of Archie Comics. From Josie and the Pussycats, there is Alan M. Mayberry, Alexander Cabot III, Alexandra Cabot, and Pepper Smith. The “Archie Gang” includes, Archie Andrews, Betty Cooper, and Veronica Lodge, to name a few. Plus, there is a special appearance by Cosmo the Merry Martian.

THE LOWDOWN: I have been a fan of the Josie and the Pussycats franchise since I was a small child. I am crazy about classic Josie comic books from the 1960s to the early 1980s and of the 1970s animated series.

Josie Anniversary Spectacular No. 1 offers a new story in “Rock Cats” that manages to hit upon a number of familiar Josie elements, although it is only five pages long. I must admit that I like writer-artist Holly G!'s visual nod to the rocket ship that the legendary comic book artist and illustrator, Alex Toth, designed for the “Josie and the Pussycats in Outer Space” animated series.

Josie Anniversary Spectacular, No. 1 also reprints two vintage Josie stories drawn by Dan DeCarlo, Josie's creator. They are “A Gym Dandy” from She's Josie #1, and “The Ghostly Guardian” from Josie and the Pussycats #61 (cover dated: April 1972). This comic book also includes a story starring one of the original She's Josie's supporting characters, Pepper Smith, who has made something of a comeback. It is a modern story entitled “Only the Strong Survive” from World of Betty and Veronica Jumbo Comics Digest #18 (cover dated: August 2022).

I must warn you, dear readers. I will always recommend classic-style Archie Comics titles. Thus, I am happy to recommend Josie Anniversary Spectacular, No. 1, and I am pleased that Archie Comics has published it. Here's to a brighter future for Josie and the Pussycats.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics and of Josie and the Pussycats will definitely want to get a copy of Josie Anniversary Spectacular No. 1.

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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Thursday, November 9, 2023

#IReadsYou Review: BETTY & VERONICA FRIENDS FOREVER: Beach Party #1

BETTY & VERONICA FRIENDS FOREVER: BEACH PARTY #1

ARCHIE COMIC PUBLICATIONS, INC.

STORY: Jamie L. Rotante; Dan Parent; Francis Bonnet; Craig Boldman; Tania Del Rio; George Gladir

PENCILS: Holly G!; Dan Parent; Jeff Shultz; Rex Lindsey; Bill Gollhier; Dan DeCarlo

INKS: Jim Amash; Bob Smith; Rex Lindsey; Rudy Lapick

COLORS: Glenn Whitmore

LETTERS: Jack Morelli; Rex Lindsey; Vincent DeCarlo

EDITORS: Jamie Lee Rotante, Vincent Lavallo, and Stephen Oswald

EiC: Mike Pellerito

COVER: Holly G! with Rosario “Tito” Peña

32pp, Color, $3.99 U.S. (August 2023)

Rating: All-Ages

Betty and Veronica in “Babbi's Riverdale Beach Party”

Archie Comics frequently publishes themed one-shot comic books featuring Betty and Veronica. The latest, apparently the twenty-first in this series, is Betty & Veronica Friends Forever: Beach Party #1 (#21). It features one new story and five reprint stories. Entitled “Babbi's Riverdale Beach Party,” the new story is written by Jamie L. Rotante; drawn by Holly G! (pencils) and Jim Amash (inks); colored by Glenn Whitmore; and lettered by the great Jack Morelli.

Betty and Veronica in “Babbi's Riverdale Beach Party”:

The story opens at Veronica's beach house, which she has decorated so that it looks like Babbi's beach house. Who is “Babbi?” She is this story's stand-in for the beloved fashion doll, “Barbie.” Many of the young women at the party are hugely influenced by Babbi, but not everyone attending is crazy about the iconic Babbi. That includes Cassie Cloud, so when her brother, Casey Cloud, gets caught up in Babbi fever, she has something to say.

Archie, Reggie, Jughead, Trevor, Kevin, and Eliza are among the Archie gang appearing in this story. Plus, a special guest star is just around the corner.

THE LOWDOWN: Archie Comics often sends me PDF copies of their titles for review. While I don't get to review all of them, I enjoy these single issue titles like Betty & Veronica Friends Forever: Beach Party #1.

First, I enjoyed “Babbi's Riverdale Beach Party” because Holly G!'s art is so pretty. Next, there is a delightful scene of Kevin Keller openly lusting after new character Casey Cloud. Third, the whole Barbie/Babbi angle is quite nice, and in the end, the story left me wanting more. Because of the appearance of a special guest, the story ends in the middle of Veronica's “Babbi” party, so, at least to me, it feels like we missed out on potentially the best parts of the story.

As usual, I must warn you, dear readers. I will always recommend classic-style Archie Comics titles. Betty & Veronica Friends Forever: Beach Party #1 offers a new character, but the story feels old school and classically fun.

I READS YOU RECOMMENDS: Fans of classic-style Archie Comics will want Betty & Veronica Friends Forever: Beach Party #1.

B+

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

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Thursday, September 28, 2023

#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #123

SCOOBY-DOO, WHERE ARE YOU? (2010) #123

DC COMICS

STORY: Derek Fridolfs; Sholly Fisch

PENCILS: Valerio Chiola; Robert Pope

INKS: Valerio Chiola; Scott McRae

COLORS: Valerio Chiola; Candace Schinzler-Bell

LETTERS: Saida Temofonte

EDITORS: Courtney Jordan; Adam Ansari (reprint)

COVER: Derek Fridolfs with Valerio Chiola

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

Ages 8+

“Swede and Sour”

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #123 opens with “Swede and Sour,” which is written by Derek Fridolfs and drawn by Valerio Chiola. The story finds Mystery Inc.: Scooby-Doo, Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, and Velma attending Coolsville's very own Swedish festival, “Välkommen.”

However, a “draugr,” an undead creature from Scandinavian sagas and folktales, is also attending the festival. This draugr, which appears as an undead, reanimated Viking, is ruining the festival. Can Shaggy and Scooby solve this case with the help of a smelly fish dish?

As usual, the second story, “A Midsummer Night's Scream,” 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? #49 (cover date: November 2014).] The story finds Mystery Inc. attending the “Shakespeare Outdoors” festival's production of William Shakespeare's beloved play, “A Midnight Summer's Dream.”

Now, some of the play's most famous characters have come to life and are raising magical havoc. Can Mystery Inc. solve the mystery and Shaggy's donkey head?

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #123 has as a theme summer festivals. “Swede and Sour” is a surprise. Valerio Chiola's pliable compositions give this kooky story a sense of motion, so Derek Fridolfs' story results in an odd treat. Still, I don't think this “draugr” was played to the hilt.

“A Midsummer Night's Scream,” the reprint story, is this issue's better story. Sholly Fisch is one of my favorite Scooby-Doo comic book writers (as is Fridolfs). This Shakespearean riff is beginning to end kooky. It is one of the most unexpected Scooby-Doo comic book stories I've ever read, and it offers the best “bad guys” I think I've ever come across in this series.

Scooby-Doo, Where Are You? #123 is a fun read and also 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, “Fann Club: Batman Squad” by Jim Benton.]

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

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I Reads You

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#IReadsYou Review: SCOOBY-DOO, Where Are You? #123

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