The shallow narration, light contents and simplistic art make this book feel a little adolescent. The theme, dealing with commitment issues, is geared more toward adults, but the intended audience may be a little smarter than this title gives them credit for.

While the Ventriloquist is interesting and well-realized in this issue, this title is stifled by an underdeveloped protagonist. Unclear motivation, inconsistent characterization, and a muddled focus prevent "Batgirl" from reaching the level of greatness. As readers, we want to like Barbara, we want to love Batgirl, but the choices in the series thus far make it a difficult feat. Somewhere between the idea and the actualization of this incarnation of Barbara as Batgirl, there is a disconnect. Whether this problem is editorial, or purely creative, Barbara is being buried under a mass of confusion and desperation that limit the range of her character. As the final page of the issue foreshadows a conflict between Batgirl and Commissioner Jim Gordon, it seems inevitable that the personal assault on Barbara continue. Batgirl is becoming a superhero version of a damsel in distress, and it is hard to see her that way.

“Young Avengers” #6 ends with the unlikely friends, Prodigy and Speed, taking on a mysterious new foe. Gillen establishes a mystery, which is likely to connect this dangling issue to his larger body of work in the series. As a self-contained story, this issue touches on all of the points that it should. As a monthly dose of “Young Avengers,” however, it is a little unsatisfying. Readers will likely be pining for the team that they have come to know and love, wondering how much longer they have to bide their time with these two before getting back to the good stuff.

Full of conspiracy, controversy, and craftsmanship, “S.H.O.O.T. First” #1 is a powerful introduction to an original and unique new series.

Marrying humorous antics and asides with a dark tale of horror, the story succeeds in never taking itself too seriously. In this dangerous, highly unpredictable world, the plot of “Kiss Me Satan” #1 manages to balance fun and fury in a dynamic way. At its heart this title is a tale of redemption and damnation that never loses heart, hope or badass-ness.

Like any good legend, this book reminds us of our human condition, and the capacity we have to rise above the more sinister parts of our nature. Exploring themes of the meaning of power, the importance of friendship and the importance of working together, “Mouse Guard: Legends of the Guard” Volume 2 #3 brings forward accessible morals and enjoyable stories. A standalone installment that provides a window into the universe of Mouse Guard, this book might serve as a wonderful introduction to this world.

Set against a diverse amalgam of perspectives "Avengers" #11 spans comic book conventions, offering everything from high-stakes action to boisterous humor. It delivers something for everyone. Deodato's art compliments Hickman's careful narrative perfectly. This issue presents an opportunity to get to know members of the team that could have become faceless factotums when set against the names everyone knows crowd. Hickman brings them into the limelight and allows the audience to invest themselves in these characters. This issue may not be the action-packed, A-list, free-for-all that you were expecting, but it builds a strong foundation using character, innovative storytelling, and craft that will serve the title well as Hickman continues to build complex, towering stories.

"After Houdini" #1 delivers daring escapes, masterful disguises, and skillful showmanship. Capitalizing on everything we love about the art of illusion, and rewriting the course of history before our very eyes; this book hits all the notes one might expect from the story of the world's greatest magician.

Earnestly charming and curiously sincere, Frampton's "Oddly Normal" #2 captures the delight of dreaming unencumbered by the constraints of the real world. Anchored by a dynamic and engaging protagonist, and exploring an unpredictable world this title promises to bring readers on a journey worth taking. As Oddly Normal comes of age in a fantasy world she will remind the audience of the joy of believing in magic.

A technically impressive, emotional weighty introduction to a world where dreams really do come true.

The success of this series is almost completely focused on the details. There are no plot holes, or set-ups that don't come to fruition. The incredible commitment to the follow through makes the story very persuasive.

Comic books have always been an escape; taking us on adventures we could not have, and giving a voice to the things we dare not say. “Dark Horse Presents” #27 reminds us why we love the genre. Full of creative passion and unique perspective, this volume is well worth exploring.

Overall the first issue of "The Bounce," offers a new perspective on the superhero genre as a whole. Casey's deliberate subversions of expectations, and Messina's skillful depictions of this new world work together to make the series an inspiring read. Though, they never tell the audience why that guy ate a lizard.

Every detail of this book lends itself to an immersive reading experience that truly transports the reader to a bureaucratic, gritty, flawed Chicago where superpowers are the status quo. From choices like letterer Troy Peteri setting editorial captions in file folder tabs, to the design of the backmatter by Rich Bloom, to Trevor McCarthy's bold graphic covers; every creative decision brings the audience further and further into this world. "C.O.W.L." #3 represents an articulate, intentional piece of visual storytelling that embraces its historical context and thrives on the richness of its characters.

Every detail of this book forces us to question the sanity of the characters, the reality of their experiences and the forces driving the story forward. Seeley and Terry have produced a very promising first issue in "Sundowners" #1. Blending the occult with superhero storytelling conventions and wrapping all that up as a psychological thriller, the creative team has definitely found a fresh take on the noir mystery genre. Engaging the reader until the very end, the team behind "Sundowners" #1 will have you second guessing your second guesses before the issue is through. The mystery is as much about the plot that is unfolding, as it is about whether or not there is any mystery at all. An inspired examination of mental illness, bravery and delusion, this book offers an in depth look at some truly novel subject matter. All in all the innovative storytelling makes this a very stimulating read.

Like Bonnie and Clyde meets The Breakfast Club with super powers. Come along for the ride.

Rucka allows scenes and themes to do double work in regard to characterization. It is no coincidence that Dex is her team's defender. That need to protect seems to be a key component of her personality. She is fiercely loyal and unafraid to speak up for those she is close to. Her role as the goal keeper also highlights her lone-wolf tendencies and her willingness to put herself in high-pressure situations. It is this status as a defender that makes the final event of the issue seem like a very promising start for this arc. The crime that will be the focus of this story affects Dex on a personal level; someone she cares for has been harmed. This means that she will be motivated by what she will likely perceive as her failure to protect those closest to her, and stop at nothing to solve the case.

“Captain Ultimate” #1 serves a powerful reminder that superheroes were created to engage the minds of children, to give young men and women something to aspire to, and to inspire them to believe in good. An achievement that is one part myth and one part bedtime story, “Captain Ultimate” #1 is a fantastic return to the delightful beginnings of the superhero genre that has captured the imagination of generations.

The commitment to these ideas and their ability to shape an entire universe is something that truly sets this book apart. Fraction's unique integration of classic and current linguistic styles draws the old world into the new to give the series a unique voice. While Ward's art articulately captures a world that exists only in imagination with a nuanced blend of realism and abstraction. The combination of these forceful elements makes "Ody-C" a truly unique experience. It's bold and bright; imaginative and real. Everything about this book is truly an epic departure from the ordinary.

"Pop" #2 is an exceptionally sharp and entertaining book. Featuring inspired artwork and thoughtful plotting, this miniseries creates a world worth spending time in and a story worth knowing. The audience cannot help but become enthralled by the unique and unpredictable nature of this well-crafted issue.

Thoughtful storytelling, well-developed environments, multifaceted characters, and complex internal drama make this story come together in a very effective way. Slice of life moments married with a Hitchcock-style approach to psychological drama create a very unique reading experience, that is an intimate as it is suspenseful.

Perhaps the most interesting thing about this issue is the way that it dissects the idea of ‘answered prayers.' Why would we assume that we can transform the will of the divine with our pleas? Isn't it more likely that when a prayer is answered, we have been lucky enough to stumble on the will of god? That we happen to want what the Almighty wants? Why do we preserve this perception that we have the ear of the forces that shape heaven and earth? Is an answered prayer anything more than a losing sight of our own will, and falling in line with the divine plan? The pages of this issue call the illusion of control into question. In “Superman Unchained” #3 we as readers are asked to consider the possibility that nothing is as it seems, and we must question who is pulling the strings behind the events that seem so large that they are almost acts of god. Who is shaping the world? What divine conspiracy is at work, making the man of steel seem like just a man?

There is definite promise in this new series. “The Double Life of Miranda Turner” is bright, playful, and full of intention. It seems to celebrate the joy of escapism that super hero comics can represent, while balancing a modern sensibility that makes its content relevant. That being said, this may be a great book to offer a younger reader. Playing on classical sensibilities with a clear focus on what's current; there is a lot of common ground to be found for readers young and old, in this title.

"All New X-men" #10 is a vital chapter in an inspired run. Though some of the levity has been replaced by tension, it retains that entertaining quality we expect from Bendis. Immonen and the rest of the creative team lend incredible talent to the title. I am in for the long haul with "All New X-men."

"The Autumnlands: Tooth and Claw" #3 is a successful issue that proves that the world that Dewey and Busiek have created is ripe with storytelling potential. The characters continue to deepen and develop while conflicts become more multifaceted and complex. Somewhere between a fable and a historical epic, this book has a signature tone that is unlike anything else.

"Theremin" #3 offers a one-of-a-kind reading experience. Held together by the memory of love the events in this issue offer action, adventure, and thought-provoking interpersonal exchanges. "Theremin" #3 escapes the confines of structure, and explores new territory in the world of storytelling.

The connection between William and Nika has already changed them and the course of history for several, now interconnected, worlds. The figurative lightning bolt that hit them as they recognized one another struck with an immediacy and urgency that demanded actions. Now, to them the world seems mad, and they seem mad to their worlds. Their need for one another was cemented quickly and completely, and it has already changed everything. As the driving force of the series, the connection between Nika and William has been very well established. Part mystery, part schema their need for each other is believable and intriguing. As the characters fall, through space, through time and in love, we are invited to experience the disorienting journey with them.

This is a safe place for new readers. This world and its conflicts are relatable for anyone who is involved in modern culture. My biggest criticism of the book may also be its biggest asset: you don't need to know anything about the Batman universe or mythos to appreciate this version of Batgirl. She's on her own here, and that is going to make for novel stories and situations. While this book definitely serves a purpose, function seems to follow form. “Batgirl” finds its own voice, and promises to embrace its characters and its audience as we move forward in this new direction.

By contrasting these two heroes, and drawing attention to their differences the creative team does something incredible. As different as the two men are, their experiences mirror one another with great clarity. An exploration of love, family, roots and aspirations; this story draws attention to the universal commonalities of the human experience. "Batman Superman" #2 reminds us that our similarities are more numerous and more important than our differences.

There's something magical about this title. It shouldn't work. You should not be able to invest in a world that's greatest ethical dilemmas have to do with poultry consumption, or buy in to the idea that food-related powers are the key to global domination; you should not be emotionally invested in a rooster. (Speaking of roosters, you will not believe what Secret Agent Poyo is up to this month.) "Chew" makes it work. Somehow, all the ingredients come together to make something absolutely transportive. This title is like nothing else on the table, just taste it; you'll come back for seconds, I promise.

This book could be considered a sort of victory lap for the team, or perhaps more accurately, a seventh day or sabbath. This is the moment the creators have taken to stand back, look at what they've made and declare that it is good. Personally, I have to echo that sentiment.

A harrowing psychological drama, "Intersect" tears at the most basic components of the of the human experience. It's uncomfortable and oddly terrifying. The pacing of the story, with its constant twists and turns, never allows readers to get comfortable. It is an incredibly disorienting experience, robbing us of the truths we cling to in order to define ourselves. Fawkes presents a reality that betrays the most essential elements of identity and understanding. This is a difficult book, but it rewards those who are willing to lose themselves in it. Highly imaginative and beautifully rendered, "Intersect" #1 challenges preconceptions and gets under the skin of the audience.

A unlikely combination of fairy tale, horror story, black comedy and bromance, “Monster on the Hill,” delivers a completely new kind of hero quest. A wonderful tale full of imagination this book is worth sharing with young readers. For adults, “Monster on the Hill,” may offer a whimsical look at the black fog of depression that creeps in from time to time. How wonderful it is to be given such a novel opportunity to laugh at ourselves. “Monster on the Hill” pokes fun at neuroses, exposing their absurdities and contradictions, leaving the laughable little monsters running for cover in the wake of this feel-good story of self-empowerment.

The creative team has somehow found a way to mimic the experience of reading the book in the characters reaction to the events of the series. Throughout "Morning Glories" 27 the cast echoes the confusion, and need for speculation that the audience feels each time they pick up an issue. In another feat of imagination, the team has managed to harness the sensation of deja vu, communicating that eerie, dreamlike experience perfectly in the series, especially this issue. Spencer and Eisma have somehow caught lightning in a bottle, and each installment of the series releases another jolt of energy that feels familiar and completely new all at once.

"Supreme Blue Rose" #1 is a gorgeous book. Ellis' writing is expertly paced and engaging. This invitation to join Diana on her journey unfolds easily, while holding its cards close to its chest and preserving the mystery that will propel the series forward. Paired with Lotay's stunning visuals, this well crafted plot springs to life, and is elevated to another level of brilliance.

“The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys” works in layers. At it's core is a purposeful tone, embodying the experience of leaving childhood behind. Just outside of that, the setting offers a canvas for that voice to come to life. The experiences of the characters form the next layer, drawing themes into focus. Binding all that together are the visual elements of the story, which allow us to peer through the window of this world. The pieces come together to form something innovative and exuberant, unique and worthwhile.

From character design to layout, from dialogue to environment; every element of this new title lends to its feeling of novelty. Even the eye-catching logo and title design add the singular effect of rock-and-roll fantasy. Anchored by strong female protagonists, “Rat Queens” #1 delves boldly into adventure.

An inspired start to the series, this first issue of “Wild Blue Yonder” is full of promise. The new world created for the series is full of complex, endearing characters, and villains who make us fear for them. The destruction story presented in this issue is well articulated, and establishes a new mythology that integrates easily into the rules of play that will guide the series. The stakes are high, but the creative team piloting this tale have established in this issue that they are up to the challenge of taking the action adventure story to new heights. Beautiful artwork, effective storytelling and well-written dialogue draw the audience into this world, in which the sky is no longer the limit.

Condensing opposing ideas, "Breath of Bones: A Tale of the Golem" #3 is moving and powerful. Harnessing an unexpected joy; creating a beacon in a dark time, and finding the strength of faith when all seems lost, the hope of this series rises from the muck and mire of an unquestionably terrifying scenario to defend the beauty of the human capacity for resilience and optimism.

A tale of family, survival and the search for self, “Lazarus” #4 brilliantly concludes the first arc of the series. Rucka and Lark have created a world that showcases instinct, and begs the audience to question what exactly defines the human experience.

Unpredictable and ferocious, tender but unrelenting, this title is like nothing else on shelves.

“Ghosted” is successful because of its bones; in fact, this series is a study of skeletons. The skeleton of the story, or its structure, is sound and sturdy. Skeletons also come into play as reminders of things that go bump in the night. The humor found in this first issue is bone-dry. Without a doubt this complex cast is sure to have their share of skeletons in the closet, and more than one bone to pick with one another. All this comes together to give the impression that this series is going to be a viable title, well worth exploring.

This issue ends with Martha reciting a poem she has composed, to her sister, Dana. A beautiful reflection of the first issue's beginning, the verse reminds us that as the world grows more confusing the characters still feel, and think, and want, and hope; just as they did in the moments we first met them. Amid the horror, violence and pandaemonium that the events of this thrilling supernatural mystery have incited in this small community, Seeley and Norton find a heart that continues to beat strong. The team is sure to keep breathing new life into this series again, and again, and again.

In “Saga” #13, the creative team begins expanding the definition of family; building new units from broken pieces, and declaring them valid and meaningful. The holistic manner in which the creators approach the subject of family reflects just how universally understood the experience of birth and nurturance are. Between Staples stellar art and Vaughn's near perfect prose, the power of this series is undeniable. Creating a universe in which consequences are real, in which there are no faceless thugs, in which everyone has a story to tell; the creative team offers us a world worth inhabiting. “Saga” remains a strong series, because of its commitment to deep universal themes, powerful symbols and three dimensional characters.

It's a common teaching in literary circles that comedies end with a wedding or a feast, while tragedies end with a funeral. What does it say about this sensational book that it ends with both coming together seamlessly? This issue uses a fantastic plot full of action and anxiety to engage the audience emotionally and logically. Defying expectation, subverting tradition, and continually surprising the audience, “American Vampire: The Long Road to Hell,” represents all that is joyous about reading.

At every turn, "Breath of Bones: A Tale of the Golem" #2 is a testament to the power of the human spirit. Testing the resolve of these ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances again and again, the this issue finds its heroes resolving to triumph over evil in the smallest, to the most pronounced ways. Refusing to accept the option of cowardice a seemingly small evil, they stay to fight what must to them, evil incarnate. A coming-of-age story, a folktale, an underdog story, a war yarn, and an exploration of faith and goodness opposing wickedness; "Breath of Bones: A Tale of the Golem" #2 offers something for every reader. Beautifully distilling complex aspects of the human experience to a single story, this issue is profound in both its depth and scope. This is a truly worthwhile story told in a meaningful and strong way.

With a clear understanding of emotion and structure, Remender displays his skill at engineering smart, functional stories that entertain as well as inform. He draws on empathy and wish-fulfillment in order to get his audience invested. He will not allow this story to be ignored, and he shouldn't; it's fantastic.

All-in-all "Batman" #19 is a successful depiction of the continuation of the grieving process that the title character must experience. Adaptive storytelling facilitates a sense of forward motion in a dark and tempestuous time that could have easily mired down the series. With no shortage of action and mystery, the book delivers beautiful art and thoughtful narrative while reminding us why we love the Dark Knight so much in the first place.

As for something mind-blowing? The skill required to pilot a machine like "East of West," is considerable. There are so many moving parts, so many possible routes to choose from, so many stops that could be made. So far, the team has been making all the right decisions, and keeping all the pieces of the story in working order. The fact that this story works at all is hard to comprehend, the fact that it works so well is … well, mind-blowing. Juggling rich themes and various plot threads this issue of "East of West," continues in the bold direction that makes it stand out from the crowd.

From beginning to end "Satellite Sam" #1 is ironic, irreverent, and impeccably engineered.

That's why this book is so incredibly refreshing. It is an accurate depiction of these clandestine customs and the culture that perpetuates them. I, for one, think it's about damn time someone got around to tellin' this kind of story, and these boys are doin' us proud.

The deceptive simplicity of this book's voice is echoed in the artwork. Comprised of high contrast drawings, the art allows the difficult and weighty themes of the book to come into focus. Emotionally evocative and often unexpected the perspectives showcased in the visual components of "Doctors" are pleasantly engaging at times, and uncomfortably disorienting at others. Using backgrounds of various solid colors in lieu of plain white, Shaw creates instantly recognizable atmospheres. These saturated colors help reinforce the mood of each page or scene. Dreamy and expressive, Shaw's illustration sets the story just outside reality, while capturing the essential qualities of the familiar.

"Five Ghosts: The Haunting of Fabian Gray" #3 continues to prove the viability of the creative forces behind the title. This book represents an homage to the stories that define us, and invites us to consider what our investment in those stories might mean. Following Fabian on his quest to understand his power, give us the opportunity to examine our own links to the stories we carry within us. While the book is an action story, an adventure thriller, and a tale of mystery; at it's heart, it is a love story. "Five Ghosts," reminds us what we love about being readers, what it feels like to dream or imagine, and how that capacity unites all of us.

Throughout this series, it has seemed that Clint might be a hipster hero, doing his job almost ironically. In this issue; however, the irony is almost completely dramatic. We know what the boogeyman is up to, while the characters continue to go about their normal lives. "Hawkeye" has always refused to take itself seriously, but issue #10 proves that the tone of the book can stand up to more serious and sinister story lines. Creating a threat that seems not only eminent, but utterly real brings a new sense of gravity to the title. The exploration of this new villain is a testament to the range of this series.

With intensely interesting subject matter, a strong story, deep and well wrought characters and a fantastically talented team firing on all cylinders, this book is a gem. Overwhelmingly successful and immensely intriguing, the story of one of history's most infamous and mysterious figures is done justice, at every turn. Everything about this book is inspired. Creating a ghastly, ghoulish, gorgeous tale, the team sails into uncharted territory and emerges with the definite and obvious result of having claimed it as their own. I can feel the Russian novelists nodding in recognition of the exquisite melancholy created here, 'yes,' they say, 'you've seen our point.' Frigid and biting as Siberian air, "Rasputin" #1 is an incredibly promising start to a series that is sure to continue to stretch the boundaries of genre, fact and fiction.

The team seems fully aware of the importance that this subject holds for many longtime fans of Batman, as they are approaching in ‘Zero Year.' Their tone is one of reverence as they step on this hallowed ground. They make a concentrated effort to account for everything we have embraced about the history of Gotham's favorite son and his alter ego. Look out for the Batmobile, the giant penny kept in the Batcave, the Batcave itself, and those fabulous, fabulous purple gloves as you make your way through this issue. Sure to be a wild ride that makes the old seem new again, ‘Zero Year' promises to be a memorable and worthwhile read.

This is the beauty of creativity and collaborative storytelling. This entire world started as idea. Maybe it was scribbled on a napkin, saved on a smartphone, jotted down in a margin or whispered to a friend. A quick and fleeting thing that could have been easily lost, this idea grew instead. It grew legs and gained voices. It found people to make it stronger, to make itself real. Then it was born climbing from one mind, like Athena, to the minds of many. This idea will spark more ideas, an entire generation of creative thought might come from this one ephemeral notion. This is the reason people write and draw and read and watch and try. We dream so that every once in a while we can catch one of those dreams and give it back to the world. I'm so thankful that there are those among us with the passion and the talent required to bring things like this to life. This is the beauty of creativity.

This book is beautiful. Somehow, Gillen and McKelvie have managed to condense this larger than life story into a relatable, personal narrative. Full of emotion and nuance, this series supports the hefty weight of its subject matter with realistic interactions and sincerity throughout. Perhaps what makes "The Wicked + The Divine" so successful is its deft portrayal of human nature. While the battle of good and evil may be ramping up in the background, the characters are first and foremost motivated by desire: the desire to create, to connect, to matter, to be loved; the most human wants of all, guide the story and those within it. It is that humanity that reminds us of the wicked divinity we seek in the mirror that we call art.

Throughout the issue security and normalcy are systematically ripped away; leaving the audience with the sensation that the reality we know is littered with secrets and possibilities that bubble just beneath the surface. The dramatic conclusion of "The Wake" #1 introduces a mystery that is sure to make readers impossibly curious. Unanswered questions, strong characters, and an honest sensation of terror will draw you in, and leave you wanting more. Beautiful to look at, and a joy to read, “The Wake” #1 is a deft display of creative skill that touches on the most frightening aspects of being human.

A potent cocktail of gorgeous writing, and striking artwork, “Theremin” #2 is a splendid achievement of visual storytelling. Merging the narratives history, science, literature, and fantasy the creative team takes hold of the magic within the fictional world they have created, bringing readers into a story powered by imagination and passion. Perfectly formed, yet raw, “Theremin” is a brilliant series. The second issue escorts the audience deeper into the labyrinth of complexity that faces Leon Theremin, making an even more concerted effort to help readers relate to this extraordinary protagonist. Moving forward, this series can surely become nothing short of excellence.

A powerful commentary on the constancy of change and the transience of affection, "The People Inside" is beautiful and utterly frightening in its sincerity and its unwillingness to look away, even for a moment.