I gave this issue 2 1/2 bullets, because I hate to say reading, regardless of what, is a waste of time. Truth is though, I'd rather have been hexed, than have read Hexed.

Anway, I can't say the book is bad, just nothing new. If you read Kingdom Comeor read JSA, then there's no reason for you to read this. If you're a new reader, you might get something out of this. Though, I have to wonder, if don't read JSA or haven't read Kingdom Come, then what reason would you have to pick up this book?

To sum up: Is this issue of Booster going to win an Eisner? No, but it will make you laugh.

If you're reading The Brave and the Bold, then this issue won't let you down. If you're not currently reading it, this is a good starting point. The issue is a good example of what the series' overall agenda is (I think) -- team-up two heroes with different approaches and attitudes while exploring their underlying similarities.

Overall, Shadow Chronicles #1 is worth a read. It's a good teaser for the future series. There's enough substance here to make it worth a look, as none of the stories come off as simple trailers. It reads as a collection of first issues, and at $3.99 that's a pretty good deal.

I'm giving this issue a four rating only because it's the last part of a story arc. But I'd give the whole of "Secret Origin" a five. If you enjoy well told superhero stories, then you should do yourself a favor and start reading Green Lantern. It really is one of the best books going right now; intricately layered without being to heavy-handed. This issue may not be the best jumping on point for a new reader, simply because it's the end of a story, but that just means the next issue will be since it starts a whole new adventure.

Here's a piece I did using only Manga Studio 4 and a Bamboo tablet (click image for full sized original).

I was a Sprouse fan before reading the book, but I feel I have an even greater appreciation for his work after reading--which is exactly what TwoMorrows' Modern Masters series is supposed to do. As I said earlier, it will appeal to the fans of Chris Sprouse, while also appealing to aspiring artists who want to know how a "master" thinks. It's entertaining, informative, and an all around great read.