Everything about this book that was supposed to be funny came across as mean. Satire works when it is honest. Sure, feelings may get hurt with some stinging satire, but being mean, for the sake of being mean, does not work for me. I may be in the minority, but this whole thing was a waste of time. Please, Mr. Ennis. Make something good. I know you can.

I read He-Man and the Masters of the Multiverse #3 several times just to see if I could be sure of some things and ultimately, I was not sure of anything. This series might end up being better when it is collected as a graphic novel. Sometimes, stories that have people spread out all around the multiverse work better when we can keep track of them all. Visually, this is fun. The are so many works of visual magic the art team pulls off that this is worth paging through.

Ultimately, unless you are a super fan, you have not continued to read this series. It is beautiful to see, but it just doesn't land on its feet. Yes, it is great to see the “classic” He Men in action. Battle Cat is a welcome sight, but overall, this just doesn't make sense. I am not sure how they are going to tie all this together next month. I suspect all the He-men will merge into one like Jet Li in The One. This book is essentially that plot anyway. Maybe you should buy this to look at the excellent art and then watch The One so you can follow what is happening here.

I am hopeful that by issue six, which would essentially end a story arc that would tie this up for later publication, will bring everything together. I want to see all of these people in the same place, fighting, or struggling or doing something.

I am not a comic writer, nor do I play one on TV and it is easy for me to throw barbs from over here, but honestly, I just don't get why this is so uneven. It should be good. It has proven it can be good. This issue, just was not. It cut too many corners and it didn't need to. This is the “end” of the Ananse story and so it had to end on issue 12, but that seems like a bad idea. It does look like the Corinthian will play a part in what comes next, so that is something to look forward to.

Once again, I really failed to care about anyone or anything is House of Whispers. This book is leading to something big involving the Corinthian and the other houses in the Dreaming, but getting there has been painfully slow and distracting. The new human character is interesting, but I am not sure how much I should invest as I suspect she will be written out in a few issues. Normally, Stanton's art keeps me going, but this month, even that wasn't enough. It is still stunning, but that does not always work.

This book is all over the place. Every time I think there will be a thread worth following, it ends. There are new characters this month and I am not sure if I want to care about them. House of Whispers could actually do with a hard reboot. There is so much potential, but it remains untapped. I think maybe if this story was set up as a novel instead of a comic series, it might actually have more weight and there would be an opportunity to tell a better story.

While House of Whispers is always stunning to look at, it more and more painful to read. The Corinthian and before him Ananse have felt shoehorned in to keep readership up. I am not sure if it is working. I will keep on keeping on because this issue ends with a bang. Maybe something good will come. I have been pleasantly surprised before.

Sigh. House of Whispers #19 once again doesn't seem to have a direction. Domo is such a great artist. He puts on a master class each month, but even he can't make me really care about what is happening. I just think that only those who are playing a long, long game, people who want to collect the whole series, or those who simply love Domo's work are still reading this book. It looks like next month might have some focus, but I've been fooled before.

The problem with House of Whispers #20 is the same problem that has been going on for two years now. There is some stunning artwork, some amazing colors and visual storytelling, but it is always punctuated by wandering a bit aimlessly.

House of Whispers #21 is the penultimate issue of this series. Next month will be the culmination of two years of planning, plotting and magic. I am keen to see how Nalo pulls it all together. I feel like her vision for what this book was supposed to be never really came to light. More on that next month. For now, page through this and thank Domo Stanton for being so amazing.

This ends the generation outlaw story arc. The hope is that next month, a better, more thoughtful and interesting story will begin. Lobdell's love for Jason Todd is unrivaled so I have faith that he is playing a long game here. I love loved this book when few others I know have, but it has been harder and harder to defend. I am hopeful that next month the title will change back and we can pick up where we left off a few years ago.

Red Hood Outlaw #43 is the clear beginning of a new arc that focuses on the original dark Trinity, but it comes out stumbling. The covers are beautiful and the colors pop off the page, but I am just not sure where this is going. I am willing to give Lobdell a mulligan. This could really be the start of something amazing. He does like a good cliff hanger and these issues seem to be getting shorter and shorter, so he can only get in so much drama before he runs out of space.

As a fan of Ennis, I was really hoping that this book was going somewhere. I am really rooting for it go somewhere. I thought with the Dogwelder stuff it was heading down a road to somewhere. I am not sure it is on the road. There is a lot of tongue-in-cheek stuff happening that is absolutely brilliant, but then there are pages and pages of nothing happening with dialogue that is not fun or clever.

While I totally respect Garth Ennis and I am always willing to bow to his creative license, I just do not see the point of this. I want to see it the point, but I do not. I love satire and I was pretty excited when this book started. I am in for the long haul, so I can only hope that next month, something happens.

Maybe I am too stupid to understand what Ennis is doing here. Maybe, I just need someone smarter than me to explain it, but I do not get it. I dont get why this is funny. You do not like that Hellblazer is now part of the main DC universe and not in Vertigo anymore. Okay. Right. I see the point. It was funny in the first issue, but now, it is just frustrating.

There is a saying about too many cooks in the kitchen ruining the meal. Well, that is on full display in Suicide Squad #3. Seriously, I am not sure what is going on, who is in charge or why I should care. The charm of the Squad is that they band together not fight it out with each other. Sure, there is tension, but tension can be played upon. This is not that and it just doesn't work. It is only issue 3 in a new run, so I will give it a chance. Considering the Boomerang is coming back next issue, I feel good.

Suicide Squad#10 is the penultimate issue in a series that went on a bit too long. I know this is the story Taylor says he wanted to tell, but I just feel like it is messy. One cant really understand where it was going or why it was going there. I never want to see a title cancelled after 11 issues, but I am not really going to miss this one when it is gone.

This is overly ambitious and it doesn't land. Team comics don't mean a whole marching band. Titans always worked best with fewer Titans. Justice League works best when we follow a handful of characters who, in theory are in on this adventure for now will be off doing something else later. This is just an unmanageable cast of really great characters who never have a time to shine. Add in the rest of Wonder comics and you have a mess. Tim Drake deserves better.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer #23 feels like it has moved the story along, but really, it has muddied the waters a bit. It isn't bad per-se, but it isn't super strong either. I think, when one goes back and reads this as part of the collected works, it will be a nice strong condiment. You would notice if it wasn't there, but you won't think too much about it. I feel like the Ring of Fire tease and the multiverse theory has been dragged on long enough. Let's get to it.

In the end, He-Man and the Masters of the Mulitverse #4 is beautiful to look at and I think, fans of the original series will be pleasantly surprised. I know I was. I am not super invested in any of these versions of He-man and so the art keeps this book floating. It is really great art with colors that just pop.

This is the Sandman Universe, so I am sticking with this for the long haul and you should too. I suspect, that by the time we reach issue six, things will make sense. We will care and we can see where this is going. For now, tune in for some excellent pencil work.

This is the end of an arc as I suspected it would be and there is some sort of resolution for Toya and Maggie and for Madame Erzulie and for Uncle Monday even. I think I will go back and read all six in a row to see how it stacks up that way, but for now, I am hopeful that the next part of the story, will have a narrative flow and spend some time letting us get to know and more importantly care, about these people.

As has been the case of House of Whispers so far, this is just a bit uneven. The focus is scattered, but the art is striking. Honestly, as long as Domo is drawing, this book is worth getting

VerdictSeriously, the best thing that House of Whispers could do is spend time with one story each month and then, make the switch to the next story in the final pages. Go with that for a month, end with a cliff hanger. We can handle it. I just feel constantly distracted. Characters matter. There are some good ones here, but because we don't really get to know them, we don't care much about the mortal danger and without that, this book just falls flat.

Once again, House of Whispers is uneven. When it works, it is so good. When it does not work, it is not bad, but it just isn't as good. It is frustrating when we can see the flashes of greatness that Hopkinson and Watters have in them.

SummaryThis book really does not know what it wants to be. Each month, House of Whispers takes huge swings to try to figure it out. The strongest story, that of Maggie and LaToya from the first year, is totally gone now. Each new issues seems to bring more new people, or in this case some old people. I am just not sure that this book knows what it wants to be either.

Metal Men #11 totally jumped the shark. When I was on issue five I thought that I was upset that this wasn't going to be a full, on-going series. Now, it seems to have gone a few issues too long. I could be totally wrong that this was the plan all along, but I just don't see how. Next month, when this finally ends, we shall see.

Metal Men #12 was simply a tale of two stories. The first six issues were about what it means to be human and what it means to love. Magnus and Tina were the stars, the rest of the team had a lot to do. This was a great book. Then, DiDio left, thing at DC took a turn and so did this book. Maybe, it was always supposed to end like this and I am just upset because this was not the book I thought it would be. We may never know. For now, I would say reading DiDio's final work at DC is worth your time, but just take it all with a grain of salt. I do love the final page. That is what I was hoping for the whole time.

Once again, I am tired of this punchline. Yes. The pun is intended. I am not on the team that says we must ban Nightwing as a comic, but I am on the team that says, Ric Grayson is not my Nightwing. Nightwing #72 does feature Babs, so that is nice. I like her. Just get to the Joker War already.

Nightwing #73 is scattershot. There are some genuinely great moments with Babs. Batgirl is, without a doubt, one of the best parts of the Bat Family and she shows off why here. Clearly, this is part of the Joker War run and so there are a lot of other things happening here. I understand there is a bigger story to tell and I will remain hopeful that when the dust settles, things in Bludhaven will be just about our favorite acrobat.

I am not thrilled with that final panel. It makes me feel as though my worst fears are going to be realized and that Red Hood and the Outlaws are going to be a new Justice League Dark. In general, huge group comics are hard to read. The three headed monster that was the Red Hood and the Outlaws was perfect as it was. I will be back next month with my fingers and toes crossed.

I am a grouch, I know. I am not trying to be the Thats not my Suicide Squad guy. It isnt that this is a new team, it is that they tried so hard to shoehorn Floyd, Digger and Harley into this when they clearly didnt fit. It was just all over the place and I never thought it landed on its feet. Honestly, that last panel makes me interested for what is to come. This team, not as the Squad, but as something else, with a story they can make their own where the characters can develop into fully formed people whom readers can like, or hate, or feel anything.

Ultimately, Teen Titans: Raven should appeal to the right kind of reader. The art work is so good that I kept on going because I just wanted to see what else Picolo had up his sleeve. I think this is worth checking out for that alone. If you are looking for a great story about Raven, look elsewhere.

I almost wonder if this book would have worked better as a novel, with some drawings instead of a comic. I feel like Jordan has a personal story to tell here and this was just the wrong venue. I really loved Annie as a character and ultimately, this is her book and that ending, well, it really could have been something with her. I would have loved to see her continue on, but I understand why this book must come to an end.

Young Justice #17 really does live up to its name. Every legacy character who has a counterpart in YJ has a heart to heart with him or her. It was nice, but it also meant that this entire book was all about spinning tires. It felt like filler. I don't really need filler. There are so many characters in this story who could shine, but they never get a chance because Clark and Barry and Diana all have to have their say too. Look. If Tim Drake is in a comic, I am going to read it, but he needs to actually be in the comic.

Young Justice #20 seems to set up a future series. If that is the case, I hope that it has a little more focus. Team books can't be this messy. Team books need to focus on a few members of the team at a time OR they need to have a smaller version of the team. Neither thing happened here. I know that Bendis and Walker had to wrap everything up in a few issues and so they have been trying to give the supporting cast time in the sun. It feels like what it is, too much all at once. I love most of these characters so I hope they all get a place to shine in other books.

American Vampire 1976 seemed like a good idea at first, but maybe, we have learned that some stories can just end. Snyder is a great storyteller. There is nothing inherently bad happening here, I have just run out of steam. Each issue ends with a bang, which brings me back to the next issue. I want know what happens next and this ending, boy, is it a curb stomper, but I still think the series has, pardon the pun, grown long in the tooth. Looking forward to see how they tie it all up.

False Face, like Clay Face is a villain that I can take or leave. Being someone else is a power that can be totally amazing or redundant. I am not sure how to feel about it here. It feels a bit redundant here. Still, what a great last page. There is so much to unpack there and what hope for the future of the series.

I am not sure what is happening here. There is some timey wimey craziness happening. Constantine is clearly part of the Sandman Universe now and so we are going to have to deal with the new reality of that (or in this case the old reality as John is bringing the past back). I have really loved this series so far and I worry for the future of it. In Kat Howard I will trust (as long as she gets to have full control of this book again) and I will reserve my final judgment. Every book has a bumpy issue now and again. This just may be Books of Magic's speed bump.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer #22 could easily be called Buffy and the Multiverse of Madness. We have known for a year or so that the OG Buffy is out there. Everything is just taking a really long time to smash together. This has been the biggest issue with taking episodic TV and trying to translate it to a comic. A show that lasts one hour essentially takes five or six comics. It is painfully slow. I like where we are going here though. I am going to hang on.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer #24 has a final page that is a kick to the brain pan. Oh man. It is maybe my favorite final panel in this entire two year run, and there have been some doozies. I still miss Bellaire's quick witted Buffyisms, but Lambert has a plan he seems to be willing to do fold time and space while breaking a few hearts along the way to make it happen.

I am kind of glad this is only 6 issues. I am not sure how many times I can handle Forager doing the same thing. At this point, only two issues in, we have the same formulaic book twice. Can we do that four more times? Hmmm.

Crime Syndicate #4's best feature is the back up story. Sure, the back up story informs the main tale, and that is good, but I just think the main story is lacking. There was so much potential early on and I wanted this to be five stars all the way, but it just doesn't land. I am curious to see how they try to wrap this up in two more issues so there is something to look forward to.

I get it. I do. I don't have to like it personally to understand why it was made and to whom it appeals. It is nice to see Paul Dini do some work with Harley and it is nice to see Jessica Cruz get a win.

This is the weak link of this series. I have been totally invested up to this point, but I am disappointed. Fingers crossed for a strong finish and the actual death of Hawkman. Not that I want him to die, but you can not call the book that and have it end differently.

If this is setting up a stand-alone Adam Strange book, that would be a mistake too. He is a supporting character in every single way. Lets keep him that way. This book was good but not great. If there are some hardcore Hawkman fans out there, this will be pretty upsetting. I am not sure there are so this book does what it supposed to do. Advance a plot in the DC universe at the expense of a hero. Heroes die sometimes and it makes even more sense for a hero to sacrifice himself to save the universe.

Faith #1 is the first in a string of Buffyverse one shots coming our way. It was uneven. I think, like Willow's brilliant series, this would have worked better in the long form. There is a lot packed into 42 pages and while it is a fun ride, there were a few places where I thought, this is too much and other places where I thought, this is not enough. Still, if you love the character, this is worth checking out.

Firefly #20, which has the subtitle of Blue Sun Rising sets up an interesting concept. It makes one think that Pak has an ending in mind for this series or at least his part of it. I was wrong about who the Bandit King was. I actually thought it was going to be Zoe. I am glad to see her back in the book though. I am keen to see what her new vision for the ‘Verse looks like.

Firefly #21 feels like it is trying to get itself somewhere but it is just taking a long way to get there. This series is excellent in some places and simply meh in others. This issue is somewhere in between those extremes. It is not the weakest issue in the series, nor is it the best. I am always keen to spend time in the ‘verse so that always gives it a leg up.

Firefly #22 is just a tease. We finally see the team only to lose them again. The book should really just be called Sheriff Mal. That is more accurate. The pace is solid and the story is intriguing, but it just remains uneven. Looking forward to the Wash stand alone series next week though.

Firefly #25 is a strange amalgamation of the story that was and the story that is. It has cracking dialogue but it doesnt know what it is is yet. Stories set in the future can be fun because readers get to guess what happened. I am going to keep guessing and try to enjoy the ride without saying This isnt my Verse over and over.

Firefly: Blue Sun Rising #1 wraps up this run on the series. It is clear they can bring this version of the ‘Verse back if they want, but I don't know if they should. It has been amazing to have Wash and Book on the crew, except, they are not really in these issues. The point of changing the story was to bring them back, but then, they were hardly in it. I respect what Pak has done here, but I am THRILLED to be moving on.

The last panel is totally going to make you wish you could run through time to get the second issue.

Parker is playing the long game here and patience is needed by the reader. The first few issues have been fun and there is hope with the B-Story. Luckily, this is really well drawn and all of the crazy action fits nicely in the boxes provided.

I have a feeling this book is coming to a conclusion and I think that will be a good idea. I like seeing all these characters and I am not opposed to Future Quest continuing on as mash up one shots. Imagine Johnny Quest and Mi-tor in one 23-page book and then Space Ghost and The Impossibles in another the following month. With all of the chaos, Olivetti saves this issue. He is spectacular.

This was not the end of the story as I suspected it would be, so maybe this is just a dip in what will turn out to be a pretty solid story arc. The team is spectacular so I hope it can be saved. Rob Williams has earned a lot of hall passes, so let us just assume this book was him cashing one in.

As I mentioned, you can give this book to a kid and you do not have to worry that she or he will be scarred for life. If you liked the After School Specials, this book is for you. If you like Suicide Squad, you need to move past this.

Future State: Justice League #1 is a bit uneven. The art is stellar in both stories and the writing is very good. I mean, look who is doing the writing. The problem is there is a TON of explaining to do and that just wears the reader down a bit. The idea behind Future State is solid, but there is just a ton of exposition required. I would actually prefer not to have that. Just drop us in. Future State is in the title. We get it.

The back up story was much more interesting and if there is a place for the Future State stories to continue, I would suggest that Justice League Dark be that place.

I will be honest. I am just jumping on this train at issue 71, so I need to get my sea legs, but I feel like this book is in capable hands. I really do enjoy the way Humphries writes female characters and I think this shows some incredibly growth for the character, post Heroes in Crisis. I mean, she even teams up with Booster in this, so that says a lot.

This is a pretty unceremonious ending. Considering there has been a year long build up to something with Booster, one would think he would make an appearance. This whole issue feels rushed and the back story, Joker War tie in just feels, well, crammed in. I just feel Harley deserves a better send off. I don't blame Sam. I just think this book is the victim of the changes that are coming.

If this were issue 1, not 13, I think I could be all on in the fire breathing chicken of death. Seriously, that sounds like a book worth reading. However, I can't get rid of issues 1-12. That is on me. Maybe that means that House of Whispers #13 is the reboot this series has been looking for. It tried a few times before and didn't work. Now that the original art team is completely replaced, maybe, just maybe, something good will come of it. I will look forward to next month with cautious optimism.

Metal Men #10is extremely revealing. Who knew the Metal Men were so important to the history of the entire DC Universe? I surly didnt. There is a deep, deep cut in this book all the way back to 1960. Clearly, Didio had big plans and this book is the last vestige of what that could have been. This issue is just OK. I really do feel the series took a turn a few issues back and the focus has changed. I am keen to see how it all works out in a few issues.

Nightwing #71 is just OK. I have not been a super big fan of the “Ric” storyline in general but having the Joker in a book against any Bat person raises the stakes. The action is fast and furious here, but the storyline is simply just OK. I should use a different adjective, but I don't have one. I love Nightwing, so I would read 32 pages of him reading a phone book (that was how people found numbers before the internet kids).

Nightwing #74 ends with a literal bang. There are tears. There is joy. There is hope. Have we turned the corner? Maybe? Will we see a new team up comic coming in the pages of this book? Considering everything else is cancelled, I think so. Only time will tell.

Nightwing #76 gives us a bit of everything. We see the most heroic and noble version of Dick Grayson we all know and love. However, he makes some choices that remind us who raised him and the life he is choosing to live. Is Bea being moved out of the way to make room for Babs?

Nightwing #77 is fine. If you love Christmas, this is for you. I don't, so it isn't for me. The art is good. The story is clever. Bruce isn't a total jerk. Babs shows up at the end. It has all the hallmarks (see what I did there) of a great holiday story. It is a nice one off that doesn't move any long term story along, and has a touching tribute to Alfred.

I really do like the work Lobdell does with Jason Todd. I think the book is always better when he is there. However, I am not really digging this year of the villain story. The kids in Generation Outlaw may eventually spin off to their own book and that would be great for them. It would be interesting to have a “Dark Titans” book. Having them here is cumbersome and messy. The last page makes me feel good about the future though.

Since this comic started at the beginning of Rebirth, I felt it would have worked better as a bi-monthly instead of a monthly. There is always too much going on. This month Red Hood Outlaw #44 has that same problem. It seems likely that all of these various ideas are going to merge into one cohesive story, but for now, it is a bit scattered and having to wait a month seem cruel.

Cassandra is a great character and it is nice to see her in this book, and not as Orphan in the “Rebirth” world, this book is just uneven. I am glad it exists and I would recommend it for tweens who won't freak out over a bit of real world language and violence.

This is a bridge issue, so it is a step forward, but it feels like a step back. It is supposed to get us to where our heroz start travelin' hard. Hopefully, the next issue will focus on them and the irreverent humor that Ennis is known for. The art work here is really good even if Constantine says it is not.

Snowpiercer Vol. 2 - The Explorers suffers from what many middle stories suffer; the journey, while important, is not fulfilling and desperately needs the finale. There are some really smart ideas here. The art, as always, is top notch, but the fact that this literally leaves readers hanging, it feels a bit cold (pun intended).

This is not as good as it has been. This is a transition issue and in general, those leave the reader wanting something. Sure, it is nice to have Boomerang back, so there is some resolution there, but overall, this was not as fulfilling as I was hoping it would be. Still, it is better than a lot of other books.

It could be that the first three issues of this new run represented Tom Taylor finding himself. This new run arc has a bit more promise. Of course, adding Digger back into the mix is always a great idea. I know I shouldn't feel this way, but he has always been my favorite Rogue and member of the Squad. I have hopes. Now that we have everything explained to us, maybe we can let this story unfold. Also, maybe we will lose a few characters. That could be good.

Suicide Squad #9 has quite the ending. There is no doubt that I will be back for more even though this story is uneven. With only two issues left before the series ends, there are a lot of loose ends for Taylor to tie up. I do think I have an amazing idea for a spin off series with a new, younger person in the Deadshot gear. I wonder if that is where this is going.

In general, this is good, but not on par with the main title. Sure, they all hate Waller and sure they would all go to great lengths to get away from her, but really, that is not much of a story. The main title works so well because it has action and it has humor. There is angst, but the members understand they have no choice, so they relish the work. Some of that joy is missing here. Still, the stories are compelling and entice the reader back for more.

The back stories in this series have really kept the book afloat. I hope that issue six gives me some resolution for Chato. He seems like a good guy. That last page of the second story is kind of amazing. I am really looking forward to see how that concludes.

It was good to see the softer side of Waller and to take a deeper dive into Croc and Boomerang early on in this series. It should have been a stand alone El Diablo book and the other stories should have been told in the back pages of the Suicide Squad.

If you have been reading Teen Titans the whole time, you need this to round out your collection. If you are looking for a great team book, pick up the revamped Rebirth edition of both Titans and Teen Titans.

The final page is the draw on this book that means, issue 11 is going to be totally crazy and amazing because it will be all Salesman all the time. He/she/they are the draw of this book and having an entire issue without them/him/her doesn't work.

Overall, just like the rest of this series, this is OK. It is not the worst thing I have read in a long time but not the best. It is a solid C. Annie is a great character who deserved better. More on that in my final review next month. For now, if you have stuck with it this long, keep on keeping on.

Ultimately, I am glad this book exists. I think it has some important things to say and I am glad they were said. I just feel, as a comic, it did not work. The message was lost in the chaos. I am not sure if Comixology decided the ultimate length of this series, but five was just not enough to do it justice.

Young Justice #15 is the end of something and obviously the beginning of something big. It took a long time and the pandemic to get us here but here we are. While I was not a super fan of this run, I LOVE that Stephanie and Tim are back together. I love that Wonder comics seems to have a plan going forward so I am keen to see what it is. This is just good, not great, not bad, but good. Issue #16 is going to really determine the future of the series.

Young Justice #16 isn't sure what it is supposed to be. It really sets up the future of the series. That is great, but it doesn't trust the readers to be comfortable by watching Bart and Conner sit and talk. Tim's appearance at the end is awesome, he is my favorite, but it feels retconned. Shouldn't the team leader, who is the smartest person in any room he is in, be there the whole time? I have hope for the future.

American Vampire 1976 #5 is the penultimate issue of this series. It does a lot of explaining and gets the readers ready for the finale. I have faith in this team that the end of this series will be worth the ride. People reading this in the collected form will hardly notice the rambling as they will be ready for some explanation by this point.

Batman: Urban Legends #3 is uneven as most anthology books are. The art is beautiful on every page. There is technical brilliance here. Once again though, this series was acting as a set up for The Outsiders series coming soon. Sure, I want to read that book, but does everyone? Is this supposed to act as an old school anthology book or is it supposed to be a gateway drug to get people to buy more comics? Sure, it can be both, but sometimes, a story can be just a story. So far, those have been the strongest.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer #26 suffers from some unevenness. The jokes don't all land and once again, we are trying to balance too many character arcs. I am not a dummy, nor is anyone reading this book and yet, it always feels like we need a flow chart to keep up with what is going on. Yes, there is a multiverse, but even the original DC universe made more sense. I know we don't know everything yet, and once we do, it will be better. So, to that end, I shall read on. Tally ho!

This is only a six issue mini-series, so the Allred clan has a lot to do to make this come together. I am intrigued by the story and totally enamored by the art and colors.

Crime Syndicate #2 is still interesting. There is a lot of fun to be had in the alternate versions of history. Earth-3 has a lot of real estate to mine. I would be totally down for each member of the Syndicate to have his/her/their own mini-series where we can really learn more about how other things could have gone. I am hopeful that this whole zany dialogue stuff can be chalked up to Starro and we can get back to what was so great about this series last month.

I know that Starro needs to be part of the DC Universe again somehow because of the new Suicide Squad movie and why not stick it here, in a world where the bad guys, becomes good guys, and form a new Justice League (sort of). Starro was, as we all know, the first Justice League villain and it makes perfect sense to use it here. Shoehorned in for sure, but still a fun look at the character and a pretty heartfelt concept as well. Schmidt sure makes me feel for the Starros. It is thoughtful commentary on immigration and the crisis on the US border. I know, I know, it sounds silly, but seriously, read this with that in mind and you will see.

Firefly: Brand New 'Verse #3 is enthralling and honestly what we all wanted for a long time. This take the idea behind the Boom reboot and cranks it up to 11. OK, maybe 8. Definitely higher than 7. All I'm saying is that, this is a good idea that is, for the most part, well executed and drawn really well. I am not sure if this whole tale will fit in three issues. Maybe it isn't supposed to. Maybe it will be launch a new, new story. That would be OK. I would totally read that.

If this were the first issue of the series one were to read, it would work perfectly as the reader could go back and pick up issues 1 and 2 and be totally up to speed. It is recommended that the reader do just that.

It seems that Parker is playing a long game. It seems like he really knows what he is doing. He has a great grasp of character and dialogue. Those things keep me interested for now. A glimpse of Space Ghost is a great sign of things to come.

The pieces are in place. The story is moving the right way. How far it goes is uncertain, but I feel good about this glorious trip down nostalgia lane.

I am not sure if there is a future forFuture Quest but I suspect there is. I am hoping for short chunks of team up time. The Impossibles and Space Ghost. Johnny Quest and Birdman. You get it. That would be big fun. For now, I am looking forward to see what happens in issue 12. Doc, Jeff, you have my attention.

This is the end of the run. It was fun while it lasted, but it just didn't work. I have nothing but praise to heap on Jeff Parker for what he did here. I just think the lift was too heavy as there was just too much. I hope he comes back for more. Would I like to see Parker and Shaner team up for a Space Ghost/Team Quest crossover? Yes. I could also deal with the Impossibles having their own run where they play music and solve crimes. It would be absurd and wonderful. I appreciate what Parker brought to life here. He helped me relive my childhood and have a lot of fun.

As has been the case with Future Quest since its inception, this book is for an oddly specific audience. I appreciate DCs willingness to give it another go after the initial 12 part run. There are plenty of adults reading comics, and this book is for them. I hope some younger readers are picking this up and fully appreciating it for what it is. It is a lot of fun and nostalgia.

If you are a Generation Xer with a 10 year old, pick this up and share it with him or her. Then, go to Boomerang and watch some of the original shows together. That will really make this whole experience worth it.

This is clearly the ABC after school special version of Future Quest Presents. The focus on Dorno is smart. He is a teenager, trying to figure himself out. He gets exactly what he wants and, like a teenager, he is not sure what to do with it. There is a lot of truth to this issue and is always the case with anything written by Rob Williams, the truth is always evident. Not sure if this needs to be a two parter, but Rob Williams rarely leads us astray.

Future State: Superman of Metropolis #1 is pretty OK. It started shaky and it gets better as it goes. The best parts, as previously mentioned are about the aftermath of Jon's actions. That is such a great idea. The stories do not follow a straight line, so folks need to buy the other Future State Superman book to find out what happens. Pretty good sales tactics DC. I am all in for this ride.

This book has not cast the widest of nets. However, if you, like this reviewer, find that sometimes you need to read a book for and about kids to remind you that life is not as horrible as you think it is, this book is for you. There is something about a story that focuses on a kid that puts your own life in perspective. The lens through which adults view angst is different than the lens the kids are using. Angst is real pain. We can see it for what it is and be glad that our problems are not those. This book is all about growing up. Sure, growing up literally in the shadow of the Bat, but growing up nonetheless. I appreciate the truth that is told in this tale and you should too.

The new Green Lanterns are not a joke. This is a great way to have a social conversation while still having super beings flying around literally imposing their wills on the world. The tension between Simon and Jessica is real and manifests on the final page. No evil shall escape their sight. Bring it on.

The cliffhangers of each issue of this series are excellent. This issue is no different. The dysfunctional nature of the titular characters relationship is a strong foundation upon which to build a comic. There is clearly more to come with this and that is intriguing. While this issue is a bit too fast, almost breathtaking, it is a lot of fun.

As Jim Gordon says, "Good work Lanterns, get the hell out of Gotham." I totally agree. I liked this story. It wasa good development for Simon, but this story was just not what I want out of the this book. It is time to head back to Dearborn and deal with that whole Volthoom/Rami thing. I am all about that.

Killer Frost is going to be a member of the Justice League of America. I think she will be a welcome supporting cast member. Her moral issues will surely cause a lot of tension and issues. That should be a really fun and interesting book.

I wish this was a bi-monthly book. The story has been slow to build and it is pretty clear that Lobdell knows exactly where he wants to take us, so I would like to get there a bit faster. I understand part of the Rebirth line is to rebuild the world. That takes time. I am being patient. I really am, but when does issue 6 come out? Hurry.

Red Hood #52 is still working hard on building this new world post Joker War. Jason is supposed to be the hero, but maybe he isn't. There is an excellent commentary about what it means to be a hero. That is an excellent conversation to have in this book in particular. I am not sure if I like Jason being the good guy, but I am willing to find out.

Snowpiercer Vol. " The Escape is not mandatory reading to enjoy the film and TV series, but going back to it has been good. I can't recommend this for everyone, but I understand why someone read this and thought, I want to see this brought to life, but with some of the rough edges rubbed off. This is one to read in one sitting if possible, but no matter what, totally worth the time.

This book stretches everything you think you know about the residents of Bedrock. It is clever, it is funny, and it is touching. While this book is rated T, it might go over some younger readers' heads. Still, this is a solid book and it is promising.

The last panel. Honestly, if you did not read a word of this book, but you saw the last panel with the words, “To be concluded” there, you would run for issue one. Go. Get this book. Now. Seriously. What is wrong? Go.

Of the five issues, this is the weakest link. However, if I only read this one issue, I would have loved it. The problem with creating something amazing is that all of your future work will be held against what came before it. Comparing issue five to issue one feels like Closing Time in comparison to Catch-22 or Go Set a Watchman in comparison to To Kill a Mockingbird. It could be great, but it is hard to tell. I am looking forward to seeing what Pontacand team have for us next month. I hope DC gives him a double issue. There are a lot of loose ends.

American Vampire 1976 #1 goes big. It leans on the nostalgia of the 70s. Skinner's motorcycle daredevil is perfect for the time period. Staring out a new series that also exists in the world of an existing series is a hard circle to square, but if anyone can do it, Scott Snyder can. This first issue pulls no punches. What a last panel.

American Vampire 1976 #4 ends with another cliffhanger. Snyder is leaning into the pulpiness of the subject matter. There are times in most mini-series, usually in issue 4, where the story stalls. While there is a lot of sitting around in this issue, that works out. The plot has been moved forward while our characters wait. Excellent writing. This is what we expect from Snyder though.

American Vampire 1976 #6 is damn good. I thought this was going to be the final issue and I was worried it all couldn't be wrapped up. I am happy to admit I was wrong about that and we still have three more issues to get to the bottom of things. That is good for us because Skinner deserves a few more books before we discover his fate and we all want to spend more time living in Albuquerque's world. It is scary, but gorgeous place to live.

American Vampire 1976 #8 feels like a middle. I hate to keep bringing this up, but at first, I though this was going to be six issues and I worried that it would feel overstuffed. Now, that I know it is a longer series, I worry that there is too much filler. There are some amazing twists and turns in this issue and I enjoyed being surprised, but I just don't know how I feel with how I got here. Does it need to be this long? I am simply not sure. I shall persist because it is compelling, it is beautiful and it is haunting.

Honestly, the very brief issue of Basketfull of Heads #2 is still entertaining. We learn a bit more about June. She is not your typical damsel in distress. That is good. The last page again is an excellent cliff hanger. I am ready to fill my basket for sure. Again, not with heads, but with issues of this book.

That last page is an excellent cliff hanger but the reveal about what is in June's pocket is even better. Hill really does keep us guessing. This is an excellent bridge issue. I would strongly recommend readers pick up all of the first three issues and get ready for an axe and chain fight in January.

Overall, Basketful of Heads #4 is a good issue. It is not great, but it moves the story along. The artwork is stunning. Leomacs and Dave Stewart are a horror comics dream team (nightmare team?). I am constantly pulled in. The pacing of each issue is great. The way that Hill leaves us with a cliffhanger each time is inspired and smart. There is no way we can forget June and her blight as we wait with baited breath for 30 days.

I originally thought this was going to be the last issue, but it is not. Hooray! That means next month most likely will be. Boo! Still, this very good. This series has been just so much bloody fun. I have really grown to care about what happens to June. That last panel is a gut punch. Still, June is the “last girl” so, she is going to be fine…Right?

Batman: Urban Legends #1 is an old timey digest of awesome. The stories are up and down, but for the most part, this has a ton of legs. It makes sense for some of these smaller characters, who for some reason, could not sell books on their own, to be here, in a book, with the big guy's name on it to sell a few more copies. Hey, if this is what it takes to get an excellent Red Hood story, to get to see the Outsiders again, and to watch Grifter go toe to toe with Bruce and Dick, I am all in.

Batman Urban Legends #4 is good. Three of the stories are five stars. The development of Jason Todd in particular is amazing. This may be the best stuff since Judd brought him back from the dead. I did enjoy a lot of the Outlaws stuff, but it was trying hard to be funnier than it should have been. Jason isn't funny. Dick is funny. Tim is funny. Jason is angry and confused. This book just nails it. I can't wait to see what happens next.

Overall, this has a ton of potential. Because of magic, we get a chance to have Tim break into the rest of the DC universe, which is something I hope for. Constantine is already a cross over hero/villain/whatever, so it is hopeful that Tim will join him on an adventure or two. It is a quick read, so slow down and enjoy the art and then, after that pretty great last page, put your order in for issue two.

Sixteen issues in and Kat Howard and company is still pitching a shut out. I say leave them on the mound for as long as they want. While this book is slow, it is still be best book in The Sandman Universe. I will anxiously wait to find out who can help Tim this time.

This feels like an homage to monster movies which works for me. There is social commentary. There is angst. There are monsters. Bring it on.

BRZRKR #2 gives us B's back story and it makes us feel both fear of him and pity for him. Born a weapon, he feels his only option is to act like one. Will that remain true as this tale unfolds? I suspect it actually will. We have 10 more months to find out for sure, but I don't think, based on what I know of Matt Kindt, that there will be any sunsets into which B gets to ride at the end of this story. If I am wrong, I will own it. Until then, I look forward to the next bloody mess.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer #18 is a lot of fun. This is a nice change of pace after all of the crazy that has been happening. The fact that there is no action is actually OK. The tension is real. The stakes are high (there are no actual stakes in this issue though) and we are all worried about what is coming next. While it was not much of a surprise, that last panel is pretty great.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer #20 has a lot going on. At no point do all the disparate storylines feel out of place here though. Each new subplot informs on the major story. That makes for great storytelling. Readers are never bored and stay engaged. It may not be everyone's cup of tea to see this story unfold this way or to see this version of Faith. We have to remember, that this is part of a multiverse. The characters you know and love are out there somewhere. I would suggest to keep calm and slay on.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer #21 is pretty good. What a wrinkle. I did not see that coming. I mean, I should have. We all should have. We know how it works. If a Slayer dies for just a second, the next one is activated. It happened on the show. It happened twice in this run. Duh. Who knew Anya was involved? I mean. Pretty awesome. Can't wait for more.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer #25 made me, as the kids say, have some feels. I think it is well drawn and well paced. Honestly, I am genuinely unsure of what to expect next month and honestly, that is a very good thing. We want to be surprised by our comics. If we always knew exactly what would happen from month to month, there wouldn't be a point would there?

The Hellmouth crossover event is unfolding beautifully. Who is in charge? Why is there a full city in the Hellmouth? How does Ulfreth know everyone's fears? What they hell are they? I suspect the best and only way to find out is to tune in next week for Angel #7. I know I will.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Willow #4 works really well. It moves the plot along. It keeps us guessing and most importantly, it makes us want to buy the next issue. I love a good cliffhanging ending. It is a shame this is only a mini-series because I feel like Tamaki has more to say about this world.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Willow #5 brings this mini-series to an end. It has been pretty satisfying, but due to the pandemic, it has been told out of order. Willow has already returned in the main continuity and that lowers the stakes of this book. Tamaki is a great writer and if Jordie ever were to leave the main series (which I hope she never does), Tamaki would be a great fit. If you missed this one, definitely pick up the trade next month. It's a great time.

If you like this universe, pick this up; you will not be let down.

Do we finally see those faceless members of the DC/Vertigo editorial team? We do. For you to see the big reveal, you should pick up the book yourself at Amazon, Barnes and Noble or wherever books and comic books are sold.

This is going to be a quick six months and I suspect when we get to the final panel of issue six, the full tragedy will be revealed. I know that by the time this story is over, I will go back to this issue and start all over. I will mark my calendar for the first week of November so I can be the first to see what happens next.

Honestly, I think this is going to be a winner. There are some long-neglected characters coming back into the forefront. How does all of this tie into Rebirth? That is yet to be determined, but I suspect, when we hit issue six, all will be revealed.

I still dig the Hamlet and Horatio vibe I am getting from this book. There is still a chance for a final battle where everyone dies except Horatio. I am rooting for his “Goodnight sweet prince” moment.

I like where this story is headed. I am not a huge believer in "deaths" in comic book universes but it seems to me that Andreyko is really planning on killing Hawkman. If he were not, we would not need Adam Strange to tell the story. Even if he chooses not to kill him off, this has been a fun intergalactic ride so far.

I grew up reading Teen Titans, so I am always keen on keeping up with Deathstroke. Dead or alive, a story about Slade Wilson is a story worth reading.

Zinger after zinger keeps coming as this team keeps delivering. "You sound as drunk as a priest on Monday" is actually written in this book. Seriously, even out of context, that is pretty funny. Couple that with some deep thoughts and philosophical insights like, " We are all loved despite being despicable in our own way" and you have a book that will be remarkably powerful while being disappointingly too short as this is only going to be a six issue run.

Firefly #26 was pretty damn good. I have just decided to quit pretending I want it to be anything else. This new version of Old Firefly and New Firefly is pretty interesting. Pak teaches a masterclass on how to write dialogue and create tension. I mean, each issue is a HUGE cliffhanger. I am ready to get back out in the black.

Firefly #29 is pretty solid. I do enjoy this whole adventure with Kaylee in charge. Sure, we are missing some of the crew, but at least the story is staying with just this team. We are not pinballing around the 'Verse and that allows this story to take root. The feels keep being hit and Pak's dialogue is top notch. I am ready to see what happens next. Things are looking shiny.

FIREFLY: BRAND NEW VERSE #1 is a ton of fun. Emma Washburn is everything you would hope she would be. There is just enough mystery tied into this backstory that we really can sink our teeth into it while not being totally overwhelmed by it. The best way to tell a Firefly story is to make it just the right mixture of serious and silly. This hits all the right notes.

Firefly: Brand New 'Verse #2 captures the right balance between old and new. There is always a risk when one revisits a property and keeps some of the original characters while creating a new band of malcontents for us to like. Do the newbies get their due or will the old guard steal all the spotlight? The fact that this is just a mini-series makes me wonder how long it will be before the balance is thrown off. Two issues in, this is a compelling story that does figure out how to give space to everyone. Looking forward to issue three.

Firefly Brand New 'Verse #4 is full of high-highs and a few low lows. I have been saying it for months, there is a risk of running off fans. If the way this ends is with the death of Emma Washburne, which I can see happening OR the death of Zoe Washburne, which I can see even more likely, it won't have the resonance it needs because Emma is pretty terrible. I hope it is all just a misdirection and that it will be fixed up on in the finale, but it might not be on time by then.

Contrarily, I am one of those people who loves Kafka and thinks Mr. Robot is the best show on TV. I am finewith a slow reveal. There is something going on here and I want to figure it out. I do not want to read the last page of the mystery novel first and neither should you. This is going to be a limited series and based on what I have seen so far, it is going to be worth your time. This is a great start to a series that has great potential.

As this run comes to an end, Parker has this book heading on the right path. With that final panel of this issue, we see that he is planning an epic hero/villain/robot/monster battle of the century. I hope he brings the whole art team back for the final few issues. It should be fun.

I am going to go all old man Farina here, so hold on for a second. When I was a kid, comics were about the main character and his/her city. Sure, there would be some outsized villains now and again, but the point was for the good guy or good gal to care about his/her/their people. It was awesome. There could be an annual with some bigger story, but for the most part, the hero and the city shared an identity. If it took looking at the Future of the DC Universe to take a step back and let these stories be small and local, then that is a great thing. The Guardian and Mister Miracle stories were great reminders of that and those tales really affected the main, Jon Kent story. Who knows what will happen with any of these characters after this Future State run ends, but I enjoyed my time in Metropolis.

The reason that John Stewart is my favorite Green Lantern of all time is that he was complex as a person. Being a Green Lantern was not his only existence. Mosaic was such great title from back in the day. This book seems to be crafted in that same format. There is enough action to keep the pace fast, but the story matters. If things keep going on this trajectory, there is a chance that Jessica Cruz will soar past John as my favorite with Simon Baz as a close second.

High quality writing, with superb art and ink. What else could a comic reader want? Oh right, explosions. The last panel leads us to believe that those are coming. This is a twice a month comic, so the action will be coming fast and furious. These characters feel like real people and that is a great thing.

Eight issues in and this book keeps getting stronger. We know the Red Lanterns are waiting in the weeds. The Dominators are working hard to catch Rami. Simon and Jessica are still figuring out how to be Green Lanterns with almost no guidance. The intrigue is built by the final panel. Good thing we only have to wait two weeks to find out who that guy is (Is it Kyle? Where the hell is Kyle? Don't let it be Kyle, but seriously, is it Kyle?).

This new story line seems pretty cool. Humphries has continued to grow the Green Lantern universe in a way that feels organic and true. The whole universe is a bit of mystery. We really only see it through the lenses of these Earthlings. By giving us rogue Guardians and ancient Lanterns, Humphrieshas filled in the gaps. I like it a lot. If you are reading this book, I assume you are thrilled.If you are just getting started, this is the perfect timeto get on board. There is a new story arc just for you.

I will follow Sam Humphries anywhere he wants to take me on this Green Lantern journey. I just hope the next issues area bit more even. Maybe it is the use of Bruce that is throwing him off, but I trust. I believe.

The fact that Harley and Ivy get in a convertible leads me to fear that this ends the way Thelma and Louise ends. Well, OK, that is not really possible. DC is not killing off Harley Quinn any time soon. Still, this does not look like it is going to have a good ending for anyone involved. I feel that Houser and Melo are setting us up to be emotionally destroyed by the end. I am not saying that is a bad thing. Good writing and good art will do that.

What a last page. That will be pretty amazing next month. I can't wait. If you have not read this series, you really should be. You have 28 days to get caught up. Go. Read. Enjoy.

This is clearly a comic for grown ups. Do NOT hand this to any kid unless you want to have a lot of conversations about anatomy. Issue one shows promise. Cain and Able show up. I am ready to spend time in the dreaming in theHouse of Whispers.

This is the best book of the run. 8 books in and things are looking up. I can only hope that the set up for the next issue actually lasts for two. I don't want to give too much away, but you are going to want to be here for issue 9. Things are getting good.

Honestly, if someone wanted to pick up House of Whispers on issue 11, that would be a great plan. If you have not read this book before, now is the time to start. Do not feel compelled to go back to the beginning. In fact, I would not recommend it. This has all the elements of an excellent starting point.

House of Whispers #22 brings the series to an end and it shows why it never really worked as a series. This issue, unlike the vast majority of the previous issues, actually focuses on one story. Madame Erzulie, who is honestly an amazing character, gets her time to shine. She has been short changed for the whole series. It was actually really nice to see her shine. Unfortunately, it was far too late. The side supporting cast constantly changed and so we never had anyone about whom to care. This is a perfect ending to an imperfect series.

This special issue was a fun romp featuring a great new edition to the DC Universe. Who knows if she will become a regular anywhere any time soon, but it was great to spend time with, what I consider, one of the real bright spots of Young Justice. The world needs more mad ass female lead books. I am hopeful, this is just the beginning of her story and not the end.

If you need a traditional superhero team up book where they are all back to back to back to back kicking some badguy ass, this will not fill your need. However, if you are willing to accept Victor as the real focus of this Justice League Reborn and you understand why he is the center, you will be happy. The art is amazing. The story is fast paced. All around, this is high quality stuff. Pick it up.

Once again, DC Kids has crushed it. These books are always so fun to read. They speak to kids directly. This is another excellent example of solid story telling, beautiful art packaged in a book that is sure to start kids on the path to comic fandom.

Metal Men #6 is perfectly placed in the order of this series. It moves the story along and sets readers up pretty perfectly for the final half of the arc. If you are reading these as they go, or if you just picked this up, you are in for a pretty interesting ride. Sure, this issue may not be action packed, but the writing, by one of the greats of all time, is on point in what is likely his final DC run ever. If nothing else, you should pick it up for that reason.

Metal Men #7 is surely a lot of fun. The art is just spectacular. The concepts are high. Dido doesn't mess around. This seems to be turning a corner into being something bigger about what it means to be human. That is what the whole series is of course, but the introduction of the animals is really smart. Looking forward to see how it all turns out.

I like it. I think Mother Panic is a nice addition to the Bat universe. Gotham is a huge place. Horrible things are always happening there and it makes sense that some of those things are a bit too graphic and nasty for regular readers. This title, under this banner, allow readers to see Gotham the way it really is. Violet Paige is an intriguing character and I am excited to see where this is going.

Orphan and the Five Beasts #1 is what indie comics are all about. One person, alone in a room and in his head and this is what we get. I am thrilled with the first issue in this mini-series. The fact that there are five beasts but only four issues leads me to believe the breakneck pace will only pick up. I can't wait to see what comes next.

Plunge #4 slows the series down a bit, but, sometimes, you just have to do that. Not everything can be at breakneck speed. Sometimes, you just have to breath. Of course, the ick factor is cranked up to 99 here, so there is that too. I think this issue is just one of those things that happen in a mini-series. We need to re-calibrate. Issue 4 of 6 is often the best time to do just that.

Proctor Valley Road #1 may not have a lot of legs. It is a really great idea what should, hopefully, be a short story. I find the banter between the characters to be the best thing about this book and so, a funny, scary, character driven horror comic is just up my alley. There is a lot to like here and I am excited to see where it goes.

I really like this book. I am not ashamed to admit it. Jason was never my favorite Robin. He and Damian are tied for last place, but as Red Hood, he is just perfect. He brings the issues of the Bat world to life. It is fitting that this book and Mother Panic come out the same week. Hopefully, those two books will smash into each other as she and Jason are kindred spirits.

The art is spot on (as always). The characters are layered (as always). This book has been so good, that it only can be judged against itself. When this comes out in TBP, this story will fit quite nicely. However, as a stand alone issue, it is a bit light.

Once again, Dexter Soy has proven that he has a grasp of these characters that no one ever has. Seriously, if anyone else uses Bizarro as a walk on, they should bring Soy in to just draw those panels. The anguish on the face of a clone, a dead man in a mask and a fallen Amazonian princess is palpable. Honestly, I want to make a poster for every single panel. I think we should spend some time looking at his brilliant work.

If you have not picked up a Red Hood: Outlaw book before, this is the perfect time to start. The old team is trying to get home, the new team looks to be a hot mess but what else would you expect from a band of outlaws? Plus, there are jokes, lots of action and a cliffhanger ending.

Hooray! The band is going to get back together soon. Red Hood: Outlaw is way better when it is Red Hood and the Outlaws. The art in this book is always delightful. The jokes still land, but it has been missing the Outlaws and to that end, without Artemis to keep Jason in check, he kind of runs amok in a bad way.

This is a fun book that begins year two with a bang. I say, buckle up, grab a sandwich and a shotgun and come along for the ride.

This is a fun, thoughtful, well drawn read. Pick it up.

In order to love things, you need to see their flaws. Ennis makes fun of the things we love about comics, but he does it as a comic. Satire works that way. That is what this is. If you have an open heart, this is for you.

Snowpiercer Vol. 3 - Terminus ends on the most positive of notes that a story about climate change. It is brutal, as are the two predecessors, but in the end, this book series asks a lot about humanity and if it is worth saving. The answer at the end, seems to be yes, but even then, readers are left wondering. Science fiction is supposed to make us think and feel. This series in total and this finale in particular have, as the kids say, all the feels.

You only need to notice that Harleys shirt reads Rebirth to fully understand what this book is about. It is funny, it has heart, it is fully aware of itself and it has Jim Lee. JIM LEE. Wow.

This story is part of the Justice League vs. Suicide Squadarc, but clearly is not about that, not really. Still, it is clever. It is fun. It has Lobo (that is always good) and it has Waller at her creepy beginnings. All-in-all it is pretty solid.

Suicide Squad, under the direction of Rob Williams, has become storytelling at its finest. Good storytelling requires interesting characters doing interesting things. I think this qualifies. The next book is called, "The end of Amanda Waller." I am intrigued but I am not concerned. No one stays dead in the DC universe. Not even Jason Todd.

Suicide Squad #5 is actually the end of the first arc, so I am not sure what the TPB will look like. That ending is aces. I am so keen to see what comes up next. I can't even spoil anything here because honestly, that would be terrible of me. Get reading.

This is actually the best issue to date of this new, and already cancelled series. Suicide Squad #8 has a lot to love. Taylor really has done some excellent character development here. This is what the series needed all along. It is too bad that now that it has turned a corner, it will be over in three more issues.

There is a high body count and gallons of blood. If that is what you wanted out of the reborn Squad, you will be thrilled. If that is not your thing, this is not for you. Nothing about Suicide Squad is for the meek. Bring the pain.

The Last God: Songs of Lost Children is an epic. It is full of heartbreak and it is beautiful in its tragedy. Honestly, this is my first foray into this universe. I picked it up because Dan Watters wrote it. Boy am I glad I did. There is clearly something I am missing, but he does a wonderful job catching me up right off the top. I highly recommend this book and I would suggest going back and catching up. I will.

Unfollow is not for the meek. Of course, that is the case for everything that Vertigo does. Also, like everything from Vertigo, we are faced with our own ugliness and that is important. This is not the strongest issue in the run thus far, but it advances the plot, but the last page which features Courtney's realization should make readers get in line for issue 12. Rob Williams has proven to be a storyteller who pulls no punches. This is a great story and we can only hope that we have several more years until the number remaining of the 140 is 2.

I am not too sure if Pontac is taking himself seriously or not. I am not sure if he wants the audience to laugh, cheer or smirk at some inside joke he thinks we are all in together. What I do know is that this book has some serious potential to be fun. Sign me up for issue two, I am ready to go racing.

Considering the only negative is that the story is so good, the reader wants more, the whole experience is positive. Get in on this book before everyone else finds out and your shop sells out before you can get there.

Nobody wins a race this issue. In each of the first two, the reader had a sense that this was going somewhere. This issue, while clearly world building, does not move the story along to the Announcer's promised ending. The upside to this kind of pit stop (pun intended) story is that it means the book and the race. Out of Poseidons Toilet and onto Vegas.

Miles' husband sums it up best when he says, "So, how did crazy girl, get robot skin inside of her? Oh my God, that is something that I actually just said. God." That is pretty much where we are in this book. The characters are all in the dark, so the readers are as well. Still, the characters are interesting and they make me want to come back for more.

Wonder Woman 1984 #1 would work better had we actually had the movie. Still, it is pretty cool to see what will come. Also, I will never reject work by Steve Pugh. We all know that this book is going to sell like gangbusters. It should. Still, overall, this is fun. It was meant to be fun and it succeeds. Sure, there is some context missing, but I will forgive it and so should you.

Young Justice #18 should remind readers why Spoiler and Robin need to have their own book (again). There is nothing better than Tim and Steph on a case. They are the DC power couple we all want and deserve. I know I already mentioned it, but the Drake name is finally done. The suit was amazing, no doubt, but seriously, the smartest person in the DCU would not name himself after himself. OK. I am done talking about it forever now.

"We see their wars. Their poverty. The corrosion of their culture. Their wild metahumans and their degenerate leaders. You think yourself progressive, but you are part of the blight we seek to avoid."

That last panel is pretty amazing. If you have not read Aquaman before, you need to start right now.

Batman: Urban Legends #2 is exactly what an anthology comic should be. I grew up with books like this and I am thrilled to see DC take a risk and bring them back. The Katana, Red Hood and Oracle stories are all excellent. While the Grifter story is seemingly pointless and silly, I see the appeal and lots of people will most likely love it. I hope this series is here to stay and we get the chance to see more of the side characters get a chance to shine. Fingers crossed for some Spoiler action next month.

Did you know that if you put $10 in the bank in 1966, by 2472, you will have $3.8 billion? Nice. This is a fun one off that is worth your time and money. It is a nice set up for the new Jetsons comic that will most likely be essential reading for those of us who have totally loved the Hanna Barbera lineup.

Honestly, this book is not going to be for everyone, but honestly, everyone needs to read it. Find that person you know who is easily swayed by some absurd story he/she read on social media and give this book to him or her. I applaud DC for allowing Mark Russell to write a book that reminds us that if we do not pay attention to history, we are doomed to repeat it.

This book is important. I am only two books in, so it is hard to argue that it is a modern day version of The Crucible, but let us keep in mind that Miller's play was about the Red Scare while being set in the time of witch hunts. This book is set in the time of the Red Scare when the President of the United States claims that people who did not clap during his State of the Union speech committed treason. I suspect that Russell and Feehan have something amazing up their sleeves. We can hope, if this goes in the direction one expects it to go, Mark Russell will finally win an Eisner.

This book is so good. If you are not reading you need to and then tell 5 people you know to read it. I bring it up in conversation all the time. I start with, "Do you remember Snagglepuss?" It always works. Listen, there are only two more to go. Don't be the person who picks this up after it wins a ton of awards.

Firefly #28 has the best last panel in the whole gorram series. Wow. OK. I will admit to being giddy about what comes next. I don't think I have felt that way about this series since it first began. The band is together (almost) and Kaylee is in charge (almost) and well, things have really gone sideways. I am all in. Things are looking shiny.

Bundle up and get reading. Don't wait for the trade paperback. That would feel like cheating. This story is going to be best consumed in small bites that leave you hungry for more. Oh, and, there is a last scene that makes you worry. Well, it made me worry. Keaton…Look out.

If you need your comic books to brood and only brood, do not pick this up. If you need your comics to take themselves totally seriously, do not pick this up. If you are someone who wants those comics, but also appreciates things that are self-aware and silly, while telling compelling stories, this is your book. The new Hanna-Barbera line is really a lot of fun.

I had to read this a few times to take it all in. That is what I suggest. Read the book to follow the plot. See how the Impossibles are going to get into trouble. Buzz is likely to get a stern lecture later too. We can wonder what is up with F.E.A.R. and how much we can trust Zin. The last panel leaves us wondering what will come next for Gargantuan/Frankenstein Jr. as the Herculoids arrive and are none too pleased. Yikes. Things look tense. Then, after worrying about the plot. Go through this page by page and look at Randall's magnificent artwork. There is so much to love. I can not imagine this book has much longer to go in the current state. At some point this story will end and either the book will end or we will see those individualized stories like we used to see on the old Hanna-Barbera cartoons. Either way, it is my opinion that the next few issues of this are going to be stupendous.

Future State: Aquaman #1 is really good. Telling a story out of order does not always work, but the team here has dropped the mic. Beyond the fact that the title is misleading and no one is actually the color aqua, which seems like a big miss, this has a lot of legs and gills and fins.

Future State: Aquaman #2 is superb. When everything with Future State shakes out I desperately want this series to continue (albeit with a different name). There is a lot of potential here. Jackson was clearly shortchanged here, but that means we can only hope for more time with him. My fingers are crossed. My webbed toes are crossed. I want more of Andy and Jackson. Yes please!

It may sound apocryphal, but if you only have time and money for one Green Lantern comic, this is the one to get. The layers of complexity that Sam Humphries and his art team bring to this book is inspired. I am not suggesting it is easy to write Hal, John and Guy, but they are what they are. There is a history to them. Humphries and his team have to create a new world. They have to give life to these characters with whom most readers and most of the other characters in the DC Universe are unfamiliar. That is a heavy load, but this team has broad shoulders.

It is hard to do anything but heap praise on Humphries. I am so impressed at the quality of this book because it comes out twice a month. That is a lot of ideas and a lot of panels and a lot of work. I love where this book is headed. I foresee a clash of wills between Jessica and Simon. That should be a great show.

Green Lanterns are not for everyone. Hal is a pompous jerk all the time and John is a bit sullen and Guy is a giant bag of douche. You throw Kyle and a whole bunch of other super will and fear wielding beings you have the perfect mess of awesome. Seriously, this is really going to be the perfect template for the newly announced movie.

Jenny Zero #1 is jumping into the the pond filled with other Kaiju fighting comics. It turns out, that in all the ways of magic, that pond can just keep expanding to fit in all the monsters and those other giants who fight the monsters. While this story does not have the loveable main character like Big Girls and does not have the incredibly bloody splash pages like Ultramega, this book, has a complicated protagonist and a meta-commentary worth thinking about for days, weeks and months to come. Bring on the monsters!

This is issue 7. That means, it would not take much for you to get caught up. I can not recommend to you strongly enough that you should get caught up. If you love the Bat or hate the Bat, this book is for you.

If you are one of the people who said, "Red Hood and the Outlaws are back in Rebirth, who cares?" you need to change your attitude and pick this up. Lobdell and Soy have this train running in the right direction. Jump on before you get run over.

This book is funny. In fact, there is a joke on the cover. That sets the reader up for everything she or he needs to know. It is packed with action. It is beautifully drawn. Each issues leaves us with a cliffhanger and begging for the next issue. Bravo Mr. Lobdell. Bravo.

Tell your friends. There are only a few issues so far. Catching up will be easy. Get on board. This book is in the perfect hands. Fingers crossed that this dream team stays together for years to come.

Red Hood and the Outlaws is just what the Rebirth era needs. It is action packed. The characters are flawed. There are jokes. It is beautifully drawn and it has a ton of potential. I really wish this was a bi-weekly like a lot of the other titles.

This book is great. I like the direction Lobdell has taken. I like that Jason compares himself to both Bruce and Bizarro. He has grown up so much in the Rebirth era while losing 10 years of his life. Complexity is always good. Complexity is probably an understatement.One must be a bit off one's rocker to strap guns on, throw on a hood and go kill people in the name of justice. This is a great book. It is only issue #7. Get on board.

The story has an excellent twist that sets Jason on a mission that kick starts the first story arc. Red Hood is in the right hands. If you have not tried Red Hood and the Outlaws before, this is the perfect time. If, like this writer, you unabashedly like Jason Todd and voted to keep him alive, you are going to be thrilled.

Snowpiercer: The Prequel Vol 1 - Extinction is equal parts philosophy and art with a dash of terror thrown in for good measure. This is such a fast paced, whip smart book that readers who know nothing about the movie or TV series will want to rush out and watch it and those who have, will have a lot of Ah-ha moments. It has made me want to desperately read the original series, about which I knew very little until this. If you are just coming at this with fresh eyes or if you are an old veteran of the series, this is a welcome edition to the universe. I am buying my ticket for more Snowpiercer.

This book just keeps getting better. Williams is playing for keeps. This book is so fun but it has a heart and it is heartless. That is a hard thing to pull off, but it works.

Williams and Lee. Dream Team. Williams and whomever he brings in for each back story, pretty impressive. The causal Ramones mentions with the title of each main story has been pretty awesome too. Read this book. You will be overwhelmed with awesome.

If you can only read one DC book, read this one. Of course, you will also need to read Justice League and the cross over books for the next few months, so, read those too. I know I will.

The first run all had Ramones songs as titles. This one started with a Talking Heads song. Williams is talking right to me. I can only hope he keeps it up. The Suicide Squad are a bunch of punks and misfits and I love them for it. I love the world that Williams has created. I have great hopes. Plus, that ending. Damn.

Rob Williams just keeps reminding us that he knows how to tell a story and that he can allow characters to come to life. He has made us care about serial killers. That is no small feat. In real life, I am not a fan, but in this world, ever other week, I root for the baddies.

After a bit of a step back with issue three, this issue is strong. While there is often some idea as to what is coming next with the titles of the next story, each issue, much like the show upon which it is based, is self-contained. Characters come in and out, but one could pick up anywhere and be okay. If you are a fan of excellent art and pitch-perfect, clever and intelligent writing, The Flintstones is a must.

Satire is hard. The book is brilliant satire. I have to say, that the only bad thing about this book is that not enough people are reading it. Seriously. Run. Do not walk. Get on a dinosaur if you have to. Get this book. Tell your friends. I have.

This begins the second half of Marc Russells run on this book. He comes out swinging and it is magnificent to behold. Get this book. Tell your pals. I have. Seriously, this is fantastic.How is this not the top selling book each and every week?

Russell and Pugh just keep setting them up and knocking them down (with an armadillo I assume). There are only three issues left in this run. Enjoy the brilliance while you can.

What happens to humanity? Are they saved? Pick up this book and find out. I may like to quote Mark Russell and ruin all the jokes, but I am not going to give away the punchline. There is only one book to go. Only one. I am so sad about that.

There are no Space Cops nor Amazons. There are no aliens nor robots. Those things are great and it is good they are out there. I am going to jump into some serious robot from Detroit action right now. However, this book is powerful. It is well written. It is tense. It is real. If I were teaching modern World History, I would use this series. Issue 10, ends with the line “Where were the terrorists?” The room is full of dead Iraqis with Bob's men standing around them wearing night vision goggles. The answer to that, is in the question and it is on the last page. If you have not read this yet, start from the beginning and get caught up. You have a month before issue 11 comes out.

Year two of this book is still a mystery. Year one was so good and Williams is a character and dialogue genius so I trust his story telling as well. I am ready for year two and you should be too.

Universe is perfect for the right kind of reader. Not everyone is going to love it. There is a lot of introspective fun to be had. Montey's plays with all the science fiction tropes while simultaneously swimming in them. He winks and nods and expects the reader to get it. The best genre fiction does that. This is quite a love letter to Roddenberry, Asimov and Dick. I am jealous that I am not the one who wrote it, but thrilled I read it.

Issue two has a lot of promise. I like the storylines and I like that there will be a huge collision course. Since this is a stand alone property in a stand alone universe, one can only hope that we will see some spin-offs from the mind of the great Jim Lee.

American Vampire 1976 #2 ends with a haunting, edge of the seat awesome, damn it why do I have to wait a whole month image. Albuquerque is simply slaying. Yes, that pun was totally intended. Snyder is a master storyteller. This is a great second step. I can't wait to see what comes my way next month. Pick this up.

American Vampire 1976 #3 is action packed yet it does not rely exclusively on the action to keep readers engrossed. There is a mystery here. Snyder is a master storyteller and he is clearly taking us somewhere that ties it all together. It is a worthwhile ride. I can't wait to see what happens next. The cliff hangers have been spot on this whole series.

American Vampire 1976 #7 is a reminder that this story, this universe, and this concept is not really approaching an end if Scott and Rafael want it to. There is a well of stories waiting to be mined. This stands alone and works toward a bigger narrative. It is a hard to pull off, but they manage it beautifully. Now we wait for one more month.

Anti/Hero is honestly just what the world needs right now. In a scary time where we don't know who to believe or who to trust, this book reminds us that there is always someone on whom you can rely. This is a beautiful tale of heroism and friendship and is a perfect book for kids of all genders and all ages.

What an excellent starter of a series and the Hill House universe. The last page is so amazing. I am all keyed up and ready for issue two. The tension is real. The situation, while obviously insane, feels grounded in reality. Stories about baskets of talking heads will not work if all the characters are some kind of two dimensional cut outs. That is not the case here. I would say, get a basket and fill it with issue of this comic (not heads).

I am in the tank for this series pretty much because I went through it three times just to look at the brilliance that is Leomacs. I can't tell you enough how great he is. I do love that Basketful of Heads is unafraid to pull punches. It lives inside the slasher/grindhouse/last girl world, while also pointing some disembodied fingers at that world. This book is not for the faint of heart nor is it for a causal fan, but it really does a wonderful job of telling a cinematic story on the pages of a comic book.

Look, if you haven't read Basketful of Heads, you have been missing out. Just because this is the final issue, it does not mean you shouldn't immediately pre-order the trade or hunt down the back issues. What a brilliant way to end a brilliant book. Take a bow Joe, Leomacs, Dave and Deron. We all thank you.

Big Girls #2 is essentially a perfect second issue. As if the first issue did not have enough awesomeness, Jason Howard decide to prove he can fit 10 pounds of greatness into a 5 pound bag. There is not one wasted panel. He tells his story without bogging us down with exposition. If you have not picked this up yet, you are missing out.

Big Girls #3 is heartbreaking good. I mean. You know how sometimes you get the wind knocked out of you? Well, that is seemingly bad right? Well, what if you got the wind knocked out of you by scoring the winning goal of if you save a kitten and fell on your back out of the tree? You would feel pretty good right? That is this. I just love it so much. Get reading people.

Big Girls #4 continues to build the world. It is a testament to Howard's skills that we never feel spoon fed or overly expositioned to death. He balances out present tense and flashbacks perfectly. There are so many twists and turns here that I never know what is coming next. It has been a while since I was totally surprised so I am pleasantly surprised.

Big Girls #5 is spectacular. Could it be the best of the bunch so far? I submit that it could be. I honestly hate having to wait a whole month between issues. The slow burn story telling has me hooked. There is a perfect balance between showing and telling. Howard gets to choose it all because he is doing all the work himself, and we are rewarded for his efforts.

Big Girls #6 shows us all how to end an ARC. If Image is stupid and does not pick this book up for more, this will be a perfect ending. However, if Image is smart and keeps this book around for a while, this is the perfect way to tell us a new story about Ember and the Jacks. If you have not been reading this, get on the first volume collection that comes out in March. This is such a well done story that I went back and read it all again, as one tale and it is paced perfectly.

DC Zoom has created a wonderfully delightful universe that is for CHILDREN. Yep. Comic books for kids. When I was a kid, there were no superhero comics for me. I was thrown right into the world of a dark and dirty Gotham City. I was 14 when I furious called into a 1-900 number to literally save Jason Todd's life. Spoiler alert, I was out some money to my parents and he didn't make it. The idea that kids can just be handed a book like Black Canary: Ignite or like any other Zoom title and feel safe in knowing that the action will be intense, but there will be no blood splatters or nightmare inducing villains. In a world where kids are not allowed to be kids, DC Zoom is a breath of fresh air. This book is near perfect. Give it as a gift to your budding superhero fan and get her or him started the right way. There is plenty of time for them to read Bird of Prey, for now, let this be their Black Canary.

This is delightful. The focus on one story is the key. The Sandman Universe has been a bit uneven out of the gate and there are clearly a lot of stories to tell. The fact that this book has a singular focus helps. Dr. Rose, who has a lot of story to tell herself, is only here for Tim. Everything is about Tim or is Tim adjacent. That singular focus will keep the readers coming back.

This book is just so good. I sit impatiently each month waiting for the next book. Do yourself a favor and get caught up on this book. You will be so pleased with your purchases.

The final few pages of this break your heart, then they weld it back together and give it an electric shock. Into the dreaming!? Here we go.

As we reach the penultimate issue of the first story arc, we find ourselves on the edge of our seats and totally enthralled. Because Howard and company really spent the time doing the deep character work, the pacing issue is overcome. Having already seen the cover of issue six (it is on the last page), I am so excited for what is to come and you should be too.

This wraps up the first story arc. So far, Tim and Dr. Rose have been confined to the school and Tim's neighborhood except for that glorious trip into The Dreaming last month. It has all be prologue to what we can only expect will be trip around the world and into other dimensions. I think that Tim knows Dr. Rose is not totally telling him everything, but what else can he do? I am anxiously waiting for this time next month when I can see what Howard, Fowler and company have in store. If you have not read this yet, get caught up. You have 28 days. Run, don't walk.

Seriously, I can not sing the praises of this book any more. Whip smart story telling. Beautiful art. Each book ends with just the right amount of tease for the next issue. If you have not read this, you really, really should.

VerdictI am not sure what to say that I have not said already except that this book constantly gets better. We do not have anything higher than a five star review, so I can not give it one. Go get the TPB of the first six and then buy these new three and then, go to your local shop and put a hold on Books of Magic.

VerdictLook, if you are not reading Books of Magic each month you are totally missing out on an amazing book. The final page of this month is so good that I am firing up the DeLorean so I can get next month's issue. See you there.

Books of Magic #12 is the prefect ending to the second arc. It is hard to believe that is has been a year since this book launched under the steady hand of Kat Howard and Tom Fowler. The covers are lovely. The characters have become important to me. I worry about them. There are high stakes. No one feels safe and that keeps me turning the pages as I am desperate to find out what happens next.

Here is hoping that the next year we spend with Tim is just as wonderful as the past year. If Books of Magic #13 is any indication of the trajectory, it most certainly will be.

Overall, Books of Magic #15 is a solid book in the series. It is not the best, and it is not the worst, (that was last month). I trust Kat and I think you should too. This is clearly the start of something big. Pick this up and get reading.

Books of Magic #17 proves that, without a doubt Books of Magic is the best book in the Sandman Universe. I can't express how much I love it. The pacing is breakneck, but the story is a slow burn. It makes not a lick of sense, I know. Maybe I am just under a spell or something, but if you are not reading Books of Magic, you are missing out.

This final story in what will become Volume Three of Books of Magic, once again proves that Kat Howard was the perfect choice to give Tim Howard life. Tom Fowler has been an excellent steward as well. Really, the whole team, including Carpenter's covers have been top notch.

Books of Magic #19 is the beginning of a small, two part interlude into the main run of what is clearly the best book in the Sandman Universe. Tim is at his best when he is torn between being a teenager and being a magician. I cant believe I have wait a month after having to wait through the pandemic to get this.

Books of Magic #20 is, well, magic. I know that David Barnett wanted to give Tim a break from the madness and give him something fun. I appreciate it. It isn't super stressful, but the danger was real and once again, Tim proves he is the best of all bespectacled boy magicians. There is even a joke about that in this issue. I laughed out loud. His time in the Dreaming was welcome and we shall all welcome him back again whenever he wants to visit I am sure, but next month, we get back to things as they were left. Baddies are coming for Tim and now he has a girlfriend, so as we know, when the hero has a partner, things get complicated.

Books of Magic #21 is once again the best thing to come out of the Sandman Universe. Sure, most of the titles are ending, this one included, but that does not mean that this book is not simply spectacular. Barnett has set up a three part epic to end the run at issue #23 and while, I am saddened to know that Tim's time will come to an end, I am thrilled that the story will be worthy.

Books of Magic #22 is the best thing I will read this week. That final page, the big reveal of who the Cold Flame/three fates are is mind blowing. I am so sad I only have one more issue of this to read before it ends. I expect Mr. Barnett has something big planned. This series must go out with a bang. Until then, I will go back and read the whole series over to prepare. I have no doubt something from an early issue will be back in play and I want to be prepared.

Books of Magic #23 concludes what has been the absolute part of the rebooted Sandman Universe. Kat Howard, David Barnett, Tom Fowler, Craig Taillefer, Marissa Louise, Todd Klein and cover artist Kai Carpenter are all to be applauded for showing us how to tell a human story in the middle of such crazy times for both Tim and us. Each month, I read this book last because I knew I wanted save the best for last. I hope DC decides to bind this whole series with a hard cover. It is worthy.

I do think that there is going to be a lot of fun to be had here. The last page was pretty amazing. Frank clearly has some bigger reason to be in Devil's Fork. I can not wait to find out what those reasons are. I am all in on this book and you should be too.

This is not for the faint of heart. I mean, nothing from Vertigo is, but this book pulls no punches. There is an agenda here and it is on full display. I am not sure what the end game is here. I don't know if they plan for a long running series or if they have a way to wrap this up for us in a year or so in a way that makes us feel confused and amazed much like the brilliant Unfollow from a few years back. As long as this team is in control of the book, I will be excited for what comes next.

Look, spend the money on this. These books are going to be hot items for a long time to come. You can not lose. Excellent art. Whip smart writing. A Plus. Tell your friends. Don't keep this to yourself so you can be the person who read it first.

BRZRKR #1 knows exactly what it is. There are no punches pulled in the story telling nor in the issue. It is a bloody (quite literally) fun good time. This is clearly just the tip of the iceberg in an epic maxi-series that will traverse time, space and reality. I would say you should get on this now before the team turns it into a movie and the books become more valuable than they already will be.

BRZRKR #3 is once again the most fun, bloody mess I've had in a long time. I am not totally sure if they are taking themselves seriously or making fun of themselves here. You know what? I don't care. I just love it. People wanted to hate this series before it came out, but that was a mistake. Matt Kindt is involved and that is, simply put, always good. He knows how to tell a hell of a twisted story. I can't wait to see what happens next.

Catwoman: Soulstealer (The Graphic Novel) is the perfect gateway to a reluctant reader of comics. There are a group of folks out there who love YA books, but don't like comics because, Spoiler and Robin and Dick and (whomever Babs right now) notwithstanding, there is generally not a ton of romance on the pages of comic books. These Icon books and their graphic novel counterparts give readers that in spades. Hopefully, a story like this hooks them and suddenly there are more readers of the regular comics too.

DC has made a book that has come bursting out of the re-figured multiverse and hits me in the perfect spot. Meta, thought provoking and full of alternate history. It is so funny, smart and expertly drawn. I love a good Elseworlds tale and this one, is actually in canon. How fun is that? Pay attention to this mini series because I predict it will be such a hit that it will become a monthly.

Overall, Daphne Byrne #3 is a solid comic. I really am sympathetic to her plight. She has almost no one on her side. Her loneliness is what makes her vulnerable. That last panel is really something. Jones' art is creepy to the point of perfection. I am all in for issue #4

Honestly, I didn't realize I was holding by breath the entire time I was reading Daphne Byrne #4 until I got to the last page and let it out. What kind of madness is this? I mean, it is comic book right? It isn't a movie. It isn't an audio drama, but I swear, with each page I turn, I feel like I can hear the Gothic, scary, tense piano music playing. Marks and Jones have cranked it up to 11.

Daphne Byrne #5 is a hot mess. Is Daphne a hero? Is she a villain? Is she mad? Whom can she trust? Should she be trusted? The answers, will not come in this penultimate issue of the series. I don't have a good answer but I don't care. Get me to July so I can find out how it ends.

Daphne Byrne #6 is the ending we need and the ending that Daphne herself deserves. This series has been so bananas. I have loved the mystery. Kelley Jones has been his usual brilliant self. Laura Marks has written a tight, horror/supernatural thriller. If you didn't read this, go pre-order the trade. Go. Right now.

DC Pride #1 is glorious. I love it. You should love it too. The choice of the word glorious there is a nod to the intro written by Marc Andrekyo. I am sure most people planned on skipping it. Don't. Seriously. He says everything I want to say here, in that essay. Buy this book. Give it to people you love. Give it to people who have open minds and to people with closed minds. Buy. Read. Repeat.

Honestly, there is nothing bad to say about this book. If you are an adult comic book nerd who wants a safe way to get kids 10 and under into DC comics, Dear Justice League is the answer. If you are an adult comic book nerd who wants to take a break from the dark side of things and just want to have a flash back to the old timey days of Super Friends, but without all the cheese that comes with that show, Dear Justice League is for you. Kids of all genders and ages are welcome to this book. Run, don't walk.

From cover to cover, this book has a soul. It has heart. It has a compelling story that uses the lens of history to point out our present. There is strong message being told here. Read this book. Give it to your friends. Talk about it. Share it. It is important. Do it now.

I am going to buy the collected work as soon as it comes out. It will rest on a bookshelf next to other great works of literature. You should too. When you get to the ending and that post-script, if you are a Gen-Xer like me, I dare you not to get goosebumps.

This is the right book for the right time. You may be uncomfortable reading it, I know I was, but you need to read it. You need to hand it to your teenage daughters and your teenage sons and then you need to talk about it. Seriously, it is that important.

Once you are done reading this, you will build a time machine so you can move ahead until next month. I cant believe this is already half over. DC, if you are reading this, please make sure you give Cecil and Adriana more to do with these characters once this run is over. Please. Pretty please.

If you are not reading Female Furies yet, then I don't know what is wrong with you. If you are a Sociology teacher, you should make this required reading in every single class. Buy a copy and then share it. Buy ten copies and hand them out. Be the person who said, "Oh Furies won the Eisner? I was reading that from the beginning."

One to go. I am so excited to see what happens and sad to know it is almost over.

My final verdict is that Female Furies will be nominated for multiple Eisner Awards. You, will want to be the person who read it before that happened. Buy the individual copies. Buy the TPB when it comes out. Support your local shop, but also, support the message of this amazing, ground breaking, and absolute perfect mini-series.

Firefly #27 is strong. Light on words, sure. Fast and over too fast, sure. Still, it is an excellent look at what could be. I was nervous about the mixture of the past two years of Boom's new lore and the Dark Horse run, but this seems to fit perfectly. The new art team is amazing. That final page is epic. I don't want to give too much away, but don't worry about the pooch. Mal wouldn't let anything bad happen. Things are looking shiny.

Firefly Watch How I Soar is a loving tribute to most everyone's favorite character in the 'Verse. Unlike the rest of the Boom! stuff, this story takes place in actual TV/Movie continuity. The final story is a gut punch, but in a good way. It reminds readers why we love Wash so much and that glimpse into a possible future with Emma and Zoe is simply perfect. While this is not perfect, it is going to get the highest marks because it, as the kids say, hit me in the feels.

Firefly: Blue Sun Rising #0 feels a bit like a cash grab. The story is interesting, but a 42 page one shot for the sole purpose of connecting Firefly #20 and Firefly #21 seems like a reach. This was broken into four stories and it could have been two issues of the book. That is not to say that I hate it or anything, I just think is isn't really fair to the readers. I suspect some will skip it and wait for the collection. That would be a mistake though because the story is going to be really important as we move back to the main run.

This is an excellent send off. It is nostalgia filled without being saccharine sweet. It is action packed while staying rated G. It is a love letter to childhood. It is a comic that is kind of out of place in this day and age. Readers of Gotham Academymost likely loved this, and like that title, they will lament its ending.

This is the best issue so far. There is a painful, really honest moment when Frank and Simon's brother, Nazir, come face to face. It broke my heart and it will break yours too. I am from Michigan so I get it. I understand the story that Humphries is telling. Pay attention to this book. I will not be shocked when it starts to win awards.

If you have not been reading this, what is wrong with you? Complexity in characterization. An A + artistic team. A thoughtful, timely story. This book has everything.Run, don't walk.

I read Green Lantern comics way back in the day. My first comic was the introduction of the Demolition Team. John Stewart came along and he was my favorite. His Mosaic comic was my favorite run in the history of the all the titles. It was short lived, but it has a social commentary and it was wonderfully written by Gerard Jones. Sam Humphries has a lot of that going on in this book. This story arc was not just well written and beautifully drawn. It, like Mosaic before it, is important. Thankfully, this book is doing well and hopefully Sam has no plans to leave it. Bravo to Mr. Humphries and his team for writing a smart, artful, and glorious book.

I can not explain to you how delightful, honest and wonderful this book is. You should read it. If you have not read Green Lanterns before, this is the perfect time to start. This book starts a new story and the last scene sets up a pretty awesome crossover event.

There is a cliff hanger in this issue and I suspect each issue will end with one. This is excellently paced. The art is stunning. In fact, make sure you check out the alternate covers of this. Wow. Harleen and Pamela are in excellent hands with Jody and Adriana at the wheel. Buckle up. This ride is going to be bumpy, but it is going to be so much fun.

If Jody Houser put out an instruction manual for anything, I would read it. If Adriana Melo drew the diagrams in the book, I would posterize them. This book is what two creators at the top of their games looks like. Get it now. Get the alternate covers. Tell your friends.

I love this creative team. I think Jody Houser is smart and Adriana Melo is a top 10 working artist. I enjoy the love and passion between Harley and Ivy. This is a good book and the characters are really wonderful. However, this issue just comes up short. I would not dissuade anyone from finishing up the series, but just know that this will be a quick read that will be easily forgotten.

Harley Quinn #72 puts the series on a serious upswing. This newly reformed, trying to do good, not sure how, drinking Jack Daniels for breakfast Harley Quinn is so fun. Sam Humphries is an excellent writer and has a knack for writing women who are believable. Not all men can do it and when they swing and miss, it is epic. Sam was great with Jessica Cruz and it was his writing that made her my favorite Green Lantern. He could just turn Harley into my favorite Anit-Hero.

Harley Quinn #73 wraps up what was a fine story that maybe went on a bit too long. I get that DC really wants Harley to be an Anti-hero and that is working fine here. The stuff with Booster doesn't always work but I like that he is here. I suspect the plan is to finally get him another title of his own and that too would be fine. Ultimately, I am really excited for next month because that set up is huge.

Harley Quinn #74 feels like the end of something and the beginning of something big. I honestly thought the battle with Granny would be longer, but there are bread crumbs to something more to come. It is often confusing what is up with Harley. Does she love Booster or Pam or herself? Can she do all three? I guess only time will tell but I am rooting for the last one on that list. It is what she deserves.

As I mentioned in the positive section, Breaking Glass is a retelling of Harley Quinn's story. People already love or hate Harley and comic fans can be fickle. If you want what you think you want, this is not for you. If you can come in with an open mind and are willing to let art be art, you will love this.

Issue one is of He-man and the Masters of the Multiverse's heroes are not He-man and Keldor, but Friend and Fraga. It is a strong foundation, even if it is ripped from the pages of a Jet Li script. I did really like that movie so there is hope. I would recommend giving this a chance and seeing where it goes. It could be just the reboot He-man needs.

He-man and the Masters of the Multiverse #6 actually ended pretty strong. If there was ever a series that would have been better suited for a stand along graphic novel, it was this book. There were so many moving parts that it just didn't make a ton of sense for a while. Keldor was the star of this book, and he shines here. If Mr. Seeley wants to continue on with just him and his team, that would be a book worth reading.

Horizon: Zero Dawn #3 is pretty strong. The flashbacks actually help a lot for folks who have no clue about this world. They are not done in any way that feels too full of pointless exposition. Everything makes sense now. The last panel is special and should bring readers back next month.

Again, this is just beginning and I feel that even though this is only book two, it is really still chapter one. There is a lot to like and there is a lot to wish for. Even if you are confused by the story right now, buy this book just to look at the art. It is so, so good.

This looks like a step in the right direction. This is the beginning of a new story arc and I think I can see where it is going. Bringing in Anansi and The Corinthian works. Having a human host for Shakpana who is just as evil as he is excellent. I feel better about this. Having a bit more Maggie there is a good move because a voice of reason in a book with dream logic is smart. The reader can connect to her and she can be our avatar.

This is simply head and shoulders, pun intended, above the other current Kaiju books and I love those too. I think that we are seeing how horror and comedy can meet, but also how even when things are ridiculous, there can be a real, pull on your heartstrings story in there. It can't be done by just anyone. The reason Jenny Zero #2 works here is because this team cares about the story they are telling, but mostly, they care about Jenny. I do too.

I honestly have never cared about the Metal Men as characters before this series, but now that this exists and there are bears wearing hats and me questioning my humanity, I wonder how Metal Men could ever be made again without Dido and Davis. OK. The bear in the hat thing is not that big of a deal in comparison to the whole questioning what it means to be human thing, but seriously, it is just so fun to see. Who knew I needed to see that? I didn't? Shane Davis knew. Thanks Shane. I appreciate it.

Metal Men #9 is a bit of a step back compared to the rest of the series. This has been a deep look at what it means to be human, but this month, it is more about setting up for an epic finale and a trip to or cross over with the Dark Universe. Sure, seeing Phantom Stranger is awesome, but I just didn't expect to see him here. Still, this is the last thing DiDio did for DC comics, so I am going to ride it out.

Nightwing #75 brings the world back into stasis…sort of. I am keen to see where everything goes for Dick and what seems to be team Nightwing. I think that is a great plan. That last page is a bit of a crappy move. I mean, can't the most optimistic hero in the DC Universe have just one good day?

Nightwing #78 made me cry like a newborn and that is fitting. This could have easily been Nightwing number 1. Taylor didn't need to do that because in the new mixed up Infinite Frontier world, Alfred is still dead (sadly) and Dick Grayson is still the hero we all deserve. Just typing this gives me goosebumps. Normally, I would tell people to shy away from Bludhaven, but no longer. It is time to move in. I hear there is a reasonable landlord who will treat you well and let you pet his new puppy.

Nightwing #79 is almost exactly what I hoped for with this new run on Nightwing. Honestly, I wanted Dick and Babs to do a hard traveling heroes kind of thing, but this is a pretty close second. Dick is the only person, real or fictional, with whom I would trust billions of dollars (real or fictional) and this book shows exactly why. The jokes are excellent. The action is breathtaking. This book is just perfect.

Once again, this title is a joy. A treasure. A thing of beauty. Each month, a get a new delivery of awesome that makes me realize what it is I love about comics in the first place. Tom and Bruno simply get it. They love comics too. If this book does not sweep the Eisners next year, then maybe I don't understand anything.

Nightwing #81 continues the tradition of this news creative team of being awesome. If you are not reading Nightwing, then you are not practicing self-care. This is like spending time with the best people you know. I love it. This is the book that will make long standing comics fans hearken back to the days when they were children and for new comics fans to realize what it means to be a hero. The best heroes in comics do it without powers.

Annuals are just a fun way to tell a one off or fill in the blanks. Nightwing Annual #3 does both. The action is fast and furious. Dick is still Dick. I suspect this is a reminder not all of us who he was and what is coming next. If you want to feel like you are traveling through time, and you miss Nightwing, check this one out.

Orphan and the Five Beasts #2 is the second edition in to what will ultimately only be a four part mini-series. I almost feel as though Dark Horse might have been better off just putting this out as a complete graphic novel because there is so much packed in here that it might be overwhelming to try to remember from month to month. I mean, I will be getting the collection when it comes out because I want it hard bound as I plan on going back over and over. Get on this book now! Fight the beasts!

Penultiman #1 looks like another winner for Ahoy Comics who have been swinging for the fences. Peyer manages to make us care so much about hour hero in just a few short pages. Robinson's art is special. He captures the feeling of an old timey super hero comic while Peyer simultaneously makes a bit of fun of old timey superhero comics. Get in on the ground floor of this newest mini-series from Ahoy! Everyone is going to be talking about it, so you might as well know what it is all about.

Penultiman #3 forces one to spend a lot of time thinking about one's self and why we are who we are. Is there a fictional version of ourselves out there in cyberspace that is actually better than us? I mean, we all have online personas that we hide behind. What would happen if that idea of you took shape and took over? Would you be able to even compare to that “person?” Would you want to? So much to think about.

Penultiman #4 is so damn good. I can't begin to understand how Peyer is going to finish off this story in one more issue nor can I understand why he would want to. This book is so freaking amazing. The art is special. The story is heartbreaking and funny. Based on these four issues, I would expect Peyer to get an Eisner Nomination and if he doesn't, I will by bite my thumb at them.

I love an ambiguous ending. Was AntePenulitman really Penultiman the whole time or did they switch places? Was there ever a moment where we could know for sure? Does it matter? It may to some folks, but for me, this was just what I needed. I have a pretty satisfying ending with a crack left open for more should Tom and Alan want to do more. Thanks guys. It has been an excellent series.

Joe Hill is doing something wonderful with Hill House. He is reinventing things we thought we knew. He set us up in issue 1 for a different kind of horror than what he delivers in Plunge #2. He dropped glowing eyed, worm infested, math zombies. That's right. You need to have a cursory knowledge of math to read this book. That doesn't even bug me it is just that good. Bravo Mr. Hill, Bravo!

Plunge #3 is a winner just as the two episodes previously were. The mystery is real. The stakes feel real. This whole thing is creepy and magnificent. If you have not picked up the first two issues, please, please do. This is one you are going to want to keep forever.

Plunge #5 is, by all accounts, a perfect penultimate issue. You want the second to last story to be so tense and tooth chatteringly good that readers will line up a month in advance to get the next issue. Next month is going to be spectacular. It will be the end of phase one of Hill House comics, which is sad, but I have no doubt it will go out with a splash.

Plunge #6 wraps up the most amazing year from Hill House Comics. We can all hope that Joe will find a way to bring them back even if DC does not. While Plunge has not been my favorite of the Hill House Comics, it has been good. That last page gives me hope for more to come. Still, Hill created quite a world here. I can only imagine how they all connect. I suspect, the events of this story, with the ripping of reality, could lead to a crossover in the future with all the titles. I would be OK with that. Thanks for a terrifying trip Joe. I enjoyed it.

Pretty Violent #10 is the penultimate issue in this latest arc. It could possibly be the end of the series. It is certainty setting up that way. I hope there will be more to come. I will wax poetically next month when issue 11 comes out and the ARC officially ends. For now, if you have not been reading this, you have been missing out. You have 28 days to get reading.

Pulp is just what you expect from Brubaker and Phillips. Tight storytelling, incredible images and an ending that will take your breath away. Get this book. If you passed on the hard cover, now is your time. Seriously. Now. I mean. Stop reading this and go get it.

Have I mentioned how much I wish this book were bi-monthly? I really wish this book were bi-monthly. Everything about it is good. The upside for you is that there only 8 issues so far. Read. Get on board. If not, Artemis might punch you in the head.

This book keeps getting better. I need more stars than 5. I love where this is headed and I never want it to end.

If you are a fan of the anti-hero, Red Hood: Outlaw is the book for you. There is action. There are jokes. There are flashbacks that let us know why we should be rooting for the bad guys. Then, there is that last page, which makes us jump for joy at the idea that the Band is finally getting back together. I know that Jason has stuff to do, but seriously, everything about this book is better when it is Red Hood and the Outlaws.

Red Hood: Outlaw #45 looks to be bringing us another step closer to tying up all the lose ends that have been running through this book since the end of the Year of the Villain. That is a good thing. I trust Scott Lobdell and I have been giving him a lot of room to tell this story. I find that he is writing arcs that are better read in six issue bursts, but I am reading them month by month and that can be frustrating.

Red Hood #51 starts with, what I hope is an intentional joke, but I can not be sure. A news reporter says, After another unnecessary event, Gotham exhales, Again. Man, I could not agree more. I hope that was a meta-commentary on the state of crossover land in the DC Universe writ large and the Batverse in particular. I have always liked this book best when it was the Outlaws and when Jason had a team. This is new creative team and it looks like they are going to try to give Jason some people about whom we can all care. Fingers crossed.

Robin #1 is a love letter to Enter the Dragon and honestly, I am totally down with that. It is perfectly paced, totally action packed. It has humor AND heart. Honestly, we all only expect humor, flat, Daria like humor out of Damian so for this book to have both, that is a testament to Williamson's amazing writing and Melnikov's amazing art. Can't wait to get issue 2. Between this, Urban Legends and Nightwing, the Robins are on a hot streak. Great news for all of us.

Robin #2 is action packed, beautifully drawn and has reminded me once again why I dislike Damian so much. However, Josh is creating a place for him to maybe, sort of, actually grow up a bit. I know, I know, he is a killer, son of the Bat and Talia, he has seen more in his 14 years than most people ever see. However, he is still a cocky a-hole who needs to actually have a chance to be a real person. I think this book is going to be his chance.

Second Coming: Only Begotten Son #1 takes the story of Sunstar to the place we thought it was going. The references to DC's big guy is clear and yet, Russell, Pace and Kirk make this their own story. It is a welcome return of one of the best comics in recent years. These guys deserve a chance to keep telling their story and honestly, we all deserve a chance to read it.

Second Coming: Only Begotten Son #2 is everything one can expect from this team. Visual puns, real emotional punches, stunning art and milk out the nose humor. If you are not buying this, you clearly want to risk your eternal soul. Why risk it? Go buy this.

Slaughterhouse-Five is a perfect way into this classic novel for folks who struggled with the way Vonnegut writes and it is an excellent love letter for those of us who think Vonnegut is a genius. Some novels are unfilmable and while people have tried with this book, those attempts failed. The best thing about comics and graphic novels is that they can do thing cinematically with much, much lower budget and without worry of the special effects. North and Monteys have something special here and you should read it.

Something is Killing the Children #11 starts a new story arc where we know that Erica will have not choice but to face off with the house of Slaughter. I must say, I can't wait for the next issue. This series continues to be excellent. It is not for the faint of heart of course, but for those who love a thriller wrapped in the cloak of a horror comic, this series is for you.

Something is Killing the Children #12 blows my mind yet again. James the Fourth continues to dazzle with his storytelling style. The arcs are only five issues and instead of waiting for each arc to end to dump some new, mind blowing information on us, he just does it right here in issue 2 of the arc. Man. What a book. What a series. I just love it.

Something is Killing the Children #13 delivers on the promise of this series. It keep me guessing. It keeps my heart racing. I makes me want to jump through a wormhole into next month so I can see what happens next. Is this series coming to an end? It feels like it may be. I am not sure how to feel about that. For now, I will bask in the glow of the awesome.

Once again this team proves that they are heads and shoulders ahead of most everyone doing horror comics right now. I cant heap enough praise on Something is Killing the Children #14 or the series as a whole. It does seem that the next issue could be the end of the series. I would be pretty sad to see that happen, but I would rather have 15 amazing issues than have 40 issues that are just OK.

Something is Killing the Children #15 wraps up our time in Archer's Peak (for now?) and has given us some food for thought for the future and more interesting, about the past. Luckily, for those of us who have fallen in love with Erica, we are not done with her. In May the series picks back up. We will finally learn Erica's back story and more about the House of Slaughter. Sign me up!

Something is Killing the Children #16 is the story I didn't know I wanted, but now that I have it, I never want to let it go. Generally, prequels are pretty lame. We know how the lead character ends up. We know there is no real danger to her. However, we know that there is a LOT of mental damage done to Erica from the moment this story starts and when we meet her in issue 1. It is like, I don't want to know, but I have to know. Can it be next month now?

This two story thing is disconcerting. The main story is so good and the art is incredible. I feel like I keep getting ripped off of a full book. That is not to say the second stories are bad. They are not bad at all, I just want more of the main story.

Look, this is only the fifth issue. If you are not reading this series, you are really missing out. Action. Humor. Story. Characters that are so real you forget this is fiction. Oh yeah…and Jim Lee.

Hack is such an interesting character and now we know how important she is as Boomerang is inside her code. I am not sure how all of that will play out, but I know I would not want that lunatic living inside my brain. The next issue is called “Harley Quinn vs the Suicide Squad.” Really, it is not Harley Quinn but Dr. Quinzel. It is going to be so good. Thankfully, I only have to wait two weeks.

While I like the direction things are going in Suicide Squad #6, I still struggle with the size of the team. Now they have gone rogue and Ted is the baddie. I am not sure about that. It is always nice to see the big guy, but I worry that they had to bring him in for issue six. Does that mean the book is on thin ice? Maybe. I like the direction things are going with Floyd. That could be interesting. Honestly, a Deadshot stand alone mini might be just the thing. Oh wait, Suicide Squad #6, right. It's fine.

Suicide Squad #7 is by far the strongest issue of this new run. The smart thing Taylor and team did here was to make us actually have the time to care about Zoe Lawton. She is essentially a mythological creature at this point. When we finally see her, and all that she is and all that she can be, we finally feel the empathy for Floyd that has been missing for years. I like this. I am not sure how I feel about what is coming, but this issue, is perfect.

Look, if you are not reading the Hill House Comics you are missing out. This series is by far my favorite, but that is like trying to pick your favorite M&M. They are all good.

No, I won't make that deal. I can just wait. It will be a long month though.

The Dollhouse Family #5 is another excellent addition to the ever growing excellence that is Hill House Comics. I simply can't recommend this finely crafted work of gory fun enough.

The Dollhouse Family #6 is the prefect ending for a nearly perfect mini-series. Everything at Hill House has been top notch and this book exemplifies it. The story telling has been evenly paced. The characters are likeable and not likeable exactly when they should be. The art is off the charts good. If you didn't read this series, pre-order the trade right now.

The only concern I have for this book is that it has to eventually stop because all good things come to an end and eventually, the stories will repeat themselves. For now, we must bask in the glory of The Flintstones.

Mark Russell only has a few issues left on his run. Seriously, Gerald dammit, get reading. Tell a friend. Tell ten friends. Petition DC to turn this into a new animated series, if and only if it is written by Mark Russell and drawn perfectly by Steve Pugh.

Honestly, I could go on an on about this book, but I am going to save some of my musing for the final issue. There are only two left and I feel that my final review will go on and on. Brace yourself. Until then, laugh at the master of funny, Mark Russell.

It is not a secret; I love this book. Seriously. It is the best thing that came out of the DC/Hanna-Barbera crossover event. In this issue, every aspect of why this title is so brilliant comes out to play. I feel like I really got to know these characters in a whole new way. It is funny, touching and wonderful. I will admit that I got a bit choked up at that final page. Unless you are a Gearldless heathen, you will too.

I picked this series up late, but The Last God #10 is the perfect jumping on point. Johnson and team are aware there is a lot to unpack, so they gives us help with the mental suitcase. If you have never seen this book, or this series, I wouldnt worry. It may say issue 10 on the cover, and reading 1-9 wouldnt be a terrible idea, it is not required to enjoy this issue. I am a science fiction guy as opposed to a fantasy guy, in general. Fantasy needs to be done just right for me to be excited about it. I am all in on this.

I will be honest, I never planned on reviewing this book. I picked up a one shot because Dan Watters wrote it and now I am the reviewer of record for this book. It has been quite the happy accident. I actually needed a replacement for his seminal work, Coffin Bound. While this book is not that, it fills the gap in my reading. I love a dark, epic quest. This is just stunning.

The Last God #12 is epic. It is beautiful and haunting and perfect. This is how you end a story. This is what a maxi-series is supposed to be. All fantasy stories be they comics, books, TV or movies, have a new high mark to which they must measure themselves. Go back to the beginning and read it all again. I am going to do it right now. I can't recommend this book enough. Run. Don't walk.

Reading The Other History of the DC Universe # 1 this feels like a guided tour of Jeffersons life. Black Lightning has been having a bit of a resurgence lately thanks to Cress Williams pitch perfect portrayal of the titular character on the CW, but I grew up loving him. He appeared when I was only 4, and so when I first started reading comics when I was 12, and was reading anything on which I could get my hands, Black Lightening was there for me to capture my imagination in the lore of DC Comics. This story and the set up reminded me of those times back in my childhood trying to piece together everything I could.

The Other History of the DC Universe# 3 is equalparts glorious and disturbing. What Ridley and his team are doing in this series is long overdue. This one feels like I watched a PBS documentary about my favorite song only to realize Ive been singing the wrong words all along.

The Other History of the DC Universe #4 is once again heartfelt, beautiful and just what we need. John Ridley is not messing about. While there are lots of illusions to mirrors and reflections of who Renee really is in this book, he is really holding the mirror up to the rest of us. Are we courageous enough to look? I am. You should be too. It might be ugly, but there is beauty there too. This series just keeps me up at night (but you know, in a good way).

If you did not read this book, go to the bookstore or comic shop and get the TPB of the first six issues and then get the last six. Read them all in one sitting and try not to be shaken. There is still a place for honest story-telling at Vertigo Comics. Mr. King and Mr. Gerads, I tip my hat.

Ultramega #1 is a everything I want out of a monster movie. I love the added layer of the monsters being people. There is something to that concept. When the baddie used to be just a normal person, that makes the destruction of him or her more problematic. I am all in on this series. The first issue has my head spinning. I can not wait for more.

Ultramega #2 is so damn good. It is long. Longer than most books are these days, but that is a good thing. I still found myself disappointed that it was over and went back and read it again the next day. I suspect I will visit it over and over until issue 3 comes out. When a comic compels you to read it again, that means it is either spectacular or a huge mess and you are lost. This book, is a huge mess, but I am not loss. It is a big, violent, bloody mess and I can't get enough of it. If you, like me, were totally bugged by how bad that other monster punching thing was, you should get this. It makes it all better.

Ultramega #3 gave me more of everything I wanted from this book. Each month when this arrives, I have zero expectations. NOT because the book is bad, but because the book is so, so so damn good. It is smart in all the right ways. There are giant monsters and guess what? THEY kill people because they can. Because it is a game. That is just what would happen. Humanity, should this world exist, wouldn't be doing so well. The realism, in a book about kaiju, is spot on. Looking forward to whatever next month brings. I honestly have no clue what to expect, but I am really, really excited and you should be too.

Ultramega #4 is smart, incredibly funny, in a dark humor, I had my guts ripped out sort of way, and just so well drawn. Of course, Dave, going to win another Eisner, Stewart is there coloring like he does, so that is worth the cost of admission right there. I love that each issue is extra long and that Harren is unafraid to play with conventions. The best satire lives inside the lines of the thing it is trying to mock. At this point, if you have not been reading this, you have been missing out. Go. Buy. Read. Repeat. I mean it. Repeat. I've read each issue a few times because there is so much to see. I genuinely have no idea what comes next. I can't wait.

This marks the end of one year of Unfollow. As is the case with everything Vertigo does, you cheer, you hold down your lunch, you cringe and you hold back tears. Rob Williams and Mike Dowling have created a world that, while it might seem like fiction, isn't. Unfollow is not just a product of two amazingly creative guys, it is a reflection of who we are and what we could easily become. We have to analyze how we work with social media and how we function in the world of “instant celebrity.” Truly, this book needs to be loaded up with awards. Raise a glass to year one and tip it back for, what I can only assume will be, a spectacular year two.

If you do not like soul searching, if you do not like reality, if you do not like looking in the mirror, don't read this book. If you like those things, pick this up. Plus, Rob Effing Williams drops the mic with that last page. Damn.

Victor & Nora: A Gotham Love Storyis lovely. Mr. Freeze has long been a tragic story and in the capable hands of Ms. Myracle, the tragedy drives home. If some reluctant teen needs something to read, hand him or her this book. If someone who has never read a comic before, but who is a sucker for a tragic love story, this one is for that person. The art is beautiful and the story telling is spot on. Nice work once again DC.

Buy buy buy. This is only issue 4. If you have not picked these up yet, do so. Seriously, what is stopping you? Do you hate fun?

There is an opening on the final panel that leaves a dusty, nanobot, blood caked foot in the door. We can only hope.

Riddle me this.. What will it take for Mark Russell just win an Eisner already? What does he have to do but keep thoughtful, funny, touching, and intellectually demanding comics? Oh wait, he already does that. Ok, this is not a riddle. If you have not read any part of the Year of the Villain, you will be fine. If you have, you are right on track. Spend some time with a ne'er do well, who is not doing well no matter how much he tries.

Young Justice #19 is pretty good. That is not going to get this review on the cover of the collected works, but considering that this series is so up and down, pretty good is high praise. The team knows this book is ending so they are doing everything they can to set up the future of these characters. Cassie is a great a great character so I look forward to seeing her around the DC Universe.