Great story and plots. Really cool
having Loki involved. Nice twist on Juggernaut’s origin. Only question is,
Where’s Thor or Odin for that matter? Shouldn’t Loki have been punished as per
Charlie X was punished on Star Trek- it just seems fitting!
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Book 7)
My least favorite of all 7 Potter
books. I truly hate the lack of being at Hogwarts and all. True, I know it was
needed for the plot and no way could Harry be truly safe from the Dark Lord
there. Still, I liked the ending and the epilogue. In fact, I beat me goal to
read all 7 books before Halloween by less than 3 weeks to go!!!! Not bad for a
first timer.
In closing, I felt really sad it had
to end, but I’ve heard rumors of an 8th book, so who knows. At least there are
still a couple of movies to be made.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
"Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (Book 6)"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Not my favorite book, but it was
better than having to deal with Stupid ole’ Fudge and Umbridge. (BTW- actress
who plays her in the film, I’m still pissed at you (Umbridge) so your better
not come around me still anytime soon). Can’t wait for the last installment,
even though I know how it ends.
"Hearing Things (X-Men: Evolution)"
Very good story- but I don’t
understand why the gifted students attend Xavier’s school, yet take classes at
the local public school “down the street”. I’ve never had the chance to watch
X-men: Evolution, so I might have missed something, but it still is a tricky
question.
I’ll give it a Worth Consuming, but
with an asterisk until I learn more about this version of the World’s Greatest
Mutants.
"Gus Beezer With the Hulk (The Marvelous Adventures of Gus Beezer)"
Great idea for a book. Great plot,
great storylines, really great art. True, it’s for kids, but it’s still fun and
an homage to all us children of the 70’s and 80’s who grew up playing Super
Hero.
Worth Consuming- Parents, share this
with your kids.
"The Marvelous Adventures of Gus Beezer with the X-Men #1: X Marks The Mutant (Marvel Comic Book 2003)"
Story (actually there are 2) was
entertaining. Youthful, but I expected that. However, it was some of the worst
art I had ever seen. There were smudges, and you could make out all those
bubbles and lines you see when learning “HOW TO DRAW” superheroes. Who dropped
the ball there? (I’d say Joe Quesada- but something like Gus Beezer is probably
beneath him) The other Beezer story was better drawn, so I really don’t know if
this was intentional, but it was very distracting.
"Ultimate Spider-Man Vol. 13: Hobgoblin"
Can’t Peter and MJ just stick it
out? It’s like reading an issue of Friends (if it came in Comic Book form). The
plotline had some holes- I mean really, why release a nut job like Harry
Osborn? I really thought Nick Fury was smarter than that.
The “A Beautiful Mind” twist was
cool and kept this from being the suckiest Ultimate Spidey Volume I ever read.
I’m still gonna keep reading them, just please tell me it gets good again!!
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #32
Thought I would hate a JLA origin
without Wonder Woman, but I was very wrong. This version of Black Canary was
very likeable. However, I hate that Cape Hatteras, NC was changed to Florida
for one of the pods lancing spots. Can’t NC get known for something other than
Rednecks??? Other than that, worth consuming!
"A is for Attitude"
WORTH CONSUMING!
“A” is a unique concept book in
which each letter of the Alphabet stands for a word that will help one to
succeed in business, fame, and life itself. From the right Attitude to better
Organization- if it would help you to better yourself it’s all here.
Sadly, some things best left to fate
are here too- Like Z is for Zodiac (Chapter 26). From reading it,
Russell-McCloud seems to imply that the position of the stars helps you be the
real you. It sounds a lot like Predestination- in which only “elected” persons
will go to Heaven, so why be holy if you’re doomed for Hell anyway. That theory
like her chapter is one is paradox and if the stars are making you who you are-
well, why do we need to be organized, if the position of Venus is going to make
us the next American Idol?
Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #31"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Nice to have a JSA origin that does
not involve Earth 2. I’ve always had a problem with Earth 2 and the whole
Crisis thing. I guess I am purest. I dunno.
It’s funny, because I love
Elseworlds and What If… stories. I guess alternate timelines are fine with me
as long as they don’t cross the “real” time stream. Very much worth consuming!
"Harry Potter And The Order Of The Phoenix"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Hardest book in the series to read-
since I knew nearly zilch about it!
I absolutely hate Umbridge- the new DADA teacher.
In fact, I hate her so much that I wanted the actress who plays her in the
movie to suffer bodily harm. Sorry Emma, but it’s true. And it’s a testament to
how well a writer Rowling is.
Sadly, the end of the voyage draws
near.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Harry Potter & The Goblet of Fire
WORTH CONSUMING!
Books 1-3 are 90% just like the
book. But Goblet of Fire was like a totally new book. Only 60% like the book.
Several characters have meatier roles in the book than the movie- so I was
really in shock as to what may happen. Dobby and another house elf are big
players in the book, yet never seen in the movie.
So for this one, do not rely on the
movie alone.
"Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #30" — 2008
WORTH CONSUMING!
Two very entertaining stories. Not
the best done by the Secret Origins gang, but better than some of the previous
issues. The art for the Plastic Man story was like going back in time. The EM
story was charming with great dialogue and really cool to have Wally West guest
star.
"Ultimate Spider-Man Vol. 12: Superstars" —2008
WORTH CONSUMING!
Not my favorite volume in the series
but still worth consuming! The Wolverine “team-up” was sorta lame. The Human
Torch arc was pretty good- though I really refuse to believe Johnny Storm would
ever go swimming! The Dr. Strange story was pretty good- I did not see some of
the twists coming. The “cliff-hanger” is very sad and I am afraid things will
get worse for Peter Parker.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Harry Potter & The Prisoner of Azkaban
WORTH CONSUMING!
There’s now a third book. People
seem to be listening and enjoying the books making them very popular. Funny how
after all this time I have never heard of Harry Potter and in 2 weeks of first
reading the Sorcerer’s stone= 2 sequels and 4 movies come out. There must be
some serious magic going on to make these books so fast. Low and behold, I hear
there’s a 4th book already out. This Rowling girl must use witchcraft to write
her books so fast!
Harry Potter & The Chamber of Secrets
WORTH CONSUMING!
Who would have thought but they made
a sequel and like Empire Strikes back it’s as good (if not better) than the
original. Apparently, this Harry Potter Thing has a few more fans than just me.
I hope the popularity increases enough for there to be another book. It would
be a real letdown if they cancelled the series after just 2 books. I mean,
Harry’s supposed to go to Hogwarts (his wizard school) for 7 years- so there
must be at least 7 books!
Good luck to JK Rowling- I hope
people like your stuff enough for a 3rd book! (Fingers Crossed)
Saturday, January 26, 2008
"Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone"
WORTH CONSUMING!
This is amazing work! I hope it
really takes off. Who knows, maybe they’ll make a movie and some action
figures. I hope this becomes a classic. I couldn’t believe how good it really
is! I know I am probably the only person who has read this book, but take my
word for it- it’s great! An all-time classic. I just hope people will read it!
Alice in Sunderland
It’s kinda bizarre- but with its
innovative style and it’s homage to my favorite Disney movie (and one of my
favorite books) - Alice in Wonderland- it really works. The history of a city,
its lore, myths, and culture, and how it ties into a masterpiece and the masterpiece effect on the city is really compelling. I wonder if it can work
for Peter Pan???
Talbot rocks and his work in Sandman
really shows.
"Showcase Presents: The Brave and the Bold - The Batman Team-Ups, Vol. 1"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Some really great stories mixed with
some goods and a couple of stinkers. I’ve been a fan of team-ups and Brave and
the Bold was one of the best. The Meal Adams art alone is worth price of
admission.
"Batman: Knightfall, Part Three: KnightsEnd"
WORTH CONSUMING!
The third and final installment is
worth the wait. It’s no Killing Joke or Batman: Year One, but it’s a great read
and very exciting. However, being one with a severe back problem, I still have
trouble with Bruce Wayne been so agile so close to his injury. I don’t care how
fit you were before- but a broken back is not something you start doing
cartwheels within a month of injury.
That “nit” gives this book only 8
stars, but is very worth consuming.
Batman and the Mad Monk
WORTH CONSUMING!
Not as good as part one (Batman and the Monster Men),
but still a great read. It gets a little provocative in this, but still
suitable for almost anyone. The whole Batman: Year One concept works and the
allusions to Joker and other villains makes this story seem like it just may be
canon
Friday, January 25, 2008
"Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #29"
NOT WORTH CONSUMING
I’ve never been a fan of the Atom and this new direction of him as a “John Carter of Mars” type character is all wrong. The other hero is an awful Zorro rip-off.
I’ve never been a fan of the Atom and this new direction of him as a “John Carter of Mars” type character is all wrong. The other hero is an awful Zorro rip-off.
I’m
starting to feel like I wasted my time and money on this series. It’s got to
pick up again reaaaaaaaaalllllll soon!
"Ultimate Spider-Man Vol. 11: Carnage"
WORTH CONSUMING!
I can’t believe who buys it in this
volume. Okay- maybe I can, but I can’t believe how they buy it and by whom.
Extremely shocking. Almost as shocking as when a small furry creature gets
canned in an issue of Fables. How will this affect Ultimate Spidey- only the
next volume(s) will tell. But I am eagerly awaiting that answer.
Worth Consuming, but not 10-stars
due to the super-secret death in this volume.
"Ultimate Spider-Man Vol. 10: Hollywood"
WORTH CONSUMING!
A great tie-in of the Spiderman
movies and the Ultimate Universe. Great cameos by Sam Rami and Tobey Maguire.
However, in volume 9- Doctor Octopus is a prisoner on the Triskelion and at the
beginning of this tale, he’s on Riker’s Island. Is this a continuity problem or
was he transferred and no one mentions this. The fate of the Doc’s arms is an
awesome ending- almost as stunning as the Usual Suspects.
"Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #28"
NOT WORTH CONSUMING
Midnight-
uh, excuse me, don’t you mean The Spirit? This character is Will Eisner’s
classic 1940s anti-super hero. Such a rip-off. How did this not get by Eisner’s
lawyers in beyond me. The Nightshade story was pretty good. However, it just
couldn’t save this issue from the crime of passing off Mid-night as an original
super hero.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
"Ultimate Spider-Man Vol. 9: Ultimate Six"
WORTH CONSUMING!
The best of the Marvel Ultimate
Universe- the Ultimates and Spider-man. Great read- awesome action- great
dialogues and plots. The way Marvel should be- not this 616 Civil War mess of a
Tom Clancy rip-off.
"Chicken with Plums"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Satrapi is the best. I truly love
her work and this story is no different. I’m looking forward to another volume
of hers.
"Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #27"
NOT WORTH CONSUMING
A true disappointment. This story
was some jumbled, so full of subplots and ret-cons, it wasn’t funny. First of
all, I always thought Zatara and Zatanna had something to do with Batman, but
he’s strangely absent. Did I miss something here? Anyway, I was not a fan of
them to begin with and this issue didn’t do anything to change my mind.
"Showcase Presents: Challengers of the Unknown, Vol. 1"
WORTH CONSUMING!
It’s like a 50’s B movie and MST3k
all rolled into one. I love these tales, with the choppy dialogue, corny views
on the opposite sex, and bizarre aliens. There are plenty of plot gaps and
errors galore in this. It makes you wonder is DC just produced this title and
let they’re least “strong” artists and writers in on this- which is blasphemy I
know since Kirby did the first 12 stories in this book. However, when 3 issues
leave out the words “Of the” from the title, you gotta wonder.
Also, the similarities to
Challengers and Fantastic Four really make you wonder if Marvel stole some
ideas.
The skin diver is the brainy one and
looks a lot like Reed Richards.
The pilot is blonde and the most
underused character.
Rocky Davis is a brawler from the
Bronx.
And by the 12th issue, he and Red
Ryan start goading each other like Johnny Storm and the Thing.
"Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #26"
The Black Lightning story was good
and it was great to see him post Black Vulcan era and pre President Lex.
Although if you watch any 1980’s High School Drama involving a Prison style
school and a brash teacher/principal who uses his baseball bat to clean up the
school, and add an element of Super Heroes to it, you’ve read the Black
Lightning Origin.
The Miss America story was great
until the cliffhanger which won’t be resolved unless you buy some other titles
upcoming issue. I hate that. Having a cliffhanger to the next issue is bad
enough.
This is unforgiveable.
"Postcards from the Brain Museum: The Improbable Search for Meaning in the Matter of Famous Minds"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Much to my chagrin, there’s no such
place as a brain museum, which I was really hoping there would be one like in
New York or Philly- cause that’d be a really cool place to visit. However,
Postcards is a history of the brain and man’s attempts to remove it postmortem,
dissect it, study it, and find out what makes us, well, us. The premise is
quite simple and this book is a relatively good read. Though, I had moments of
deja vu. Have I read this book before?
Some paragraphs were very “predictable” and I swear many of these pictures have
been viewed by my naked eye once before.
When I started the project, one of
the first books I read was the “Great Pretenders” and I just have this feeling
that while I was reading that book, I was moonlighting this one at the same
time. (I tend to only read one fiction and/or one non-fiction at a time. It
gets too confusing- on the other hand- my wife reads like 9 books at one time-
how she ever completes them, I’ll never know!)
Postcards go from very simple
history to complex casts of characters to simple diagnosis to Ph.D. level
examinations of the human brain. Sometimes, I found myself a little sick to my
stomach and needing to take a break. And Tums! And I’ve eaten Shark Fin Soup
Before. Still, throughout this book, I feel like I have read it before.
So, would I read it again? Maybe.
It’s definitely better reading than some of the swill I had to read about
philosophy. And there is some philosophy in this book that wasn’t all bad. And
what’s better, it didn’t make my brain hurt.
Presidential Diversions: Presidents at Play from George Washington to George W. Bush
WORTH CONSUMING!
I really enjoy reading this kind of
factoid, lighter fare about our 43 presidents (ok- it’s technically 42 because
one guy ran and won for president on 2 separate occasions.) Very good writing
and in fact some of the styles of chapters are different so it doesn’t get monotonous.
Some rough edges- probably presidents the author didn’t care for got lesser
treatment.
But I’m game to read some of his
other presidential books including the book about elections and first ladies.
"Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #25"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Every time I read a Legion of Superheroes story
NOT written in the 1950’s or 60’s, I began to like them more and more. This is
no exception. While I’m still on the fence as to become an avid reader of the
Legion of Super Heroes title- this (and a recent episode of JLU) is weighing me
down ever more to do so. Also- the Atom (Golden Age) is very good. I’ve not
been familiar with this character and it’s refreshing to read a new story
without any pre-made notions. However, I do have a question about this
character that the book does not address- is the Golden Age Atom also the Atom
Smasher. His mask and costume looks the same- but it’s never revealed if it is
so
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
"Showcase Presents: Green Lantern, Vol. 2"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Green Lantern is one of those Comics
in which while the stories are great and the dialogue seems more to the quality
of MST3K- it’s all forgotten due to the fact that the Green Lantern’s ring and
costume is freakin’ awesome. I’ve always wanted a power ring since I was four
or five reading my dad’s old issues of GL. I can’t wait for volume 3 as that’s
when we’ll be introduced to Guy Gardner and I’ve always been a fan of his.
"Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #24"
WORTH CONSUMING!
It took a while, but finally another
issue where both stories rock! The Dr. Fate story is very good- only a bit on
the confusing side. But that is not the author or artists fault. I tend to get
confused on comic series featuring wizards and occults etc. Haven’t you ever
wondered why everyone has very similar names? If you don’t know what I mean-
refer to the Lord of the Rings Trilogy.
The Blue Devil story is the best. It
brings back Cain (or is it Abel???) from the House of Mystery titles of DC and
the tale is told in a very funny way.
I hope to add Blue Devil to my wish
list of titles to own real soon.
Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #23
WORTH CONSUMING!
The Guardians story is just awful!!
Lousy writing- terrible plotting- a true headache brought on by the Crisis. What
does make this issue a worth consumer is the Floronic Man story (as told by
Killer Croc). Starts off slow but has a Usual Suspects type ending that makes
this an unforgettable tale. (Plus it really makes one want to read the millennium
series and more Batman tales starring Croc). Also- to my surprise Floronic Man
is a villain! I had no idea until I read this.
"Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #22"
WORTH CONSUMING!
This is essential for those who are
trying to read the entire “Millennium” series- but read alone the history is
good but the plotline makes for a flat story and is at times confusing.
Excellent art! A must “worth consume” for those collecting said series and
Secret Origins.
"Superman: The Amazing Transformations of Jimmy Olsen"
.jpeg)
Very much worth consuming!
"How to Deal with Annoying
People: What to Do When You Can't Avoid Them" —
I am no longer working with annoying
people so I feel like I don’t need to read this book in order to finish it. In
fact, it’s been so long since I dealt with annoying people, I don’t even know where
this book is currently!!! Also, I am not by any means a reader of self-help
books (my wife loves them). But as self-help goes this wasn’t bad or tedious.
(2013 note: I again work with annoying people. Maybe I should give this book another try.)
"The Black Diamond Detective Agency"
NOT WORTH CONSUMING
Terrible plotting. The art is not
consistent. The worst lettering I have ever seen!!!The cover is made to be like
a 1890’s Victorian Poster, so I thought I would be reading a book about
detectives in England. That was my first mistake- besides reading this. The
only cool thing about this book is how much like Steve McQueen the protagonist
looks like! Well, that is until page 50! And then he looks like one of the
village people. Don’t even bother with this book! Not Worth Consuming!
Monday, January 21, 2008
"Houdini: The Handcuff King"
Worth Consuming!
Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #21
.jpeg)
I would have liked to have seen more
done on Jonah Hex and not the researcher trying to uncover a conspiracy to
steal the gunslingers corpse. And the Black Condor is roughly a poor man’s
Tarzan although the best part of the story are the birds that raise BC up. They
are very vivid warm characters and make the story better. It’s okay- but worth
consuming if you want the entire series- like me!
Sunday, January 20, 2008
"Captain America: War & Remembrance"
WORTH CONSUMING!
An interesting look at a forgotten
look at Cap’s life. Cap runs for Prez- I have a t-shirt of that and I really
think he would have been the best President EVER! Sorry Reagan. I didn’t know
Byrne did Capt. America but he did a great job. The Baron Blood storyline is
the best!
Worth Consuming!
"The Tarantula (Sandman Mystery Theater, Book 1)"
I’ve never read these before and for
over 2 years it’s been on my to-do list. Great story and art! A tad graphic for
me. I don’t think I’m going to make this a must read series, but I wouldn’t
turn down future volumes if someone was to give me some. A tad disturbing, and
I really don’t get the whole Wesley Dodds is a version of Gaiman’s Sandman!
Still, worth consuming!
"Ultimate Spider-Man Vol. 8: Cats & Kings"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Bendis is a freakin’ awesome writer!
And this volume is evident of it. All I can say is Kingpin, Elektra, Black Cat!-
Nuff Said! Oh, yeah, and worth consuming too!
"Ultimate Spider-Man Vol. 7: Irresponsible"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Ultimate Spidey is awesome stuff. It
takes a few pages to remember this is Grandpa’s Spiderman. And as usual, this
totally works. Glad to see Peter and MJ back together. And an awesome cameo
with the X-men!
Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #20
The best all-round issue in the
series since #7 (Guy Gardner/ Golden Age Sandman). I always thought Batgirl
sucks and I end up loving the story and I was never familiar with Doctor
Mid-nite and WOW!!!! I wish I had some issues of his to read. He makes
Daredevil look like a copy- cat.
"Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #19"
WORTH CONSUMING!
The Uncle Sam story is okay- I don’t
know if it’s bad plotting, poor script, bizarre concept, it just didn’t work
for me. The guardian story rocks- and that’s saying somethin’ because I hate
the Newsboy Legion. I actually root for the bad guys against them!!! Getting
“King” Kirby to pencil the cover is a coup worth the price of the issue alone.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
"13 Dreams Freud Never Had: The New Mind Science"
WORTH CONSUMING!
A book about dreams that doubles as a
biography. An interesting concept. I’m often quite lost in the author’s
descriptions of neurons and EFP’s and BPF’s and etc. etc. If it’s an jumbles of
letters I lose it like as fast as the author loses his memory of non-REM sleep
dreams.
But this is still a fascinating book
and a book I wish never stopped. He often told of how he had a better night
sleep on the nights he’d wake up with a vivid recall of a dream- often from
doing research on other people’s dreams. How true that is. I did a test where I
would read the book for a while before bed and stop for a few day and then
start reading again. On the days that I stopped reading, I was unable to really
remember what I had dreamed and was dead tired the whole day. On the reading
days, I could recall the dream all day; I got out of bed earlier and was very
refreshed. I really liked those days. I know it’s been since I last read a book
for my project. It’s been really hard to want to read anything but comic books
as my wife and I have been spending long nights getting our hot sauce store
3gatos Fire and Rice open in our hometown of Hillsborough, NC.
Like many do when writing a journal,
now that the store is open, I promise to read more and get to writing more
entries on my Dewey project a lot quicker. The true test will be how well I do
on this promise. Is it a legitimate goal or like most of the content in this
book- a real vivid promising dream!
"Mesoamerican Myths (Graphic Mythology)"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Great art, neat “and this is why”
type explanations, some great stories. The “Twins” story is kinda murky in some
of the plot aspects. I wish it was cleaner. Great for kids, but there needs to
be a disclaimer that these tales reflect South American culture and are
fiction- not fact!
"Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #18"
WORTH CONSUMING!
I don’t like the Creeper. I’d always
thought he was a Joker rip-off. And while I now know he’s not- I still don’t
like him. The Golden Age Green Lantern story is awesome. Best story in the
series so far, with exception of the Crimson Avenger and Golden Age Sandman
stories. Green Lantern is worth consuming alone!
Thursday, January 17, 2008
"The Amazing Spider-Man: Civil War"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Great tales of Spidey. Cool new
costume. Amazing action. But, really, have Peter, MJ, and Aunt May live in exile
in a sleazy motel!?! Spider-man is the one series I really am afraid will not
find a way to survive this Civil War after math unless something really
positive happens to him. And he can’t leave New York. It’s like Chicago without
deep dish or Seattle without Starbucks. Trouble should be brewing on this. I
just don’t know. Still worth consuming!
"Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #17"
WORTH CONSUMING!
The best cover in the series, by and
so far. I really enjoyed both stories. Dr. Occult was good, but the issue of
incest between him and his assistant is never addressed. So it’s kinda creepy
wondering are they brother and sister or aren’t they. And the Adam Strange
story is great; I just have trouble with story-lines that involve limited time
between worlds. It’s a problem similar to the John Carter Series. Still, this
issue is worth consuming and the best all-round issue since issue 12.
Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #16"
WORTH CONSUMING!
I wanna start reading WARLORD! That
book looks freakin’ Awesome! I only wish I had learned more about his time
after the crash. And the plot twists- very unseen and so cool!
Hourman- well I’ve always had a
problem with a guy who only gets his powers via a pill that only lasts 60
minutes. I mean, what happens if he crosses a date line does he lose minutes or
gain for that??? I am I disappointed that the "mazing Man story was so
short. I really feel cheated about that one and feel like I know less about him
having read what I did. This book wouldn’t be worth consuming if it wasn’t for
Warlord!
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
"The Amazing Spider-Man: Civil War"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Great tales of Spidey. Cool new
costume. Amazing action. But, really, have Peter, MJ, and Aunt May live in exile
in a sleazy motel!?! Spider-man is the one series I really am afraid will not
find a way to survive this Civil War after math unless something really
positive happens to him. And he can’t leave New York. It’s like Chicago without
deep dish or Seattle without Starbucks. Trouble should be brewing on this. I
just don’t know. Still worth consuming!
"Fantastic Four: Civil War"
When I first heard that the Fantastic
Four had a new line-up I wanted Editor’s Joe Quesada’s Head on a sharp pike.
After reading this, I still want his head on a pike but I’ll promise to
preserve it by boiling it in herbs and water.
The Thing stories are the best. I
think it’d be cool if the Thing worked in France for a mini-series or two.
Also, the anniversary stories rock- esp. Stan Lee’s. I still think that the way
the Civil War ended might kill Marvel’s 616 universe. Maybe comics do need to
reflect the times, but must it be every issue. I read comic books to escape
CNN- Marvel; you’re no CNN so stop it. Leave the Political intrigue to Capt.
America, S.H.I.E.L.D. and NBC’s infinite versions of Law and Order.
"Batman and the Monster Men"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Don’t know what it is about DC. I
read a relatively simple story by Marvel and I feel dread, tired, and dirty. I
read a blood and gore story of monsters and gang warfare (in which I am talking
about BM & The Monster Men) and I feel safe, happy, like I’ve read a
classic fairy tale. Truly, this is a testament to how good DC is. This could
almost be considered a sequel to Batman: Year One. It takes place in Batman’s
second year and the art is so similar, I checked the cover several times to
make sure Frank Miller’s hand was not in on this somehow. Great story. And for
once, no one ends a Batman story having learned Bruce Wayne is the BAT!!!
Civil War
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A very compelling story with
allusions to the War on Terror. Some major plot-holes. I know you have to read
some of the other titles Marvel released to get the full story, but what’s
really bad is how short the final battle is. I really feel something was left
out. I waiting for the director’s cut!
Again, great story and it’s worth consuming.
My only fear is that this brave new world will turn out to be a paradise lost.
If this causes Marvel to fail- you have only one person to blame- Joe Q
himself. Joe “I’m the Editor, so tough!” Quesada.
"The Road to Civil War"
WORTH CONSUMING!
A great read! From it, I realize
that I truly know little about the current Marvel Universe (1999- present).
Hopefully as I begin the Civil War, I will understand what happened as a lead
up to this a little better. Still, I think Civil War may hurt Marvel more than
help it in the long run. Only time will tell during Reconstruction.
"Showcase Presents: Superman, Vol. 1"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Great stuff. Always fun to read old
Superman Tales. Many of these stories of Crème De La Crème and have been
reprinted often.
"School Is Hell"
WORTH CONSUMING!
I don’t care what you say- this is
the Simpsons! No doubt about it. The big brother and the little sisters are
Bart, Lisa, and Maggie. The Dad is Homer. In fact, one of the strips is Homer’s
“What is mind? Never Matter! What is matter? Never Mind!” speech given to Bart
during a Tracey Ullman segment- almost verbatim. Mongo’s teacher who he hates
is Skinner and Spike is Nelson. Without a doubt. Ok- I take that back, the 21
part series of School is Hell is not The Simpsons, but the 25 other cartoons
are, right down to Mongo dream house which is almost exactly like Bart’s in Bart
Simpsons The Book of Life. Worth Consuming- but the blatant attempt to cash is
on the Simpsons fame and name makes it a 4 star read only!
"Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #15"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Always been a Deadman fan- great
look and costume. Though I’ve always had trouble with a super hero who can only
work in the dead bodies of others. The Spectre- who’s also featured with a
story in this issue- does not seem to have that problem, so why should
Deadman??? Anyway- the Deadman story is good- just not long enough. The Spectre
story is almost a dead-on reprint! Art and storyline and writing. Big
disappointment. And his quasi-dead but solid thing is never really clear. Also,
this issue should have been a Halloween issue, but it was released un June ‘87,
which means April. This doesn’t make me hate this book any- I just feel that DC
missed out on a great holiday tie in with that one.
"Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #14"
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WORTH CONSUMING!
I never thought I would ever see a story with Amanda Waller it in and I don’t finish the story not wanting to kill her. Being with this Suicide Squad must have burned her pretty bad. The story is good, but there’s way too much history and not enough time to tell it. And that is sad- given that the entire issue is devoted to this one group of “heroes”. It does tie in with the World War II comics quite nicely- especially with JEB Stuart and the Haunted tank. Great cameo of President Reagan. They never say it’s him, but it is- although this Reagan is nowhere near as old as he’s been portrayed in History Books. And that may or may not be a good thing.
"Secret Origins (3rd Series, 1986-90) Issue #13"
WORTH CONSUMING!
The Nightwing story was the best,
but if you want a good origin about Nightwing, I suggest Nightwing Year One.
There’s too much reflection and not enough said about the Batman/Robin split. Also,
not enough told about Johnny Thunder- which is a shame, especially since the
story is very far-fetched to begin with a far-fetched comic book??? Who knew? Also,
I could had done without the Whip story and used those several pages to beef up
the other 2 (and more important) stories.
"All Star Superman: Volume 1 (All Star)"
WORTH CONSUMING!
The first issue was a tad hard to
follow, but once Superman reveals he has made a birthday gift for Lois, I
realized this series is on homage to Earth 2. Excellent stories. Jimmy Olsen as
Doomsday, Lois as Superwoman, Clark helping Lex Luthor to not die in Prison.
Awesome stuff. Grant Morrison has just become one of my favorite writers.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
"The Pirates! In an Adventure with Communists: A Novel"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Gideon Defoe is great fun to read! 3
books in the series so far, and it’s not gotten stale. (Oh, I hope I just
didn’t jinx that). Making Karl Marx a comic foil was inspired and the Jung
connection into it all is freakin’ hilarious. If you have yet to read books 1
and 2, that’s okay. You don’t miss anything, like a cliffhanger or what not.
But still try to read them in order.
"Clone Wars Adventures, Vol. 1 (Star Wars)"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Clone Wars was a great cartoon
series- but at 11 minutes an episode- way too dang short. Thanks to Dark Horse
for bringing us Clone Wars Adventures. Sure, it’s geared for Kids, but It’s
Star Wars and what’s even better- NO Jar-Jar!!!!!!!I really hope to get the
whole collection- as well as all the Star Wars Tales. It’s great stuff.
May the Force be Worth Consuming.
"The New Yorker: Twenty-Fifth Anniversity Album"
—
Eh- about half of the art is
drawings not cartoons, and I’ve already read a lot of cartoons in various other
treasury editions. Also, there’s an absence of Al Hirsefield. Or am I confused
and come to find, he was never an artist for the New Yorker. Entertaining and
if you can’t find any other treasuries to read, by all means check it out. If
you’ve got a choice- I’d skip this one.
"Superman/Batman: The Greatest Stories Ever Told, Vol. 1" —
WORTH CONSUMING!
Oh, How I hope there’s a volume 2.
In fact, I wish Showcase Presents would go ahead and do the World Finest
Stories. I had only read 3 of the stories before- one as a constant reprint,
two because my dad had the original issues of them. Great reads for Superman
and Batman fans.
"Captain America: Civil War"
WORTH CONSUMING!
I’ve not been following the Civil War storyline much, but after reading this, I’m going to. Capt. is great- why did they have to kill him (or did they??) But the main reason to read this is the Winter Soldier: Winter Kills solo story. It was really good and truly “Bucky” deserves his own title, unless, they’re making him the new Capt. – which I think, would be a terrible idea. "Bucky’s interaction with the Patriot, (new) Hawkeye, and (new?) Vision and his leadership/ earned respect makes for a great covert ops series (as long as none of the 3 underlings dies in the Civil War) - Take note of this Quesada. Doing a series like I propose might make me like you again (but only just a little).
"Superman/Batman vs. Alien& Predator (Superman (Graphic Novels))"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Great art- truly awesome. Great
storyline banter between Superman, Batman, and Lois. However, everyone seems
very familiar with the Predator and Alien species and I felt like I was out of
the loop on this. Plus, the whole Fortress of Solitude being held in anti-grav
didn’t make much sense, though having Lois know her way around the place made
tons of sense. Still, a good story, some great scripting, and amazing art makes
this worth consuming!
"Batman: Knightfall Part Two - Who Rules the Night"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Part two is full of much better art
and the story is more gripping. Though how Bane gets from Wayne Manor to
Downtown Gotham and also how Alfred knew where to find them at the first of this
story is a glaring plot-gap. Why they went with Jean Paul is beyond me- the guy
is truly unstable. And speaking of unstable, the Two-face and Scarecrow stories
are awesome tales.
"Batman: Knightfall Part One: Broken Bat"
WORTH CONSUMING!
Starts off real slow, until the inmates
start to take over the city. A great first part in the Knightfall series. I am
not quite a fan of this artwork though. It’s very dated and many drastic thin inking’s-
they just don’t mix. This Gotham is too much like Metropolis or like the Batman
of the ‘60s only with gritty, Tarantino style stories of gore and pain. Batman
and his domain should be dark, grimy and fully of thick lines that imply a
shadowy demeanor to all its residents. And the Robin character- who’s supposed
to be 13-16 looks like he’s in his early 20’s most of the time. Also, in terms
of the color, it’s unforgiveable that in the closing page of an issue, the
Mayor’s PJ’s are pink and on the splash page of the next issue, they are blue.
Such inconsistencies should have been caught by a script supervisor. Still,
this is very much worth consuming.
"Super Friends!: Your Favorite Television Super-Team is Back!"
WORTH CONSUMING!
It took longer to read this than
Volume 2. Yes, I know that is weird, I finished volume 2 first instead of
volume 1. The reason is because of the very dull 10 pages guide on how a
cartoon was made in the 1970’s. I wish those 10 pages could have been used to
include another story- like issue 1-2, cause I really think some part(s) was
left out by having a cliff-hanger type ending. So, I got bored and started on
to Volume 2 before finishing up this book.
The real crown jewel is the
introduction of the Wonder Twins and the explanation of what in the heck
happened to Marvin and Wendy and Wonder-mutt. It was a really cool send-off,
though I’d rather Wonder-mutt had stayed instead of Glee.
Well, beggars can’t be choosers.
Essential Reading for anyone who loved the Super-Friends- wow, what cool
friends they were.
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