Hungry Ghosts #1

I'm a chef and not only do I love to cook and teach culinary, I am also an avid collector of comic books. Today's post combines those two passions of mine as I take a look at Dark Horse's newest horror anthology miniseries Hungry Ghosts as well as the man behind it, Chef Anthony Bourdain.

Anthony Bourdain.

If the celebrity chef is not a household name, he is a name known in professional kitchens everywhere. The New York chef has a bad boy image that was made famous in his tell-all book about New York's food industry Kitchen Confidential. He carried that persona over to a number of TV shows such as No Reservations, The Layover, and currently Parts Unknown on CNN. 

When it comes to Bourdain's on screen persona, he rubs me the wrong way. In front of cameras, the chef is like a Speedo full of rocks and sand. But as a professional Chef, I am very much in agreement with a lot of his views.

Bourdain is very much an advocate for peasant food, it's role in modern cuisine, and the importance of preserving time honored recipes. He feels that Food Network has done more harm than good in promoting the next generation of chefs and culinary students. Plus, he feels than Hispanic immigrants are the underappreciated backbone of the culinary industry. I would argue with that one to say that immigrants as a whole are the backbone, especially since analysts believe that people of Asian descent such as Thai, Vietnamese, and Indians will surpass Latinos in the restaurant workforce within another 15 years. But that's for another venue.

Food and Comics Meet

My students as a whole love Anthony Bourdain. Thus as a culinary instructor, I find it necessary to research projects of his to be better in tune with my pupils. I love comic books, especially horror titles. As a collector, that signaled a little light in the back of my brain to seek out this new title. So when I heard about Dark Horse coming out with a limited series by Anthony Bourdain, I felt like I really needed to check this out both professionally and leisurely.

The four-part Hungry Ghosts seems a natural fit for Anthony Bourdain, as he is quite fond of Asian culture, especially Japan. Oddly enough, this isn't Bourdain's first foray into comics. In 2012 he along with novelist Joel Rose, penned a Manga-influenced graphic novel called Get Jiro about an apprentice sushi chef in Los Angeles. A couple of years later, the duo crafted a sequel title Get Jiro: Blood and Sushi.

Hungry Ghosts seems to be a much different type of comic project for Bourdain. This is an anthology horror series that combines Japanese culture, food, folklore, and parlor games. The story starts off with a wealthy Russian host having just finished a lavish dinner. The chefs who prepared the meal were won by the Russian in a charity auction. To end the night, the host has all of his guests along with the cooking staff stay for cognac, cigars, and a few scares.

Hyakumonogatari Kaidankai

The premise is for the guests to participate in an ancient game called Hyakumonogatari Kaidankai, later Kaidan for short. In this practice, a room would be filled with 100 candles. A person would take turns telling a ghost story and then blowing out a candle. As the room got darker, the storyteller would look in a mirror to see if they had become possessed with one of the spirits that they had just invoked. Known as a samurai test of courage, by the time the 99th candle was extinguished, many participants would drop out of the game, letting the darkness of the room get to the better of them.

Issue #1 of Hungry Ghosts only goes on to reveal two ghost stories. First a restaurant owner finds out the hard way not to refuse to help a hungry beggar find something to eat. Then in a tale set during the days of pirates, a woman is rescued from the sea. On a ship filled with horny buccaneers, the woman is looked upon as a carnal feast. But there just may be something to her appetite that might make the average man squirm.

Expectations

Hungry Ghosts began as I expected an Anthony Bourdain story too kick off. The beginning is full of grumpy chefs, lots of F-bombs, and sleazy customers. But the ghost stories were actually pretty good. They were kinda short. But I think the first issue had to spend a few pages explaining the Kaidan concept. If ever a first issue could have used 12-20 extra pages, this would have been the one to bestow that bonus upon. 

The artwork duties were carried out by Alberto Ponticelli and Vanessa Del Rey. Ponticelli has some experience drawing scenic Japan in the IDW series Godzilla: Gangsters and Golaiths. Most fans of Del Rey will recognize her from the acclaimed Bitch Planet series. Both invoke a sort of ethereal look at the Land of the Rising Sun. On top of that, we get an amazing cover by Batman 100's Paul Pope.

I'm all for many things: comic books, horror comics, food, and Asian cuisine/culture. This book combines all four. It's got a lot of promise and I think the remaining 3 issues should be full of more creepy tales from Japanese folk lore and myth. Especially since the Kaidan premise has been fully established. I'm really excited to see what Anthony Bourdain has planned for the second course!

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 9 out of 10 stars.

GCD, Volume 1: God Save The King

This 2012 indy comic collection by 215 ink was an interesting look at the garage rock scene. When the so-called King of Rock n' Roll is killed, his record label holds a contest to crown his successor. To become the next in rock royalty, musicians must compete in regional qualifiers first.

It's young Dylan's goal to get to the nearest arena for his chance. Along the way, he meets a fellow free spirit named Flip. However, that's not going to be easy as Dylan has pissed off some bad dudes and they've made it their mission to become the next in line for the rock crown!

I really enjoyed this book by Adam Wilson. Very well written, quite creative, and essentially captivating, I wanted to know what happens next. Unfortunately, I don't think I ever will. I've done several Google searches on how to find the next volume and I can't find anything. Typing 'GCD' takes me to a comic book grading site and with '215 ink' I keep getting links for ink cartridges. 

Even the cool scanning stamp included in the book that allows you to listen to a suggested soundtrack on Spotify no longer works.

Will Dylan and Flip make it past round 1? Who will become the next King of Rock n' Roll? Will I ever find volume 2? These are all questions that may remain forever unanswered. 

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 8 out of 10 stars.

Astro City, Volume 15: Ordinary Heroes

I really don't think it is possible for the creative team behind Astro City to come up with a bad story. Astro City, Volume 15: Ordinary Heroes is another fantastic collection of Vertigo Comics by Kurt Busiek, Brent Anderson, and Alex Ross. 

This collection answers some of Astro City's must pressing questions such as just really how did the original Jack-In-The-Box die? But the question that I have been waiting a near eternity for is who is the Hanged Man? 

I was ultra excited for that issue and the City Councilmen of Astro City did not disappoint!

As Astro City neared in's 25th anniversary, several guests artists were brought in to help with the festivities. But honestly, I couldn't tell you who they were or really how they contributed because I couldn't discern any slip in the level of quality here.

There were a couple of other stories added here such as one starring a cat named Kittyhawk. The new pet of one of Astro City's countless superheroes, there's more than meets the eye with this precocious feline. Another great story. 

I love Astro City. It's one of my all-time favorite titles. When I find a new volume, I know that I am in for a treat as this city has been carefully placed in the hands of three masters.

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 10 out of 10 stars.

Showcase Presents: Blue Beetle, Volume 1

Collecting the complete Blue Beetle series from 1986-1988. Written by Joey Cavalieri and Len Wein, this version of the Ted Kord Beetle starts off as a more serious, less angry version of Batman. By day, Kord runs Kord Industries, a technological think tank. But at night, he's Blue Beetle, Chicago's newest protector. 

It's a much different Ted Kord than I am used to. My first encounters with this character are from his roles in various Justice League incarnations. That Blue Beetle is less serious, much more of a slacker, and a lot less healthier. If I'm not mistaken, the Giffen/DeMatteis Blue Beetle was the first superhero to have a beer gut. 

The Beetle comprised in this Showcase Presents collection is the complete opposite of everything that I feel in love with the character. Plus, there's no Booster Gold in which to be a comedic spring-board off of. That doesn't mean that I didn't like this edition. It was filled with some really good stories, some amazing art, and one of the best covers of all-time. 

For anyone that is a fan of the Charlton Comics Blue Beetle, this is going to be treat for you. Fans of Ditko's version of the hero will also delight in that the original scarab, Dan Garrett, makes a return in an epic blast from the past!

Featuring artwork from DC legends such as Gil Kane, Ross Andru, and Don Heck, this late 80s series was about as close to the original vision of Blue Beetle than anything crafted afterwords. Though these stories were published when I was a kid, this is my dad's Beetle. These aren't terrible but there it a little too much of an element of soap opera for my liking. Plus, this is just not what you'd expect when the Ted Kord you are used to is the class clown of the Justice League.

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 8 out of 10 stars.

Superman 80-Page Giant #1

This 80-page Giant is very 1990s.

For one there's a story about a big Kryptonian brute named Scorn. He looks a lot Blue Devil but seems to have about 40 less IQ points. Now on the straight and narrow, Scorn is trying to fit into life in Metropolis as a hot dog vendor. It does not turn out well.

Then there's the Sixpack story by Garth Ennis. He's clearly a mentally ill man with alcoholism to boot. His story has him dreaming of becoming teammates with Superman. I just feel that in today's climate, this story would never fly. But in recent years DC has done at least 2 miniseries based on the character and friends. So what do I know?

My favorite story was the Mr. Mxyzptlk affair in which the Fifth dimensional imp take Lois and Clark on a genre filled ride through cable TV. I loved the parodies of The X-Files and kids cereal commercials. 

There's also a very charming story about an all-new character named Captain Tomorrow. He's a cartoon character in the Daily Planet's funny pages and for some reason, his life parallels that of Clark Kent. Has someone discovered Superman's secret identity? The ending was super heartwarming and classic DC!

For a Superman special, this one was pretty great. All-new stuff...no reprints! Yeah, it was a little dated. But I enjoyed it quite a bit. The only thing missing was an appearance by Bizarro!

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 8 out of 10 stars. 

The Three Stooges, Volume 1: Bed-Bugged!

In 2012, the Farrelly Brothers, directors of Dumb and Dumber, released a reboot of The Three Stooges. Starring Sean Hayes, Will Sasso, and Chris Diamantopoulos, the film was expected to be a smash hit. While the movie did bring in about $20 million more than it's production budget, based on expectations, the film was not a major success. (Oddly enough, a sequel is supposed to be in the works. But whether it will be a box office release or go straight to DVD is another matter.)

To cash in on the predicted buzz, Papercutz purchased the rights to not only create all-new Stooges comics, but the reproduction rights of the Dell Comics series from the 1960s. For the publisher, the move was a mixed bag of success. The Best of the Three Stooges Comics Books, Volumes 1 and 2 were critical hits. Fans who grew up watching the Stooges as kids and read the comics, snatched up these collections. They're actually pretty hard to find now. 

On the flip side, Papercutz released 2 volumes of new material to coincide with the Farrelly Brothers film. They didn't do as well as while the comics were marketed to kids, the film was a little too adult for them. As a result, these books have ended up at discount outlets over the years, which is where I found this book.

Bed-Bugged is filled with several short stories of the Stooges either taking on menial jobs and failing miserably or attempting to cash in on get rich schemes. Written by Jim Salicrup and George Gladir, these adventures include training to become sumo wrestlers, guarding a shopping mall from a horde of zombies, creating a haunted house in what very well may be a haunted house. Archie Comics legend Stan Goldberg illustrates all of these stories, such as the title story in which the Stooges are pest control workers. Also included as is a reprinted story from the 1960s written and illustrated by Norman Maurer, who coincidentally was married to Moe's real life daughter, Joan Howard.

The 1960s story was the best. Only instead of starring Larry, Moe, and Curly, this tale featured Shemp. By the time that story was published, Curly had passed away and Shemp was long gone. Instead, by this time new Stooges adventures were being created with someone named Curly Joe. Why wasn't he in this story instead of Shemp?

And why am I complaining? I love Shemp. My Yahoo! handle is a blotched tribute amalgam of my favorites Stooge's name and also my favorite bounty hunter. I guess it's just the comic book historian in me.

Normally with a book like this, the rating I give would not pursuade me to buy volume 2. But volume 2 is holiday themed and since I have a collection holiday comics, whether good or bad, the sequel is on my wish list. 

A okay read that is entertaining but not 100% my Stooges. Well, that last story is, at least.

Rating: 6 out of 10 stars.

Invader Zim #27 (Family Comic Friday)

Here we go with another Family Comic Friday. For today's post, I reviewed the latest issue of Invader Zim from Oni Press, issue #27. Based on the popular but short lived Nickelodeon cartoon series of the same name, this comic continues to follow tiny alien invader Zim as he attempts to conquer the world. Assisting him is his faithful but not very competent robot assistant GIR. 

In this issue, Zim wants to conquer the earth with an army of radioactive powered beavers. To do this, the would-be ruler of earth needs a rare element called Splodium-235. However, Zim's supply of Splodium has run out. It looks like Zim may have to scrap his plans. That is until he discovers that a large deposit of Splodium-235 rests underneath his secret lair. 

This will require Zim and GIR to burrow deep into earth's crust to obtain the ore. Unfortunately, the Splodium has already been discovered by another would-be alien conqueror named Xooxi!

Xooxi just happens to be a member of the Dooxisi race. Known as the most boring aliens in the universe, Zim must become friends with Xooxi if he hopes to obtain the much needed element for his radioactive beaver army. Facing a day filled with slide shows, awful board games, and dirt tea, let's just hope Zim doesn't die of boredom before this encounter is over. 

I'm going to be honest with you folks, I did not realize what I had selected. I thought this was Earthworm Jim. A huge fan of Doug TenNapel, my thoughts were that this comic was based on the superhero earthworm video game/cartoon series from the late 90s. This was an entertaining comic book. It just wasn't what I thought it was. 

I had to read this book twice because after the first reading, I was very disappointed that this book did have anything to do with Earthworm Jim. Plus on the last page two human characters pop up out of nowhere. Their very presence left me very perplexed as I felt that at first read, they had nothing to offer to the story. For someone totally unfamiliar with the Invader Zim franchise, it was a really mind-boggling twist. I thought for a couple of minutes that somebody accidentally printed the wrong last page. After a little research, I discovered my mistake about the new characters. So, I gave this issue another try. 

The two human characters are a boy and girl named Dib and his sister Gaz. Dib is an amateur paranormal investigator who constantly tries to prove that Zim really is an alien. Gaz, a true skeptic, often berates Dib when his theories don't pan out. Though Zim doesn't appear in the last page, Dib is once again made a fool for thinking aliens exist by his kid sister!

After that second read, I can say that this story by Eric Trueheart was very funny. There's a few fart jokes peppered throughout. Plus, Zim can get a little violent, but that level is about as serious as stuff you'd see in a Tom and Jerry cartoon. In other words, Zim might get hurt but by the next scene, he's dusted himself off nicely. 

The artwork by Maddie C. was pretty good. Again, not being familiar with the show, I don't quite know how Zim is supposed to look. With exception of a couple of pictures on Google, I couldn't tell you if that was Invader Zim or a Space Invader. But from what little I did see, Maddie C's work looked pretty accurate. 

If you are an established fan of Invader Zim, then I think you are in for a treat. Fans of UFO comedies like Men In Black and Marvin the Martian will enjoy this too. 

If the young reader in your life is unfamiliar with Invader Zim, now might be a good time to get them introduced to this series. Sometime later this year, Nicktoons will air an all-new TV movie produced by series creator Jhnoen Vasquez. Expected to feature all of the original voice cast, there is some speculation that if the movie is a success, a new series of Invader Zim might be in the works for 2019.

Invader Zim #27 was a funny story. It just wasn't the best starting point issue for new fans. But I think those who already know of and love the franchise will delight in this all-ages romp.

Issue #27 debuted in stores and digital platforms on January 24th.

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 8 out of 10 stars.

This review was published concurrently on outrightgeekery.com.

Troublemaker Book One

Comic Bento is a monthly subscription service for comic book collectors. It’s a lot like the Jelly of the Month Club. Only instead of a variety of jams to smear on your toast, you get several graphic novels to read. There’s theme-months, like Marvel Females or School Days. You can subscribe for one, three, or six months, as well as a year. You can enroll yourself or a friend could register you for a Bento as a gift.

Troublemaker by Janet Evanovich and Alex Evanovich was one such graphic novel I got from a Comic Bento my wife gave me. I’m not sure of the themes I got it from, but this was one of the books I unearthed. Saying that this one isn’t really in my wheelhouse is an understatement. I have never read a Janet Evanovich book before and until now, I don’t think I would have ever planned to.

This book was a graphic novel companion in Evanovich’s series of novels following the exploits of renegade mechanic Alex Barnaby and race car driver Sam Hooker. They solve crimes around the Miami area along with their giant St. Bernard, Beans.

In this opening chapter, a friend of Alex's named Rosa has been kidnapped. Normally, if Rosa disappears, it’s because she meet a guy and had a fling in Jamaica. But when someone tries to kill Alex and Sam, it’s pretty clear that this time Rosa is in real danger.

The investigation will take Alex and Sam to places best left unexplored: a retirement community full of NASCAR fans, the Everglades, and a nightclub where Sam’s newly cougarized mother is on the prowl. It's all part of the madcap fun that includes voodoo, strawberry milkshakes, and attempted murder.

The story ends on a semi-cliffhanger. There’s an acceptable ending but it also leads to a part two. I would like to get my hands on the further adventures and I am racking my brain as to where I thought I saw some of the books in this series. My local library perhaps?

This mystery was very funny with a sort of Moonlighting sexual tension between the two lead characters. There was some elements of Dexter mixed it what with this taking place in Miami. I wonder if the two were ever meet in a crossover- that would be awesome.

Great artwork by Lady Killer’s Joelle Jones. It was very clean and extremely expressive.

This is just another reason why I love grab bags or subscription services like Comic Bento (which act as a sort of grab bag.) The randomness of choice really opens me up to books and series that I otherwise would not have given a second glance at.

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 8 out of 10 stars.

Showcase Presents: Justice League of America, Volume 5

The black and white reprinted early exploits of the Justice League of America continue with a pair of team-ups with the Justice Society of Earth-2. 

The first involves an alien child and his pet who become separated from each other. There's a symbiotic bond between the two and their absences are causing the pair to become gigantic and destructive. The second adventure has the two teams asking the question 'Whatever happened to the Seven Soldiers of Victory?'

Both crossovers were extremely good. Other great stories involved The Shaggy Man infiltrating the Justice League's satellite base, three complete strangers saving the world unawares when the League cannot, and a Halloween yarn involving Len Wein, his wife Glynis and the despicable Felix Faust.

There was a fair share of stinkers in this book as well such the several episodes that hinted at a love affair between Batman and Black Canary. Also, there was one story that was just rotten. 

The cover of it (issue #89) promised that you, the reader, got to be a part of the story. I thought this was going to be like a Choose Your Own Adventure type affair. Instead, writer Michael Friedrich gets all metaphysical and philosophical ending the story personally explaining how when he writes a story he becomes the characters of the story. He makes allusions to someone named H.E., so I am wondering if he wrote this as some sort of personal challenge to writer (and eternal pain in the ass) Harlan Ellison. A lot of writers did that because Ellison liked to be a pompous jerk to everyone and anyone who thought they could write science fiction. 

The artwork is fairly decent. Lots of great covers by Neal Adams. Dick Dillin, Nick Cardy, and Mike Sekowsky do fair work that ranges from awesome to not quite dreadful. 

I love the Justice League of America and despite the flaws in this book, they are a delight to read and a fond throwback to my childhood.

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 7 out of 10 stars.

Essential Marvel Two-In-One, Volume 3

The team-up adventures of the Fantastic Four's Blue-Eyed Benjamin Grimm continue in the pages of Essential Marvel Two-In-One, Volume 3. 

This book begins with a massive story about The Thing becoming a security adviser at Project Pegasus. The Marvel equivalent of Project Cadmus, The Thing teams with a number of superheroes such as Quasar and Goliath as an odd assortment of villains try to break in and out of the research center.

After his tenure at Pegasus is complete, Grimm teams with an assortment of characters from the Marvel Universe including the Avengers, the Howling Commandos, and the original Guardians of the Galaxy. That last crossover will result in a strain in the relationship of the Thing and his gal pal Alicia Masters. Thus, the last third of the book gets a little sappy. 

Featuring Tom DeFalco, Chris Claremont, John Byrne, George Perez, and many more from the Marvel Bullpen, this was an great collection of issues from the late 70s rolling into the early 80s despite the corny lost love angle. Fans should really study the Claremont and Byrne issues as they highlight the gelling partnership between the duo that would most redefine the X-Men to become the most popular superhero group for a generation. 

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 8 out of 10 stars. 

DC Showcase Presents: The Spectre, Volume 1

This was a beautiful collection of stories starring one of the most mysterious and most powerful characters in the DC Universe. Originally a creation of Superman co-creator Jerry Seigel, the Spectre is the living embodiment of God's Angel of Vengeance. When police detective Jim Corrigan was brutally murdered, God has mercy on him, and gives Corrigan another chance as long as he willingly becomes the vessel for the Spectre to dwell.

Acting as 'The Voice', the Spectre eliminated evil doers in some pretty gruesome ways. That is until the coming of the Comics Code. At that point, the Spectre continued to battle evil, but he'd mellow out eventually, allowing Corrigan to take the baddies to prison instead of sending them straight to Hell.

It's those less violent stories that starts out this awesome collection. Basically neutered, the Spectre would star in a short-lived series helmed by Neal Adams (Batman Odyssey) that only lasted 10 issues. The character would then languish in lingo only appearing in the occasional Justice League of America or Brave and the Bold adventure. The Batman team-ups are reprinted in this collection, as are some Showcase Presents team-ups with Doctor Fate. (The JLA epics can be found in assorted volumes of their Showcase Presents collections.)

As rules on horror in comics was lessened in the 1970s, DC would attempt to reboot the Spectre in the pages of Adventure Comics. Written and illustrated by Michael Fleisher and Jim Aparo, these are some of my favorite horror comics DC have ever done and they were gory! One issue has a victim cut to pieces with a giant pair of scissors and another have a baddie sliced to literal ribbons at a lumber yard. 

Based on the time period, these new Spectre stories were highly controversial and several issues never saw print until later on in a special 1988 miniseries called Wraith of the Spectre. Thankfully, that's not the end of the Spectre as he would appear in several issues of another horror title called Ghosts.

 In these stories, the skeptic hunter Doctor Thirteen would try to prove that the Spectre was a hoax! But each time Jim Corrigan or the Spectre get the best of Thirteen. I wish that storyline went longer than it did because they were some of my favorite episodes in this collection.

I have a few of these stories in other issues already- especially Wraith of the Spectre and Brave and the Bold tales. But this collection was filled with over 300 pages of material that was all-new to me- plus it was an awesome gift from my wife! I loved the whole thing. 

One little quirk- this book is listed as Volume 1. It shouldn't be listed as anything of the sort. There never was (and unless DC un-cancels the Showcase Presents line), there never will be a second volume. I guess that means I'll just have to collect the further Spectre titles from 1990-on in single issue form. I'm okay with that...

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 9 out of 10 stars.

Hasbro Toy Box Quarterly #1 (Family Comic Friday)

Welcome to another edition of Family Comic Friday. For today's selection, I'm raiding the toy aisle for a comic based on a toy line beloved by both boys and girls!

Hasbro Toy Box is a new quarterly series of comics and stories from IDW Publishing. IDW has had great success with their My Little Pony titles over the years. So it makes sense that the publisher decided to make the magical horses the focus of the first issue. 

A number of stories focus on the characters of Princess Twilight, Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash. The ponies get into a number of adventures involving parties, the evil Changelings, and ice cream. Lots of ice cream! There's also a number of theories on how the pony wizard Starswirl got his wizarding hat. Plus, there's a couple of head-scratching shorts about the My Little Pony multiverse.

While My Little Pony is the focus of this 48-page giant collection, the point of this book is to highlight selections from the Hasbro line of toys. One story focuses on the Equestria Girls Think Bratz meet Clueless but with all of your favorite My Little Pony characters now turned into human schoolgirls. The other non-ponies tale was based on the Hanazuki line of tiny treasure toys. This story had the main character of Hanazuki fighting off a bunch of bunny-like creatures called Hemka, who have just stolen her ice cream bar!

Of the two non-pony stories, I liked the Equestria Girls adventure best. In fact, I think that was my favorite story of the entire book. The Hanazuki story was quite confusing and I didn't like that your had to go to Youtube to watch how the rest of that adventure played out. 

As for the rest of this comic, I had a couple of problems with it. First, none of the stories are original. If you already own an extensive number of My Little Pony comics, then the odds you have yet to read the material contained within this issue are greatly not in your favor. 

My second issue with this comic is mostly my problem. As am I am very unfamiliar with all of these properties, I didn't have a very good understanding of what was going on. I was quite confused. 

I did like the artwork. Being familiar with what My Little Pony figures look like, I thought artists like Tony Fleecs and Katie Cook did excellent jobs making the characters appear just like their plastic counterparts. Even Nico Pena's work on the Hanazuki story looked just like the cartoon on which readers are supposed to watch on Youtube.

I think if IDW Publishing is going to succeed with the Hasbro Toy Box Quarterly, then they've got to make a few changes. First of all, I am hoping that this series will rotate out to include other Hasbro toys like Glo Worm, GI Joe, Jem, and even Easy Bake Oven! But if they decide to focus mainly on My Little Pony, then IDW has got to make a choice: do they only use reprinted works and alienate the fervent MLP fan base? Or will IDW branch out and include some all-new material?

One thing is for sure, if IDW is trying to reach out to new readers, they're going to have to start including some blurbs that introduce the characters to the newcomers. To not do so, you'll have more readers like me on you hands- lost and confused... and not willing to give issue #2 much of a chance.

Hasbro Toy Box Quarterly #1 is recommended for readers of all-ages. It debuted in stores on December 27th, 2017. For digital readers, check out Kindle and Google Books!

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 7 out of 10 stars.

This review was published concurrently on Outrightgeekery.com.

Batman '66 Meets Steed and Mrs. Peel

60's camp meets 60's mod in this amazing crossover from DC Comics and Boom! Studios. 

The Dynamic Duo joins forces with the Original Avengers in this story that spans two countries. Filled with villains from both franchises, this was one of the best crossovers I've read in a while AND I read a bunch of crossovers and team-ups. It's one of my favorite categories of comics and this one does not disappoint!

Victorian Undead's Ian Edington did a whiz-bang job of capturing the quirks and mannerisms of all of the characters of both properties. Mrs. Peel, played by the alluring Diana Rigg, was always a little cheeky. But the way she plays Mrs. Robinson to Robin's Dustin Hoffman was a little uncomfortable. So, maybe Edington goes a bit too far there. But his idea to have Batman and Robin meet Steed and Peel almost immediately instead of waiting for a couple of issues was a smart move!

I was also digging the artwork. Doctor Who's Matthew Dow Smith took his form to the 60s in a brilliant way. His illustrations of Adam West, Julie Newmar, Patrick Macnee were so very spot on. 

As both TV shows this crossover was based on were set in the 60s, Pop Art was a rising art movement. During this time, Andy Warhol was famous for making silk-screened images of famous people. While I know that's not what Matthew Dow Smith did here, his realistic looking images look silk-screened. Very appropriate for a tale set in the 1960s!

Full of swinging 60s humor, action, and sex appeal- Batman '66 Meets Steed and Mrs. Peel was a great read that I didn't want to end!

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 9 out of 10 stars.

Yets!: Book 1

In a land like ours, but much more fanciful,  a curious chihuahua (okay, he's a mutt) and an adventuresome cavy (okay, he's really a muskrat) find a mysterious baby creature, they take it to their council of elders. There, they learn that they baby, named Yet by the chihuahua, is from a race of ancient creatures. Over time, these creatures retreated to the great tree positioned in the center of these magical lands. Taking upon themselves, the intrepid pup and rodent are going to take an airship to reunite Yet with his people. Just whatever you do, don't call the ancient ones dragons! Call them Yets!

The opening chapter of artist and writer Mike Bocianowski's 2003 series was a heartwarming tale. Full of adventure, laughs, and myth, Yets! is a series that I think had it  been published by a more well known Indy publisher, it would have been a beloved series amongst fans of works like Bone and Castle Waiting. I've never heard of publisher Airwave Comics and I think that's why this book is relatively an unknown entity. 

I got lucky finding this book (and it's two sister issues) in a bargain bin. And they were all autographed too! I can't wait to read the other two books. If they are half as fanciful and fun as this issue, I am in for a treat!

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 9 out of 10 stars.

Scooby-Doo Team-Up #30

A series of monster sightings have been popping up around the world as of late. On the scene is Mystery Inc and the Challengers of the Unknown, and Cave Carson, and the Sea Devils, and Rip Hunter, Time Master! The list goes on!!! Even after nearly 50 years the secret identity of the Secret Six's mysterious leader Mockingbird is finally revealed!

Featuring just about every great DC Comics adventure team from the 50s and 60s, this issue has it all! 

The only thing about this issue I hated was that it ended. It was such a nostalgic thrill ride of the Silver Age of (DC) Comics! I was reminded of all those cool comics of my dad's I used to read when I was little. I enjoyed this reunion so much that I wanted to be able to keep turning pages and continue to run into old friends.

Scooby-Doo Team-Up is at it's best when they focus on the characters of the DC Universe. This issue is no exception to that level of quality (and quantity of guests)! A fun read for youngsters... a trip down memory lane for established long-time fans!

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 9 out of 10 stars.

America’s 1st Patriotic Comic Book Hero: The Shield

Many think that Captain America is the first patriotic superhero ever created. I would be one of those people. However, MLJ, the company that would later become Archie Comics, actually beat Jack Kirby and Joe Simon to the punch by a couple of months with the premier of The Shield.

Created by Harry Shorten and Irv Novick, the Shield was FBI Agent Joe Higgins. As a youngster, his father and he worked on a chemical formula for super-strength. Nazi saboteurs interested in the formula caused an explosion, killing Joe’s father. But the accident imbued Joe with not only impressive strength, but bullet-proof skin and the ability to run and leap mightily.

With war with Germany looming, Higgins is recruited by J. Edgar Hoover to conduct clandestine missions against enemy agents seeking to harm the interests of the United States and it’s allies. To maintain his secret identity, Joe dons a red, white, and blue costume and becomes the Shield! Battling a series of dastardly foes, some with super-abilities such himself, as the adventures of the Shield progresses, he begins to take one not just spies but battleships, war planes, and much more.

Eerily, in one story, the Shield defends Pearl Harbor from an enemy Navy a good 6 months before the Japanese Navy’s attack on December 7^th! If only FDR had read this issue, would history have played out much differently with this bold prediction.

For 1940s comics, the stories were pretty good. At the time, artists got paid by the page and writers got paid by the word. So pre-1960s comics were very, very wordy. Sometimes to the point of be sensationalized. Regardless, the scripts, while quite antiquated and a little racist towards those of Asian descent, weren’t the worst structured stories I have read from this era. Plus, the way Shorten was able to identify where enemy forces were going to attack a pre-war America was quite prophetic.

The art- that’s a different story. I understand that due to the paid per page standards of the comic book industry at the time, artwork was often rushed and quite sloppy. But Novick’s superhero looks like he stuck arms, legs, and a tiny head to a giant shield. There’s an almost turtle-like effect going on and it’s quite silly looking.

For its historic significance, this was an very interesting read. The Shield got started in the pages of Pep Comics. He would reign as the featured character for a few years until a certain redheaded teenager named Archie Andrews would replace the Shield as the cover star in 1944! While the Shield would have a couple of revivals, the character never again achieved the level of stardom he had at the beginning of World War II. As a result, the Shield has become a sort of forgotten character in American pop culture. Thankfully, books like this, published by Overstreet (the same folks who also do the comic book price guide) will keep the impact and memory of the Shield alive for years to come.

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 7 out of 10 stars.

The Flash: The Secret of Barry Allen (Volume 6)

After an attempt on the life of his wife, Wally West made a deal with the Spectre to have his secret identity become secret again. The deal comes with a catch. It not only made everyone forget that Wally is the Flash. It also made him forget too! Thusly Keystone City is without a protector and that means it’s open season for the Rogues!

As Wally regains his memory, he must face the consequences of his actions. His wife has left him. The Justice League is weary of their mysterious ally. In addition, Wally must learn to have faith in himself as his brings his city back under control.

Meanwhile, the events of Identity Crisis is unravelling in the DC Universe. Sue Dibny has been murdered and the terrible role Wally’s Uncle, Barry Allen played in the punishment of Doctor Light has been revealed to both the superhero and criminal communities. Can Wally continue to operate as the Scarlet Speedster knowing that his idol was flawed? Moreover, how will West be able to rectify his image considering how his deal with the Spectre has tarnished his own image as well?

I’m a huge fan of the Flash. However, it’s the Barry Allen Flash that I am so devoted to. I do not hate Wally west. It’s just that I grew up reading the classic Barry Allen Flash tales and that’s the one I am fond of. So when I found a trade that united both the Allen and West Flashes together,, I thought this to be a good starting point to determine if I want to get into the Wally West years or not.

Geoff Johns wrote this book. The man is a freakin’ beast when it comes to writing anything DC. (Okay, has he written for any other company?) With that being said, I knew that I would be in good hands diving into the West era. I was not wrong either. Johns crafts two very compelling storylines while blending the action in seamlessly with the events of Brad Meltzer’s Identity Crisis.

Artwork duties were executed by Justice League 3000’s Howard Porter. His style was pretty decent and the way he renders a Speedster on print media was adequate enough to make me feel like the Flash and other characters were animated on the static two-dimensional page. One thing I felt was off was Porter’s drawing of the Flash’s feet. Compared to the hero’s stick legs and very narrow hips, the feet look ginormous! Plus a little goofy.

I loved the covers by Michael Turner. He’s like the Tupac of the comic book world publishing works almost a decade after his untimely passing. However, The Secret of Barry Allen was from 2004-05, so that’s not the case here. Nevertheless, his covers are amazing!

I was really impressed with this trade. I think if I ever come across further volumes, I will definitely consider them- for the right price. But right now, it’s completing a run on the Barry Allen Flash books that’s my main priority. Once I complete that search, who knows? Maybe a run of Wally West tales is next?

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 8 out of 10 stars.

Brave Chef Brianna (Family Comic Friday)

Written by Sam Sykes
Art by Selina Espiritu
Covers by Bridget Underwood
Published by Kaboom!

Welcome to the first Family Comic Friday of 2018!

For this week, I choose a title that's subject matter is very near and dear to me. When I am not writing for my blog, I am a professional chef and culinary instructor. So, I choose a title from the expanding genre of culinary themed comics and graphic novels for my initial entry in the new year.

The title I selected for this week is called Brave Chef Brianna. Published by KaBoom! Studios, this book is the story of Brianna. She is the only daughter among fifteen older brothers born of a world famous chef. The chef poses a challenge to his children: create the most profitable eatery within the next two years and the winner will inherit dad's culinary empire.

Brianna chooses to open shop in Monster City. However, the residents of the town don't take very well to humans. Plus, the city officials have made it illegal for monsters to eat human food. It all looks like Brianna's plan is doomed to fail. That is until a small group of monsters sample her forbidden cuisine and become hooked!

Now Brianna owns the hottest eatery in town! Can she continue to operate in secret defiance to Monster City's strict anti-human cuisine rules? Or will she find herself in hot water with those who wish to impose the old ways of eating?

This 4-issue series by Sam Sykes (Munchkin) is perhaps the most accurate representation of the restaurant industry I have ever come across in comics. Brianna has to endure many real life scenarios that a restaurateur would when opening an cafe. Finding the right location, dealing with rude customers, broken equipment, and staff shortages are all things I deal with on a daily basis as a chef.

Even Brianna's struggles to present human food to the monster population has real world implications. Chefs often must struggle to craft menus that appeal to a wide variety of guests. Navigating Halal and Kosher dietary laws as well as providing vegan/vegetarian grub and protecting diners with food allergies are all barriers to food a chef owner must face. To neglect those needs could result in you business getting shut down or hit with a lawsuit.

While I've built food businesses up from the ground floor, I have also dealt with my fair share of monster customers. They just don't happen to be real monsters like the giants, ghouls, and eclectic clientele that eat at Brianna's. Nor are they are rude as mine have been. Newcomer Selina Espiritu does an amazing job rendering the assortment of residents that dwell in Monster City. Her plate diagramming could use some work however. But her illustrations of the cityscapes is quite stunning. I was equally impressed with Bridget Underwood's covers.

This 2017 series was originally released as 4 individual issues. Recently in December, the title was released as a trade paperback. If your local comic book shop is kid friendly, you probably could find Brianna in either format. You can also check out big box stores like Barnes and Noble and Amazon. If you like your comics to be digital, Brave Chef Brianna is also available on Comixology.

This book has a definite ending. But I really hope this isn't the end to the adventures of Brianna and friends. This series combines both comics and culinary- two great passions of mine. Plus, it's interactive as each issue contains a recipe based on a dish found in the story. Aspiring chefs (along with a helpful adult) can create some really yummy dishes. Thus, not only is Brave Chef Brianna a fun read, it's educational without feeling like going to school.

In my book, anything that turns kids on to reading as well as cooking is the best thing since sliced bread. To not continue the story of Brave Chef Brianna in another volume would be a crime. But the story will not continue if you don't buy this book. Pick up a copy today. You and the young reader in your life will have a really exciting read and maybe even get inspiration for your next dinner party play date.

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 8 out of 10 stars.

C Montgomery Burns' Handbook of World Domination

Have you ever found yourself wondering how to command the business world to the point of total earthly dominance? Unless you work for Congress, you probably don't have a framework how to get started in your quest for power. That is until now!

The C Montgomery Burns' Handbook of World Domination is your textbook to becoming a titan of industry, a sultan of international affairs, and potentially a member of a shady secret society that controls everything from behind closed doors!

This book will teach you how to dress for success, arm your business office from intruding regulatory agents and annoying employees seeking raises, how to train a lackey, and much, much more. 

From the Vault of Simpsonology line of books (a more interactive offshoot of the Simpsons Library of Wisdom), this one was a hoot. A very uncomfortable hoot, but a laugh nonetheless. I think it would have been funnier if without the current political climate. Yet, some of the gags, a couple of which involve Donald Trump, are eerily close to real life now. 

Here's the really scary thing: this book was written in 2014! Yet, with very creepy perfection, a bunch of jokes about world dominance having wrung true in the past 24 months in American politics. It's like Simpsons creator Matt Groening is a comedic genius with the power of clairvoyance. And unlike most psychics, Groening is right an alarming amount of the time. 

Please don't think that my review nor this book is intended to bash President Trump. It's just that this manual, while written as a gag, hits very close to the headlines, what with the Monty Burns School of Business (Trump University) and selections from Mr. Burns' reccomended reading list read like the current administration's take on finance, ecology, and net neutrality. 

If you have an Ollie's Discount Outlet nearby, this book can be found for less than $4. If you are a Simpsons fan, you are going to love this book. But if you are a fan of conspiracy theories, then this book just might become the newest one to keep you up at night.

Worth Consuming!

Rating: 8 out of 10 stars.

Archer & Armstrong, Volume 1: The Michelangelo Code

One is an ancient immortal warrior who has seen it all, done it all, and has the dad bod to prove it.

One is an enhanced teenage fighting machine, bred and trained for the sole purpose of completing the mission: Destroy Armstrong!

When the two meet, they uncover a global conspiracy as old as Armstrong himself. This Illuminati known as the 1% is seeking to find the super weapon that gave Armstrong his powers and immortality. Hoping to keep the parts of the device from being found, Archer joins Armstrong on a nationwide trek from the States to the Vatican all the way to the Himalayas for the final battle. This unlikely team is all that stands in the way of total world domination! God help us all...

I had first become interested in this series from my readings of the first volume of Faith. Archer is kinda her long-distance boyfriend and I really dug the character when he would occasionally pop up in the book. Honestly. his parts were my favorite ones of Faith. 

Over time, I've been reading a few new Valiant books and been really impressed with what I read. Finding myself very happy with this publisher, I wanted to venture out and find some Archer & Armstrong, with a good starting point and the right price. Yet, my searches were in vain. 

Then a couple of months ago, I was working at the NCComicon where Valiant happened to have a booth. They had a 5 volumes for $30 bucks sale and Archer & Armstrong Volume 1 happened to be one of those books. So, I knew that was a deal that I just could not pass up. 

Fred Van Lente's (Alpha Flight) new take on the classic 'buddy cop' duo was extremely entertaining. So much that I have the remaining issues/ volumes on my wish list now! This was like a mash up of Lethal Weapon and National Treasure. A real thrill ride that I really would like to see as a movie. 

I was okay with the art by Uncanny X-Men's Clayton Henry. It was good but I'm not really a big fan of thin inks. I'm an old soul and I love those thick golden and silver age ink lines. 

Speaking of classic comics, I know that the original series of Archer & Armstrong wasn't from those classic comic eras. But I am really interested in getting my hands on those as well and comparing them to this series. Plus, I have the first volume of The Adventures of Archer & Armstrong and very soon I am going to give that book a gander as well.

Worth Consuming! 

Rating: 9 out of 10 stars.