What I’m Reading Now: Barry Ween Boy Genius… Related to Dean or Gene?

The Adventures of Barry Ween: Boy Genius

Written By: Judd Winick

Art By: Judd Winick

This is more of a nostalgic post. When I was getting into comics, I stuck close to familiar titles: basically anything from the big two. Superman, Batman and X-Men were the titles that were frequent on my pull and hold list. One of the first titles that strayed from the comfortable was The Adventures of Barry Ween: Boy Genius. This was a title that really showed me that companies such as Oni-Press and other companies had a lot to offer. This book also made me a life long fan of Judd Winick – his words and his art. Barry Ween was very early in Judd Winick’s comic career. The title explains to overall plot of the story. Barry Ween, very much in the fashion of Dexter from Dexter’s Laboratory, is a boy genius whose inventions often cause him to get into trouble. Winick interweaves adventure and comedy to create a comic that should be on every serious comic reader’s shelf. Garth Ennis has this to say about this series:

“Barry Ween is Calvin & Hobbes on PCP with a copy of Mein Kampf thrown into the mix. Barry will take comics by storm and tomorrow the world!”

See! Look at that. Calvin & Hobbes, Drugs and Nazis… what else do you what? Winick’s website has talked about a return to Barry Ween in 2010 but for now we have four great books of action, adventure and comedy. Last Wednesday, Oni-Press released The Big Book of Barry Ween: Boy Genius, which collects all four books and every panel of Barry Ween ever written. I think that’s enough said.


There's Winick drawing Barry Ween himself*

What I’m Reading Now: Furry Creatures + Swords = Adorably Badass

Mice Templar

Written By: Bryan J.L. Glass

Art By: Michael Avon Oeming

When you think of mice and rats, what comes to mind? Laboratories? Cheese? A kung-fu master and leader of the ninja turtles? Well prepare to think again. Michael Avon Oeming & Bryan J.L. Glass takes you to the world of Mice Templar. In Cricket’s Glen, a future hero is born. His name is Karic and he has a great destiny laid before him. Mice and rats are at war; the time of the templar is long since past, and mice begin to falter in their faith to Wotan, god of the templar. In the first six issues of this series, Oeming and Glass envelope us in this new world and give us an in depth look at these characters. The journey of Karic is an epic one, using reminiscent virtues from Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey to J. R. R. Tolkein’s Lord of the Rings. Oeming and Glass bring virtues fantasy together and also describing a compelling and action packed story. Oeming, a veteran in the comic medium, offers great pencils to this book and enhances the action and plot. This story was recently collected into an excellent hardcover collection and just in time for the release of Mice Templar: Destiny #1 in the coming months. After reading this and you are yearning for more furry adventures, another great title is David Petersen’s Mouse Guard. Both these titles give a whole knew spin about what people think about mice. When you think of mice and rats, what comes to mind? The correct answer is badasses.


Check out more online yo! http://www.hiddenrobot.com/MICETEMPLAR/

What I’m Reading Now: The Big Ole Book Of Violence

The Punisher Omnibus

Written By: Garth Ennis

Art By: Steve Dillon, Darick Robertson, Tom Mandrake, Cam Kennedy, John McCrea, Joe Quesada, Doug Braithwaite


“And get a haircut.” These four words were the beginning of what would be an eight-year run for Garth Ennis on The Punisher. My relationship with Punisher begins with The Punisher MAX series issue #37, part 1 of the “Man of Stone” story arc. I followed Ennis’ run all the way until his unfortunate departure in 2008 with “Valley Forge, Valley Forge.” The first time I saw Punisher in his original costume was in 2008 with Garth Ennis and Steve Dillon’s Punisher: War Zone - a six issue mini-series concluding Ennis and Dillon’s 46 (ish) issue Marvel Knights series (including “Welcome Back Frank”). Now I know that reading the last six issues of a series doesn’t make a whole lot of sense and believe me, it didn’t. I had no idea who the characters were (besides Frank obviously) and what was going on. It was a well-crafted story and enjoyable but I wish I had some background information. Several months ago, I saw that a Punisher Omnibus, collecting all of Garth Ennis’ Marvel Knights (#1-12, #1-7, #13-37, and Punisher Kills the Marvel Universe). Recently, I was able to require this big book of violence in all its 10 lbs glory (yea, I weighted it. Wanna fight about it?) Don’t worry though, it doesn’t put your leg to sleep while you read it. This series so far has everything I want: violence, comedy, and Frank Castle. The experience is kind of like watching Star Wars Episode 4-6 and then discovering how Darth Vader came to be. This creative team is meant to work together and their work, including Preacher, is some of the best in comics. The omnibus contains 56 issues and will set you back about 100 bones. But think about it, 56 issues for 100 dollars? I say yes. It’s a fast, fun, and entertaining read and is worth every penny. Plus the books sheer size could do some punishing itself. So relive Ennis’ epic Punisher run or read it for the first time, either way, THERE WILL BE BLOOD!!


There's the man himself, Garth Ennis!

What I’m Reading Now: Samurais + Sci-Fi = Yes Please!

Ronin

Written and Drawn: Frank Miller

Painted By: Lynn Varley

There are many things I love. As you all know, I love comics. As some of you know, I love sci-fi. And news flash, coming down the wire, I love Ronin. Written and drawn by Frank Miller and painted by Lynn Varley, Ronin is a truly unique comic experience. Created in 1983 under DC publishing house, Ronin hit the shelves in the form of a six-issue miniseries. This was a stepping-stone in Miller’s career marking his first creator-owned title; approximately 8 years before Miller’s claim to fame Sin City title. Ronin is story about a master-less samurai who now travels the world searching for the demon that slain his mentor. Sounds like a pretty complete story right? Well, that happens in the first ten pages. After that, Miller kicks the story in high gear and we are thrust into a dystopian future. The reader, as well as the Ronin, becomes immersed in a world much unlike our own. I know what you’re thinking: Is this Samurai Jack? Well first off… he’s a RONIN (totally different)!! And secondly, Ronin came first… sooooo there.

If there are any fans of the much-missed Samurai Jack, Ronin is a godsend. Jack and Ronin share many of the same themes and is ultimately a contest between the forces of good and evil. Miller’s art is also stunning. At first, it took a while to get used to and it my first gut reaction was not to like it. But after reading more, the art really began to mold with the story and Miller does a great job of mimicking the manga (Japanese comics… though you probably already knew that) style. He also mimics manga in his narrative style as well. This provides one of the most unique and stylized comics still on the shelves. My philosophy is go big or go home so I have the very sexy absolute edition which has fold out pages……. O maybe you didn’t hear me. FOLD OUT PAGES!!!!!! So if you like samurais, demons, ronins, blood swords, hot chicks, awesome cartoons, Frank Miller, life, or comics...well, I think you know what you should do. Tachi!

What I’m Reading Now: Who Watches The Watchmen?

“Dog carcass in alley this morning, tired tread on burst stomach. This city is afraid of me. I have seen its true face.” Ah, yes. A light-hearted line that only Alan Moore can deliver. I sit typing this article only four hours from the Watchman midnight premiere. If you are reading comic blogs and subscribe to our podcast then chances are that you have already had the chance to read this amazing twelve issue limited series. Written in 1986, Moore and Gibbons really thrust us in a world filled with nuclear fear and slow decay of society. The U.S. is protected by a society of superheroes inspired by comic book until Dr. Manhattan, a true super powered being, emerges. With this comic, Moore and Gibbons push the potential of what a superhero comic could be. It created genres that artists have been exploring since. Watchmen represents a crucial moment in comic history - as crucial as the creation of Superman and Batman. Upon hearing there was going to be a film adaptation to this already amazing piece of work, I was skeptical. Upon further consideration, I believe that any director gutsy enough to take on such a challenge deserves my attention as well as my seven dollars. Also, Rorschach is one of my favorite comic book characters and I am excited to see how he will transpose on the big screen. The cast of this movie is relatively unknown cast, which will be interesting to see how they work together to present one of the greatest works of comic fiction. Tonight represents an giant leap for comic kind and all comic lovers should go out and support the Watchmen movie. Friday night the ComicDorks will be at Chesterfield 14 to help usher in the Watchmen opening weekend. We hope to see you out in numbers supporting what you love most. The Dorks will also be traveling to Joplin to attend Hurly Con. If you’re in the area, you should also stop by and meet some great comic creators from the heartland. It's a weekend of comics so get involved!

What I’m Reading Now: Some Days I Wish I Was Cap’n Clet :(

Wheeeeew! Ah yeah… Bitches, what is up… Bitches? So like I’m taking a break from my rush duties to let you know what I’ve been reading. I tell you what, rushing a frat is hard work but totally worth it. You see I’ve been rushing a chapter of Masta Beta Alota and one day I will sit in the middle… if dreams do come true. Anyway, I have read some really cool stuff lately. Yes, comics. Though, I have been reading a lot of ruskie lit because that’s what college kids do to be cool… Wheeeeew! HELL YEAH!

A really cool run I have read recently was Mark Waid and Butch Guice’s team-up on a book called Ruse. Like my future self, Cap’n Clet, I am a huge fan of Detective stories which made this title perfect for me. Set in the interesting city of Partington their was a fella by the name of Simon Archard. He is the kind of guy you want on your side despite the fact he is brillant and knows it. (Simon is based on Sherlock.) Of course, behind every shitty man is a lady. In this case, the most astonishingly beautiful dame to every grace the pages of any book anywhere. The dame’s name is Emma Bishop. I can’t say that I saw an indication of what years this story takes place in, but I will say it was long enough ago. Defenitly, a time when people dressed properly. You know, when seeing an ankle was sexy as hell. Sometimes I wish I could see an ankle. I mean, I bet Cap’n Clet has seen a gagillion ankles… Someday I suppose?

The detective duo of Simon and Emma is perfect. He’s a dick and she is absolutely lovely, magical even. Now, Simon may be a master detective but Emma is not far behind. Not to mention, she pretty mush does all the hard work, while wearing the most amazing dresses. Nice to know chilvery is not dead. Beyond Emma and Simon this book contained a wonderful cast which included a pugalist. Yep, a goddamned pugalist. But the greatness in the cast does not end there. Another charming aspect of Ruse is that all these stories contained plays on historical events and folks. Ruse is an excellent read for anyone who enjoys mysteries written well with fitting humor to compliment the characters. Waid wrote Ruse from issue #1 thru issue #11 and co-wrote issue #12 with Scott Beatty, who happens to be a great writer in his own right. I guess that’s why he wrap up the run of Ruse. Guice provided art on all but two issues of his run with Waid. He also stuck around to wrap up this book with Beatty. And holy shit, his art is fucking fantastic. Sursly, the very definition of beauty. The other two issues were done by Jeff Johnson, with the other issue done by Paul Ryan. CrossGen really did something great by putting a book like Ruse out. Look out for the Ruse Omnibus it is a beaut! It is a must have for any lover of detective stories. Partington is a crazy little town with crazy little men with crazy little schemes. And they would have gotten away with them too, if it wasn’t for a pesky bastard and his dead sexy partner.

While I’m on the idea of ruse, I have an idea for a ruse. You see the quote of the week is always so awesome and I want to be awesome too. So I have prepared my own quote of the week. Ready… Set… Go!

Things that sould never be said on a first date:

1.“You know what’s been bugging me? Your hair.”

2.“Stifle it, bitch!”

3.“I had to shoot my baby girl in the face.”

4.“Whatever… Fuck her…”

**and the best quote in the history of quotes:
“Why are the pink lizards so nice but the blue ones don't let them play basketball in the clouds”

So what do you guys think will I ever be as awesome as Cap’n Clet?
-Maybe Someday Cap’n Dayron

What I’m Reading Now: A Book That is Both Powerful and Super

Project: Superpowers

Written By: Alex Ross & Jim Krueger

Art By: Carlos Paul

We say a lot of shocking and weird things on the ComicDorksCast. Perhaps long time listeners will agree my colleague, Cletus Whiteheart, says the craziest shit of all. Some inappropriate and some hilarious but one book he has been preaching about since its conception is a book entitled Project Superpowers and all of Rob’s praise is well deserved. (**Now this book has been mentioned recently and also has an article written about it so I will keep this brief**) Project Superpowers, only an eight issue series (nine if you include the ½ issue), is a story ultimately about the redemption of an old golden age superhero, the fighting yank. Written by Alex Ross & Jim Krueger with art by Carlos Paul, Project Superpowers was a pleasant surprise. Not only does Ross and Krueger return to long forgotten golden age characters but also successfully creates a unique personality for each and provides an excellent story mixing both history and magic into one. After zero issue (art by Alex Ross) I didn’t think that the art could stand a chance in the actual series but Carlos Paul does an amazing job creating this new world and making it believable. All this praise aside, there was a few times where I called superpower bullshit on some of the characters. Where their powers seemed too convenient for the situation at hand. But overall, this is a compelling and unique story, which rivals Ross’ previous works, including Kingdom Come. So let’s give Cletus Whiteheart a hand for actually knowing what he’s talking about when it comes to comics…. hopefully he’ll read Bone now…hopefully. Enjoy!

What I’m Reading Now: A Bit of Southern Lit.

Flannery O'Connor: The Complete Stories

It’s that time again to take a little break from the world of comics and dive into the world of literature, more specifically, Southern literature. Last semester, I took a course that was brief overview of American literature. In this class, I had the opportunity to read the works writers such as Thomas Paine, Edgar Allen Poe, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Booker T. Washington, Jack London, Eugene O’Neill, Tennessee Williams, John Steinbeck, Jack Kerouac, and even Ishmael Reed. Some of these names I am sure you are familiar with and perhaps some you are seeing for the first time. But the most profound, beautiful, and moving piece of literature was written by a young, female, Georgia born writer, Flannery O’Connor (also know to myself as Flo’con) and was entitled, “A Good Man is Hard to Find.” This simple, 16-page short story showed me the power the words can truly have and how important and moving short stories are to the literary world. Not only did this story open up my eyes to O’Connor’s works put also to all of Southern literature such as William Faulkner, Tennessee Williams, and Harper Lee. Southern literature is absolutely rich in heritage and offers great scenes and setting and a variety of complex characters for these short stories and novels. Upon reading O’Connor’s work, I decided to read the rest of her writings. A great publication of her work can be found at any local bookstore and is entitled Flannery O’Connor: The Complete Stories. The back cover solicit reads as follows:

"The publication of this extraordinary volume firmly established Flannery O’Connor’s monumental contribution to American fiction. There are thirty-one stories here in all, including twelve that do not appear in the only two short story collections O’Connor put together in her short lifetime – Everything That Rises Must Converge and A Good Man Is Hard to Find. O’Connor published her first story, “The Germanium,” in 1946 while she was working on her master’s degree at the University of Iowa. This book, which is arranged chronologically, shows that her last story, “Judgment Day,” sent to her publisher shortly before her death, is a brilliantly rewritten and transfigured version of “The Germanium.” Taken together, these reveal an amazingly live, imaginative, and penetrating talent that has given us some of the most powerful and disturbing fiction writing this century. Also included is an introduction and memoir by O’Connor’s long-time editor, Robert Giroux. What we lost when she died is bitter. What we have is astonishing; the stories burn brighter than ever, and strike deeper."
- Walter Clemons, Newsweek

As seen above, O’Connor has the amazing ability to inspire emotions in response to her characters and subject matter and is a fantastic writer and artist. She died on August 3, 1964, at the age of 39, of complications from lupus at Baldwin County Hospital and was buried in Milledgeville, Georgia, at Memory Hill Cemetery. And as the book explains, “When she died at the age of thirty-nine, America lost one of its most gifted writers at the height of her powers.”

What I’m Reading Now: Simply Astounding

Astounding Wolf-Man
Written By: Robert Kirkman
Art By: Jason Howard

He shocked us in the pages of the survival story The Walking Dead. He won our hearts over to his superhero family in Invincible. And he had us laughing in the books Ant-Man and Battle Pope. So the next logical step in Kirkman’s career is werewolves, right? In 2007, Kirkman agreed. On May 5th 2007, Robert Kirkman along with talented artist Jason Howard set out to tell the story of Gary Hampton, The Astounding Wolf-Man. The story starts at an alarmingly fast pace. The first page opens up to Gary already attacked by a werewolf of unknown origins. One of the many critiques I hear about this book is how fast-paced the story is. Within the first issue, the origin story is almost completely solidified. There are multiple gaps of time missing in which Gary is busy training with his new teacher Zechariah, who is able to understand Gary’s “curse”. I sympathize with these critiques because I would love to see further description of the relationships between Zechariah, Gary, and the rest of his family as well as to really understand the characters as was so well portrayed in books such as The Walking Dead and Invincible. But in Kirkman’s defense, Astounding Wolf-Man is a different story and a different experience from Kirkman’s previous titles. While Kirkman, in previous works, deals heavily with the human experience and story telling through emotion, this title tells the story through the actions of the characters that makes this story heavily action based. This type of story telling leads for a book to be faster paced than other comics. Another great strength of Kirkman’s that has developed through the years is the Image universe. It helps Kirkman to “sell” his other books and also rewards faithful readers by featuring cameos of characters from other titles such as the costume maker and references to Invincible (see issue 9*). Astounding Wolf-man #11 was also a cross over issue with his highly acclaimed series, Invincible. This interconnected story telling provides the reader a real, tangible universe to travel to and also gives the book a great base. Writing aside, Jason Howard does an excellent job with pencils on this book and offers a unique look to this comic much as do Charlie Adlard and Ryan Ottley to there respective titles. Kirkman and Image Comics is slowly creating a universe that is both dense and astounding.

What I’m Reading Now: Azzarello’s Joker = Scary as Hell

Joker
Written By: Brian Azzarello
Art By: Lee Bermejo

So, yea…. Still watchin' Batman a lot. And I decided this time that maybe some supplemental film reading was in order. Last Month, DC Comics released Joker HC. Written By Brian Azzarello (100 Bullets, Loveless) and Lee Bermejo (Lex Luthor: Man of Steel), Joker is an original graphic novel that reflects the realistic and gritty Gotham as depicted in the Christopher Nolan films. But wait just a second, in several interviews the creative team of Azzarello & Bermejo, stated that their concept for Joker was actually developed before the original screen shots of Heath Ledger’s Joker. So they ain’t no posers (double negative!). One of the great aspects of this story is that it is from the prospective of one of Joker’s henchmen, Johnny Frost. Frost is a tough character to categorize. At first he is a sympathetic character, and by the end you are screaming at the pages at him for being apart of a group that ultimately ends six feet under. Through Frost’s eyes, we see Gotham’s underworld and the criminal masterminds that reside within. In the beginning of the story, Joker is released from Arkham and wages bloody warfare to regain his influence and territory. And I know what your thinking, “If it’s an OGN I don’t have to do any back reading”…. WRONG! LEX LUTHOR: MAN OF STEEL, LEX LUTHOR: MAN OF STEEL, LEX LUTHOR: MAN OF STEEL. So yea…read it. Lex Luthor: Man of Steel was a five issue miniseries created in 2005 by the same creative team. This story made me the Lex Luthor fan I am today. It is a great story that makes you root for the wrong side. Throughout Joker, I was constantly reminded of that great story and should definitely be read before Joker. The two don’t necessarily relate to each other but it has the same tone and realness that makes Joker so unique. If you know anyone who likes the film The Dark Knight, this book is right up his or her alley (and x-mas is coming up **wink**). So dive into the twisted, demented world of the Joker and see a psychopath at work!

What I’m Reading Now: The Golden Age of Green Lantern

Green Lantern: Rebirth
Written By: Geoff Johns
Art By: Ethan Van Sciver

In the midst of me watching The Dark Knight several times within a couple days, I decided that it might be a good idea to do some reading. I gave Batman a rest and entered the world of another great DC character, Green Lantern. Throughout my personal comic history, Green Lantern has been one of those characters that I never really cared for. But with all the hype surrounding Geoff Johns’ “Blackest Night” story, I figured now was a better time than any to begin. I started off with a six-issue miniseries called Green Lantern: Rebirth. Written by Geoff Johns with art by Ethan Van Sciver, Green Lantern: Rebirth series is about the return of the greatest Green Lantern throughout the 3600 space sectors – Hal Jordan. These six issues are some of the best superhero reading I have ever experienced. I never knew that Green Lantern was such an enjoyable character. Upon beginning, I did some research to discover the story of Hal Jordan and why Jordan was currently housing the spirit of vengeance. In 1994, DC decided to do away with Hal Jordan, which took place within the pages of Zero Hour. A decade later, Hal Jordan was scheduled to return and at the helm would be up and coming writer – Geoff Johns. These six issues are a pivotal point in the history to the Green Lantern Corp. and the to the lanterns of space sector 2814. Green Lantern: Rebirth is one of the greatest DC stories to hit the shelves within the last decade. It is a great story and is becoming increasingly important with the current DCU. Van Sciver also draws beautifully throughout this book and draws some absolutely stunning pages. It is also a interesting time to read this story because this creative team is also going to write the upcoming Flash: Rebirth series… the coming of Barry Allen. It’s an exciting time to be reading stories like this that will resonate throughout the DCU for years to come.

What I’m Reading Now: A Chance Encounter

Leave It To Chance
Written By: James Robinson
Art By: Paul Smith

Thanksgiving break was good to me. Got to eat a lot, sleep a lot, and most importantly, read a lot. On Wednesday, I traveled out to the Fantasy Shop in South County to see our dear co-host’s new digs. I must say it is pretty fancy. I took this time catch up on some titles such as Fear Agent and read some new titles such as Umbrella Academy (as mention in episode 43 LISTEN!!) and Elephantmen. But there was one title in particular that I was excited to read about and that was Leave It To Chance. Written by James Robinson, art by Paul Smith, and published by Image Comics, Leave It To Chance is an enchanting tale about Chance Falconer, the sole heir to the Falconer name, and her journey of proving herself to her father and others that she is to be the next Falconer, the protector of Devil’s Echo. After finishing Starman and becoming completely enthralled in James Robinson’s Superman run, I became interested in all things James Robinson. And this title by no means disappoints. Leave It To Chance is a great fantasy tale that is really accessible to people of all ages. This comic’s supporting characters are also great including a DRAGON… awesome. Though I am not the biggest Paul Smith fan, his art is definitely at home in this series. His bold figures and simple colors and panels offer the book a unique look, which ultimately enhances the experience. James Robinson also shows why his comics are so great to read. He makes the characters seem very real and allow the audience to connect to the characters and the actions taking place throughout the comic. The series was published irregularly from 1996 to 1999 creating a 12 issue story. In 2002, Image published issue 13 which appeared to start a new story but due to low sales the book was halted there after. Leave It To Chance is a great story that should beloved and cherished by all comic enthusiasts. So sit back, relax, and Leave It To Chance.

What I’s Reading Now (A True Story)

Hey everybody how are you? Happy turkey day! I hope it was a lovely day for all of you. My day has been absolutely precious I tell you… absolutely precious. So I bet you guys are looking for the inside scoop on what I have been reading. Well I have been knee deep in romance novels; the ones with the Fabio painted covers. He always looks so fabulous and rugged all at the same time. Yummy! But the best thing I’ve read recently happens to be a bathroom stall. So there I am making brown on the pooper. Dancing really moves my bowels. I actually have a move called the Bowel. People love it. Anyways there I am hovering over the toilet seat and thought hey I will look around a bit. You will never guess what I saw. Pure golden wisdom lay upon that wall. People sat here broken-hearted cause they came to shit but only farted. That hit me hard and I got sad. I saw the writings of angry people keeping us aware that certain things suck and we are being lied to, people letting us know what bands rule, people looking for a good time even left their numbers (some even told you exactly what to expect when you called), and some strange alien scribes (maybe gang words or tags but I’m sticking with aliens) were present in this stall. I said to myself, “wow what a great community a bathroom can be” and everyone seemed so nice taboot. Just as I was about to exit the stall I spied an interesting thing. It was a hole. What could this be for I thought to myself. Maybe its so you can pass TP to some one who ran out. That is so awesome… nay… that is glorious! They should call that a glory hole or something. My point in all this is next time you are in a public pooper take a look around. If you like what you see leave your number, if you want. This guy named Captain Cletus is everywhere. Since I’ve been awakened to this new type of writing I have seen is name in every single bathroom stall I have visited. Out of state even. I jotted his number down but always forget to call. My life has been so much better since I discovered Stall Lit, I’ve met lots of new people and have done things I never thought I would ever do. Anywho, that’s it for now bye- bye and toodleloos. Gobble… Gobble
- Dayron

(This is one of the many bits of wisdom that has changed my life and that's the mysterious hole.)

In Memoriam: Fairview Heights, I Barely Knew Ye

Summer is a great invention. No school. No responsibilities. Just me and comics. Periodically throughout Summer 2008, I would visit Scott’s former comic store in Fairview Heights (R.I.P.) and spend a whole day just catching up on comic series. I began Fables there, read Batman: Year One there for the first time, and read Fear Agent and a lot of other great titles. Located 1937 West Highway 50, the Fairview Heights Fantasy Shop was a great store, which had a great selection of weekly titles and trade paperbacks. During the day, I read comics and conversed with my colleague Scott. At night, the dice came out, and D&D was played on the back table. A few weeks ago, I heard the horrible news that this store had been sold. This was terrible news. With such great memories of this store it was sad to see it go. But I bid you adieu Fairview Heights. I will miss Thai food Wednesdays and being able to read comics while watching Countdown to Wednesday. You could always count on the Fairview Heights store having the issue you needed – indie or not. Farewell Fairview Heights, you are gone but never forgotten.

What I Saw at 12:01 Friday Morning: Quantum of Solace

That’s right. Bond is back and I couldn’t be happier. I have been a fan of James Bond since Pierce Brosnan was kicking Alec Trevelyan's ass all over the silver screen in Goldeneye (1995). Since then I have seen all 21 James Bond films, such as (Deep Breath): Dr. No (1962), From Russia With Love (1963), Goldfinger (1964), Thunderball (1965), You Only Live Twice (1967), On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969), Diamonds Are Forever (1971), Live and Let Die (1973), The Man with the Golden Gun (1974), The Spy Who Loved Me (1977), Moonraker (1979), For Your Eyes Only (1981), Octopussy (1983), A View to a Kill (1985), The Living Daylights (1987), Licence to Kill (1989), GoldenEye (1995), Tomorrow Never Dies (1997), The World is Not Enough (1999), Die Another Day (2002), and Casino Royale (2006). Last Night, at 12:01 A.M. the 22nd installment of the James Bond series was released. Now don’t start panicking and think I’m going to spoil it for you because I’m not that cruel. But I will say on thing… GO SEE IT. Five stars, two thumbs, a million golden globes, whatever your personal rating system is, it deserves the highest possible. I will say I am a biased opinion. I have loved this character and all these films since Sean Connery took the scene in 1962. Quantum of Solace, Daniel Craig’s second film (Casino Royale), is the first time in the series in which it is a sequel to the previous movie. Quantum of Solace actually takes place 20 minutes after Casio Royale. Upon hearing this, I became skeptical. When it comes to movie series and changes are made it is usually for the worst (i.e. Star Wars). But in no way does Quantum of Solace disappoint. The most appealing thing about these last two films is that we finally get to see 007’s first mission and how he became the secret agent we know and love. And if you love James Bond like I do, be sure to check out these great comic titles: Sleeper (Ed Brubaker, Sean Phillips), XIII (Belgians Jean Van Hamme, William Vance), Queen & Country (Greg Rucka), Checkmate (Greg Rucka), Cassanova (Matt Fraction, Gabriel Bá, Fábio Moon), 100 Bullets (Brian Azzarello, Eduardo Risso). So whether you love Sean Connery, Pierce Brosnan, or even Roger Moore go see Quantum of Solace and dive into the espionage experience.

What I’m Reading Now: IT’S GODZILLA!!!! Err…Firebreather I mean!

Firebreather
Written By: Phil Hester
Art By: Andy Kuhn

Image has got the comics. When you think of Image, the obvious titles come to mind: Invincible, Walking Dead, Savage Dragon, Astounding Wolfman, Youngblood, Spawn. But some great titles, as good as these titles, seem to fall short. One such title is Firebreather. Written by Phil Hester (Green Arrow, El Diablo) with art by Andy Kuhn, Firebreather is a coming of age story of young high school student whose is half male…HALF DRAGON (the dream of every Dungeon Master world wide...Can you say breath weapon?!?!) The story starts out in St. Louis (can this get any better) where we meet Belloc, a 100ft tall dragon and father of the main character, Duncan. He seemingly, while on a rampage, falls in love with a human and hence Duncan. From here on, Duncan must deal with the ordinary and extraordinary, battling with both horrid monsters and fitting in at high school. For any fan of Robert Kirkman's Invincible, there is absolutely no reason why you would not read this book. There are two great things about this book. First, there’s a new series out now that is on the shelves monthly. And secondly, there is little reading to do to be completely caught up with this story. Sometimes when starting a new story or title, back issue reading can be overwhelming (Green Lantern here I come!). But with Firebreather, there are two trades, “Growing Pains” & “Iron Saint”, and then you are completely caught up with the series. With the ever growing IU (image universe?? I don’t know, I thought I would try it out) Duncan is not only seen in Firebreather, but also crosses over to other titles such as Erik Larsen’s Savage Dragon and is in the cast of such works as The Pact, and Image Monster Pile-up. Being such a central character in the IU, Firebreather is a book that derserves great notoriety and to be ranked among the greatest titles produced by this ever going company.

What I'm Reading Now: Will the Real Darren Please Stand Up?

Gotham Central
Written By: Ed Brubaker & Greg Rucka
Art By: Michael Lark

Sorry for the late post y’all. Just spent the last 12 hours at an Obama rally but I got to shake his hand and get his autograph so I’ll make a check in the W column for the day. So now I guess it’s time for the true “What I’m Reading Now” post (there are some posers up in here). This week has been pretty hectic but I have been able to fit one great title in my very crazy schedule: Gotham Central. Written by Ed Brubaker and Greg Rucka (can I just end the article there) and art by Michael Lark, Gotham Central is the story of Gotham’s finest. With a great cast of characters, Gotham Central is some of the best reading of crime fiction I have read in a long time. This story represents a vital importance in the current events of Final Crisis also. Crispus Allen (currently The Spectre) and Renee Montoya (Currently The Question) develop their relationship throughout these pages. This relationship is what makes Final Crisis: Revelations a true emotional roller coaster. With an all-star cast, Gotham Central has a lot to offer. Brubaker and Rucka together… who could ask for more. The pencils of Michael Lark also add to this story a great deal and the dark tones and heavy lines give a great sense of Gotham City. But perhaps the most fascinating part of this story is the view it takes. Everyone knows Gotham’s vigilante protector but what about the five-o? Readers get to see the rules and laws to igniting the bat-signal and also see the views of other cops about Batman, be it good or bad. With a great cast and story, Gotham Central will definitely leave you wanting more.

P.S. – I have no idea who that person in the flash costume is but it’s not me and yea cosmo does have great sex advice….GET OVER IT!

What I's Reading Now: Blog Log Style

Hey guys it's Dayron. How are you? Well I guess we should get on with this. I have been reading cosmo a lot, as of late. Great sex tips, if I do say so myself. And believe you me, I have learned a lot about how bad men really are. That's it for now. I Tivo'd Oprah and should would like to get to it. Smooches! -Dayron

p.s. This is me and my friends costumes for the Halloween party. That's me as the Flash and no I didn't stuff. The Roomate is Wonder Woman. Pretty good girl for him being a man.

What I’m Reading Now: Tale of an American Life

I love reading comics. I don’t think that’s a secret. I love them for many different reasons. Sometimes it’s a relaxing getaway; an escape from the stress that life can sometimes bring. Sometimes it’s an intense appreciation for the combination of word and art. And sometimes a book reminds you why you love comics in the first place. That time is now. That book is Local. From the creative team of Brian Wood (DMZ, Northlanders) and Ryan Kelly (New York Four, Lucifer), Local leaves me speechless. Which is an unfortunate side effect for a blogger but I will try my best. My first exposure to Brian Wood came from his first professional work, a five-issue miniseries known as Channel Zero. Both written and drawn by Brian Wood, Channel Zero was an excellent story depicting a future “Great Awakening” in America in which the voice of the citizen is silenced. I fell in love with this book and immediately became a fan of this young and talented writer. Since that first exposure, I have joined Brian Wood in the fight in the DMZ and sailed with Norsemen off Norwegian shores with Northlanders. But Local tops them all. It surprised myself at first. Local, as well as The New York Four, gives a look at another picture of Brian Wood’s story telling and shows how talented he really is. Brian Wood offers the most variety in works, possibly, then anyone else in the industry. In this book we follow the lives of Megan McKeenan, a young woman from Vermont, who travels North America to find her place in life, which ultimately leads back home. Never has a character felt so real and alive to me. I felt as if this could be a real person, that these were real events, that this could very well be someone’s life. And with every great writer, there is a great artist. Ryan Kelly does an absolutely fantastic job on this book. I love that this book was in black and white, such as Channel Zero and Demo, and that aspect made me think back to those stories as well. The series is 12 issues long and is enjoyable all the way through. Each issue is just a small glimpse, a short story, into the life of someone who could easily be a family member or a friend. If you set the last issue aside, and then shuffled the rest of the issues and read them at random, it would be just as an enjoyable experience. Not to say that the story lacks plot, in fact on the contrary, this story has a plot that seems so simple but is actually quite complex. This series is a great read for anyone who loves comics. Also go check out The New York Four (Minx), which is also a great series produced by this creative team. You can also check out episode #36 to see what Rob has to say on the matter. Local will make you fall in love with comics all over again and just as a key is close to Megan’s heart, Local is close to mine.

What I’m Reading Now: A Special Edition of Turds… OOPS! Sorry… Words & Stuff (In which Dayron is played by Captain Cletus Whiteheart)

John Constantine, Hellblazer: Original Sins TP

Writer – Jamie Delano
Art – John Ridgeway & Alfredo Alcala



The year was 1984 and I was not born yet but looked 4 yrs old. Alan Moore, Steve Bissette, and John Totleben who happened to be Police fans were putting out a wonderful book called Swamp Thing. A fellow by the name of John Constantine, who looks a lot like Sting, (Bellboy Sting not tantric sex machine Sting) appears out of nowhere talking crazy magic mumbo jumbo and the rest of the story is still unfolding, monthly. John appears in Swamp Thing # 25 but his official outing was in issue # 37. I ask you, have you ever seen a credit like John Constantine created by Alan Moore, Steve Bissette, and John Totleben in any book? Just wondering. Nonetheless, I would recommend Swamp Thing to anyone who loves great stories. Don’t let them movies cloud your judgment.

Up until this point I had only read the Brian Azzarello trades and monthly since Andy Diggle took over. That includes the two-issue punk rock story by Jason Aaron. Then one day I spied a used copy of Original sins on the shelf at the shop and had to have it. To be honest, I wasn’t really expecting too much out of it but was left pleasantly surprised. This story is out of he mid/ late 80’s, which, don’t ask me why I wasn’t expecting much, because Vertigo was putting out some pretty great stuff at the time. So, I get around to reading it and at first I felt that the writing seemed a little forced. Now, Jamie Delano was telling an interesting story but maybe a bit too descriptive. (if you know what I mean.) Jamie definitely finds his stride within this trade. I am half way through the 2nd trade called The Devil You Know and I believe if you read Original Sin you should read number 2, as well.

John Constantine is a full time chain-smoking magician and part time wanker. He is cursed with causing horrible things happen to anyone he’s around. His heart is in the right place… well it is some place, but his means are unique. Original Sins opens with a lot of familiar faces, since I’m reading the Diggle stuff. Obviously, with this being a story of an Englishman you can expect a little football. I hope John knows Man U. is the greatest team in the premiere league. (Giggsy, John, Giggsy!) We even get a Mucus Membrane name-drop within these pages. Jamie did a great job of introducing the cast and giving you an over all accurate account of who the Laughing Magician is. John Ridgeway did a fantastic job portraying the stories being told. His art is incredible, especially, for that era of comics. (In my opinion, of course) Original Sins collects Hellblazer issues 1 – 9. The Devil You Know collects issues # 10 – 13, Annual 1, The Horrorist 1 & 2 and both can be found at any comic shop anywhere. (I assume but I’ve been known to make an ass out of myself) I do know it can be found at my comic shop, which is The Fantasy Shop in St. Charles. It is surely worth a read. Now, I personally have not read these books but my hero Rob has and he enjoyed them. Since, he is my master and I do whatever he says I will tell you I recommend these stories. You should check them out, if you like good comics… that is. I am going to check them out fo’ sho’ because I am on a never-ending quest to be like my pal Captain Clet. – Lil’ Captain Dayron