Best of 2010

Gold Medal: The Unwritten (Vertigo) Deja vu, much? Yes, I'm aware I gave this book my gold medal last year, but the thing is, there is not a single book on the market that has captivated me as much as this one. Mike Carey and Peter Gross's creator-owned title has earned its place as Sandman's heir, and I feel set the standard for contemporary, mature storytelling. It's been quite the year in the world of Tom Taylor, Lizzie Hexam, and Savoy including Joseph Goebbels' phantom, vulgar rabbits, the return and sudden death of Tom's father, Wilson, and the revelation of the final Tommy Taylor book - suspense, drama, genuine humanity, and an engaging story that has me wrapped out it's finger.




Silver Medal: Strange Tales II With the first issue opening up
with a Wolverine as a lucha libre wrestler in a deathmatch-style
arena, all the while the narration of a letter written by a lost love
echoes throughout the story you realize, this isn't the normal Marvel
fanfare. Nope, this is Strange Tales II, the second collection
of stories that takes popular independent creators and artists like
Kate Beaton and Jhonen Vasquez, and let's them play in the Marvel
sandbox. The stories range from touching, to downright hilarious. I
missed out on the first series, but I made sure to check this one out.
I mean, how could you not purchase the second issue of this series
based off the cover alone?

Bronze Medal: Scotty SnyderTalk about one hell of a year. I had

seen promotions for American Vampire at my LCS leading up to it

coming out. I didn't pick it up atfirst, just because I was worn out from the whole vampire genre basically being shoved down my throat. It wasn't until I found myself reading, and enjoying, Iron Man: Noir that I decided to take the gamble with a new title with a relative unknown. Vertigo titles rarely lead me astray, and I fell head over heels for the new envisioning of what the American vampire is and Snyder's own theories and spins on the myth and folklore of the ancient creature of the night. Soon after buzz surrounds AV, Snyder becomes a DC exclusive writer, and soon after that, is announced as the writer for Detective Comics. Though, at press time only one issue of 'Tec under his direction, I just have a feeling Snyder will give the title some of its best stories yet. Quite an impressive year indeed.

What to watch for in 2011: Artifacts With only four issues out,
I couldn't really give this a place on my list, however, I am certain
this is the mega-series we will be talking about next year. With Hope
still missing, and the bearers of the Artifacts coming closer together, the end of the world draws nearer and nearer. While Ron Marz and Michael Broussard have given most creative teams a run for their money, I cannot wait to see what the remaining nine issues hold for the Top Cow characters and the universe at large.

Mike Carey talks about Unwritten and things to come

Mike Carey and Peter Gross' Vertigo series, The Unwritten, has swooped up numerous award nominations and has found itself on the New York Times Best Sellers list twice already. It is a tale of intrigue, fantasy, father-son relationships, and finding your purpose in life. Tom Taylor has been on quite an adventure in the past year and a half and with the revelations of issue #16, it's really only begun. Blog@ spoke to the author of the series, acclaimed writer Mike Carey about the ambitious undertaking he took with the most recent issue and what's in store for Tom, Savoy and Lizzie. Caution, there are spoilers for those of you not caught up.

Random reviews

Magdalena #2
Written by Ron Marz
Pencils by Nelson Blake II
Inks by Sal Regla
Colors by Dave McCaig
Published by Top Cow

“The Church has been sacrificing my ancestors for a thousand years. If you truly think that’s going to change…you’re more gullible than those people taking Communion down there.” — Patience, the Magdalena

Talk about hating your job, huh?

The Magdalena team (or as I call them in my head: Team Mags) are two for two with the second issue of Top Cow’s newest ongoing series, Magdalena. Ron Marz continues the story of Patience, this generation’s Magdalena, as she is trying to find her place and destiny in a world and Church that she’s at constant odds with. Meanwhile the Son of Satan, no, not that one, is planning another demon summoning since Patience just wiped the floor with the one he had sent earlier.

The plot doesn’t advance that much, but what this issue really showcases is Patience’ relationship with Kristoff and the Cardinal. Kristoff wants her to do what is right and her birthright, while the Cardinal sees her as more of subservient and merely a tool similar to one you could buy at a Home Depot should the one you have breaks. Though, at the end, Patience accepts her mantle but will no longer work for the Church, but rather with them. I’d like to see how long that notion lasts.

Nelson Blake II’s art is good. Great action shots with the demon slaying, great layouts for the more subtle moments, with terrific character design and is on par with Marz’s story. Sal Regla’s ink also add an additional visual layer and topped with Dave McCaig’s exquisite colors just make the whole package that much cooler.

If you don’t know by now, the previous issue started a firestorm of rave reviews and positive nods all around, eventually selling out. Don’t be left out of some good times and pick this book up.

Joker's Asylum: The Riddler -- One Shot
Written by Peter Calloway
Pencils by Andres Guinaldo
Inks by Raul Fernandez
Colors by Tomeu Morey
Letters by Patrick Brosseau
Cover by Ethan Van Sciver
Published by DC Comics
Review by Lan Pitts

"Were you born with the ability to make an entrance at the worst possible time, or is that a skill you've honed?" -- Edward Nygma, the Riddler

Much like first Joker's Asylum series, this continues the idea of Joker as a sort of Cryptkeeper character, and narrates a story featuring one of Batman's rogues gallery. Now, of all the issues in the last Joker's Asylum, I felt the Penguin spotlight by Jason Aaron and Jason Pearson was the strongest. Riddler is one of those guys that I've always felt drawn to (my tattoo on my calf speaks for that), and always seems to be lost in the shuffle. He's been portrayed as a sniveling twerp in such works as Long Halloween, to a mastermind in Hush, to now a private detective that could be walking down the dark path once more. In this one shot, he's definitely striding down a darker road than I've seen him in a long time, if ever.

The issue comes across as a character study for Nygma, especially the notion that he suffers from an extreme case of OCD. He falls in love with an art student and tries his best to win her over. Nygma goes the usual route with trying to woo her from flowers, chocolates, jewelry, etc, however the young woman returns all of the items. So, something clicks in Nygma's mind, basically him trying to solve the riddle of her love. However, when he finally gets her attention and admiration, it's under interesting circumstances, but the twist is...the "riddle" is solved, and Nygma doesn't care anymore.

From there, it starts to fall apart. I've never figured the Riddler as a killer and while Calloway is a great talent, I think he's trying too hard here and thinks it's a bit more cleverer than it actually is. We've known Riddler might have a sort of Tyler Durden situation going on here, and this story eggs that idea even more. I don't know if Nygma would just give up that easily. He's too obsessed for that. Plus, I've always seen him as sort of asexual, since the puzzles of the world, and money would be all he ever wanted.

Character disagreements aside, I think Calloway did a great job here in capturing Nygma's obsession and dialog. The Joker's narration gets distracting at times and in some places, not really needed. Guinaldo's art doesn't blow me away, but is still pretty excellent with a great panel construction and easy story flow. I wanted to like this issue more because I'm a huge Riddler fan, but it just fell flat.

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The Unwritten #14 (Published by Vertigo; Review by Lan Pitts): WWE Hall of Famer and wrestling legend "Rowdy" Roddy Piper has famous catchphrase: "Just when you think you have all the answers, I change the questions." That sums up this issue of my favorite series. The new Tommy Taylor book release is right around the corner, and it's a slow build to what is about to go down. A trap has been set, and it just gets crazier by the moment. We see a little hint of behind the scenes of the forces out to get Taylor and company. Calling it "weird" is an understatement. Mike Carey and Peter Gross continue this series that leaves the reader wanting more, yet never wanting the mystery to end.

This week in trite reviews.

Daredevil: Cage Match -- One Shot
Written by Antony Johnston
Pencils by Sean Chen
Inks by Sandu Florea
Colors by Matt Hollingsworth
Letters by VC's Joe Caramagna
Published by Marvel Comics
Review by Lan Pitts

"You and me, Fogwell's Gym, tomorrow night. A grand each, winner names a charity. What do you say?" -- Matt Murdock, Daredevil

This issue harkens back to some nice 1970's nostalgia, so readers who aren't reading the current series under Andy Diggles direction, fear not. Though saying that, this isn't the brooding rooftop hopping, ninja clan-leading Daredevil now, the one in Cage Match is bit more fun-loving, but still street tough.

So, on a nightly routine, Daredevil and Power Man Luke Cage quickly take down a gang of street kids, but Luke feels Daredevil has lost a certain edge and feels like he needed the help. Daredevil being on the defensive, challenges Luke to a boxing match and the loser pays the winner's charity of choice. Matt confides to his partner Foggy about the deal, as Luke tells Iron Fist (in the middle of a brawl no less) about the situation and both partners agree it's a bit odd to do that, but Luke and Matt understand there's a bit of pride at stake.

The notion that these two heroes would duke it out paints both characters as something different from what they are perceived now, especially Daredevil. It's nice to see his portrayal as not just a Batman archetype but as something not so brooding and to see him do an act like this is a nice change of pace. It's neither better or worse than what Diggle is doing on the main Daredevil title, it's just great to see what the character can also be.

Sean Chen does a great job with the posing and showcases old Hornhead's flexibility and agility and makes Luke Cage come across as the powerhouse he is. Sandu Florea's inks are touch and go, but for the most part excels in making Chen look good with crisp clean lines. Matt Hollingsworth is on coloring duty and adds a playful tone to the book by using a brighter pallet in contrast to the main title. Even in the night scenes, nothing is overshadowed and feels like a breath of fresh air.

All in all, it's a it's a solid book, but nothing outrageous. It would be a good introductory book for a young reader to the characters since Daredevil is a bit heavy at times. Johnston shows us that a man without fear isn't exactly a man without some fun.

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Robert Jordan's The Wheel of Time #2
Written by Robert Jordan
Script by Chuck Dixon
Art by Chase Conely
Colors by Nicolas Chapuis
Letters by Bill Tortolini
Published by Dynamite Entertainment
Review by Lan Pitts

"A locked door. No one in the Two Rivers had ever locked their doors. There had been a need...until now at least." -- Rand al'Thor

Coming from a perspective as a "Wheel of Time" fan, I'm really liking the series so far, especially with Chuck Dixon gets to do his stuff and is just let loose. This issue sheds a bit more light on Rand al'Thor's and his father's, Tam, home life. In addition to things to come, such as the revelation of Tam's heron-marked blade and how he uses it so well against a talking Trolloc.

How this read in the book is again pretty close to what happens in this issue. Dixon might have added a bit of dialog here and there to expand the events, but nothing outrageous where fans will cry foul. I think Dixon improved a few things, especially when trying to paint a picture on Rand and Tam's relationship, as not just father and son, but how they have just each other. Especially when their house is destroyed by hellish beasts and monsters. Nothing says father and son bonding like endangerment.

I'm still not sold on the art. The page layout reminded me of somebody just dropping random photographs on the ground and just traced the design from there. It's a bit scattered. In addition to the fact that I feel that sometimes the facial expressions were a bit either over done and cartoonish, or just too flat and boring. In contrast, the backgrounds are great, and the coloring detail is the perfect partner for Conley's style. Also, as a fan, I have to praise Conely for nailing down the imagery I've had in my mind for the past sixteen years of my life.

I'm enjoying the book so far, and since it's just the beginning of the series it might seem slow, but it's about to get into some good stuff.

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The Unwritten #13 (Published by Vertigo; Review by Lan Pitts): What can one say that hasn't already been said about this series? Hell, what can I say that I haven't already said? In my opinion, page for page, it is the best series on the shelves these days, and after a year it still holds true. I've questioned Mike Carey's direction of the story from time to time since it seems to be going multiple places at once, but in fact he's just layering like a club sandwich. So, in this issue we have Tom, Liz, and Savoy hiding out at an apartment downtown so they can keep an eye out for Tom's father who may, or may not, appear at the debut of the new book...that he did not write. It's all a trap and Tom and Co. are none the wiser. New revelations are revealed, a cliffhanger ending, and a trap set in motion. Simply put, the story never stops until you put it down. Peter Gross is back on full art duties, colors aside of course. The layouts remain sharp and with a dialog-heavy book like this can be at times, Gross always makes sure the pages are still interesting and never boring. It's creative and inspiring without being avant garde. Chris Chuckry does a great job on colors, as usual, with his muted tone that adds a layer of realism to a fantasy story that makes it all that more intriguing and captivating. Everything is lining up for this book to be the stuff of legend and is already my "must-read" book.

The Unwritten #12

The Unwritten #12
Written and layouts by Mike Carey and Peter Gross
Finishes and Colors by Kurt Huggins and Zelda Devon
Letters by Todd Klein
Cover by Yuko Shimizu
Published by Vertigo
Review by Lan Pitts

"You're a very bad rabbit. And you're looking for a spanking."

My first read-through of the issue, I wasn't really sold on the concept and thought it more of a determent of the main story. It wasn't after my third or fourth time reading it, all the elements hit me. I felt devoured by the depth of it all, and quite frankly now that I get it, it's quite possibly the best book of the month if not of the whole series thus far. While at first it seems like a sort of children's tale in the vein of Peter Rabbit, until you realize the level of profanity that is used by the central character of the issue, a rabbit that has the most unusual name of Pauly Bruckner. Interesting name for a rabbit, right? Only problem is, that's no ordinary rabbit.

I don't mean in the Hoppy the Marvel Bunny sort of sense, no, this rabbit is actually a human. In addition to that, he's in a world that reminds me of the 100 Acre Woods and is surrounded by all sorts of children's book cliches and characters. It's only realizing the true nature of Paul's existence in the story has to deal with him botching a job and in return, Wilson Taylor (Tom's dad) put him there. Now, we know Wilson had the ability to take people and characters out of stories, but to put them IN one is a horse of a different color.

This issue reminds me of the earlier issue, and now Eisner-nominated "The Whale", as it takes a slight detour from the main plot with Tom, Liz and Savoy. Yet, it still expands their world indirectly with this revelation of Wilson's power. Of course this just built the suspense on what is going on with the trio and I have to wait another month.

The most beautiful thing about this issue is the ye ole story book art style. Huggins and Devon really soar here with the antique look of the pages. It's fresh and could be deserving of another award come next year. Unwritten #12 doesn't haven't any resemblance of the previous issues, but still has the originality and creative spirit of Carey and Gross.

If you haven't heard by now, this book picked up a few Eisner nominations and, in my opinion, rightfully so. Don't be the only reader at your shop not picking this book up.

The Unwritten makes the NYT Best Seller's list

As of this week, Vertigo’s acclaimed series The Unwritten is number 8 on the Paperback Graphic Books Best-Sellers’ list. Now, you might not think that’s a big deal, but considering the list only has two freshman titles, I think this is an amazing feat since I’m shocked people aren’t picking up this incredible story. If you are unfamiliar with the title, it focuses around a young man by the name of Tommy Taylor, who may or may not be, the fictional boy wizard character of his missing father’s novels. However, Harry Potter, this ain’t.

Blog@ spoke with co-creator and writer of the series, Mike Carey about this announcement and what it means to him. “We’d heard this was coming last week, but we weren’t allowed to leak it! It’s fantastic that the book is getting such a great reception. It’s popping up in all kinds of lists of the best of 2009, Publishers’ Weekly gave it a really positive review, and now we turn up in the New York Times charts. The whole Unwritten team is very proud, and at the same time it puts us on our mettle. You really don’t want to blow it with so many people watching.”

Even though I have all the issues thus far in the series, I made sure to get a copy of the trade just so I could lend it out to readers who haven’t discovered this book yet.

The Unwritten Vol.1: “Tommy Taylor and the Bogus Identity” collects issues 1-5 and is available for $9.99.

Bunch o' reviews here!

Lola: A Ghost Story
Written by J. Torres
Art by Elbert Or
Published by Oni Press
Review by George Marston and Lan Pitts

Lola: A Ghost Story is a simple story that shoots for a high emotional response, and though it often falls short of that goal, it is expressive and subtle in an easily relatable way. Its opening pages promise a story frought with the bittersweet trials of growing old enough to understand the true nature of death, and the honesty of life. The art immediately invokes a dreamlike quality that, coupled with the cathartic nature of the story, is reminiscent of the work of Hayao Miyazaki. Unfortunately, the book rarely reaches the heights set by its first impression again. The story concept often feels like more than the sum of its parts. While accessible, it is curtailed by moments that seem designed to widen its scope, but more often detract from the central narrative.

The story focuses on a young Filipino boy named Jesse. He and his family travel from Canada to their ancestral home in the Philipines to mourn the passing of his "Lola," which is the Tagalog word for grandmother. Of interesting note is that author J. Torres is, himself, a Filipino born Canadian. Upon returning to the Philipines, Jesse finds that he is closer to his Lola than he ever knew, and through a series of twists that some may spot immediately, becomes embroiled in a ghost story of the most classic form. Throughout the story, we are treated to bits of Filipino culture, and blurbs explaining and translating the numerous Tagalog words and expressions used by Jesse and his family. Often, these bits bring us closer to the family and their heritage, but many times the scenes incorporating Filipino folklore simply feel as though they are included only to showcase the unique mythology of the Philipines, and not to serve the central narrative. One would not think that space would be at a premium for a simple story in a 98 page graphic novel, but many scenes feel as though they could easily be excised to provide more room for the sweeping emotional backdrop that lies at stake.

The art incorporates the best elements of the cartoon form, using the simplest lines to convey the basest emotions and characterization. It falls flat only when it ignores the scope of the story, and the surreal texture of the of the spiritual backdrop. Often times the sepia tones that serve as the only depth to the black and white form feel too ordinary. A full color treatment may have proved more suitable for matching the tone of the story, or, failing that, more full panels that strayed farther from the mundane. The stark ending, while a bit baffling, promises more to come in Jesse's story, and perhaps the further adventures of our main character will provide a glimpse at some of the vast world promised by this inaugural chapter.

All in all, Lola: A Ghost Story is a worthwhile read, and easily accessible to anyone who chooses to crack the cover. As a coming of age tale, it is relatable for anyone who grew up to realize that the life ahead of them was both more and less fantastic than they were lead to believe, and serves as a fine precursor to anyone for whom that revelation may yet be years in the making. Lola: A Ghost Story often struggles to make the most of its ambitions, but then, isn't that what the story is truly about?




The Unwritten #8
Written by Mike Carey
Art by Peter Gross
Colors by Chris Chuckry
Letters by Todd Klein
Cover by Yuko Shimizu
Published by Vertigo Comics
Review by Lan Pitts

"Tommy Taylor belongs in a children's story. It's hard for him to get his bearings in a three-act tragedy." -- the Inside Man

I have reviewed this book for quite some time now, and one would think I would have adjusted myself by to Mike Carey and Peter Gross' compelling style of storytelling, but I was somehow proven wrong and once again, as I turned to the last page I found myself saying "oh, crap". Though not the way you would after finding a parking ticket on your car, but more of the "oh my God, this is great. Please, sir, can I have some more?" sort of way.

I found myself a little agitated last issue when Tom's story wasn't continued and sidetracked for the subplot dealing with the Governor's children, but I understand now that story had to be told for the sake of the tragic events in this issue. With mercenaries on the loose and gunning for Tom and company, a Warden who wants them dead, and a pair of Governor's children trying to save the "real" Tommy Taylor, you have a tension-filled issue that has its moments of fun and excitement, but ultimately turns to horror.

I found it weird I felt loss after what transpires at the end of the issue, especially knowing these characters for such a small amount of time, but as I mentioned, I was caught off guard. That is the magic of Mike Carey. On the art side of things, Peter Gross truly captures the chaos of the situation quite well within the 22 pages provided without cluttering up pages and in turn making them an eye sore.

You may remember I gave this book my "Gold Medal" for 2009, and it really is a gem of a book. The trade of the first five issues is currently out now, so I encourage you to pick that up, get yourself caught up, and see what you've been missing out on.


Catwoman #83 (Published by DC Comics; Review by Lan Pitts): It's been a little over a year since we've seen Ms. Selina Kyle, aka Catwoman, in her own solo series. Tony Bedard takes a crack at her whip with this issue, but I'm a bit confused on some elements going on here. It felt more like a "Gotham City Sirens" issue rather than Catwoman, but Bedard excels at all the femme fatals characterization. For the follows of the book where #82 had left off, or for readers who had no idea what had happened, there is a quick summary of the past events and gets that out of the way for the rest of the story. I love the art style of the book, but why was there a need for a slew of them? I didn't notice any difference between who was who. Just seemed a bit weird to me. The ending was a bit of a twist, and hopefully they continue this on "Sirens", which I'm sure they will. Top notch all around.


The Anchor #4 (Published by Boom! Studios; Review by Lan Pitts): Damn, this book is just plain cool. I could just stop right there, but what sort of review would that be? This issue ends the current arc, but seamlessly sets up the next one to come. I'm liking Brian Churilla's style, but this issue seemed sort of weaker in comparison to the previous installments. Phil Hester's knowledge on the supernatural really comes out and some of the imagery is horrific, but creative and unlike anything on the market right now. I know you may think the $3.99 is a bit weird for an indy title, but you get a solid story from beginning to end and it's ad free. It really doesn't get any better than that. Also, the Volume 1 trade is available which might come in handy when you want to catch up since these issues are selling out. And fast.

The Best Books of 2009, what to watch for in 2010

It was difficult as a reader and a reviewer to narrow down three choices for my "best of..." list, but I really think these were the books that really shined this past year and hope to continue to in 2010

Bronze: Witchblade

Talk about a series that has seen some highs and lows in the past decade. Once thought of just something pre-pubescent boys can drool on, Ron Marz has really put a new stamp on this book as easily one of the best. Supernatural hero, meshed with elements of a cop drama, with a lead character who is the mother of an infant makes for a great read with solid stories. Now, in 2009, there was "War of the Witchblades", with both bearers of the fabled gauntlet try to kill one another, with one almost succeeding. While artist Stjepan Sejic really soared with the best of them on some of the more horror/mystical elements, he stumbled here and there more often than not with the more quiet moments. Even with that minor hiccup, Witchblade is excellent and events coming in 2010, makes this a book not to be missed.

Silver: "Elegy" arc in Detective Comics

I know, I know. I did a 'Tec arc last year for the Silver Medal, but this book has just had great teams, and this year it went from already amazing to just down right the best "Bat" book on the shelves. Greg Rucka is nothing short of a great story-teller, but add his words to J. H. Williams' avant-garde style that echoes something out of Steranko-land, you've got one hell of a book. While the story of a bat-themed hero going after a pale-skinned villain might seem familiar, but Rucka and Williams wove something unique and different and set the bar for other super-hero books. You have my sympathies if you've been missing out on this one.

Gold: The Unwritten

Please tell me you've at least heard of this book. Now, I know the common concern is that most Vertigo books are so heavy and dense that it makes it difficult to just pick up a random issue and follow along. I can understand that, and this book is no different. However, what Mike Carey and Peter Gross have done here is just incredible and my favorite book of the past year. Unwritten is just so...just by itself and creative, it's hard to fathom that a lot of people are ignoring this work of art. The story is deep and rich with literary allegories, and is just damn smart. Let's see, it's the story of Tom Taylor, whose father was a prolific and famous children's book author best known for his Tommy Taylor series (think Harry Potter). Tom's father goes missing and it turns out Tom may actually be the boy wizard from the book series. With a Harry Potter-like character, you might think this is kid-friendly, well that's not exactly the case, just so you don't go running out and buy this for a young reader. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you the Sandman of this generation and my pick for best book of 2009.

What to watch for in 2010: Moon Knight
Yeah, I know he's not the center of any universe or anything like that. There's not a ton of MK merchandise out there or no Saturday morning cartoon (do they still even make those?). However, I've been having a blast reading "Vengeance of the Moon Knight", and there's been a slow build on Spector's lunacy (pun intended) and it's only a matter of time before he does finally snap, but if that moment comes, can he be find redemption? The weird thing is that the title of the book has the word vengeance in it, yet he hasn't really taken revenge out on anything yet, it's mainly his rogue's gallery going after him. Also, I just love what Hurwitz and Opena are doing and I'm just captivated by each page. Sure, there are some heavy events for all major companies lined up for next year, but I think this character will catch you by surprise.

The Unwritten #8 review and DC Holiday Special!

The Unwritten #8
Written by Mike Carey
Art by Peter Gross
Colors by Chris Chuckry and Jeanne McGee
Letters byt Todd Lkein
Cover by Yuko Shimizu
Published by Vertigo Comics
Review by Lan Pitts

"Find your torch, and your wantd. It's up to us, Peter Price. If you're brave enough....we're going to rescue him."

While this issue doesn't resolve the cliffhanger from the last one, it does add a bit of depth to the story and shed some light on Governor Claude Chadron and his family. The action and fantasy level is grounded a bit, but Carey once again provides excellent story-telling that adds a little something extra to this already amazing cast of characters. Even though I was a bit agitated thatwe don't find out what happens to Tommy and Savoy or Chadron himself, the issue plays out like a prelude and has some fantastic character work here.

Tom himself only appears in a few panels since it retells events in the past issue when he arrives at the prison and explains why the Governor was so cold to him. He's not a bad guy or the cliche corrupted politician, it's just the Tommy Taylor books have affected his children (his daughter especially) in a negative way and Carey gives us a taste of the bad side of things in which otherwise had been pleasant family bonding with those stories. I really have to hand it to Carey for making me actually care about an otherwise background character. It expands to the suspense and does so without having to add anything supernatural.

These next 30 days to wait for the next installment are going to be painful.

I also have to say I love what Peter Gross did with the art here. He could have taken the easy (read: lazy) way and just swiped what he did in earlier issues, but he doesn't He rearranged panels, added new angles which just build on the experience of reading this title. The art is strong and meshed with Chuckry and McGee's use of coloring to add the proper mood and tone, it's just all the more amazing.

I can't wait to return to the main story, but The Unwritten #8 continues to build more and more in what is becoming my favorite book of the year. If you haven't experienced this book by now, I could not recommend it enough. However, be warned you cannot just simply pick up this book now if you haven't read the previous seven issues. It would be sort of like reading "Deathly Hallows" without reading books 1-6, and you wouldn't want that sort of confusion.




DC Holiday Special '09
Written by Various
Art by Various
Published by DC Comics
Review by Amanda McDonald and Lan Pitts

In a household where the collection of Batgirl figures now includes a variety of Santas and pine-scented candles, and the Nativity scene has one of Joker's Henchman riding a camel, Lan and Amanda take some time to review the DC Holiday Special for 2009.

Batman in Silent Knight: This story is. . . silent! Jay Faerber provides a wordless script for this first story of the book. What better way to start a collection of comic book stories than with a true example of sequential art? Peter Nguyen's art and colors nail this one, and set a great tone for the book.

Superman in Man of Snow: On his way to pick up a couple tins of caramel corn for Ma Kent, Superman encounters a Golem made of snow in this heart-warming story. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, or any other winter holiday-- this story exemplifies how this season lifts our spirits.

Flash in the Flash Before Christmas: Now is this a great story. The Flash, Wally West, has a lot on his Christmas to-do list, and things don't always go according to plan for the Fastest Man Alive. However, all's well that ends well for the West clan for "the best Christmas ever". Creative panel construction and just an all-around feel good tale in this one. For a chuckle, notice who Wally delivers mail to.

Beast Boy & Doom Patrol in The Christmas of Doom: Sterling Gates (writer), Jonboy Meyers (art), and Chuck Pires (colors) team up to tell the story of why Beast Boy hates Christmas, and how he ends up getting the ultimate Christmas gift. A bit of a tear-jerker, but in an "awwww, how sweet" sort of way that so many classic holiday tales end.

Superboy in Party Gift: At a mystery party where rogues celebrate the Christmas spirit, nobody knows who is the gracious host, until Bizarro Superboy appears and confesses to be the one who had the idea. One thing that annoys me in comics today is the Bizarro syntax, especially in large doses. While a clever story, I only sort of "get it". I love Rodney Buchemi's pencils and character design. I just wonder how Superboy knew where to send all those invites.

Martian Manhunter in Reason for the Season: As a member of the Middleton City Homicide Squad, Detective "Jones" uses his skills to impress his coworkers, but finds himself missing home. The red of the season reminds him of the dunes of Mars, the green reminds him of his Martian race, even though he explains why the holiday messages were unnecessary due to their mind set. While the reader finds themselves idealizing that life, Jones comes around to the human way and finds himself surrounded by new friends from the force celebrating the season.

Angel & the Ape: In this short 5-panel story by Andrew Pepoy and Paul Mounts starring Angel O'Day and Sam Simeon, I love how Pepoy captured the Bob Oksner style of the characters. When asked by Angel to make a donation, a snotty businessman rejects her offer, but is intimidated by Sam into making a generable donation. Now that's teamwork.

Sgt. Rock in A Peace on Earth: Billy Tucci. Sgt. Rock. Christmas. 'Nuff said. The admiration Tucci has for Rock has been showcased before, but in this Christmas tale, there's just a little something extra. I love the use of grayscale and that the story of two soldiers from opposite sides can share a Christmas and exchange cognac and cigarettes. Peace on Earth, indeed.

Enemy Ace in Stille Nacht: I have limited knowledge and have had just as much exposure to Enemy Ace, but what I got out of this story, really stirred me. Howard Chaykin's art is astonishing and Edgar Delgado's coloring skills are superb. The best thing about this story is that it could have been anybody, and the message is the same.

B'wana Beast in The Hunt for Christmas: Nothing says Christmas like B'wana Beast. He stops a group of poachers and brings presents to a small village. He even wears a Santa hat. While the imagery is just utterly ridiculous, it strikes the right chord and is downright enjoyable.

Captain Marvel in Home for Christmas: In a one page short, Captain Marvel and Ibac face off, destroying a homeless shelter in the process. Agreeing to break from fighting, they rebuild the shelter and the relationship between them changes, right in line with the holiday spirit.

Deadman in Unbearable Loss: Suicidal over her son's actions, Scarecrow's mother encounters Deadman at precisely the right time in her life. Encouraging her to 'choose life,' not only does she embrace her own life, she changes the life of someone in great need.

Red Tornado in A Night Before Christmas Story: Picture this-- several last minute shoppers and a couple of apathetic store employees are trapped in a toy store with a Red Tornado in seek of the season's "it" toy for his daughter. Hrm. . . who do you think walks out of the store with a wrapped "Ecko Gecko"? The end of this story is a bit saccharine. But what the heck. . . that's par for the course this time of year.

Huntress in Naughty or Nice: J. Torres and Hubert Khan Michael turn out a great Huntress story that displays she can kick ass with the best of them. It's short, sweet, to the point and looks great.

Ragman in Seeing the Light: Wow, a Ragman story. You don't come across these much. I love how this goes back and forth between the story of the Maccabees and Ragman handing out some street justice. Rob Levin really delivered on the script and Brian Ching just nailed the art.

Adam Strange in Auld Lang Syne: Man, do I love me some Adam Strange. Shannon Eric Denton really knows how to tell a story and it is just solid. Now it's not really a Christmas story or anything like that, but since this is the last story in issue, I guess it's fitting it's sort of New Years related.

Yes, the Holiday Special is pricier than average books-- but it is the perfect stocking stuffer for the comic lover on your list. Errr. . . or for yourself. Or you know, there's nothing wrong with enjoying it before gifting it. Happy Holidays, 'Rama Readers!

100th post! So we have a review of Unwritten #3 and a bit of a rant about GL movie!

Wow. 100. I've only had this blog for about a year and a half. I still marvel at the fact about what an incredible year it's been. Ups and downs, but still, I think this will be the year that defines me for the rest of my life.

and with that...



The Unwritten #3
Written by Mike Carey
Art by Peter Gross
Colors by Chris Chuckry and Jeanne McGee
Letters by Todd Klein
Cover by Yuko Shimizu
Published by Vertigo

There are few books out there now that I read on the way home after I leave my shop. Even fewer are the books that have captured my attention like this title has. . . especially for a book only three issues in. Mike Carey is no stranger to this sort of genre, writing for other Vertigo books including Hellblazer, Sandman, and Lucifer. The thing about The Unwritten is that it feels sort of grounded compared to his work about the Divine, but still has elements of wonder and magic. If you haven't started reading this series, I say it's time you begin. Let me give you the rundown: it's about a man whose father was a prolific fantasy writer and based his main character on his son, Tom. Now, Tom's father disappears and all the stories that his father wrote may actually be true. The way these issues work almost kills me with their cliffhangers, because they are honestly-- just THAT good. In each issue, we discover more about the world of Tommy Taylor and Mike Carey's imagination feels like it has no bounds. Having said that, this particular issue takes a different route than the previous two.

Now don't worry, it still plays out wonderfully. But this time around, it's a little more low-key than the previous installments. Tom travels to the Villa Diodati with other popular horror writers to discuss horror and its nuances. It's the "House of Frankenstein," it's also the house where Tom spent some time as a youth. There are flashbacks of Tom and his father and how their relationship reflects a scene earlier in the issue when the group of authors discuss Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" and whether it's a social parable or something else. Tom does a bit of detective work and discovers a safe behind one of his father's old paintings. After a few guesses, he gets the combination right and inside he discovers a mysterious note and the doorknob to his father's old room. Meanwhile, one of the horror writers goes outside to smoke a joint and is soon murdered. Now the killer is creeping towards the legendary manor.

Just because you think this book has to do with a boy wizard messiah, does not mean it's meant for children. It's written for mature readers, as well as readers with enough intelligence to understand and appreciate the literary references and obscure slang. The dialogue is crisp and Peter Gross' art accompanies it quite well. As I mentioned earlier, this issue takes the story a bit slower, but after the first two issues of Carey constructing this world, an issue of character-building isn't so bad and is understandable. This book is easily one of the best on the market now, with its interesting characters and intriguing story. The best part is, it's only three issues in, so those of you who haven't caught on, it's fairly easy to start now.



So yes, it is that good, people. So, I had sent Mike Carey the link to this week's Best Shots column and he got back to me thanking me for the kind and eloquent words. Awww yeah. Nothing warms my nerd heart more than a compliment by the creator/artist/writer/colorist...ANYBODY from a book that I reviewed.


Now on to more pressing things at hand: Ryan Reynolds as Hal Jordan.



Where's the "dislike" button for this? Maybe this will be the Michael Keaton situation of this generation. I mean, when Heath was cast as the Joker, everybody was up in arms. Though not me for some reason. I trusted Nolan, and I trusted the vision, especially after they had said they are basing him on Ultraviolent Alex from "A Clockwork Orange". Though here we have Reynolds: a good-looking, athletic guy with charisma up the yin-yang...but I just don't think he has what it takes to fill Hal's ring.

Now, I admit, I can be mistaken and will be blown away by next year when we see some trailers and etc. And if so, I will easily apologize. Until then? I'm going to hate on this.

Hater's gotta hate...