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JAMES PATTERSON WITCH & WIZARD |
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Writer:
James Patterson
Artist:
Svetlana Chmakova |
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Reviewer:
"Sweet" Dan Sweet
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Publisher:
Yen Press
Shipped On:
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY (050711) |
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MSRP:
FREE! |
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YEN PRESS' SYNOPSIS:
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Yen Press proudly introduces the first chapter of
the upcoming manga adaptation of James Patterson's #1 New York Times bestselling
series Witch & Wizard! With art by fan favorite Svetlana Chmakova, herself a New
York Times bestselling creator, this series is poised to be a powerhouse! Tap
into the legions of fans already following the adventures of Whit and Wisty in
their battle against the New Order! |
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"SWEET" DAN'S REVIEW:
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James Patterson and comic books? Patterson is most
well known for Alex Cross and his murder mystery books for adults, but he also
has a young adult series, “Maximum Ride” along with the “Witch & Wizard” series.
With this work for free comic book day, Patterson ventures into the manga
sector, bringing the literature series to life through illustrations.
This preview issue give the reader a small taste of what they will be in for.
The issue is all back drop on who the characters are, and that they are being
arrested for being a witch and a wizard and are going to hang. The children are
not even aware of what they are or what they can do, and are confused as to why
they are being arrested. All the sudden, Wisteria, the daughter starts a fire! I
guess she knows now why she is being called a witch and it seems it is not just
because of her temperament.
This looks like it will be a great companion to the book series, and if you like
the Witch & Wizard books this manga will be good to pick up in September 2011.
Manga is also great for that reader who doesn’t really like to read. Manga
always seems to pull the person into the story and with pictures involved, like
a comic book, many times they don’t even realize they are doing something they
hate. So, whether your reader likes to read the book series, or your reader
hates to read unless it is a comic book, this manga will be for them. Thumbs up
to another James Patterson genre breakthrough. |
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SUPER DINOSAUR ORIGIN SPECIAL #1 |
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Writer:
Robert Kirkman
Artist:
Jason Howard |
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Reviewer:
"Sweet" Dan Sweet
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Publisher:
Image
Comics
Shipped On:
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY (050711) |
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MSRP:
FREE! |
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IMAGE'S SYNOPSIS:
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Super Dinosaur is finally here! In this standalone
origin special you will learn everything there is to know about Derek Dynamo's
best friend, Super Dinosaur! Where did he come from? How did he avoid
extinction? What is Inner-Earth? And what the heck is DynOre and why is it so
dangerous? All this and more will be revealed - and all for FREE! |
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"SWEET" DAN'S REVIEW:
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Anthropomorphism aside, there’s something about
Robert Kirkman’s brain I just want to hug. His approach to writing comics is one
that I truly respect and admire, and even though I have a thing for
talking-animal books, a fact I admit openly as often as possible, I think that
“Super Dinosaur” is exactly the type of comic that we need more of on store
shelves. Its concept is simple enough, it’s about a super-powered dinosaur, a
T-Rex actually, one of the more fearsome predators in all of evolutionary
history, and his best friend, some geeky science kid. Together they have all
sorts of adventures, fight bad guys, impress the ladies, and save the day.
As an origin story is concerned, it’s a simple enough exercise. Get in, get the
reader to know the character, get out with some sort of hook that might retain
that readership in the months to come. Kirkman knows that he has all sorts of
time to build the mythology around Super-Dinosaur, or SD as he’s referred to in
the book, so the author doesn’t overload the reader with extraneous information.
By the end of the issue you’re informed as to who the good guys are, who the bad
guys are, everyone’s motivation, and given a few glimpses of the world in which
the story is set. It’s a complete package, and it’s FREE for first time readers,
which is a terrific incentive.
Jason Howard, who worked with Kirkman previously on “The Astounding Wolf-Man”,
is great at bringing to life the characters that pepper the pages of this book.
His ability to blend sci-fi elements with the family-friendly nature of the
story without overdoing either one is a true accomplishment, and he should be
commended for the terrific character designs all around. As much as I love
stories with anthropomorphic main characters, I’m not sure how well this would
have worked with anyone else in the co-captain’s chair; Howard is a gem, and
anything Kirkman touches shouldn’t be missed by real fans. |
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AMAZING SPIDER-MAN |
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Writer:
Dan Slott
Artist:
Humberto Ramos |
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Reviewer:
"Sweet" Dan Sweet
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Publisher:
Marvel
Comics
Shipped On:
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY (050711) |
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MSRP:
FREE! |
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MARVEL'S SYNOPSIS:
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This first week of May award-winning Spider-Man
writer Dan Slott and comics legend Humberto Ramos give you first, fateful
glimpses at the biggest Spider-Man epic in years (coming later this summer)!
It's a crime that we're giving this one away! The new MADAME WEB can sense a
great conflict brewing in SPIDER-MAN'S future and his only hope for survival
lies in the hands of SHANG-CHI, THE MASTER OF KUNG FU! Can Spidey gain mastery
of the martial arts in time to stop a deadly foe from his past? Watch out, True
Believers, 'cause this is the issue that changes up Spider-Man like never
before! |
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"SWEET" DAN'S REVIEW:
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I’m a huge fan of FCBD not only because of the free
swag, which is awesome, but also because of the opportunity it presents
companies and creators to get their product out there to people otherwise
unfamiliar with it. This might seem a bit odd when I’m talking about SPIDER-MAN,
easily one of the most recognizable characters of the medium, but it applies,
just as surely as it applies to smaller companies and lesser-known creators and
characters.
The beauty of FCBD: Spider-Man, and any truly decent effort by an editorial team
to produce something for FCBD other than an extended preview of something to buy
later, as a stand-alone issue readers get the entire package in book, AND it’s
FREE. It’s everything about the medium that is so, for lack of a better word,
AMAZING; new readers get Spider-Man’s entire origin in a wonderful two-page
spread up front, then everyone’s treated to a good, old-fashioned, knock-down,
drag-out between Spider-Man and…SPIDER-WOMAN?!
If The Mandrill has anything to say about anything, he’s all about the ladies.
And killing Spider-Man, if only indirectly. Because Mandrill has abilities that
include pheromone manipulation and control over females, Spider-Woman is pretty
much a pawn throughout, which makes for some interesting jokes by Spidey. By the
end of the issue everything is wrapped up with a pretty little bow, or is it, as
potential new readers are treated to a sneak-preview of what may or may not lie
ahead for Peter Parker in “Amazing”-proper; a handy trick to snag newcomers in
the never ending web of intrigue.
Oh, and one more thing…This issue is written and illustrated by 50% of the
current creative team on the main monthly title. It’s not a filler-issue by
someone whom you may never see write the Spider again. If you pick this up,
which you should because it’s FREE, you’re actually being treated to a special
look inside the fun that’s had every month by myself and other faithful readers
of Marvel’s friendly neighborhood wall-crawler. |
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BALTIMORE CRIMINAL MACABRE |
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Writers:
Steve Niles/Mike Mignola and Christopher Golden |
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Artists:
Christopher Mitten/Ben Steinbeck |
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Reviewer:
"Sweet" Dan Sweet
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Publisher:
Dark Horse
Comics
Shipped On:
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY (050711) |
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MSRP:
FREE! |
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DARK HORSE'S SYNOPSIS:
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Dark Horse pairs two series with heroes battling the
mysterious evils of the world - Baltimore in war torn Europe circa 1920s, and
Cal MacDonald from Criminal Macabre in modern day Los Angeles. Both FCBD stories
are excellent entry points to these fantastically horrific and compelling comics
series. |
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"SWEET" DAN'S REVIEW:
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I’m not traditionally big on Preview issues,
especially not for FCBD, but DH manages to pull a swerve-aroo on you-know-who,
dealing up two shorts by A-list talent…all for the low, low price of zero
dollars.
I’m a huge fan of the genres of crime-fiction AND horror, and when mashed
together in the uber-talented hands of Steve Niles, “Criminal Macabre” manages
to celebrate what makes both great while creating an entirely new MONSTER. That
joke will make more sense when you read the book; IF you read the book…maybe I
should elaborate. Cal McDonald, star of the “Criminal Macabre” series of
stories, finds himself in the employ of the legendary Frankenstein Monster, who,
much like the character in the book, really just wants to be left alone. Cal and
Frank track down the last remaining relatives of Dr. Frankenstein and have a
little sit-down chat.
In “Baltimore” Lord Henry Baltimore is hunting vampires that are responsible for
the death of his family and the infestation of Europe with the undead. In a
slightly longer story, a young man is nearly lured to his death by a friend,
only to be rescued by Baltimore and quickly returned home. The triumph of the
story isn’t so much in the simple plot, but in how quickly one finds themselves
totally immersed in the world of the character. The desperate, destitute nature
of Europe, as portrayed in the story, seems extremely fascinating…enough so to
bring me back for more in the future, I’m sure.
Both of these stories serve as previews, but also display the ability of smart
creators to pique reader interest in only a few short pages. It’s an example of
the strengths of the medium, and truly appreciated by this cheapskate reader who
can’t ever pass up two stories for the price of one…FREE! |
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MOUSE GUARD DARK CRYSTAL FLIP BOOK |
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Writers:
David Petersen & Brian Holguin |
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Artists:
David Petersen & Alex Sheikman |
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Reviewer:
Jim "Good Old JR" Rutkowski
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Publisher:
Archaia
Comics
Shipped On:
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY (050711) |
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MSRP:
FREE! |
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ARCHAIA ENTERTAINMENT'S SYNOPSIS:
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Archaia presents two, amazing, all-new stories in
one fantastic flip book-David Petersen's Eisner Award-winning MOUSE GUARD and
Jim Henson's beloved DARK CRYSTAL share the spotlight on Free Comic Book day!
On one side of the book, a brand-new tale of the fan-favorite Mouse Guard, elite
warrior mice tasked with protecting common mice from predators, the elements and
other dangers. It's the perfect introduction to Mouse Guard for new fans, and a
rewarding treat for existing ones!
On the other side of the book, Archaia Entertainment is proud to present an
exclusive prelude to its forthcoming series of DARK CRYSTAL graphic novels,
featuring covers, art direction and concepts by Brian Froud, conceptual designer
of the original film! This prelude begins the epic creation story of the world
of Thra, and explores the origins of the world of the Dark Crystal! |
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JIM "GOOD OLD JR" RUTKOWSKI'S REVIEW:
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There are reasons that certain books are Eisner
nominated. David Petersen's Mouse Guard deserves all it's accolades. This story
does not simply act as a primer but tells a small self-contained story that is
deftly written and beautifully illustrated. The story involves one of the
characters defeating several overpowering enemies, not with brute strength but
with some careful planning. Petersen's writing is elegant. The same can be said
for his art. This is a clever fable that leaves the reader wanting more. That's
everything a Free Comic Book Day book should do.
The other half of the sampler is an attempt by Archaia to jumpstart the nearly
30 year old movie concept of writer Brain Froud and muppeteer Jim Henson. While
this may seem frivolous, this is a fairly rich, if not rather derivative
universe to wander in. All the fantasy tropes are here. Yet with a deft writing
hand, this could turn into a rewarding read. As it is now however, this short
tease does very little to make me believe that it's possible. The art is
serviceable but the writing is bland. |
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ATOMIC ROBO & FRIENDS |
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Writer:
Brian Clevinger
Artist:
Scott Wegener |
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Reviewers:
"Sweet" Dan Sweet and Jim "Good Old JR" Rutkowski
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Publisher:
Boom! Comics
Shipped On:
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY (050711) |
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MSRP:
FREE! |
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RED 5'S SYNOPSIS:
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When Atomic Robo agrees to guest-judge the National
Science Fair, it draws a lot of attention... including the evil Helsingard. When
the explosions fly, Robo forgets the most important rule of all - never work
with children! Plus: Previews of 2011 adventures of Red 5 favorites and new
faces! |
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"SWEET" DAN'S REVIEW:
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Another year lost to history, another FCBD around the corner; it can only really
mean one thing: brand new FCBD “Atomic Robo”. No character ever really gets the
FCBD-push the way ‘Robo’ does. Its creators are truly proud of their work and
appreciative of their readers, as not a year goes by that I’ve celebrated a FCBD
without an issue of “Atomic Robo” to make me smile from ear to ear. As such,
this year is no different, and this is probably the strongest FCBD issue I’ve
been exposed to yet. I’d have to go so far as to say that I liked this more than
I did the first issue of “Atomic Robo: Deadly Art of Science”.
School Science Fairs can be hazardous to anyone’s health, especially when
gun-toting, talking dinosaurs show up looking to settle scores with celebrity,
robo-scientist, judges. Easily one of the funniest exchanges between hero and
villain that I’ve been privy to outside of a Spider-Man comic, Robo and his dino-baddie
duke it out amongst the children, and Robo even makes a new friend along the
way. In a great move at the end the story jumps ahead twenty years, to show new
readers that Robo always makes good on a promise, and ageless characters are
some of the best.
Scott Wegener’s art is simple and still brilliant in its execution. He’s never
over-doing his linework, and yet his attention to detail is some of the best
I’ve seen. I love how jammed his panels are, and how backgrounds are of the
utmost importance. It’s a true accomplishment for this team to have worked on
this character for so long, especially in the wishy-washy market place of
today’s print-publishing, for them to consistently deliver a free book to their
audience, or any potential new fans, year after year, after year, well…that’s a
feat worthy of praise in my opinion. |
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JIM "GOOD OLD JR" RUTKOWSKI'S REVIEW:
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Brian Clevinger's Atomic Robo is one of my favorite
reads. This short story doesn't try to explain everything in one short story. It
throws the reader right into the thick of a clever, sometimes laugh out loud,
fun adventure. All I'll say is the plot involves the title character judging a
science fair, a gun toting, 3-piece suit wearing velociraptor (how the dino
purchases the weapons flat out hysterical) and a bright young girl that has a
wonderful future ahead of her. This is great fn.
Foster Broussard shows promise as a potential quality read. The main character
is a rogue who talks himself out of the hangman's noose in England by convincing
the queen that he can acquire all the gold that resides in them thar hills
during the California gold rush. This seems unlikely material for a comic, yet
the fast talking, adventuring rogue character of Foster could be fun to follow.
At a mere 6 pages, there's not much to sink your teeth into as far as Moon Girl
is concerned. This title takes it's inspiration from the pulpy Saturday matinee
serial characters of the 1930's and 40's. A female adventurer in a sci-fi realm.
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ELRIC BALANCE LOST |
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Writer:
Chris Roberson
Artist:
Various |
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Reviewer:
Jim "Good Old JR" Rutkowski
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Publisher:
Boom! Comics
Shipped On:
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY (050711) |
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MSRP:
FREE! |
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BOOM! STUDIOS SYNOPSIS:
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For 40 years, the exploits of Elric have thrilled
comic book fandom, beginning with his introduction to the world of comics in
Marvel's Conan The Barbarian #15 in 1972. Now, Michael Moorcock, the godfather
of the Multiverse concept, brings one of the most critically acclaimed and most
recognizable figures in the history of fantasy fiction back to sequential art!
This Free Comic Book Day edition heralds the new ongoing Elric series featuring
a crisis across multiple worlds that will involve Moorcock's other famous
fantasy franchise characters: Corum of the Scarlet Robe and Dorian Hawkmoon.
Meet the Pale Prince in an epic that could only be called The Balance Lost! And
make sure you don't miss the new ongoing series this summer! Written by
white-hot New York Times bestselling author Chris Roberson (Superman, iZombie,
Cinderella: From Fabletown With Love)! |
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JIM "GOOD OLD JR" RUTKOWSKI'S REVIEW:
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Micheal Moorcock's Elric has been around since 1961.
He made his first comic appearance 11years later under the command of the
seminal team of Roy Thomas and Barry Windsor-Smith. The character has been in
and out of comics regularly since then. Boom Studios now has the license for the
character and seems to be adhering closely to the Moorcock novels. Not quite the
typical sword and sorcery tale, Elric is definitely an anti hero. What is most
disappointing about this take by Boom is the art. Artist Francesco Biagnini has
the misfortune of stepping into the large shoes previously worn by Windsor-Smith
and more recently P. Craig Russell. Not that this is bad artwork. It's just
terribly underwhelming and stalls the story from really taking off. The best
part of this issue is a lengthy background on the character. |
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DEADLIEST SHARKS & PREHISTORIC PREDATORS |
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Writer:
Joe Brusha
Artist:
Anthony Spay |
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Reviewer:
Jim "Good Old JR" Rutkowski
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Publisher:
Zenescope
Shipped On:
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY (050711) |
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MSRP:
FREE! |
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ZENESCOPE ENTERTAINMENT'S SYNOPSIS:
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Sharks, Dinosaurs and Dangerous Animals! This FCBD
edition from Zenescope's Silver Dragon Books' imprint has got them all. This
book previews Discovery Channel's and Animal Planet's first ever line of Graphic
Novels and is based on some of their most popular programming including Shark
Week. A book for animal fans of all ages to enjoy. |
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JIM "GOOD OLD JR" RUTKOWSKI'S REVIEW:
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This comic is a head scratcher for me. I settled in
to read this book expecting an information heavy read for kids. While I did get
the info part, what I also got was some unnecessary, sensationalistic and
violent sequences. I understand the need for broad appeal for a title like this.
Yet I can't help thinking that the image of a shark making a meal out of a diver
does anything to promote the science. This just does not feel like they are
taking the high road here. Dinosaurs are fascinating enough. There's no need to
reduce it the level of a SyFy channel TV movie. |
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MISADVENTURES OF ADAM WEST #1 |
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Writer:
Reed Lackey
Artist:
Russell Dauterman
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Reviewer:
Jim "Good Old JR" Rutkowski
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Publisher:
Blue Water Productions
Shipped On:
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY (050711) |
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MSRP:
FREE! |
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BLUE WATER PRODUCTIONS' SYNOPSIS:
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The Man, The Myth, The Amulet? Legendary star of the
small and silver screen, ADAM WEST, has his career youth-enized in this hip-whimsical,trans-dimensional
epic of an adventure. When a mysterious fan delivers an exotic amulet to Mr.
West's doorstep he is Dorothy-fied on an odyssey that will change his career,
his love life and inadvertently make him the man that saves the universe! |
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JIM "GOOD OLD JR" RUTKOWSKI'S REVIEW:
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I make no apologies. I'm a fan of Adam West. Partly
due to the nostalgia factor of having grown up watching the 60's Batman series
but also because I still believe that the archetypal “hero” can still be
relevant and worthwhile in society that now relishes the grim and gritty.
Co-created by West and Darren Davis, this title has Adam contemplating what's
left of his career after his agent presses him to take on the role of a viscious
vigilante character. Feeling outdated and passe, West, through a goofy plot
machination finds himself transformed into a younger man and also a secret
agent. This could be fun and maybe even pointed if the writers chooses to go in
that direction. Unfortunately, the artwork is rather dismal.
But not nearly as dismal as what is on view in Things To Come. Murky, dreary and
almost tough on the eyes would be how I would describe it. The writing, by Star
Trek's Mr. Chekhov is the atypical post-apocalyptic rubbish about a world
reduced to living in caves after ruining the planet. Oh. Something about
vampires too. Hard to tell. Hard to care. |
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I.C.E. (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) |
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"ICE"
Writer:
Doug Wagner
Artist:
Jose Holder |
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"LOOSE ENDS"
Writer:
Jason Latour
Artist:
Chris Brunner |
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Reviewer:
Larry "Bocepheus" Evans
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Publisher:
12-Gauge Comics Shipped On:
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY (050711) |
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MSRP:
FREE! |
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12-GAUGE COMICS SYNOPSIS:
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It is the dawn of the 20th Century, and one brave
soul dares to walk the line between the worlds of science and the arcane; he is
Thomas Fleet... The Intrepid EscapeGoat! Touring with his ward and assistant
Isis (a 2,000-year-old mummy girl), EscapeGoat performs to sold-out crowds
around the globe... but it's what happens offstage, when locals call upon him to
solve the paranormal mysteries plaguing their cities, that provides the most
peril! Also in this issue: a special preview of The Stuff of Legend Volume 3,
continuing the saga of the New York Times bestselling graphic novel! |
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LARRY "BOCEPHEUS" EVANS REVIEW:
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The fine folks at 12 Gauge have joined the ranks of
Free Comic Book Day publishers with a story about the real life government
agency ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) and a preview of Loose Ends, a
July launching limited series. ICE is from Doug Wagner and Jose Holder. Wagner
starts the story off running and doesn’t let up. He introduces the characters in
mid action and while they could come off as cardboard characters they do not.
Holder is a pretty dynamic artist who sort of reminds me of Brian Stelfreeze,
one of the partners in 12 Gauge. Loose Ends is from the team of Jason Latour and
Chris Brunner. This roadside noir story has a nice edge to it and actually reads
like something Oni Press would have done. Latour’s dialogue |
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"SWEET" DAN'S REVIEW of "ICE": |
There’s nothing about this book that you haven’t
seen already, a thousand times before, done a thousand times more effectively.
Round up one team of rambunctious wrong-righters, give them tough-sounding names
like ‘Cole’, ‘Athena’, or ‘Benno’, then have them run amuck kicking ass and,
maybe if you’re lucky, taking a name or two. It’s always interesting to me when
authors try to ‘cool-up’ a book by injecting “Humor” at odd moments, like when
they’re attempting to build tension before the last page reveal. It also seems
to serve no purpose other than making this ‘crack-team of professional border
patrollers’ seem juvenile and irritating.
After a sloppy opening action sequence that takes three pages just to get
started, readers are whisked away to Birmingham, Alabama, for all of two pages,
maybe three, and just when things seem like they’re about to get interesting the
book ends. I have no use for ineffective car chases, and silly man VS helicopter
showdowns, so there’s not a whole lot in this issue to hold onto and say “THAT!
THAT is what’s making sure I come back for more.” So far all I’ve seen are
half-hearted caricatures of law-enforcement agents, jazzed up so that people
with a hard-on for standing on the necks of the less fortunate have someone to
look up to. I’ll pass. |
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"SWEET" DAN'S REVIEW of "LOOSE ENDS":
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Whereas 12-Gauge’s other offering left me cold and
rather disappointed, “Loose Ends” is one of those grimy pieces of work that
really invigorate my appreciation for the medium. Its author knows that the
story is the selling point, the mystery that he’s attempting to build, the
seemingly distasteful characters he’s introduced us to, and as such he’s content
with delivering a smattering of suspicion and waltzing out the door, leading us
back to comic shops eagerly anticipating the following issues.
While I might not have the slightest idea what the hell is going on in the world
of “Loose Ends”, I can admit that the look and feel of the book is similar
enough to one of my favorites, “100 Bullets”, and while the stories may be as
thematically different as night and day anything that brings that sort of energy
to its presentation is bound to capture somebody’s attention.
The art and color work are amazing also. Rough edges give the book a dirty feel,
but the smooth lines seen when illustrating some of the chicks reminds readers
that there’s a sexy element at play here as well. Colors by Rico Renzi really
run the gamut as well. The book has a few different settings and times of day,
and it’s only a PREVIEW, but readers get a good look at what Renzi is capable
of. I haven’t heard of either artist/colorist until now, but I’m glad to
discover them, and on the strength of this preview I’ll be picking up all four
issues of the series. |
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INTREPID ESCAPEGOAT & STUFF OF LEGEND |
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Writer/Artist:
Brian Smith |
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Reviewers:
"Sweet" Dan Sweet and Jim "Good Old JR" Rutkowski
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Publisher:
TH3RD World Studios Shipped On:
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY (050711) |
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MSRP:
FREE! |
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TH3RD WORLD STUDIOS' SYNOPSIS:
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It is the dawn of the 20th Century, and one brave
soul dares to walk the line between the worlds of science and the arcane; he is
Thomas Fleet... The Intrepid EscapeGoat! Touring with his ward and assistant
Isis (a 2,000-year-old mummy girl), EscapeGoat performs to sold-out crowds
around the globe... but it's what happens offstage, when locals call upon him to
solve the paranormal mysteries plaguing their cities, that provides the most
peril! Also in this issue: a special preview of The Stuff of Legend Volume 3,
continuing the saga of the New York Times bestselling graphic novel! |
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"SWEET" DAN'S REVIEW:
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From the company that brought the MIND-BLOWING “The Stuff of Legend”, and from
one of the co-writers of that very book, Brian Smith, comes “The Intrepid Escape
Goat”. In a rare move, it’s a story that harkens back to the days of Hannah
Barbara cartoons that were as smart as they were funny. It’s easy to make a kid
laugh, but it’s much more difficult to get Mom or Dad, or whoever is reading the
story to said child to laugh right along side them. “The Intrepid Escape Goat”
would appear to have those bases covered.
The world’s greatest escape artist/detective, Thomas Fleet, the intrepid escape
goat, is fooled into investigating a dangerous pyramid and its precious relics.
When he’s double crossed by a close friend, Fleet must use all his wits to stay
alive and save a long-lost princess. Sure, the story itself is nothing new, but
the material is presented in such a way that I couldn’t help but root for the
Goat against all the devious villains he’s face to face with. EVEN THE FRENCH!
And while many of you are going to write this off as a children’s book, simply
because of the animated-style of art, you’d be wrong, WAY wrong.
It’s not that this book is meant for adult audiences; that’s certainly not the
case, but it does seem as though the author meant for the story to be enjoyed by
both children and parents alike. It’s the type of character that a child gets
hooked on, and the parent reading the story with the child isn’t bored out of
his/her gourd, effectively engaging them in the story as well. It’s not genius
level stuff, but what the heck are you looking for that in a book about a
Goat-detective? I’m excited to see what else Th3rd World has to offer,
especially since they included a brief preview of the third (th3rd) volume of
“The Stuff of Legend” at the end…good call! |
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JIM "GOOD OLD JR" RUTKOWSKI'S REVIEW:
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Brian Smith's Scapegoat feels like a cartoon show from the 1960's. Brightly
colored, whimsical with a touch of steampunk for good measure. It's a talking
animal tale centering on Thomas Fleet. An upright walking, suit wearing, escape
artist, film star who happens to be a goat. His sidekick, is a fez wearing snake
named Fassad that hinders as much as helps. I thought this was quite clever and
engaging. Those of you with children could safely put this book in your kids
hands and watch the smile spread across their face. Very enjoyable reading.
Stuff of Legend is only a brief teaser but fairly intriguing nonetheless.
Playing on the child's fear of what lurks in the closet at night, this story
hits many of the notes that would spark a child's imagination. Even though the
concept of the little ones toys coming to life when no one os looking could
easily be seen as a direct lift from a certain film series by Pixar, here it's
given a slight narative bump by having the toys turn into real creatures when
they travel through the portal that is the closet door.
Both of these titles are quality picks for the kids. |
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SILVER SCORPION |
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Writer:
Ron Marz
Artist:
Mukesh Singh |
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Reviewer:
"Sweet" Dan Sweet
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Publisher:
Liquid Comics Shipped On:
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY (050711) |
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MSRP:
FREE! |
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LIQUID COMIC'S SYNOPSIS:
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As seen in the New York Post, USA Today, Fox News,
NPR and more. Created by disabled students from America and Syria, experience
the origin of a new disabled superhero, Silver Scorpion. "The comic book will
help to establish trust and understanding between cultures, to empower young
people with disabilities." - President Bill Clinton, at the 2010 Clinton Global
Initiative. |
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"SWEET" DAN'S REVIEW:
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It would be very easy to slam a book like this, in all its derivative glory, but
frankly I don’t want to. I could take a jab at the silly idea that a handicapped
super hero with the ability to manipulate metal would use his power NOT to
fashion himself some sort of temporary legs for walking, running, jumping, etc.,
but rather transforms his wheelchair into a cooler super-heroish wheelchair, but
I won’t. There’s a big part of me that would totally rip this book to shreds if
it weren’t for the fact that this is, in the truest sense of the word, an
accomplishment worthy of respect.
Ron Marz has been a comic mainstay for a while and his interest in antiquities,
especially those of the enchanted/mystical/mysterious variety, is evident from
his work in the Top Cow universe. What Marz does here, however, is work hand in
hand with a group whose purpose is to inspire handicapped children around the
world, and together they’ve created the Silver Scorpion, a handicapped super
hero whose power derives from a mystical trinket passed on to him. I could
rattle off a list of potential influences as long as my arm, but it’s not really
the point. By judging this book based solely on its content rather than its
obvious imitation of other characters, one will quickly find the merit in this
work.
There’s a lot to be said about trying to inspire people, especially through
funny-books. What the creative team does here isn’t so much pandering to a niche
audience, but rather attempts to bring those who feel alienated because of their
condition into the fold. I’m not sure where the story is going, or if we’ll ever
see another issue of “The Silver Scorpion”, but it’s truly nice to see the
effort put forth. I’m sure there’s a lot of kids with all sorts of disabilities
that would like to see themselves represented in comics, television, film, etc,
and with the current influx of handicapped heroes (Marvel’s new “Venom” or BOOM!
Comics and “Starborn”) it’s getting easier and easier for everyone to find
someone to relate to. |
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LOCKE & KEY |
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Writer:
Joe Hill
Artist:
Gabriel Rodriguez |
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Reviewer:
Deanna "Dee Kay" Bihlmayer
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Publisher:
IDW Shipped On:
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY (050711) |
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MSRP:
FREE! |
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IDW'S SYNOPSIS:
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The acclaimed comic that is on its way to being a
Fox television series is now yours for free! This special issue presents a
26-page story by creators Joe Hill and Gabriel Rodriguez that sees the Locke
family and their wondrous Keyhouse mansion beset on all sides by shdowy threats.
The malevolent spirit Dodge continues his relentless quest to find the key to
the black door, and raises an army of shadows to wipe out anyone who might get
in his way. Surrounded and outnumbered, the Locke children find themselves
fighting a desperate battle, all alone, in a world where the night itself has
become their enemy. |
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"DEEKAY'S" REVIEW:
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For those of you who are unaware of Joe Hill, he is the son of Stephen King. The
Locke & Key series is an ongoing saga of the Locke children and a mansion full
of keys that have different powers. This free issue story is part of the third
book series.
The story line is macabre and scary, and with the adult language, it is not
recommended for children. This is an adult book series. The main characters of
the story are the three Locke children, Tyler, Bode, and Kinsey; and a
professional homicidal maniac named Dodge. Dodge wants the key to the Black
Door, which probably should never be opened. The book series when finished will
be comprised of a single story in a collection of six books. This particular
story is about midway through the series.
This particular issue finds Dodge putting on a crown of Darkness to do away with
the Locke children by swallowing them up in the darkness. Kinsey has a
flashlight and foils this plot, so that she can get herself and her little
brother to safety. Tyler the oldest looks for a key to help him combat the
Darkness and he uses the giant key, which makes him a giant. He battles darkness
and saves the day.
This series is intriguing and probably worth getting your hands on the whole
series. Mr. Hill himself states he is not sure on the ending yet, so take the
journey with him. For fans of Joe Hill’s novels and fans of his father Stephen
King, this series should not disappoint.
For horror fans, and graphic novel fans alike this is worth picking up and
enjoying. |
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JAKE THE DREAMING |
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Writer:
Adam Freeman, Marc Bernardin
Artist:
Andrew Jones |
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Reviewer:
Deanna "Dee Kay" Bihlmayer
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Publisher:
Radical Press Shipped On:
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY (050711) |
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MSRP:
FREE! |
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RADICAL'S SYNOPSIS:
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Welcome to Slumberton, population 5,000 and boring -
but not to 12-year-old Jake. Every day during his mundane tasks of school,
homework and chores, Jake falls into daydreams powered by his imagination of
untold adventure where he battles fantastic creatures in an epic dreamscape.
Life is normal for imaginative Jake until Slumberton's children start falling
into permanent sleep. As Jake expands his imagination and discovers his hidden
ability to travel through the dreams of others, it becomes clear that something
is keeping the Slumberton children asleep. Whatever it is, Jake must master his
newfound ability and harness his imagination to stop it before the whole of
Slumberton is trapped in a perpetual nightmare. |
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"DEEKAY'S" REVIEW:
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This book is a selection of partial chapters of an upcoming illustrated novel
coming out in December of 2011. In the excerpts from the novel, the reader gets
a glimpse of what the book is about and the illustrations that accompany it. The
storyline seems to be an intriguing one, but with only small glimpses into each
chapter, it is hard to discern what is really happening. This gives this sample
a feel of intrigue and wanting more, which is the goal after all.
The concept is of a boy who has a great imagination and sees ordinary things
different than others do. In a later chapter, he also discovers he can “jump”
into other people’s dreams as well. This is about all we are going to get on the
story line at this time. This book does seem a bit scary, so is probably for
ages 10 and up at least.
Although there have been stories of dreams becoming reality and vice versa, the
story never gets old. I am looking forward to seeing this novel in its entirety,
and only wished that it were coming out before December. The illustrations are
very intriguing, and I did take a few minutes to really study them and to see
how they correlated with the storyline.
I think this book will be worth picking up when it comes out, and will make a
great gift for someone in your family or even just a gift for yourself. |
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CIVIL WAR ADVENTURE |
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Writer:
Chuck Dixon
Artist:
Gary Kwapisz |
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Reviewer:
Deanna "Dee Kay" Bihlmayer
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Publisher:
History Graphics Press Shipped On:
FREE COMIC BOOK DAY (050711) |
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MSRP:
FREE! |
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HISTORY GRAPHICS PRESS' SYNOPSIS:
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Two-fisted, historically accurate stories of the war
that divided America! Bloody Bill Anderson's rein of terror in Missouri traps a
reluctant soldier in the battle of his life in 'I Rode With The Devil!'
Blood-stained axes, moonshine, murder, and revenge in the South Carolina swamps
leads to a gunrunner's worst fear in 'Gator Bait!' Check out the 'Battle Field
Amputation' fact page! |
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"DEEKAY'S" REVIEW:
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I found this book well drawn, and the storylines were very captivating. This
book is touted as a learning tool for those who do not know much about the civil
war and I would say that is true as long as the learner is over the age of 13.
The book is definitely PG-13, but it is a new way to portray the atrocities of
the Civil War. This series is good reading for anyone new to the Civil War saga,
or even for the Civil War buff.
I can see this as a teaching tool for High School, which gets away from the
usual history book versions, and brings the war to life visually, while keeping
to the terrible things of war in the late 19th century. This Free book gives an
account on how amputations were done, quite graphically and accurately, pointing
out that war was not a glamorous place to be. I am intrigued with this series
and think it is worth picking up for anyone interested in the history of our
country during this bloodiest time. This war is America’s history and everyone
should know exactly what went on during this time, and learn the lessons this
war has afforded us.
This series is well worth picking up. |
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"The first Saturday in May is Free Comic Book Day every year we give away
over 30 titles and 1000's of free comics on what we call the 2nd Happiest day of
the Year" (right after Christmas!)
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All Books/Characters pictured herein are © Copyright 2011 by their respective owners. No rights given or implied by Alternate Reality, Incorporated.
Reviews © 2011 Alternate Reality, Inc.
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