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Hey, ya ever heard of this comic called Unwritten?

By admin | Published: March 12, 2010

I can’t remember if we’ve mentioned it before, but Unwritten is really great, it’s by Mike Carey and Peter Gross through DC Veritgo, and the new issue is out this week!

Also this week is another great DC Vertigo series called Daytripper, by Gabriel Ba and Fabio Moon. It’s a beautifully drawn and well-written series about, um . . . LIFE. Check it out!

Also also this week is another great DC (not Vertigo) series called Batman and Robin, by THE Grant Morrison (who may be from the future) and a new artist for each story arc. This week’s new issue has our Dynamic Duo looking for the “late” Bruce Wayne — in the PAST! Fun stuff — come get some!

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Comics

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Click here for comics expected next Wednesday (opens in new window)

Featured Comic Books:

SUPERMAN: LAST STAND OF NEW KRYPTON #1 (OF 3)

The new Superman crossover event “Brainiac and The Legion of Super-Heroes” begins here, in this first issue of a 3-part miniseries! It’s New Krypton’s worst nightmare as Brainiac attacks the planet, determined to recapture the city of Kandor! But General Zod has been waiting for this moment since Brainiac first attacked Old Krypton – he has a plan to save his people, but at the cost of Earth and the future as we know it! So it’s up to Superman, Supergirl, Superboy and the Legion of Super-Heroes to stop the two madmen before they destroy everything!

JUSTICE LEAGUE: THE RISE AND FALL SPECIAL

Following the stunning conclusion to JUSTICE LEAGUE: CRY FOR JUSTICE comes the next epic chapter for the World’s Greatest Heroes. What controversial decision has created a split in the League? A new meaning to the term “hunt for justice” creates fear in the villain populace. Plus, a shocking secret is revealed that will change Green Arrow’s life forever.

ULTIMATE COMICS: SPIDER-MAN #8

Spider-Man and his amazing friends are there for the birth of a brand new hero!! Who is he? What is his name? Here’s a hint: It’s a name that will make you burst out in applause!! He’s set to be major player in the Ultimate Universe, so be there as hotshot creators BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS (ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN) and TAKESHI MIYAZAWA (RUNAWAYS) bring you his big debut!

THE A-TEAM: SHOTGUN WEDDING #1

The A-Team are back! Before you see their return on the big-screen, thrill to this special mission told in comic book form only! After a successful – but harrowing – completion to a mission in icy Alaska, Hannibal and the team are up for some much-needed leave in sunny San Diego to attend the wedding of a high-ranking U.S. official’s daughter. But when threats are made against the event, the A-Team is forced to quit their vacation and go undercover to foil what might be a terrorist plot.

Featured Graphic Novels:

GREEK STREET VOL. 1: BLOOD CALLS FOR BLOOD

Boasting a “Greek Chorus” of sexy strippers, vengeful gangsters, a murderous youth and a disturbed clairvoyant teenaged girl, GREEK STREET is Peter Milligan’s reimagining of the brutal and visceral tragedies of Ancient Greece played out on the mean streets of modern-day London. This first paperback collects issues #1-5 of the provocative new series.

HELLBOY VOLUME 9: THE WILD HUNT TPB

When ancient giants begin to reawaken in the British Isles, Hellboy is invited to join an ancient band of fellow monster hunters called the Wild Hunt and help bring them down. But an unexpected betrayal sends Hellboy after a quarry far more deadly: the Queen of Blood, first seen in 2007’s best-selling Hellboy: Darkness Calls. This newly reborn evil has her murderous sights set on all of humanity, and the only way Hellboy can stop her is to finally confront the truth about his own dark heritage.

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Games

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WARHAMMER 40,000 EXPANSION: BATTLE MISSIONS

Battle Missions is an expansion for Warhammer 40,000 that contains more than thirty new missions for you to play. Each mission is designed to provide you with a battle that will really challenge your ability as a commander on the war-torn battlefields of the 41st Millennium.

This 96-page scenarios book contains 30 new missions and three special missions for use in your games of Warhammer 40,000. This book also includes extensive background material and maps describing different battle strategies and tactics used by the armies of the 41st Millennium.

FORCES OF WARMACHINE: KHADOR

In the cold north of western Immoren lies the mighty Khadoran Empire, whose massive military epitomizes the national ideals of strength and resilience. Legions of Winter Guard march at the call of the empress, bent on conquest of the entire Iron Kingdoms. Led by powerful warcasters as unrelenting as the Khadoran winter and backed by elite soldiers such as the disciplined Iron Fang Pikemen and the imposing Man-O-War troopers who stride into battle in great steam-powered suits of armor, the army of Khador is ready to crush all who stand against them.

Lead the Empire’s conquest with Forces of WARMACHINE: Khador, featuring:

Complete faction rules and profiles for using all current Khador models in WARMACHINE Mk II. New troops to bring to the fight, plus the all-new warcaster Kommander Strakhov. An in-depth look at the history and structure of Khador’s military. A painting and modeling guide to help you ready your forces for battle. Khador Theme Force lists and rules, which allow you to create armies based on specialized forces from the Khadoran Empire.

WARMACHINE: WARCASTER KOMMANDER STRAKHOV

Few soldiers are as hated and feared by the Motherland’s enemies as Kommander Viktor Strakhov. Strakhov takes pride in the fact that he has never refused a mission, no matter how dangerous. Although he prefers to rely on his physical superiority, his potent arcane abilities have been refined to aid him in the shock assaults in which he excels. Strakhov and his ‘jacks launch brutal strikes against enemy positions, slaughtering the enemy before they can react. With each engagement, Strakhov changes the face of warfare in the Iron Kingdoms to match his vision of bloody excellence.

WARMACHINE: TARYN DI LA ROVISSI

Not every gun mage of the Order of the Amethyst Rose fights for the Llaelese Resistance. Taryn di la Rovissi remembers well the failings that led to her nation’s occupation. The loss of her country freed her from any lingering patriotism. Taryn is one of the most deadly practitioners of the gun mage art in the Iron Kingdoms an art for which she requires payment. She hates the Khadorans but also has no love for the Resistance beyond their ability to pay in good coin.

WARMACHINE: TRENCHER COMMANDOS

Forged during years of warfare in some of the most brutal fighting in all the Iron Kingdoms, the toughest soldiers of the Trenchers are singled out for special training. These commandos must master a variety of skills that include camouflage and covert unit coordination in addition to the deadly knife fighting techniques that are their trademark. In battle they crawl to the very edge of no man’s land to silently neutralize enemy scouts and snipers and disappear back into the woods without a trace.

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Toys / Collectables

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GALAXY QUEST: ION NEBULIZER & VOX COMMUNICATOR

By Grabthar’s Hammer! Join the crew of the NSEA Protector with these pre-built versions of Pegasus Hobbies’ full-size prop replica plastic model kits of the gun and communicator used in Galaxy Quest.

The Ion Nebulizer comes with clear lenses cast in blue with functioning trigger, and the VOX Communicator comes with a spring loaded flip-open mouth piece. Both are static display models, with no lights or sound.

DC UNIVERSE CLASSICS: ALL-STAR 75TH ANNIVERSARY

In celebration of DC Comics’ 75th anniversary, each Classics figure comes with an anniversary button and figure stand! Don’t miss out on these awesome figures, collect them all!

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The loooooooong-awaited final Planetary book, by Warren Ellis and John Cassaday

By admin | Published: March 5, 2010

It might have taken them 10 years to do 27 issues, but boy was it worth it! Planetary Book 4: Spacetime Archaeology is out in hardcover this week!

We have a very limited amount of early-release Dungeons & Dragons stuff this week: Player’s Handbook 3, Dungeon Tiles: Harrowing Halls, and Hammerfast: A Dwarven Outpost Adventure Site. Available today in Seminole, and Saturday the 6^th in Clearwater!

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Comics

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Click here for comics expected next Wednesday (opens in new window)

Featured Comic Books:

FIRST WAVE #1 (OF 6)

DC’s shocking new pulp universe is finally unveiled! In the shadows of the War, the roots of the Golden Tree cabal grew deep into the heart of a fallen world… and the leaders at the heart of this secret organization see no place in their utopia for heroism. Doc Savage, struggling with the loss of his father, has been blind to their advance – until now. Central City’s mysterious Spirit has caught wind of their plans as well. But whose side have the Blackhawks chosen? What is the Red Right Hand? And where is the Batman? Eisner Award winner Brian Azzarello (100 BULLETS, JOKER) and superstar Rags Morales (IDENTITY CRISIS) craft a DC universe like you’ve never seen before! It’s a world with no supermen, only mortal men… Death can come at any moment, and adventure can still be found at every corner of the map! Will Doc Savage be the first to lead the coming world or the last to be crushed under its heel?

NEW ULTIMATES #1

If only a few super heroes survived the Ultimatum — who is left to become the next super powered team to be reckoned with? The NEW Ultimates! With Thor gone, Loki takes his revenge unleashing the worst of Asgard on Earth. Iron Man must gather the heroes for their biggest Ultimates adventure yet. But who has made the final cut? And who can’t be trusted? The Ultimates face evil once again and you’ll never guess the new enemies they’ll find…or should we say old friends? Superstar creators, JEPH LOEB and FRANK CHO (in his Ultimate Comics debut!) bring you the new face of the Ultimate line in NEW ULTIMATES: THOR REBORN!

KEVIN SMITH’S GREEN HORNET #1

The Green Hornet is back and Dynamite is the new home for the avenging hero and his faithful sidekick, Kato (and, the Black Beauty, ‘natch!)!

And we’re kicking things off with a BANG as we launch the first of a new series of adventures starting with the great Kevin Smith. And let’s get it out of the way, right here, right NOW – the scripts are in! Every single one! Joining Smith in bringing his unproduced screenplay to life is artist Jonathan (Black Terror) Lau as they present the one and only origin of the Green Hornet and Kato. This is the comic book version of Kevin smith’s unproduced Green Hornet film and Dynamite is the only place to get in on the action – it all begins here!

STEPHEN KING’S “N.” #1

There is something unearthly and mysterious deep in Ackerman’s Field in rural Maine. There is a Stonehenge-like arrangement of seven stones with a horrifying EYE in the center. And whatever dwells there in that strange, windswept setting may have brought about the suicide of one man…and harbor death for the OCD afflicted “N.”, whose visits to the field have passed beyond compulsion into the realm of obsession. Based on the chilling short story from the recent Stephen King collection, JUST AFTER SUNSET, this adaptation will provide nightmares aplenty. Just keep counting the stones…keep counting…counting…

Featured Graphic Novels:

PLANETARY BOOK 4: SPACETIME ARCHAEOLOGY HC

This is it – the final, spectacular hardcover collection of Warren Ellis and John Cassaday’s PLANETARY. Collecting issues #19-27 of this unique series, Volume 4 features the final battles waged by Elijah Snow, Jakita Wagner and The Drummer against the mysterious Four along with the surprise return of a key player no one could have foreseen! It’s been over a decade in the making – don’t miss this unforgettable conclusion to one of WildStorm’s most acclaimed series.

STRANGE TALES HC

Marvel is proud to present an oversized hardcover of this hotly anticipated anthology showcasing Marvel’s greatest characters re-imagined by the best and brightest talents working in independent comics today. Don’t miss what’s sure to be one of the most exciting collections of comics short stories ever produced! Packed with a stunning array of the best, most exciting cartoonists on the planet—showcasing the Marvel Heroes as you’ve never seen them before! Featuring the long-awaited Peter Bagge “Incorrigible Hulk.” Collecting STRANGE TALES #1-3, THE MEGALOMANIACAL SPIDER-MAN and material from ALL SELECT COMICS 70TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL.

GRENDEL: BEHOLD THE DEVIL HC

For years, the life of the original Grendel, Hunter Rose, has been accessible only through his private journal, but there is a secret too terrible for even its pages, and a section of the journal is missing. Behold the Devil follows Rose through this lost period early in his criminal career, as he is under scrutiny not only by the police and media, but also by the prying eyes of an unseen — possibly supernatural — pursuer. Unusually shaken and paranoid, the criminal mastermind is forced to take steps that redefine the evil of the entity known as Grendel!

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Games

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EXALTED: MANUAL OF EXALTED POWER—ALCHEMICALS

The Alchemical Exalted are the exalted created within Autochthonia in order to protect and preserve Autochthonian society. Unlike the Exalted of Creation, the Alchemicals are made in special vats, and are not subject to the Great Curse, instead subject to increased communion with Autochthon himself. This new sourcebook for Exalted provides valuable information on these deadly creatures and more!

ERGO

Do you exist? I think therefore I am? From Socrates to Descartes, the question has dogged mankind. Now with Ergo you can prove your existence while disproving the existence of your friends.

POKÉMON 2010 SPRING TIN

Train with powerful Pokémon… to become a powerful Trainer! Every Pokémon Trading Card Game Collector’s Tin expands your collection and increases your gameplay choices, taking you a step closer to becoming a great player with some great cards.

Each tin contains four Pokémon TCG boosters, plus one of three powerful HeartGold & SoulSilver Pokémon Prime (Feraligatr, Meganium, or Typhlosion). Offered in 9-count displays.

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One of our Absolute favorites in October! Recommended Reading for… May (?)

By admin | Published: March 2, 2010

Well, DC is teasing us by offering an October release super-early. Man-oh-MAN, we can’t wait to see the wonderful artwork for this all embiggened in this deluxe treatment. What is this book, one of our favorite superhero stories in the last… EVER?! Read on….
———- DC COMICS ———-

ABSOLUTE ALL-STAR SUPERMAN HC
On sale OCTOBER 20 • 320 pg, 8.24” x 12.5”, FC, $99.99 US
Written by GRANT MORRISON • Art and cover by FRANK QUITELY
The Eisner Award-winning 12-issue series from Grant Morrison and Frank Quitely is now available in Absolute format! The Man of Steel battles Bizarro, Zibarro and more before facing the final revenge of Lex Luthor. Also includes a bonus sketchbook section and more!

BATMAN: THE RETURN OF BRUCE WAYNE #1-2
Issue #1 on sale MAY 12 • Issue #2 on sale MAY 26 • 48 pg (#1), 40 pg (#2) FC, $3.99 US
Written by GRANT MORRISON • Issue #1 art by CHRIS SPROUSE; Issue #2 art by FRAZER IRVING
Covers by ANDY KUBERT • Issue #1 1:25 variant cover by CHRIS SPROUSE
Issue #1 1:200 Sketch variant cover by ANDY KUBERT • Issue #2 1:25 variant cover by FRAZER IRVING
The most anticipated series of 2010 is here! Superstar writer Grant Morrison tackles his most ambitious project to date with THE RETURN OF BRUCE WAYNE, a special six-part series that chronicles the return of the original man behind Batman’s cape and cowl! Each issue spans a different era of time and features the dynamic artwork of one of today’s artistic juggernauts, starting with Chris Sprouse (TOM STRONG) on the extra-sized issue #1 and Frazer Irving (SEVEN SOLDIERS: KLARION) on the 40-page issue #2!

DC UNIVERSE LEGACIES #1
On sale MAY 19 • 1 of 10 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 US
Written by LEN WEIN • Art by ANDY KUBERT, JOE KUBERT & J.G. JONES • Cover by ANDY KUBERT & JOE KUBERT •1:25 variant cover by J.G. JONES
It starts here! DC Comics proudly presents a ten-part history of the DC Universe spanning five generations of heroes from the dawn of the Mystery Men to present day. In this first exciting issue, the Second World War rages on, giving birth to a new breed of hero. Caped and masked urban myths become legends as they emerge from the shadows to earn their place in history. Meanwhile, explore the bizarre new heroes Dr. Fate and The Spectre and learn whether their powers are real…or imagined.
Join renowned writer Len Wein (SWAMP THING, Incredible Hulk), legendary artist Joe Kubert (SGT. ROCK), his son, the fan-favorite Andy Kubert (BATMAN, X-Men) and J.G. Jones (FINAL CRISIS, 52) as they unearth the DCU’s epic history in this event you won’t want to miss!

SUPERMAN: WAR OF THE SUPERMEN #1
On sale MAY 5 • 1 of 4 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by JAMES ROBINSON & STERLING GATES • Art by AARON LOPRESTI & MATT RYAN
Cover by EDDY BARROWS • 1:25 variant cover by AARON LOPRESTI
The Battle for New Krypton! This is it! The storyline the SUPERMAN books have been building to since 2008 has arrived! Superman has never faced such a difficult challenge – how can he stop the two worlds he loves from destroying each other? General Zod has been waiting for another shot at Earth for years, and with 100,000 supermen on his side, it looks like it’s his war to win! But on Earth, General Lane has an ace up his sleeve that will level the playing field quite nicely!

THE LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES #1
On sale MAY 19 • 48 pg, FC, $3.99 US
Written by PAUL LEVITZ • Art and cover by YILDIRAY CINAR & WAYNE FAUCHER
1:10 Variant cover by JIM LEE
Fan-favorite LEGION writer Paul Levitz returns to the 31st century super team he made supreme with an all-new intergalactic era! This exciting series picks up on threads from Geoff Johns’s “Superman and the Legion of Super-Heroes” storyline and creates its own all-new ones, including a Green Lantern Corps tie-in and the destruction of a major planet! Rocket on board here as Levitz and rising star artist Yildiray Cinar (TEEN TITANS) revitalize one of DC’s most beloved franchises starting with an oversized first issue with a variant cover by superstar artist Jim Lee!

ZATANNA #1
On sale MAY 19 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 US
Written by PAUL DINI • Art by STEPHANE ROUX & KARL STORY • Cover by STEPHANE ROUX
1:10 Variant Cover by BRIAN BOLLAND
At last – the Mistress of Magic in her own ongoing series! Zatanna Zatara has long made her home in San Francisco, but right under her nose a sinister threat has developed – a crime boss who dominates the criminal underworld with the dark powers of the magical underworld! The terrifying Brother Night is making his play for San Fran, and the police force – including hunky detective Dale Colton – turn to Zee for help. But Brother Night is a whole new kind of criminal and if Zatanna thinks she can backwards-talk him down, then she’s in over her top-hatted head! Superstar writer Paul Dini (BATMAN: MAD LOVE) is paired with the gorgeous art of Stephane Roux (BIRDS OF PREY), making his anticipated DC debut on interior art! There’s only one thing to say – T’NOD SSIM TI!

BATMAN: R.I.P. TP
On sale JUNE 16 • 224 pg, FC, $14.99 US
Written by GRANT MORRISON • Art by TONY DANIEL & SANDU FLOREA
Cover by ALEX ROSS
The death of The Dark Knight is now in trade paperback, featuring BATMAN #676-683! With Bruce Wayne out of the picture, The Club of Villains begins a crime spree through the streets of Gotham City, while Batman’s allies attempt to keep order.

FINAL CRISIS TP
On sale JUNE 2 • 352 pg, FC, $24.99 US
Written by GRANT MORRISON • Art by J.G. JONES, CARLOS PACHECO,
JESUS MERINO & OTHERS • Cover by J.G. JONES
The mind-blowing event miniseries is now in trade paperback! What happens when evil wins? Superman, Batman, the Justice League and every other super being in the DC Universe must face this reality when Darkseid and his otherworldly legion of followers actually win the war between light and dark.

BLACKEST NIGHT HC
On sale JULY 7 • 304 pg, FC, $29.99 US
Written by GEOFF JOHNS
Art by IVAN REIS & OCLAIR ALBERT
Cover by IVAN REIS & RUDOLFO MIGLIARI
As the war between the different Corps rages on, the prophecy of the Blackest Night descends in this hardcover collecting the best–selling BLACKEST NIGHT #0-8. Now, Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps lead DC’s champions into battle to save the universe from an
army of Black Lanterns made up of the DCU’s deceased heroes and villains!

I, ZOMBIE #1
On sale MAY 5 • 32 pg, FC, $1 US • MATURE READERS
Written by CHRIS ROBERSON •Art and cover by MICHAEL ALLRED • 1:10 Variant cover by DARWYN COOKE
Gwen Dylan is a gravedigger in an eco-friendly cemetery…and a zombie detective. Once a month, she has to eat a human brain – both to keep from going all “Night of the Living Dead,” and to keep her own memories intact. As a result, Gwen’s mind is crowded with the dead person’s thoughts. And lately, she feels compelled to fulfill their final requests. Torn between a mysterious mummy and a dashing young monster-hunter, Gwen is set for adventures beyond imagination! A were-terrier, a swinging ’60s ghost and a pack of paintball blasting vampires complete the cast of I, ZOMBIE.
Written by World Fantasy Award finalist Chris Roberson (CINDERELLA: FROM FABLETOWN WITH LOVE) with art by Eisner Award-winning superstar artist Michael Allred (X-Statix, Madman), I, ZOMBIE is a monster of a tale with razor-sharp prose and powerful pop artistry.
Don’t miss this special debut issue launching Vertigo’s next monster hit, priced at just $1.00!

———- MARVEL COMICS ———-

ASTONISHING SPIDER-MAN/WOLVERINE #1
Written by JASON AARON
Pencils & Cover by ADAM KUBERT
Foilogram Variant Cover by ADAM KUBERT
THE HEROIC AGE IS HERE!
Spider-Man and Wolverine! Everyone’s favorite wise-cracking web-spinner and ferocious furball come together in their first major series ever! The super-star creative team of Jason Aaron (WOLVERINE: WEAPON X, PUNISHERMAX) and Adam Kubert (ULT. FANTASTIC FOUR, X-MEN) send Spidey and Wolvie to the edges of the Marvel Universe as they face such awful beings as The Czar, Big Murder and Doom the Living Planet! But who is the major Marvel villain pulling the strings? And can Spidey & Wolvie refrain from killing one another long enough to find out?
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$3.99

ASTONISHING X-MEN: XENOGENESIS #1 (of 5)
Written by WARREN ELLIS
Art & Cover by KAARE ANDREWS
Foilogram Variant Cover by KAARE ANDREWS
THE HEROIC AGE IS HERE!
The superstar team of Warren Ellis and Kaare Andrews (SPIDER-MAN: REIGN) take X-Men into the Heroic Age!
Something’s happening in the tiny East African city of Mbangwi. Something that requires immediate investigation. A newborn sprouts metal electrodes and explodes, taking out an entire hospital. Is this the first wave of mutant rebirth that the X-Men have been praying for…or something very, very different? Something sinister?
40 PGS./Rated T+ …$3.99

GALACTA: DAUGHTER OF GALACTU S #1
Written by ADAM WARREN
Art by HECTOR SEVILLA LUJAN
Cover by ADAM WARREN
Galactus is the terror of the universe, devouring planets and
destroying civilizations as he goes—and a father to a growing
daughter! Meet GALI, daughter of the infamous planet-eater
GALACTUS and the WINNER of last year’s MARVEL ASSISTANT-
SIZED SPECTACULAR poll! Unlike her father, Gali has
formed an affection for the planet Earth, and does her best to
subsist only on invasive alien life-forms…but when her cosmic
hunger begins growing out of control, can she hold herself
back from a deadly binge? Featuring WOLVERINE, THOR,
and the FANTASTIC FOUR, this collects the original Galacta
short plus three Marvel Digital Comic Exclusive Galacta
stories from writer Adam Warren (Empowered, Gen 13) and
with stunning digital paints by artist Hector Sevilla Lujan!
48 PGS./One-Shot/Rated T+ …$3.99

AVENGERS #1
Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS
Pencils & Cover by JOHN ROMITA JR.
Variant by JOHN ROMITA JR.
Variant by MARKO DJURDJEVIC
Heroic Age Variant by GREG LAND
THE HEROIC AGE IS HERE!
There came a day! A day unlike any other…where two of Marvel’s top creators teamed up for the very first time to create a bombastic new monthly Marvel comic that not only ushers in the Heroic Age of Marvel Comics but unleashes onto the world the most blockbuster Avengers team ever! Who will answer the call? And will they assemble just in time…because Kang the Conqueror is here from the future. And wait till you find out why…! Bonus back up feature: the oral history of the Avengers, part one. A brand new illustrated look at the Avengers in a way you have never seen before by series writer Brian Michael Bendis.
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$3.99

ORIGINS OF MARVEL COMICS #1
Written by FRED VAN LENTE,
JEFF PARKER & JIM MCCANN
Art by JOHN ROMITA JR., LEINIL FRANCIS YU & ALAN DAVIS
Cover by CHRIS STEVENS
THE HEROIC AGE IS HERE!
An all-star lineup of creators brings you the origins of Marvel’s greatest heroes! Short, accessible origin stories, all drawn by a roster of the hottest artists, including John Romita Jr., Leinil Francis Yu, Alan Davis and MORE! From the Avengers to the X-Men! From Iron Man, Thor, the Fantastic Four and Spider-Man to Hulk, Deadpool, Black Widow and the Punisher! They’re all here!
32 PGS./Rated A …$3.99

[We can't show you a picture of the Secret Avengers here -- they're SECRET! ...I mean, we COULD show you, but then we'd have to kill you....]

SECRET AVENGERS #1
Written by ED BRUBAKER
Penciled by MIKE DEODATO
Wraparound & Variant Cover by
MARKO DJURDJEVIC
Variant Cover by MIKE DEODATO
Heroic Age Variant by TBA
THE HEROIC AGE IS HERE!
Who are the Secret Avengers? Are they a covert team of heroes working the darkest corners of the globe to stop disaster? Are they part-spy, part-superhero? Are they XXXXXXX’s newest idea to save the world…or all they all of the above? A new era begins as Marvel’s hottest team takes a 21st century twist!
32 PGS./Rated A …$3.99

———- OTHER PUBLISHERS ———-

BRODY’S GHOST BOOK 1
Mark Crilley (W/A)
On sale July 7
b&w, 96 pages $6.99
TPB, 5 1/4″ x 7 1/2″
Brody hoped it was just a hallucination. But no, the teenaged ghostly girl who’d come face to face with him in the middle of a busy city street was all too real. And now she was back, telling him she needed his help in hunting down a dangerous killer, and that he must undergo training from the spirit of a centuries-old samurai to unlock his hidden supernatural powers. Thirteen-time Eisner nominee Mark Crilley (Akiko) joins Dark Horse to launch his most original and action-packed saga to date in Brody’s Ghost, the first in a six-volume limited series.

MOUSE GUARD: LEGENDS OF THE GUARD #1
(W/A) Jeremy Bastian, Alex Sheikman, Ted Naifeh, David Petersen
Inside the June Alley Inn, located in the western mouse city of Barkstone, mice gather to tell tales, each trying to outdo the other. A competition, of sorts, begins. The rules: Every story must contain one truth, one lie, and have never been told in that tavern before. Legends of the Guard is a new Mouse Guard anthology series with artists and storytellers handpicked by creator David Petersen.
8×8, 24pgs, FC (1 of 4) SRP: $3.50

THE OVERSTREET COMIC BOOK PRICE GUIDE VOLUME 40
(E) Robert M. Overstreet
Celebrate the landmark 40th edition of the comic collector’s Bible! Since 1970, the Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide has been the definitive guide for comic collectors and dealers alike. New collectors and seasoned enthusiasts will find all new insights, features, and data, along with the most comprehensive listing of comics all new entries in the Overstreet Hall of Fame. Acclaimed artist Mark Chiarello (Batman/Houdini: The Devil’s Workshop) supplies the Batman cover, while Eisner Award-winning artist Darwyn Cooke (DC: The New Frontier) supplies the Captain America cover. (C: 0-0-2)
BATMAN HC—HC, PC SRP: $35.00
BATMAN SC—SC, 1100pgs, PC SRP: $29.95
CAPTAIN AMERICA HC—HC, PC SRP: $35.00
CAPTAIN AMERICA SC—SC, 1120pgs, PC SRP: $29.95

MOVING PICTURES GN
(W) Kathryn Immonen (A) Stuart Immonen
During World War II the Nazis pillaged much of Europe’s great art collections. Museum curator Ila Gardner and SS officer Rolf Hauptmann are forced by circumstances to play out an awkward and dangerous relationship in a public power struggle. Moving Pictures unfolds along two timelines which collide with the revelation of a terrible secret, an enigmatic decision that not many would make, and the realization that sometimes the only choice left is the refusal to choose.
SC, 5.75×8.2, 144pgs, B&W SRP: $14.95

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Bowling for monsters!

By admin | Published: March 1, 2010

After Spider-Man absconds with his gum, Bullseye blows off some steam by bowling — using ten poor Dungeons & Dragons miniatures for pins!

Bullseye’s in fine bowling form, and oooh — it looks like it’s gonna be a strike…

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Just because he’s in a million comics this year shouldn’t mean he can change the title of a comic…

By admin | Published: February 26, 2010

…but Deadpool’s gone and done it anyway! This week sees the arrival of the “Deadpool & Cable” Ultimate Collection — you know, the one that collects the first 18 issues of …CABLE & DEADPOOL!!! Poor Cable: he’s from the frickin’ FUTURE and he can’t even ensure that he gets top billing….

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Comics
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Click here for comics expected next Wednesday (opens in new window)

Featured Comic Books:

BLACKEST NIGHT #7 ( OF 8 )
As Nekron continues to wage war on life throughout the universe, Hal Jordan discovers the grim, true mission behind the villain’s return. But the truth is so cosmically abysmal that it threatens to expose a secret that could tear the very universe asunder. You can’t miss this stunning, penultimate issue to the year’s biggest event!

FALL OF THE HULKS: RED HULK #2
FALL OF THE HULKS charges on! Have Bruce Banner and Red Hulk formed an alliance? Is one playing the other? And how does Hulk and Thundra’s child factor into M.O.D.O.K.’s grand scheme? Answers abound in this thrilling issue from the mind of Jeff Parker (X-Men vs. Agents of Atlas, Thunderbolts)!

THE WEIRD WORLD OF JACK STAFF #1
BEGINNING A BRAND NEW ERA IN THE LIFE OF BRITAIN’S GREATEST HERO!
Castletown is home to giant robots, vampire reporters, victorian escape artists and also Britain’s Greatest Hero. Welcome to the Weird World of Jack Staff!
John Smith is a builder. He also seems to be a superhero, only he doesn’t know about that. The only thing he knows is that a lot of people want him dead. And the only weapon he has to protect himself with is a wooden stick!

CHOKER #1
Industry superstar BEN TEMPLESMITH teams up with writer BEN McCOOL for this deliciously skewed tale of hardboiled noir. Johnny “Choker” Jackson, once one of Shotgun City’s most promising police officers, is a bitter private detective with a terrible case of Alien Hand Syndrome. But he’s unexpectedly been offered a job back on the force: provided he can nail a twisted drug dealer selling a very exclusive product, that is…

Featured Graphic Novels:

DEADPOOL & CABLE: ULTIMATE COLLECTION BOOK 1
Wade Wilson and Nathan Summers – Marvel’s mightiest mutant mercs – are back, and this time they’re stuck with each other! Can two grown men armed to the teeth with deadly genetic weaponry live together without driving each other crazy?! Action, adventure, black humor, black-ops, face-changing viruses, gratuitous France-bashing and lots of gunfire mark the return of two of Marvel’s fan-favorite anti-heroes! Plus: this edition comes complete with all letters pages, never before reprinted! Collecting CABLE & DEADPOOL #1-18.

THE SPLENDID MAGIC OF PENNY ARCADE: THE 11 1/2 ANNIVERSARY EDITION

> open book

The book is now open.

> read book

Entitled The Splendid Magic of Penny Arcade, it details the history of a comic strip called Penny Arcade. The comic appears to catalog the lives of two young men who are utterly steeped in popular culture.

Each chapter gathers into a coherent beam of savory trivia, strange facts, formerly mysterious origins, biographical information, interviews, inaugural conventions, an unlikely charity, and comic strips. You get the sense that some of the content may be apocryphal—for example, the part where they eat a whole wolf basically comes out of nowhere. Also, if one of them really did become “King of the Britons,” you’re sure you would have heard about it somewhere else.

> close book

You close the book and place it back on the shelf. Maybe next time.

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Games
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DUNGEONS AND DRAGONS: DIVINE POWER CARDS
Players using Divine Power Cards don’t need to crack open a rulebook every time they use a power—all the crucial information is right in front of their eyes. Simply select the cards for your character’s powers and you’re ready to play!
Each deck of 100 cards includes all the powers from Divine Power for one of the four classes featured in the book—avenger, cleric, invoker, and paladin—plus a few blank cards for players to use for other powers.

SHADOWRUN: VICE
Illegal is a strong word. It means you’re doing something that the government doesn’t want you to do. You’d never do anything like that, right? Or would you? It might be that some laws are… misguided. It’s civil disobedience and a moral imperative to oppose those laws. Gandhi taught us that. My friends and I—we’re here to help you make these difficult moral choices. We’ll even provide you with a support network, if someone objects to your strong moral compass. And, hey, if everything works out, maybe all of us might come out ahead. Don’t worry! We’ve got your back.

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Toys / Collectables
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UNIVERSAL MONSTERS 1:8 MODEL KITS
Models in the series include Frankenstein, Dracula, Wolfman, and the Mummy.
Each kit is Skill Level 3, ages 12+ and molded in light gray with detailed display bases.

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“Stop! Gum thief!!!”

By admin | Published: February 23, 2010

…roared Bullseye.

“Wait — I just stole a bunch of gum from you, and your response is to THROW MORE GUM AT ME?!!!” laughed Spidey.

Posted in Action Figure Theatre | Leave a comment

“Insert funny and insightful subject line here”

By admin | Published: February 19, 2010

Hey, we can’t be full of hilarity and deep commentary every week! We’ll just let the comics and games and toys speak for themselves this week. Read on…

————————————–Comics————————————–

Click here for comics expected next Wednesday (opens in new window)

Featured Comic Books:

DOOMWAR #1

Wakanda has been conquered, its Vibranium reserves plundered. Storm faces execution in the next 48 hours. And Dr. Doom stands triumphant. It will take the combined forces of the X-Men, the Fantastic Four and the two Black Panthers to stand against him. A war has begun that will pit the world’s most relentless super-villain against a collection of the world’s most powerful super heroes — one that will span the globe, offering twists and turns and surprise players (hello, Deadpool!) that neither side will see coming.

ZOMBIES VS. ROBOTS AVENTURES #1

Zombies vs Robots is back, retooled and rarin’ to go monthly in this new 4-part series. Chris Ryall scripts, Ashley Wood provides the covers, and a cadre of new artists tackle three serialized tales. Beginning in this issue, the war story of “Kampf” (art by Menton Matthews III); the growth of the human resistance in “Masques” (art by Paul McCaffrey); and a new form of zombies is born in “Zuvembies vs Robots” (with art by Gabriel Hernandez).

GREEN LANTERN #51

The most epic battle in BLACKEST NIGHT yet comes to a shocking conclusion as Hal Jordan makes the ultimate move to take on the Black Lantern Spectre. But what price comes with the unleashing of Parallax? And what does this mean for the future of the emotional spectrum’s avatars?

BLACKEST NIGHT: THE FLASH #3 (OF 3)

It’s a case of the chicken-or-the-egg as Barry Allen takes on the Black Lantern Reverse-Flash and seeks answers to the very nature of Professor Zoom’s impending resurrection. Plus, the Rogues witness an act so horrifying that it changes one of their own forever.

Featured Graphic Novels:

KICK-ASS PREMIERE HARDCOVER

The greatest super hero comic of all-time is finally here! WOLVERINE: ENEMY OF THE STATE’s team of MARK MILLAR (CIVIL WAR) and JOHN ROMITA JR. (WORLD WAR HULK) reunite for the best new book of the 21st century! Have you ever wanted to be a super hero? Dreamed of donning a mask and just heading outside to some kick-ass? Well, this is the book for you–the comic that starts where other super hero books draw the line. KICK-ASS is realistic super heroes taken to the next level. Miss out and you’re an idiot! Collecting KICK-ASS #1-8.

IGNITION CITY VOL.1

Where did the space heroes go to die? From Warren Ellis, the writer who reinvented science fiction in comics, in the alternate-world style of the award-winning Ministry Of Space and Aetheric Mechanics, comes a retropunk “future of the past” where spaceships still belched smoke and arguments were still settled with laser pistols. Grounded space pilot Mary Raven has come to the interzone settlement in the middle of Ignition City, Earth’s last spaceport, to recover the effects of her dead father — or so people think. Mary really wants to know how he died, and who did it. Mary Raven is out to spoil a great many people’s days. Today might be her last day on Earth, trapped on the last spaceport where no-one cares about murder and the only real currency is fear. She has her dead father’s raygun, and that’s enough for space hero turned arms dealer Lightning Bowman to want her dead. But she also has her dead father’s diary. And when she finds out something no-one else in the settlement knows… they’ll want her dead for that, too! Featuring the art of Aetheric Mechanics’ Gianluca Pagliarani, this full-color volume collects all five issues of the sci-fi epic with a gorgeous cover gallery full of design sketches, ray-gun fights and giant metal machines!

DC UNIVERSE: ORIGINS

Collecting the origins of over fifty characters from Animal Man to Zatanna, including Batman, Wonder Woman, The Joker and many more, from DC’s hit weekly series 52 and COUNTDOWN TO FINAL CRISIS as well as several first seen online, featuring the work of some of comics’ top talents!

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CHEZ CTHULHU

Prepare for an encounter with the most sanity-blasting entities in all the dimensions . . .Your roommates.Chez Cthulhu brings the horror of Lovecraft’s Mythos right into your apartment . . . as if the leftovers from the Pizza with Absolutely Everything weren’t bad enough. Work your job – will you be a Morgue Janitor, a Sanitarium Guard, or a Gravedigger? Buy things to give you Slack, like a comforting Straitjacket . . . or some Friendly Tentacles to make your day a little brighter. Invite people over to your room . . . and sacrifice them! And Nookie . . . don’t forget the Nookie. Preferably without the Ectoplasmic Slime.Chez Cthulhu combines the classic Chez Geek system with everyone’s favorite Elder God. . . and adds a new Madness mechanic. This set includes 110 cards and two blanks, a die, and counters for both Slack and Madness.Warning: Mixing Chez Cthulhu with Chez Geek can lead to bouts of giggling and excessive silliness. The game itself will play just fine, as long as your brain doesn’t break when you use “cigarette” and “tentacle” interchangeably.

WARMACHINE: RUTGER SHAW

Rutger Shaw enlisted in the Cygnaran Army as a young man and trained as a trencher, demonstrating a unique knack for marshaling warjacks as well as skill with a blade. Military service and long years of battle hardened him, even as his conscience chafed at fighting at the whim of callous officers. He opted out and turned sell-sword, spending recent years travelling the Iron Kingdoms guided by his taste for adventure and coin.

WARMACHINE CRYX: WARWITCH SIREN

For centuries the Orgoth tyrants used their warwitches as living implements of atrocity and mass destruction. Now, hundreds of years later, the Cryxian warwitches have become icy killers, as cold in spirit as the shadows in which they are clad. Their arcane powers have been refined over time, and the witches called sirens have learned ways to seduce their enemies into annihilation.

YU-GI-OH!: ABSOLUTE POWERFORCE

Absolute Powerforce features Jack Atlas’s Majestic Red Dragon – the latest and greatest upgrade for The Five Dragons! It also contains new Koaki Meiru, X-Sabers, Ritual Monster cards, Reptiliannes, Spellcasters, Machines, and more. Plus, a special treat for long-time Duelists, an old favorite has returned: It’s time to dust off their Necrovalley cards and add four brand-new cards to their Gravekeeper’s Decks! 9 cards per pack / 24 packs per box.

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BLACKEST NIGHT: SERIES 3

BLACKEST NIGHT continues to astonish as DC Direct introduces the third series of action figures based on this storyline!
Don’t get caught without these new action figures, including Aquaman, the third member of the Black Lanterns; Arisia, the Green Lantern charged with protecting Earth; Larfleeze, the only living member of the avaricious Orange Lantern Corps, who comes with the slain – and slavish – Glomulus; and Star Sapphire of the Zamorans, whose members battle using the violet power of love.

STREET FIGHTER IV : SURVIVAL MODE COLORS SERIES 1

From the best selling video game and arcade fighter comes this brand new collection of alternate costumes from the #1 selling video game. This assortment includes Ryu, Ken, and Guile. All 3 figures are highly detailed and highly articulated to allow for maximum posing and display.

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No fool — April’s gonna be AWESOME!

By admin | Published: February 12, 2010

New books from — can you believe all these names? — Sam Kieth, Adam Hughes, Jim Steranko, Jeff Smith, Daniel Clowes (his first original graphic novel!), Jim Woodring, and Neil Gaiman!

And and AND: the New Avengers Finale with art by Bryan Hitch, a new Flash title by Geoff Johns, and a Fraggle Rock comic!

———- MARVEL COMICS ———-

INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #25

Written by MATT FRACTIONPencils & 50/50 Covers by SALVADOR LARROCAFoilogram Variant by RYAN MEINERDINGMOVIE VARIANT ALSO AVAILABLEIRON MAN BY DESIGN VARIANT by JOE KUBERT

Double-sized issue! Co-released alongside this summer’s surefire blockbuster hit IRON MAN 2, this issue is the perfect jumping-on point for fans of the films and readers new and old alike! New year. New decade. New trade dress. New threats. New loves. New armor. New Tony Stark. New storyline: RESILIENT. Get onboard the Eisner-award winning INVINCIBLE IRON MAN here!48 PGS./Rated A …$3.99

NEW AVENGERS: FINALE

Written by BRIAN MICHAEL BENDISPencils & Cover by BRYAN HITCH

In the wake of SIEGE, an ALL NEW shocking conclusion to the landmark NEW AVENGERS series. NEW AVENGERS is coming to an end…but not without a bang. For the first time ever, series regular Brian Bendis teams up with the superstar artist that reinvented team books for this generation…Bryan Hitch. The entirety of the Marvel landscape has changed and many Avengers do not know their place in it. But before they can move on, some very important loose ends need to be tied up. A.K.A. it’s payback time!! All this and a bevy of super star artists stop by to pay tribute to the work they made famous over the course of this top-selling book.64 PGS./One-Shot/Rated A …$4.99

ULTIMATE COMICS AVENGERS 2 #1

Written by MARK MILLARPencils & Cover by LEINIL FRANCIS YUVillain Variant by MARC SILVESTRI Foilogram Variant by LEINIL FRANCIS YU

Some jobs are just too dirty for the Ultimates. For these, Nick Fury must gather the Avengers, a black ops team willing to do the missions that others won’t. What role will an infamous mass killer play in Fury’s plans? Find out here, as the Punisher returns to the Ultimate Universe! The blockbuster team of MARK MILLAR (ULTIMATES) and LEINIL FRANCIS YU (SECRET INVASION) presents the explosive beginning to ULTIMATE COMICS AVENGERS: CRIME AND PUNISHMENT.32 PGS./Parental Advisory …$3.99

S.H.I.E.L.D. #1

Written by JONATHAN HICKMANPenciled by DUSTIN WEAVERCover by GERALD PARELHistorical Variant by DUSTIN WEAVERBlack & White Issue Variant also available

Leonardo Da Vinci was an agent of S.H.I.E.L.D. So was Issac Newton. So were Imhotep and Zhang Heng and Galileo and many other geniuses throughout time. They were the first heroes to defeat Galactus and the Brood and turn Celestials back. They saved the world long before Captain America or Iron Man were ever born, but what does this mean to our heroes of today? What does this mean to Nick Fury? Do not miss this Marvel Comics masterpiece that fans will be talking about for decades to come. All the insanity is courtesy of JONATHAN HICKMAN (FANTASTIC FOUR, SECRET WARRIORS, Nightly News) and DUSTIN WEAVER (X-MEN).40 PGS./Rated T+ …$3.99

INVINCIBLE IRON MAN VOL. 3:WORLD’S MOST WANTED BOOK 2 TPB

Written by MATT FRACTIONPenciled by SALVADOR LARROCACover by SALVADOR LARROCA

Tony Stark hits rock bottom! He lost his closest friends in the Civil War. He had his leadership of the Avengers taken away and his status as director of S.H.I.E.L.D. stripped from him. He’s been declared the most wanted fugitive in Norman Osborn’s Dark Reign. And if you thought that was as bad as it was going to get, you thought wrong. Tony Stark is a man on the run and pushed to his absolute limits — with his armor failing and his only friends left just as compromised as he — but he’s poised to lose the one thing that’s separated him from every other human on the planet: his mind! A centerpiece of Marvel’s Dark Reign event, WORLD’S MOST WANTED BOOK 2 concludes the sprawling epic that helped earn INVINCIBLE IRON MAN thecoveted Eisner Award for Best New Series! Collecting INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #14-19.160 PGS./Rated A …$14.99

———- DC COMICS ———-

BRIGHTEST DAY #0

On sale APRIL 14 • 56 pg, FC, $3.99 USWritten by Geoff Johns & Peter J. Tomasi • Art by Fernando Pasarin Cover by David Finch1:50 Variant cover by Ivan Reis

The biggest event in comics continues as BRIGHTEST DAY burns back the BLACKEST NIGHT! Although the threat of Nekron appears to be over, the effects that the already classic BLACKEST NIGHT will have on the DC Universe will be felt for years to come. This issue not only sets the stage for the new ongoing bi-weekly DC Universe book, BRIGHTEST DAY, but also the next exciting era of the DC Universe!

THE FLASH #1

On sale APRIL 14 • 40 pg, FC, $3.99 USWritten by GEOFF JOHNS • Art, cover and 1:100 variant cover by FRANCIS MANAPUL1:25 Variant cover by Tony Harris

A BRIGHTEST DAY tie-in! Get in on the ground floor of DC’s next epic in the making! The Flash races out of BLACKEST NIGHT and into his own monthly title as the all-new adventures of The Fastest Man Alive start with “Case One: The Dastardly Death of the Rogues!” Barry Allen runs back to his life in Central City, but when one of the Rogues turns up murdered under mysterious circumstances, it’s up to The Flash to not only solve this bizarre crime, but protect those that are still targeted by the elusive killer. Plus, don’t miss a peek into the future of the Flash universe in this special, extra-sized starting point issue!

BATMAN: ARKHAM ASYLUM — MADNESS HC

Advance-solicited • On sale June 23 • 112 pg, FC, $19.99 USWritten by SAM KIETH • Art and cover by SAM KIETH

An original Batman graphic novel set in Arkham Asylum from Sam Kieth, creator of THE MAXX!It is the most feared house in all of Gotham City. It contains the worst that the city has to offer. It is the place The Dark Knight’s most dangerous and psychotic foes call home. Writer/artist Sam Kieth, creator of THE MAXX and artist of the acclaimed miniseries LOBO: HIGHWAY TO HELL, invites you to spend 24 hours in Arkham Asylum – the most unsettling house in the DC Universe.

COVER RUN: THE DC COMICS ART OF ADAM HUGHES HC

Advance-solicited • On sale JUNE 23 • 208 pg, FC 6.75” X 10.25”, $39.99 USWritten by ADAM HUGHESArt and cover by ADAM HUGHES

Collecting the best of Eisner Award winner Adam Hughes’s spectacular, sexy covers for WONDER WOMAN, CATWOMAN and other DC series. This amazing collection features the best of Hughes’ work for DC Comics, along with commentary from the artist, rarely seen preliminary material and much more!

BATWOMAN: ELEGY DELUXE EDITION HC

Advance-solicited • On sale JUNE 30 • 192 pg, FC 7.0625” X 10.875”, $24.99 USWritten by GREG RUCKAArt and cover by J.H. WILLIAMS III

In her first hardcover, collecting tales from DETECTIVE COMICS #854-860, Batwoman battles a madwoman known only as Alice, inspired by Alice in Wonderland, who sees her life as a fairy tale and everyone around her as expendable! Batwoman must stop Alice from unleashing a toxic death cloud over all of Gotham City — but Alice has more up her sleeve than just poison, and Batwoman’s life will never ever be the same.

THE VIKING PRINCE BY JOE KUBERT HC

Advance-solicited • On sale JUNE 30 • 296 pg, FC, $39.99 USWritten by ROBERT KANIGHER and BOB HANEY Art and cover by Joe Kubert

In fifth century Iceland, an amnesiac Viking warrior faces peril from the ruler of a neighboring village, as well as giants, sea monsters, witches and more. Collecting classic adventure tales from THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD #1-5, 7-20, and OUR ARMY AT WAR #162 and 163.

DV8: GODS & MONSTERS #1

On sale APRIL 21 • 1 of 8 • 32 pg, FC, $2.99 USWritten by BRIAN WOOD • Art by REBEKAH ISAACS • Cover by FIONA STAPLES1:10 Variant cover by JIM LEE

The fan-favorite series DV8 returns with the eight-part “Gods & Monsters” arc written by critically acclaimed writer Brian Wood (DEMO, DMZ, NORTHLANDERS) with art by up-and-comer Rebekah Isaacs (Drafted). In their short history, the mismatched band of superpowered losers, freaks and masochists of DV8 have seen a lot and done even more, but it’s nothing compared to this. As Gem Antonelli (a.k.a. Copycat) is debriefed in a holding cell, the story of how eight troubled teenagers were briefly gods to a prehistorical world unfolds against the backdrop of a cataclysmic disaster. “The Day I Tried To Live” is part one in this amazing and tragic story unlike anything set in the WildStorm Universe before.

EX MACHINA VOL. 9: RING OUT THE OLD TP

Advance-solicited • On sale MAY 12 • 160 pg, FC, $14.99 US MATURE READERSWritten by BRIAN K. VAUGHAN • Art by TONY HARRIS & JP LEON Cover by Tony Harris

In this volume collecting EX MACHINA #40-44 and SPECIAL #4, Mayor Hundred descends into the NYC sewers to learn why he was given the strange powers that helped him become the heroic Great Machine. Meanwhile, a powerful new foe reveals a terrifying plan that’s been in the works since the first issue!

NEIL YOUNG’S GREENDALE HC

Advance-solicited • On sale June 9 • 160 pg, FC, $19.99 US • MATURE READERSWritten by JOSHUA DYSART • Art and cover by CLIFF CHIANG

Legendary singer-songwriter, musician and activist Neil Young brings one of his most personal albums, GREENDALE, to comics. Overseeing the work of acclaimed writer Joshua Dysart (UNKNOWN SOLDIER) and fan-favorite artist Cliff Chiang (HUMAN TARGET), they compose a graphic novel that explores a whole new dimension to the album that Rolling Stone voted as one of the best of its year.In the Fall of 2003, as the nation gallops into war, a politically active teenage girl named Sun lives, loves and dreams in a small California town named Greendale.Sun’s always been different. There’s been talk that the women in her family have all had a preternatural communion with nature. And when a Stranger comes to town – a character whose presence causes Greendale to, well, go to hell – she’ll find herself on a journey both mystical and mythical. To face the Stranger, she’ll unearth the secrets of her family in a political coming-of-age story infused with its own special magic.

SWEET TOOTH VOL. 1: OUT OF THE WOODS TP

“Writer and artist Jeff Lemire has created the new ‘must read’ book with SWEET TOOTH.” — GEOFF JOHNS“Spellbinding and offbeat . . . emotionally charged.” — USA TODAY“A grabber from the get-go…” — THE ONIONAdvance-solicited • On sale May 12 •128 pg, FC $9.99 US • MATURE READERSWritten by JEFF LEMIRE Art and cover by JEFF LEMIRE

The first five issues of Jeff Lemire’s acclaimed new series introduce Gus, a rare new breed of human/animal hybrid who was raised in isolation following a pandemic that struck a decade earlier. Now, with the death of his father, he’s left to fend for himself . . . until he meets a hulking drifter named Jepperd, who promises to help him. Jepperd and Gus set out on a post-apocalyptic journey into the devastated American landscape to find ‘The Preserve,’ a refuge for hybrids.

———- DARK HORSE COMICS ———-

RED TIDE HC

im Steranko (W/A)On sale Jun 23FC, 128 pages $19.99HC, 7″ x 10″

After emerging as Marvel Comics’ most controversial superstar, Jim Steranko tackled his greatest artistic challenge: creating an entirely new medium, the visual novel—not an illustrated novel or novel-length comic book, but a seamless fusion of interdependent graphic and prose narratives forming a powerful and original new method of telling stories. An artistic tour-de-force, Red Tide is hard-boiled detective fiction in the bare-knuckle tradition of Hammett, Cain, and Chandler, as well as the dark, atmospheric milieu of film noir. Dark Horse is proud to reintroduce this landmark work, remastered with state-of-the-art digital colors by Eisner Award-winner Dave Stewart, in a collector’s quality hardcover edition.

THE LIFE AND TIMES OF MARTHA WASHINGTON IN THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY

Frank Miller (W), Dave Gibbons (A), and Angus McKie (C)On sale June 30FC, 600 pages $29.99TPB, 7″ x 10″

Just in time for the Fourth of July! A masterpiece nearly twenty years in the making, this archival volume contains the complete life story of Martha Washington, the twenty-first century freedom fighter created by comic-book megastars Frank Miller (Sin City, 300) and Dave Gibbons (Watchmen), now in a more affordable softcover edition.Our story begins in the squalid corridors of a maximum-security housing project, where a young girl will rise from the war-torn streets of Chicago to battle injustice in a world insane with corruption. Her fight will take her far, from the frontlines of the second American Civil War, to the cold, unforgiving reaches of space. She will be called a hero, a traitor, and nearly everything in between, but all along the way, her courage, her integrity, and her unwavering commitment to that most valuable of rights—liberty—will inspire a movement that will never surrender.• The Life and Times of Martha Washington in the Twenty-first Century contains six hundred stunning pages of work from two of the top creators in comics!• Collecting remastered versions of every Martha Washington story and featuring the same extensive behind-the-scenes section by Dave Gibbons and introduction by Frank Miller as the hardcover edition.

HELLBOY VOLUME 10: THE CROOKED MAN AND OTHERS

Mike Mignola (W/A), Joshua Dysart (W), Richard Corben (A), Jason Shawn Alexander (A), Duncan Fegredo (A), and Dave Stewart (Cover)On sale June 23FC, 160 pages $17.99TPB, 7″ x 10″

The Eisner Award–winning miniseries The Crooked Man, by Mignola and Richard Corben, teams Hellboy with a wandering hillman in a devilish tale of Appalachian witchcraft. This volume also includes the rare “They Who Go Down to the Sea in Ships” by Mignola, Josh Dysart (B.P.R.D.: 1947), and Jason Shawn Alexander (Abe Sapien: The Drowning), never before available for purchase; Mignola and Duncan Fegredo’s “The Mole,” from Free Comic Book Day 2008; and Mignola’s most recent solo outing, “In the Chapel of Moloch.” • Also includes a look into the artists’ sketchbooks!

———- IMAGE COMICS ———-

TURF #1

story JONATHAN ROSSart & cover TOMMY LEE EDWARDS1:20 variant cover by DUNCAN FEGREDO1: 50 variant cover by JIM STERANKO1:100 variant sketch cover by TOMMYLEE EDWARDSAPRIL 732 PAGES / FC $2.99

A four- issue hard boiled noir crime thriller with girls, guns, fangs and aliens.New York, 1929. The height of prohibition. The cops turn a blind eye while the mobs run the city, dealing in guns, girls and illegal liquor. But the arrival of the mysterious Dragonmir Family from Eastern Europe with more of a taste for blood then booze co-incides with a series of brutal attacks on the gangsters themselves. As the gangs fall before the fangs, only handful of mobsters survive. But an unlikely alliance formed between tough guy Eddie Falco and a character from a LONG way from New York City – a long way from Earth in fact – offers the humans a glimmer of hope. As the strong willed young reporter Susie Dale from the Gotham Herald tries to survive in the middle of the maelstrom, and an ancient prophecy unfolds, no one can guess who’s going to win the battle for this particular slice of Turf.

———- OTHER PUBLISHERS ———-

FRAGGLE ROCK #1

(W/A) Various

It’s time to dance your cares away as Archaia and The Jim Henson Company invite you to return once again to Fraggle Rock! Join Gobo, Mokey, Wembley, Boober, and Red for a brand-new series of hilarious and heartfelt adventures written and drawn by some of the most imaginative creators in comics. Whether you’re a fan of the original series or new to the world of the Fraggles, this is one title you don’t want to miss. Just watch out for Gorgs!8×8, 32pgs, FC (1 of 4) $3.95

RASL VOLUME 2: THE FIRE OF ST. GEORGE TP

(W/A) Jeff Smith

Jeff Smith’s fast paced sci-fi thriller about an inter-dimensional art thief continues in this action-packed graphic novel. The secrets of RASL’s technology and his hidden past are exposed when a mysterious lizard-faced stranger starts killing the art thief’s girlfriends in multiple universes. The stranger knows that RASL used to work for the military-industrial complex on a project codenamed The St. George Array, and believes that RASL has stolen secrets that will unlock the power of the universe. Collects issues #4-7. Mature themes.SC, 9×12, 112pgs, B&W $15.00

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE AND ZOMBIES: THE GRAPHIC NOVEL GN

(W) Tony Lee (A) Cliff Richards

“It is a truth universally acknowledged that a zombie in possession of brains must be in want of more brains.” So begins Pride and Prejudice and Zombies — Jane Austen’s immortal classic of Regency romance, brought to glorious, gory new life with zombie mayhem from Seth Grahame-Smith. The book quickly became a New York Times bestseller, and now the story is a graphic novel — the perfect format to bring this remixed masterpiece to zombie-loving pop-culture fans. Elizabeth Bennet is one of England’s most fearsome warriors, whose speed with a sword is only matched by her quick wit. But she faces her most formidable foe yet in the haughty, conceited, and yet strangely attractive person of Mr. Darcy. As the two lovers meet in the ballroom and on the battlefield, they’ll soon learn that nothing — not even bands of ninjas, disapproving aunts, and an army of ravenous zombies — can stop true love. (C: 0-1-2)SC, 7×10, 144pgs, B&W $14.99

THE STUFF OF LEGEND TP

(W) Mike Raicht, Brian Smith (A) Charles Paul Wilson III

A stunningly beautiful graphic novel, The Stuff of Legend is a wonderful and haunting tale of loyalty, friendship, and perseverance in the face of a nightmarish foe. When a child is taken by the fearsome Boogeyman, his loyal toys rally and stage a rescue operation to get him back. Led by the fearless Colonel, Max the Bear, Percy the Pig, Jester, and others must fight hordes of toys in order to save the boy from the absolutely fearsome Boogeyman. Can they unite and defeat their foe, or will internal divisions threaten to lose the boy — and themselves — forever? (C: 0-1-2)SC, 6×9, 144pgs, B&W $13.00

WILSON HC

(W/A) Daniel Clowes

In his all-new graphic novel, one of the leading cartoonists of our time, Daniel Clowes, creates a thoroughly engaging, complex and fascinating character study of the modern egotist, outspoken and oblivious to the world around him. Working in a single-page-gag format and drawing in a spectrum of styles, the cartoonist of Ghost World gives us his funniest and most deeply affecting novel to date. Wilson, an opinionated middle-aged loner, loves his dog and possibly no one else. After his father dies, Wilson sets out to find his ex-wife with the hope of rekindling their long-dead relationship, and discovers he has a teenage daughter, born after the marriage ended and given up for adoption. Wilson eventually forces all three to reconnect as a family — a doomed mission that will surely, inevitably backfire. Wilson is Clowes’ first all-new graphic novel that has not been serialized and is being presented in book form for the first time.MATURE THEMESHC, 8×11, 80pgs, FC $21.95

WEATHERCRAFT HC

(W/A) Jim Woodring104 pgs / BW / 7.5 x 9.5 / HC $19.99THE FIRST GRAPHIC NOVEL FROM A MASTER OF THE FORM

For over 20 years now, Jim Woodring has delighted, touched, and puzzled readers around the world with his lush, wordless tales of “Frank.”Weathercraft is Woodring’s first full-length graphic novel set in this world—indeed, Woodring’s first graphic novel, period!—and it features the same hypnotically gorgeous linework and mystical iconography.As it happens, Frank has only a brief supporting appearance in Weathercraft, which actually stars Manhog, Woodring’s pathetic, brutish everyman (or everyhog), who had previously made several appearances in “Frank” stories (as well as a stunning solo turn in the short story “Gentlemanhog”).After enduring 32 pages of almost incomprehensible suffering, Manhog embarks upon a transformative journey and attains enlightenment. He wants to go to celestial realms but instead altruistically returns to the Unifactor to undo a wrong he has inadvertently brought about: The transformation of the evil politician Whim into a mind-destroying plant-demon who distorts and enslaves Frank and his friends. The new and metaphysically expanded Manhog sets out for a final battle with Whim…Weathercraft also co-stars Frank’s cast of beloved supporting characters, including Frank’s Faux Pa and the diminutive, mailbox-like Pupshaw and Pushpaw; it is both a fully independent story that is a great introduction to Woodring’s world, and a sublime addition to, and extension of, the Frank stories.Weathercraft will be a defining graphic novel of 2010.

PRIME BABY TP

(W/A) Gene Luen Yang

A tale of math, aliens, and sibling rivalry from the pages of the New York Times and the pen of Eisner Award-winner Gene Luen Yang. Thaddeus doesn’t like his new sister (she’s not that smart — and she gets all the attention). He likes her even less when he discovers that she’s an inter-dimensional conduit for peace-loving aliens (who are totally lame — all they want to do is knit socks for the homeless and have sing-a-longs!). But what’s even worse is that no one will believe him about any of this! How is he ever going manage to grow up to become the President of Earth?SC, 8.25×6, 64pgs, FC $6.99

THE LAST UNICORN #1

(W) Peter S. Beagle, Peter B. Gillis (A/C) Renae De Liz

Whimsical. Lyrical. Poignant. Adapted for the first time from the acclaimed and beloved novel by Peter S. Beagle, The Last Unicorn is a tale for any age about the wonders of magic, the power of love, and the tragedy of loss. The unicorn, alone in her enchanted wood, discovers that she may be the last of her kind. Reluctant at first, she sets out on a journey to find her fellow unicorns, even if it means facing the terrifying anger of the Red Bull and malignant evil of the king who wields his power. Adapted by Peter B. Gillis and lushly illustrated by Renae De Liz and Ray Dillon.32pgs, FC $3.99

NEIL GAIMAN: INSTRUCTIONS HC

(W) Neil Gaiman (A) Charles Vess

Award-winning author Neil Gaiman and acclaimed artist Charles Vess reteam with Instructions, a fantastical new picture book about the rules to follow and how to get around if you happen to find yourself traveling in a fairytale world. Gaiman’s lyrical poem guides a novice traveler through the enchanted woods of a fairytale as he travels through lush gardens, a formidable castle, and over a perilous river, to find his way home again. Illustrated in full color by Charles Vess, Instructions features lush images of mythical creatures, magical landscapes, and beautiful princesses as it spreads its message of the value of courage, wit, and wisdom. (C: 0-1-2)HC, 11×9, 160pgs, FC $14.99

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Hey! Did we tell you how great Unwritten is?!

By admin | Published: February 12, 2010

DC Vertigo’s Unwritten is, as we may have mentioned before, fantastic — and the third story arc begins this week (hint hint).

Come check out the Clearwater location’s Used Graphic Novels. We’ve gotten a ton more in, and we’ve DOUBLED the space to display them in! Ooh, pretty….

————————————–Comics————————————–

Click here for comics expected next Wednesday (opens in new window)

Featured Comic Books:

THE UNWRITTEN #10

The start of a new storyline! Tom Taylor discovers the true meaning of “out of the frying pan” as his escape from Donostia jail takes him to Stuttgart – in 1940! It’s a ghost city inhabited by the master liar of the Third Reich, Josef Goebbels, and a tortured soul who’s crying out for rescue – or death…

HUMAN TARGET #1 (OF 6)

On the heels of the highly anticipated Human Target Fox television series comes a brand-new adventure pitting Christopher Chance against the organized crime…of the world! When he’s tasked with protecting a highly placed informant and collecting damaging evidence throughout Europe, every assassin and goon from Paris to Prague will be gunning for the Human Target!
From series creator Len Wein comes an all-new, action-packed adventure featuring the art of Bruno Redondo (PUSH) and covers by some of the industry’s most popular creators! As a bonus, we’ve also got a backup story by Peter Johnson, executive producer of the Fox series, with art by the amazing Chris Sprouse (TOM STRONG)!

ULTIMATE COMICS SPIDER-MAN #7

Spider-Man and his amazing friends, Iceman and the Human Torch, team up to help the newly powered Rick Jones deal with the crazy changes and responsibilities that come with…power. But what side of the coin is Rick Jones on? Is this the birth of a new hero? Or the birth of an ultimate…enemy?? Find out as the awesomely talented duo of BRIAN MICHAEL BENDIS (DARK AVENGERS) and TAKESHI MIYAZAWA (RUNAWAYS) bring you a new revelation in ULTIMATE COMICS SPIDER-MAN! Part one of a two-part story!!

Featured Graphic Novels:

HULK VOL. 3: HULK NO MORE

BRUCE BANNER IS NOT THE HULK. Red Hulk’s rampage rolls on through the Marvel Universe, and NO ONE, not even the Amazing Spider-Man, Silver Surfer, the Sub-Mariner, Doctor Strange, Doc Samson, Norman Osborn, or She-Hulk can stop him! See why Comic Book Resources says the team of Jeph Loeb and Ed McGuinness works “in the tradition of Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. This series just keeps getting better.” Collecting HULK #10-13 and INCREDIBLE HULK #600.

STAR WARS LEGACY VOL. 8: TATOOINE

One hundred and thirty-three years after the death of Darth Vader, the Skywalker line has reached another low point — in the person of the last living heir, Cade Skywalker. Cade has abandoned his Jedi heritage for plans of quick wealth and a pirate’s life. And his actions have attracted all of the wrong kinds of attention.
Tracked by Imperial agents and targeted by Black Sun assassins, Cade is run to ground on Tatooine, where his two most famous ancestors had roots. But even if he can evade those who are trying to kill him, Cade can’t escape the family legacy. Before this adventure is over, Cade will be forced to think about who he is and who he wants to be-helped along by his mother, his half sister, and the ghost of Luke Skywalker! This newest volume of Star Wars: Legacy collects issues #37-#41.

————————————–Games————————————–

No new games this week! Instead, we bring you…

WORLD RPS SOCIETY

http://www.worldrps.com

The Paper Scissors Stone Club was founded in London, England in 1842 immediately following the issuance of the1842 law declaring “any decision reached by the use of the process known as Paper Scissors Stone between two gentleman acting in good faith shall constitute a binding contract. Agreements reached in this manner are subject to all relevant contract and tort law.” The law was seen as a slap in the face to the growing number of enthusiasts who played it strictly as a recreational activity, since for many constables it was taken to mean that the game could not be played simply for sport. The club was founded and officially registered to provide an environment free from the long arm of the law where enthusiasts could come together and play for honour.The original charter appeared as the feature article of Edition One, Volume One of the Stone Scissors Paper published later the same year:
“The club is dedicated to the exploration and dissemination of knowledge regarding the game of Paper Scissors Stone and providing a safe and legal environment for the playing of said game. We, the members, take it upon ourselves to educate others regarding the rules, customs and etiquette of the game. Through the authority given to the Steering Committee by the membership, we shall also act as the overseeing body of all tournaments. Furthermore, we shall make every effort to protect the purity of the game from those who would wish to alter it.”
A plaque bearing these exact words still hangs prominently in the Steering Committee chamber.
In 1918, the name was changed to World RPS Club in to reflect the growing International representation. At roughly the same time the Club moved its headquarters from London to its present location at Trinity Plaza in Toronto, Canada. Despite the allied victory, the official reason for the move was “England is far too dangerous a place to make a suitable home country for a game of conflict resolution.” Canada was seen as an excellent choice since it was seen as a “safe, hospitable and utterly inoffensive nation, a part of the commonwealth, yet not inhabited by the descendants of criminals.”In 1925 when the club briefly reached over 10,000 members, the name was changed again to The World RPS Society. The Steering Committee felt that since the membership had reached a new order of magnitude the term club was seen to be “inappropriate, misleading, and mocking.”

—————————————-Toys / Collectables—————————————-

BATMAN: MAD LOVE COLLECTOR SET

Featuring Harley Quinn and The Joker!
This special collector set is based on one of the most popular and award-winning graphic novels of all time, Paul Dini and Bruce Timm’s BATMAN: MAD LOVE!
Included in this set are action figures of Harley Quinn and The Joker, both boasting new color schemes and sculpts as well as the 64-page reprint of the award-winning BATMAN: MAD LOVE comic, which defined the complicated and cracked relationship between cute ‘n’ crazy Harley Quinn and her puddin’, The Joker.
The Joker figure stands approximately 7″ high and the Harley Quinn figure stands approximately 6.375″ high.

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