Comic Book 245 // Batman - Reptile Rampage

Time for a quick, fun read with the kid. Visiting a classic match-up of The Batman vs. Killer Croc.

Title: Batman Classic: Reptile Rampage

Author: Katharine Turner

Illustrator: Eric A. Gordon & Steven E. Gordon

Blurb: A Gotham City hospital is being terrorized by Killer Croc, and it's up to Batman to save the day! Can the Caped Crusader clean the city sewers of this rotten reptile?

Format: 32 pages, Paperback

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Review

Surprisingly enjoyable. It's a young reader-friendly adventure, meaning it used other ways to solve the problem than straight-up violence. The piece's villain is Killer Croc, who, as you may well know, is looking for a way to reverse his affliction and cure himself. This has led to him stealing from a local hospital and gaining the attention of Batman and Robin.

Throughout the story, the duo faces dangers and problems to solve, keeping younger readers excited and on the edge of their seats. It is good to see the duo using compassion when dealing with Croc and offering to aid him (which is refused) before resorting to a more physical answer.

It was an enjoyable read, and my son had a blast. Recommend.

Comic Review 243 // Star Wars Vol.3: Rebel Jail

I've been in a Star Wars-heavy month over here. This time I found Rebel Jail at the local library and had to partake. Turns out it was the same series as last week's review.

Title: Star Wars, Vol. 3: Rebel Jail

Author: Jason Aaron & Kieron Gillen

Blurb:

The rebel crew is en route to a prison base with a very important captive. But unlucky for them, they aren't the only ones with their eyes on this prize! Plus: Meet a rebel spy at the heart of the Empire, and join him on a mission of life and death! And in another tale from the journals of Obi-Wan Kenobi, journey back to the Jedi's days of exile on Tatooine. Moisture farmer Owen Lars may have taken in young Luke, but her refused to let Ben be a part of the boy's life. Now, prepare to discover the reason why!

COLLECTING: STAR WARS 15-19, Annual #1

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Review

Kieron Gillen opens the volume with a great one-shot. All about an attempted assassination attempt on the Emperor. This was a great action piece and being set on Coruscant made it more enjoyable. This felt like a mash between old-school swashbuckling adventures and Scifi. Which is what Star Wars should be all the time. It's a great way to start the volume.

Then we hit the jailbreak arc. Something big happened in Vol.2, so I need to find that soon (sorry I am reading these in a weird ass way). But it would seem Dr. Aphra has been captured by the Rebels and is being transported under the watch of Leia to Sunspot Prison. A prison space station located dangerously close to a sun! This is a prison for the worst of the worst. Not going to be blunt here but Leia was boring, not sure if it was the way they wrote about her or if her having so much plot armour takes away the excitement. But the entire plot for the jail story was sadly very predictable. This arc is saved purely by Leinil Yu’s art.

The Han and Luke arc was comical, due to some bad gambling the Han ends up failing to secure the funds to buy supplies for the rebellion. Fearing coming back empty handed the duo end up taking a job shuttling cattle. A short story was 100% filler, but a fun little read.

Then we reach the end. With more Obi-wan adventures. It's a bit dull to be honest as we follow Obi-wan watching over Luke.

A bit of a miss for me. Some great artwork, but two of the four stories are meh at best. Good for the competitionist and die-hard fan. But glad I didn't purchase it.

Comic Review 236 // Marvel Action Spider-man: New Beginnings

You must love the library and all the great finds you can discover! This week's discovery is a Marvel Action Comic titled Spider-man: New Beginnings. Long a standing fan of the 90's cartoon, I have been trying to get into the new Spider-man series as my son loves them, so maybe the new beginning title will assist?

Title: Marvel Action: Spider-Man, Vol. 1: New Beginnings

Author: Delilah S. Dawson

Illustrator: Fico Ossio

Blurb:

A Marvelous new era begins here! Readers of all ages can get tangled up in these all new adventures of Spider-Man and his astonishing friends!

Peter Parker has thrown down with deadly villains and legendary heroes, but high school life might be his greatest challenge yet. Luckily, he has a shot at making the grade with a little help from his new friends... Miles Morales and Gwen Stacy!

Collects issues #1-3 of the comic series.

Format: 80 Pages (Buy via Amazon.ca)

Review

New beginnings were a great starting point for retraining my brain! It collects the first three issues of the series. It was also seemingly aimed at teens, so it wasn't overly simplified, which is nice. We join a Sixteen-year-old Peter Parker, who has secured an internship at 'Daily Bugle.' We discover that Peter wasn't the only one chosen, and with a room full of competition, Peter will have to bring his A-game to secure the Prize of interviewing Iron Man! After a rough introduction to the Bugle, Peter is teamed up with two other interns, Miles and Gwen. 

Now, of course, the city comes under threat, all three make reasons to leave, and soon a new Spidey team is forming! The story is rather good and enjoyable. With this being the beginning, the story is left open for me to find Volume 2. Though they seemingly found an excellent spot to stop at, you are left feeling fulfilled while needing more! I enjoy a less dark tale, and though it was aimed at teens, it was childish or brain-dulling.

Overall a terrific tale.

Comic Review 231 // Scooby-Doo Team-up, Volume 3

2022 brought many new and exciting changes into my life, things like my Youtube channel and cutting back on drinking along with scooby-doo. I did not realize how much I had missed the cartoons until watching some with my kids. Now I find myself drawn to comics, especially crossovers. And have found them to be a wholesome series. Time for volume 3 which shows the Flash on the cover so I assume we are in for some fast action.

Title: Scooby-Doo Team-Up, Volume 3

Author: Sholly Fisch

Illustrator: Darío Brizuela

Blurb: The gang's all here! Scooby-Doo and his friends are teaming up with the most unlikely superheroes to save the world, solve mysteries and eat some Scooby Snacks!

From the ocean's depths to the heart of Africa, Scooby and the gang must investigate the deadliest threats imaginable! That is, with a bit of help from DC's greatest superheroes. The team is ready to take action and get a little help from the Flash, Aquaman, Shazam and more!

An all-ages series that collects SCOOBY-DOO TEAM-UP #13-17.

Format: 128 pages, Paperback

Buy on Amazon with my handy little link.

Review

These titles hit pretty well with their wholesome adventures. Easy reading and very light, they are great to enjoy with the kids. As an adult reading them, I like that they sometimes make fun of themselves, which is a sign of a great writing team and editor.

Overall every story had its highlights and was funny. Aquaman beat the rest, playing up to Fred not being the sharpest tool in the shed. He constantly kept trying to take off character breathing masks while underwater, much to the comedy of the reader but frustration to the characters.

The weakest story sadly goes to Scooby and his Super Dog pals; though fun to see all these characters, the story just missed the mark for me. Definitely wouldn't upset a young reader but jarred with this old man!

Overall give it a go. You are never to enjoy a comic!

 

Comic Review 225 // Green Arrow: Stranded by Brendan Deneen

Continuing my kid's training in the worlds of DC and Marvel. This week we tried Green Arrow, which overall was successful but not knocking Batman or Spiderman away anytime soon. 

Title: Green Arrow: Stranded

Author: Brendan Deneen

Artist: Bell Hosalla

Buy on Amazon.ca

Blurb: Following a plane crash on a deserted island, 13-year-old Oliver Queen must learn the skills he needs to survive and to protect his injured father.

Ollie has always hated the idea of hunting, but his dad insisted they go on this trip with his business partner, Sebastian, and his son, Tyler. When Ollie fails to take a perfect shot, the teasing starts, and he wonders if his dad will ever be proud of him again.

But just when he thought their trip couldn't get any worse, their private jet is struck by lightning and Ollie awakens to find himself stranded on a deserted island, with no idea what to do or where the other passengers might be--including his dad. He has never felt less sure of who he is...or if he will be able to hang on until help arrives.

This fast-paced and suspenseful tale from writer Brendan Deneen and illustrator Bell Hosalla is sure to keep readers on the edge of their seat!

Format: 144 pages, Paperback

Review

So most of us know the Green Arrow origin story by now? So when I saw this was the telling of it, I was excited. Unfortunately, we have hit a revamping of the tale, which is not how I remember it. Turns out, after some research, the Green Arrow I know is from the Silver Age of Marvel, whilst this hints towards the Golden era with the plane crash.

The story begins with Oliver Queen and his father returning from Zimbabwe following a safari trip. Due to harsh storms, the private jet crashes on a deserted island. Here is where the biggest change happens for me, Oliver is not alone. Instead, there are other survivors. So it becomes more of a can I find help whilst surviving alone rather than a boy becoming a man under harsh conditions.

It is meant to explore the character and how these events will mould him, but I found it lacked depth and ultimately failed to hold my attention. The artwork is pretty, which definitely helped, but the story was a real mess. We get an Oliver Queen who seemingly should never become a hero, too afraid to kill a creature on one page but then kills a snake with no issue on another? Also, there is seemingly a lack of threat; at no point would you truly assume Oliver is in danger. The only real threat is going hungry.

Where is the coming-of-age tale, the survivalist, the self-taught marksman? Is this volume one of a series?

Overall give it a skip unless you can find it for free. Rather disappointed.

Comic Review 215 // Avengers: The Avengers Initiative

Continuing my new series, it seems, of reading and reviewing my kid's comics. I've been struggling lately will multiple colds/flu/who knows what. It's been rough, and I have struggled to read for myself for about a month. Luckily the kids don't care (ha), and I am still reading some stories. Here is this week's offering.

Title: Marvel's The Avengers: The Avengers Initiative

Author: Fred Van Lente

Art: Ron Lim

Blurb: The perfect introduction to Marvel's The Avengers movie! All your favorite characters from the film packed into one digest! Meet the incredible cast of the Avengers Initiative: Captain America, Iron Man, Thor, Hulk, Black Widow and Hawkeye! The perfect introduction to Marvel's The Avengers movie! All your favorite characters from the film packed into one digest! Meet the incredible cast of the Avengers Initiative: Captain America, Iron Man, Thor, Hulk, Black Widow and Hawkeye! Collecting MARVEL'S THE AVENGERS: THE AVENGERS INITIATIVE, CAPTAIN AMERICA & THOR!: AVENGERS.

Format: 88 pages, Paperback (Buy via Kindle on Amazon)

Review

This was a hard one. The stories within the pages of this book are all set with the MCU but were seemingly written before most of the movies, as it is no longer canon. Luckily the kids have not seen the movies and most likely wouldn't care anyways, so for the curious collectors out there, maybe treat yourself or go buy something else.

The collection definitely has its faults. Somehow, we go from good artwork to pretty crap, which is so weird to see collected in this manner? Why Marvel you have so much money do your comics some justice. The book is three stories long, consisting of the title piece, which is a way to a quick intro to the characters (which we already know) and comes across as pure filler. Then a Captain America tale, followed by a Thor tale. Both of these were fine, but ultimately this is so middle of the road that it is dull. But this is also me as an adult reviewing it.

On the other hand, my sprogs enjoyed the adventures and pointing out the superheroes, so for their enjoyment, I would give it a 3 out of 5. As an adult, this is a 2 out of 5. I have warned you!

Comic Review 209 // Young Justice - Creature Features

Got to love the library! The kids found Volume 3 of Young Justice and were instantly drawn to it due to the Gorillas. Couldn't argue with the logic, so here we are reading out of order. Enjoy!

Title: Young Justice, Vol. 3: Creature Features

Author: Greg Weisman

Art Team: Kevin Hopps, Christopher Jones

Buy on Amazon.ca for Kindle (best deal)

Blurb: Based on the highly anticipated, all-new hit animated show from Warner Bros. on Cartoon Network, YOUNG JUSTICE collects single-issue, all-ages-appropriate stories featuring the popular characters from the hit Cartoon Network show.

In this volume, Superboy, Robin, Kid Flash, Aqualad, Miss Martian and Artemis make their way to Atlantis to foil Ocean-Master's plan to purify the underwater city. Also, the team must fight off the menace known as Kobra and defeat an army of warrior gorillas in the dangerous Gorilla City!

Format: 128 pages, Paperback

Review

Personally, I was a fan of Young Justice and even started reviewing the series until we got rid of Netflix (this is something I need to revisit). The main cast is, in my opinion, some of the most easily understandable characters in the DC verse. Made up of Robin, Superboy (a Cadmus-Clone merging Superman DNA with Human), Aqua Lad, Miss Martian, Kid Flash and towards the end, Artemis.

This team was created by the Justice League to act as a covert arm because the media were constantly following the main heroes. It was also meant to act as their training school and keep them out of trouble.

As mentioned, there were many one-shot stories, but we got some good ones. Aqua Lad's adventure for me was a standout as he was a character that I didn't really know much about; also, dealing with racism is a meaningful conversation to have with the young ones. We also get to witness the origins of Gorilla City and Gord, along with the origins of Kobra.

Is this a title you need to read...no? Is it a title you should read...maybe? Did I enjoy it for an evening of reading with the kids...definitely yes! It all comes down to what you want from it. If you want some quick adventures to zone out to with a cup of tea, then this book is for you!

Let me know if you have read this book and if I should find the earlier titles.

Thanks for reading!

Comic Review 206 // DC Super Hero Girls: Powerless by Amy Wolfram

When your kids say they are interested in Superheroes, you embrace, inspire and get reading them some funny comics from the library. Up first is the DC Super Hero Girls; not sure if this is part of a series or not, but let's jump in.

Title: DC Super Hero Girls: Powerless

Author: Amy Wolfram

Artist: Agnes Garbowska

Blurb: The DC Super Hero Girls learn what it's like to be POWERLESS in the second original graphic novel based on the hit new Cartoon Network series.

When the electric grid and cloud computing get knocked out on the same night, the Metropolis High Hamsters aren't quite sure how to deal...with a cafeteria that only accepts CASH?! And some girls are more affected than others--Batgirl barely makes it to school without her smartphone, but Green Lantern is mostly determined to keep her friends safe. Speaking of which, has anyone seen Bumblebee?

With half the team out of commission, how will the girls find the source of the problem and fix it before Sweet Justice runs out of non-frozen desserts?!

DC Super Hero Girls: Powerless continues to develop the relationships forged throughout the beloved DC Super Hero Girls series. This story is perfect for ages 6-10 and a great entry point into the DC Universe and graphic novels.

Details: 144 pages, Paperback

Buy on Amazon

Review

First up, this is designed for a 6-10 year age group (which I am well past), and my kids haven't reached it. So some things had to be explained; if reading to your child, I would recommend reading first to see any possible issues or talking points.

The plot was actually quite good. The overall mystery is where/who has taken power. In this tale (which we discovered is in a series), Batgirl takes the lead. This was a clever choice, as this superhero is at a loss without her gadgets. And the story becomes one of growth and realizing your inner strengths and that sometimes you must rely on others for help. A very wholesome plot in a kid's book; I like this.

We also get a lot of characters in this book which was the point of me picking it. I could highlight and show off a great cast of heroes, including Batgirl, Bumblebee, Green Lantern, Supergirl, Wonder Woman, and Zatanna. All are unique and different, allowing the kids to pick their favourites for the rest of the day with little to no arguments.

The artwork is highly cartoony and not for me. But it works well for kids with its bright, colourful imagery. Pairing well with an easy-to-read story. As a dyslexic reader, I found this easy to read, so when it comes, I am sure my kids will enjoy reading the adventure for themselves.

Overall a good for kids to read. Well worth the evening reading to them and then googling the characters to learn more. I believe I have them fixed on Superheroes now, so mission accomplished.

What stories do you enjoy reading to your kids? Drop me a comment, as I would love to know.

Book Review 193 // Secrets of the Tau by Cavan Scott

Delving back into the Warped Galaxies title with Secrets of the Tau. So far, the titles have been enjoyable to read through. Obviously aimed at a younger audience, we are still treated to a thrilling read. I am hoping Cavan Scott can continue this trend with the Tau.

Title: Secrets of the Tau (Warped Galaxies #3)

Buy now via Amazon: LINK

Author: Cavan Scott

Fluff: The third book in the Warped Galaxies series. An exciting new series of sci-fi books for middle-grade readers from Black Library. Brave champions and the forces of the Imperium battle alien beasts and mechanical tyrants across the gulf of space.

Journeying to the bustling spaceport of Hinterland after being saved from certain death by a dubious Rogue Trader, Zelia, Talen and Mekki continue their quest to reach the Emperor's Seat. But much here is not what it seems. Alone in a strange place surrounded by aliens, who can they really trust and what are the secrets of the Tau?  

Review

Having been rescued from the clutches of the Genestealers, our young group starts to experience the wider galaxy and where they are within it. It also allows new characters and locations to be explored now we are thoroughly familiar with the main cast. The first new character is the Rogue Trader, who I feel isn't all they seem. Hardly no crew to speak off or with, and the behaviour patterns of an Inquisitor, I think they can't yet be fully trusted.

But with the aid of the Captain, our team made it to the Hinterland, a Space Station located painfully close to the Tau empire and awkwardly too far away from the watchful eyes of the Imperium. This has led to the place becoming the den of the illegal, be it trade, aliens, gambling or drugs. This setting can be well used to start the discussion of Xenophobia with a child and how the Imperium is not the series' goodies. This may be a complicated conversation, but it seems to be an important one to discuss.

As with previous titles, we see the characters clashing as they discover themselves and grow into adults, but we also see bonds strengthening and some real character growth. The Tau in the novel comes across as almost a mobster group which was fun to see. Also very understandable with the amount of High Tech equipment they have. And with a classic explosive ending, we head off into space on to the next adventure, which, based on the title, involves everyone's favourite - ORKS!!

As always, I truly appreciate your reading. If you use the to-buy link, thank you for supporting the blog. Want to help a freeway? Head over to my Youtube and drop me a follow. Cheers!

Comic Review 198 // Star Wars Adventures, Vol. 10: Driving Force

Welcome back with the end of the Obi-Wan series. I find my Star Wars interest waning too. We had a good run on these titles, but I feel I need a break. So after today's review, expect me to hop back into the works of 2000 AD again.

Title: Star Wars Adventures, Vol. 10: Driving Force

Author: Delilah S. Dawson

Fluff: Join Princess Leia, Poe Dameron, BB-8, Rey, and more in these middle-grade graphic novel adventures!

First, with hotshot Resistance pilot Poe Dameron captured by pirates, it's up to BB-8--and Rapier Squadron--to save the day! Then, in this story set before A New Hope, Princess Leia Organa faces the most challenging task of her young life: teaching Amilyn Holdo how to drive a speeder! But both learn an important lesson after finding themselves in the dangerous lower levels of Coruscant. And finally, witness one of the many lessons Rey learned from Luke Skywalker during her time on Ahch-To. 

Format: Paperback, 80 pages

Publisher: IDW Publishing

Review

I feel the series has lost its way. Though obviously aimed at a younger audience, the first few comics offered action, intrigue and some more depth to the universe we all love. But the later issues just seem to push the same formula repeatedly, and it comes across as lazy and forgettable, sadly.

This issue is average at best. This one has no stand-out story, just a lot of action, light, kid-friendly adventures. Now I'm not saying it is all bad. In no way is this the worst one in the series, and it did have some high points. For example, the Leia and Holdo story was funny and managed to stay true to the characters. Along with this, we get a BB-8 rescuing Poe again story (yawn) which though formulaic, did start to share more info on Kare Kun, which was excellent.

But sadly, these snips were not enough to save the comic. The Rey story was disappointing, to be honest, and not worth the page time. The stories are way too short to hold attention or be necessary. This leads us to an ultimately average comic. If a completionist do read, if looking for something fun, go elsewhere.