“Sketch Monsters Vol. 2: New Kid Preview” By Joshua Williamson & Vincente “Vinny” Navarrete Review

24-Page Preview! Tony’s nervous about his first day at a new school. Instead of acting normally, he tries being the class clown, the teacher’s pet, and sadly… even the bully. He draws his other identities as MONSTERS in his sketchbook. But Tony’s monsters escape all over the school! Thankfully, Mandy also goes to Tony’s school and can lend a helping hand! Can Tony and Mandy catch all of the new Sketch Monsters before they demolish the school?!

Let me start this review by saying that this one is just a preview for the entire comic book. And I read it because I wanted to see if the full comic book was worth the money and time I would spend on it. And I’m gonna give you the answer for that at the end of this review.

This preview delivers a charming and visually engaging story. At the same time this preview continues the whimsical adventures that blend creativity with coming-of-age themes, offering a delightful yet somewhat limited preview into the world of the Sketch Monsters.

The narrative in this preview follows Mandy, a young girl whose emotions manifest as quirky monsters that leap off the pages of her sketchbook. This clever premise allows the story to explore themes of emotion, creativity, and friendship in a way that is accessible and relatable for younger readers. In “New Kid,” Mandy encounters new challenges with the arrival of a new student, which adds a fresh dynamic to her world.

The writing in this preview is lighthearted and engaging, capturing the essence of childhood imagination. The dialogue is straightforward and effective, making it easy for me personally to follow the story. Mandy’s interactions with her monsters and peers highlight the struggles and joys of growing up, resonating with anyone who remembers the complexities of childhood friendships and emotions.

The artwork shines throughout this preview because it is bringing the monsters and Mandy’s world to life with vibrant colors and expressive designs. The illustrations are playful and dynamic, perfectly complementing the whimsical tone of the story. The artwork in this preview has the ability to capture the emotion and movement in each panel adds depth to the narrative, making it visually appealing for readers of all ages.

While this preview succeeds in many areas, it does have some limitations. The preview format means the story is relatively short, leaving certain plotlines and character developments underexplored. I personally have found myself wanting more depth and complexity in both the narrative and the character arcs.

Additionally, while the themes are relatable and well-presented, they may feel somewhat simplistic for older readers. The story’s focus on younger audiences means it doesn’t delve deeply into the more nuanced aspects of the issues it touches upon. However, for its target demographic, the simplicity and clarity of the themes are appropriate and effective.

So will buy and read the full version of this comic book ? Yes I will. It might take some time for me to actually read the full version of this comic book because I have been way too optimistic when creating my TBR list for this year and I don’t know if I get the time to read the full version of this comic book this year. But I will read the full version of this comic book at some point in time.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Invincible #1” By Robert Kirkman & Cory Walker Review

Girls, acne, homework, super-villains. When you’re a teenager, it helps to be Invincible. Robert Kirkman’s long-running book Invincible starts here!

This comic book is a promising introduction to a superhero narrative that combines classic elements with a modern twist. While this comic book lays a strong foundation, it occasionally struggles with pacing and depth.

The story in this comic book follows Mark Grayson, a seemingly ordinary teenager whose father is the world’s most powerful superhero, Omni-Man. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that explores Mark’s journey as he discovers his own powers and steps into his role as a hero. The premise is engaging, offering a fresh perspective on the superhero genre by focusing on the complexities of a young hero coming of age.

The writing in this comic book captures the essence of a teenager navigating newfound responsibilities while dealing with typical adolescent challenges. The dialogue is natural and relatable, effectively conveying the mix of excitement and anxiety that comes with Mark’s transformation. However, this comic book sometimes feels rushed, with key plot points introduced without sufficient buildup, which has left me personally wanting more depth and exploration.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the vibrant world of “Invincible” to life with clean lines and dynamic compositions. The character designs we get in this comic book are distinct and expressive, capturing both the grandeur of superhero action and the subtleties of everyday life. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through facial expressions enhances the storytelling, making each panel engaging.

The pacing of this comic book is a mixed bag. While this comic book effectively introduces key characters and sets up the overarching narrative, some scenes feel hurried, impacting the overall flow. This inconsistency has left me at times wanting more immediate clarity and deeper exploration of the characters’ motivations and the story’s intricacies.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book successfully establishes a strong foundation for future development. The creators of this comic book lay the groundwork for intriguing character arcs and plotlines that promise to evolve in subsequent comic books in this series. The engaging premise and strong visual storytelling suggest potential for growth and depth as the series progresses.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as identity, responsibility, and the challenges of balancing personal and heroic lives. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book invites us as readers to consider the complexities of heroism and the choices that define a young hero’s path, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Batman Tales: Once Upon a Crime” By Derek Fridolfs & Dustin Nguyen Review

Once upon a crime in Gotham. Damian Wayne dreams of becoming a real boy wonder–as long as he can avoid telling lies and making his nose grow. Batman’s butler takes an unexpected trip through the looking glass and finds himself in a topsy-turvy world, for Alfred’s in Wonderland! Gotham City Police Department detectives interrogate Gotham’s most dangerous criminals looking for the princess who stole the pea.

This comic book is a delightful and inventive blend of classic fairy tales with the dark allure of Gotham City. At the same time this comic book presents a fresh take on beloved stories, weaving them seamlessly into the Batman universe with creativity and humor.

This comic book consists of several short stories, each reimagining a classic fairy tale with a Batman twist. The writing itself in this comic book is sharp and witty, capturing the essence of both the original tales and the iconic characters of Gotham. The narrative effortlessly blends elements of fantasy and crime, offering readers a unique and engaging experience.

One of the standout stories in this comic book is “Waynocchio,” which cleverly adapts the Pinocchio tale with Damian Wayne in the titular role. The creators of this comic book explores themes of identity and transformation, adding depth to the whimsical plot. The character interactions are both humorous and heartfelt, showcasing this comic book’s talent for balancing lightheartedness with genuine emotion.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a perfect complement to the storytelling, because it is bringing each tale to life with his charming and expressive style. The illustrations we get in this comic book capture the whimsical nature of fairy tales while maintaining the gritty undertones of Gotham. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through detailed expressions and dynamic compositions enhances the storytelling, making each panel visually captivating.

One of the strengths this comic book is its accessibility to a wide audience. The stories are crafted to appeal to both young readers and longtime Batman fans, offering layers of humor and insight that can be appreciated by all ages. The creators of this comic book successfully blend familiar fairy tale elements with the unique personalities and dynamics of Gotham’s heroes and villains.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, with each story unfolding at a satisfying rhythm that has kept me personally engaged. The narrative flows smoothly from one tale to the next, maintaining a balance between action, humor, and character-driven moments. This balance ensures that the book remains entertaining and engaging throughout, making it a joy to read from start to finish.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“Marvel’s Voices #1” By Vita Ayala & Roxane Gay & Brian Stelfreeze Review

THE WORLD OUTSIDE YOUR WINDOW! Marvel’s acclaimed podcast series focusing on telling the stories of diverse creators and their unique perspectives becomes a one shot of brand new adventures! The X-Men find their place in the world after declaring a new nation! Killmonger strikes! Moon Girl and Devil Dino return!

This comic book featuring stories by a talented group of creators including Vita Ayala, Roxane Gay, and Brian Stelfreeze. Despite its noble intentions, this comic book falls short in execution. While the anthology format that this comic book offers a platform for underrepresented voices, the narrative cohesion and depth are lacking.

The concept behind this comic book is commendable, providing a space for creators from diverse backgrounds to tell stories that reflect their experiences. However, the issue struggles to maintain a consistent quality across its multiple stories. The anthology format, while allowing for a variety of perspectives, results in uneven storytelling that lacks a unifying thread.

Individual stories in this comic book often feel too brief to develop meaningful narratives or character arcs. This brevity limits the emotional impact and depth that each story can achieve, which has left me personally wanting more. While some stories manage to capture moments of genuine insight or emotion, others feel rushed or underdeveloped.

Vita Ayala’s contribution stands out for its attempt to delve into the complexities of identity and belonging. However, the limited page count restricts the exploration of these themes, making the narrative feel more like a snapshot than a fully realized story. Similarly, Roxane Gay’s story, while well-written, struggles to leave a lasting impression due to its brevity.

The artwork itself in this comic book, along with contributions from other artists, adds visual appeal to this comic book. The diverse art styles reflect the variety of stories being told, capturing the unique tone and mood of each narrative. However, the visual charm isn’t enough to elevate the overall reading experience, as the lack of narrative depth persists throughout this comic book.

The pacing of this comic book varies significantly between stories, resulting in an uneven flow that disrupts my engagement. Some narratives feel rushed, while others linger without building significant tension or emotional resonance. This inconsistency prevents the anthology from achieving a cohesive narrative arc, leaving the overall impact diluted.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book does succeed in highlighting the importance of representation and inclusivity in the comic book industry. This comic book brings attention to voices and stories that are often marginalized, offering a platform for creators to share their unique perspectives. This aspect of the anthology is valuable and deserves recognition.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

“Star Trek: The Animated Celebration Presents The Scheimer Barrier #4” By Casper Kelly & Jonathan Case Review

Mad scientist Fontana forces Kirk and company to battle other beloved Federation crew members from The Next Generation all the way to Lower Decks in the brawling death match of the millennium! How can our heroes possibly survive this horrifying gladiator game when the referee has limitless godlike powers? Find out in the thrilling conclusion of this comic book celebrating the 50-year anniversary of Star The Animated Series.

This comic book to capture the essence of the original animated series, but unfortunately falls short. While the premise behind this comic book holds promise, this comic book struggles with execution and depth, which has left me personally wanting more.

The narrative in this comic book aims to blend nostalgia with new adventures, following the crew of the USS Enterprise as they encounter peculiar phenomena at the Scheimer Barrier. However, the plot feels disjointed, jumping between scenes without clear transitions or cohesion. This lack of focus makes it difficult for me personally to become fully engaged with the story or its stakes.

The character development in this comic book is notably lacking, with familiar faces like Captain Kirk and Spock appearing more as caricatures than fully realized characters. Their interactions and dialogue often feel forced and lack the nuance needed to capture the dynamic relationships fans expect. This superficial portrayal diminishes the emotional impact and fails to explore the complexities that define these iconic characters.

The writing in this comic book struggles to capture the spirit and wit of the original series. The dialogue, while attempting to mirror the classic tone, often falls flat, lacking the sharpness and charm that made the animated series beloved. The humor feels forced and the narrative lacks the depth needed to offer meaningful insights or themes.

The artwork itself in this comic book, while vibrant, isn’t able to fully compensate for the narrative shortcomings. The illustrations capture the whimsical style of the animated series, with bold lines. However, while visually appealing, the art does not elevate the story enough to overcome its narrative deficiencies.

The pacing of this comic book is pretty, with scenes that either drag without building tension or rush through potentially significant moments. This inconsistency affects the overall flow, preventing the story from developing momentum or emotional resonance. Key plot points are introduced abruptly, which has left me personally without a clear understanding of their significance or impact.

Despite its shortcomings, the concept of revisiting the animated Star Trek universe holds potential for future development. With more focused storytelling and robust character exploration, subsequent comic books in this series could delve deeper into the themes and offer more satisfying narrative arcs.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

“FCBD 2015: Savage Dragon Legacy” By Erik Larsen Review

The generational saga of Savage Dragon reaches a new milestone as Malcolm Dragon graduates high school and follows his father’s footsteps to the Chicago Police Department. Every young new officer has a lot to live up to, but for the son of a world famous figure as renowned as he is reviled, navigating the world of law enforcement is especially challenging. The cost of failure is high in a city becoming more dangerous by the Can Malcolm step out of his father’s shadow and become the hero Chicago needs, or is he doomed to make the same mistakes?

This comic book offers a nostalgic return to the world of Savage Dragon while introducing new elements. At the same time this comic book serves both long-time fans and newcomers, providing a mix of action, drama, and superhero antics.

The story in this comic book centers around Malcolm Dragon, son of the original Savage Dragon, as he grapples with his legacy and the challenges of being a superhero. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that balances the legacy of the past with the promise of the future. The plot is engaging, though it occasionally relies on familiar superhero tropes that might feel predictable to seasoned readers.

The character development in this comic book focuses on Malcolm’s struggle to step out of his father’s shadow while embracing his own identity. The creators of this comic book portrays Malcolm with depth, capturing his internal conflict and determination to forge his path. The interactions with supporting characters, including family and villains, add layers to the narrative, highlighting the complexities of his dual life as a hero and a young adult.

The writing in this comic book is pretty straightforward, with dialogue that captures the essence of a classic superhero comic. While the conversations are effective in conveying the story, they sometimes lack the nuance needed for more profound emotional impact. This straightforward approach keeps the narrative accessible but it had left me at times wanting more depth in character interactions.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a highlight of this comic book, because we get a distinctive style that bringing energy and dynamism to the pages. The illustrations in this comic book effectively convey the intensity of the action sequences, with bold lines and detailed character designs that reflect the vibrant world of Savage Dragon. The art captures both the grandeur of superhero battles and the quieter moments of personal reflection, enhancing the storytelling.

The pacing of this comic book well-executed, maintaining a balance between action and character-driven moments. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in Malcolm’s journey. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing for both new readers and longtime fans.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as legacy, identity, and the challenges of balancing personal and heroic responsibilities. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book invites us as readers to consider the complexities of heroism and the weight of expectations, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Marvel Universe Hulk: Agents Of S.M.A.S.H. (2013-2014) #1” By Paul Dini & Joe Casey Review

It’s out action featuring the newest stars to be of Disney Avengers and the Hulk and the Agents of S.M.A.S.H.! Featuring art pulled directly from the animated series, this sneak peek at the two newest animated series from the geniuses at Marvel Animation promises to make this the best yet!

This comic book brings the Hulk and his team into a new adventure, but unfortunately, it falls short. While the concept behind this comic book of a Hulk-led team promises action and camaraderie, the execution struggles to deliver a coherent and engaging narrative.

This comic book begins with Hulk, She-Hulk, Red Hulk, A-Bomb, and Skaar teaming up to tackle threats too big for ordinary heroes. While this lineup offers potential for dynamic interactions and thrilling battles, the plot feels thin and lacks depth. The narrative jumps between action sequences without providing a strong central storyline to anchor the comic book, making it difficult for me personally to become fully invested.

The character development in this comic book is pretty minimal, with the team feeling more like a collection of personas rather than a cohesive unit. The interactions between team members lack the depth needed to explore their unique dynamics and relationships. Dialogue often feels flat and expository, failing to capture the distinctive voices and personalities of these larger-than-life characters.

The creators of this comic book aim to inject humor and lightheartedness into the story, but the attempts at comedy often fall flat. The humor feels forced and lacks the wit necessary to elevate the narrative beyond a series of disconnected events. This lack of engaging dialogue contributes to the overall flatness of the story, preventing it from resonating emotionally.

The artwork itself in this comic book struggles to elevate the story. The illustrations effectively capture the chaotic nature of the team’s adventures, but they lack the detail and dynamism needed to make the action truly engaging. The character designs are faithful to their animated counterparts but don’t bring anything new to the table.

The pacing of this comic book is pretty uneven, with scenes that either linger without building tension or rush through potentially engaging moments. This inconsistency affects the overall flow, preventing the story from developing momentum or emotional resonance. Key plot points are introduced abruptly, leaving readers without a clear understanding of the stakes or significance of the events unfolding.

Despite its shortcomings, the issue does offer a glimpse into the potential for fun superhero antics with the Agents of S.M.A.S.H. With more focused storytelling and robust character exploration, subsequent comic books in this series could delve deeper into the themes and offer more satisfying narrative arcs.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

“Batman: Li’L Gotham Batman Day 2018 #1” By Dustin Nguyen & Derek Fridolfs Review

It’s October 31st, but Robin needs Batman’s help to learn the true meaning of Halloween…CANDY! And will Robin be able to tell the difference between the real evildoers and costumed children, or will the kids get clobbered while the villains escape?!

While this comic book is charming in its artistic approach, ultimately falls short in delivering a compelling narrative. At the same time this comic book aims to offer a lighthearted and accessible take on the Dark Knight, but struggles with depth and engagement.

This comic book presents a series of short stories set in a whimsical version of Gotham City, featuring familiar characters in cute, stylized renditions. While the concept is appealing and has potential for fun and humor, the execution often feels flat. The narratives are simplistic, lacking the depth and intrigue that had drawn me personally into Batman’s world.

The creators of this comic book aim to capture the essence of Gotham through a more playful lens, but the stories feel disjointed and lack a strong narrative thread. Each vignette is brief, providing only a surface-level glimpse into the lives of Gotham’s heroes and villains. This format can be entertaining for younger audiences, but it had left me at times wanting more substance and continuity.

The character development in this comic book is pretty minimal, as the short story format limits exploration of individual arcs or motivations. While the characters are visually charming, their interactions and dialogue often feel clichéd and predictable. This lack of depth makes it challenging for me personally to connect with the characters or become invested in their stories.

The artwork itself in this comic book is the highlight of this comic book. The illustrations we get in this comic book bring a unique and endearing aesthetic to Gotham. The art we get in this comic book captures the playful tone of the series, making each panel visually engaging. The character designs are adorable and imaginative, offering a fresh perspective on iconic figures like Batman, Robin, and the Joker.

The pacing of this comic book is consistent with its lighthearted tone, but the stories unfold without significant tension or conflict. This results in a narrative that feels flat, lacking the engaging twists or emotional highs that could make it memorable. Key moments pass without impact, which has left me personally without a strong connection to the unfolding events.

Despite its shortcomings, this comic book does provide an enjoyable, family-friendly introduction to the Batman universe. The familiar setting and character dynamics offer comfort and familiarity, which may appeal to those seeking a simple, feel-good read.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

“Eternals: Never Die, Never Win #1” By Kieron Gillen & Esad Ribić Review

NEVER DIE. NEVER WIN. ETERNALS. What’s the point of an eternal battle? For millions of years, one hundred Eternals have roamed the Earth, secret protectors of humanity. Without them, we’d be smears between the teeth of the demon-like Deviants. Their war has waged for all time, echoing in our myths and nightmares.

This comic book is a captivating entry into the Marvel Universe. At the same time this comic book combines mythological grandeur with modern storytelling, setting the stage for a profound exploration of the Eternals’ complex world.

The narrative in this comic book focuses on the Eternals, immortal beings tasked with protecting Earth, as they grapple with their purpose and the weight of their eternal existence. The creators of this comic book creates a storyline rich with philosophical undertones, exploring themes of immortality, duty, and identity. The dialogue is sharp and introspective, capturing the characters’ existential dilemmas and adding depth to their interactions.

The writing in this comic book excels in balancing the epic scope of the Eternals’ mission with intimate character moments. Each Eternal is portrayed with distinct personality traits and internal conflicts, making them relatable despite their godlike powers. This nuanced characterization ensures that I personally were invested in their journey and the overarching narrative.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the Eternals’ world to life with breathtaking detail and grandeur. The illustrations we get in this comic book capture the majestic and otherworldly essence of the characters and their surroundings. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through expressive character designs enhances the storytelling, making each panel visually compelling.

The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, maintaining a balance between introspective moments and action-packed sequences. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in the unfolding drama. The creators of this comic book introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing for both new readers and longtime fans of the Eternals.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of the Eternals’ internal struggles and their place in the Marvel Universe. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, adding depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book challenges us as readers to consider the complexities of immortality and the consequences of living a predetermined life, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

Despite its strengths, this comic book has left me at times wanting more immediate plot development, as it focuses heavily on establishing the Eternals’ world and setting the tone. However, the strong character work and engaging premise promise further exploration in future comic books in this series.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“DC Nation (2018) #0” By James Tynion IV & Joshua Williamson & Scott Snyder Review

First, find out how The Joker reacts when he discovers Catwoman has turned her back on crime and plans to marry his archnemesis. Can the Clown Prince of Crime stand to see Batman happy? Writer Tom King and artist Clay Mann set up the events that lead to BATMAN #50!

This comic book offers a tantalizing glimpse into the future of the DC Universe. At the same time this comic book serves as a prelude to upcoming major events, providing fans with a mix of intrigue and setup across three distinct stories.

The first story in this comic book, written by Tom King, centers on the Joker and his unpredictable, menacing nature. King captures the essence of the Joker’s chaotic personality, offering readers a chilling narrative as the Clown Prince of Crime prepares for Batman’s wedding. The tension is palpable, and the dialogue is sharp, effectively conveying Joker’s madness. However, the short length limits character exploration, which has left me personally wanting more depth.

Joshua Williamson’s contribution focuses on “No Justice,” teasing a cosmic-level threat that requires the Justice League to team up with unlikely allies. Williamson sets the stage for an epic showdown, introducing us as readers to the stakes and dynamics of this new alliance. The writing is engaging, but the rapid introduction of numerous characters and plot points can feel overwhelming. The story effectively builds anticipation but lacks the space to delve deeply into its expansive cast.

Scott Snyder’s piece highlights the upcoming storyline in “Justice League: No Justice.” Snyder, known for his grand storytelling, provides a brief yet compelling setup that teases the scale and intensity of the challenges awaiting the heroes. The narrative is intriguing, but the limited page count restricts the exploration of themes and character motivations, making it feel more like a teaser than a full-fledged story.

The artwork throughout this comic book is consistently strong, with each artist bringing their unique style to the table. The Joker story features dark and moody illustrations that complement the sinister tone, while the “No Justice” segments are vibrant and dynamic, capturing the grandeur of cosmic battles. The art effectively enhances the storytelling, drawing readers into the DC Universe’s diverse landscapes.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its ability to generate excitement for upcoming events. Each story serves its purpose as a prelude, piquing interest and setting the stage for larger narratives. However, this comic book’s format as a teaser limits its ability to provide complete and satisfying stories, which at times made it feel like this comic book was incomplete.

I Give This Book 3 / 5