Category: Comic Book Review

Introduction for Must Read Greatest Hits #1! Never tried a Valiant comic?! Start reading here – with more than 100 pages of Valiant Comics greatness for just $5.99! Find out why VALIANT is the MUST READ superhero publisher in comics today with a greatest hits collection of can’t-miss moments from across the Valiant Universe! Re-presenting X-O MANOWAR #5, QUANTUM AND WOODY #1, HARBINGER #1, HARBINGER WARS #2, and SHADOWMAN #0, MUST READ GREATEST HITS #1 is the perfect place to find out why IGN is “Nobody is making superhero books like this, which is exactly why you should be paying attention to Valiant Comics.”

This comic book attempts to showcase the best of Valiant Comics, but unfortunately, it falls short of delivering a compelling collection. This comic book is designed to introduce new readers to Valiant’s universe, featuring a selection of stories from various creators. However, the execution lacks the cohesion and depth that would make it truly captivating.

The concept of this comic book is promising. With a rich history of unique characters and storylines, the potential for an engaging introduction is high. However, the selection of stories in this issue feels disjointed and somewhat random, failing to provide a coherent narrative thread or thematic connection. This lack of cohesion makes it difficult for readers to become fully immersed in the Valiant universe.

Each story in this comic book is intended to highlight a different aspect of Valiant’s offerings, from superhero exploits to science fiction adventures. While this variety showcases the range of Valiant’s storytelling, it also contributes to a fragmented reading experience. The transitions between stories are abrupt, which have left me personally with little time to engage with the characters or plotlines before moving on to the next piece.

The character development is another area where this comic book. The brief nature of each story limits the opportunity for meaningful character exploration. As a result, the characters often come across as one-dimensional, lacking the depth and complexity that would make them memorable or relatable. For new readers, this can be particularly challenging, as the anthology does not provide the rich context needed to fully appreciate the characters’ journeys.

The artwork throughout this comic book varies in style and quality, reflecting the diverse range of creators involved. Some illustrations capture the dynamic energy and visual appeal typical of Valiant’s comics, while others feel less polished and more generic. This inconsistency in the artwork further contributes to the anthology’s lack of cohesion.

While this comic book aims to serve as an introduction to Valiant’s universe, it falls short in providing the context and background necessary for new readers. The stories are presented without much explanation or framing, leaving those unfamiliar with Valiant’s history potentially confused or disengaged. More editorial guidance or commentary could have enhanced the anthology, offering insights into the significance of each story within the larger Valiant canon.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

Top Shelf celebrates Free Comic Book Day with 32 pages of excerpts from March Book One, Book Two, and Book Three (coming summer 2016). The first graphic novel from a sitting member of Congress, Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient, and American icon. John Lewis rose from humble beginnings to become a national leader of the civil rights movement. This is his story, from an Alabama farm to the March on Washington and beyond, co-written by Andrew Aydin and brought to astonishing life by Nate Powell in a graphic novel trilogy.

This comic book is a powerful and evocative glimpse into the civil rights movement. At the same time this comic book provides a compelling introduction to the acclaimed “March” trilogy, capturing the essence of Congressman John Lewis’s life and his pivotal role in American history.

The narrative in this comic book is both poignant and inspiring. It offers readers a snapshot of the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights movement through Lewis’s eyes. The storytelling is direct and impactful, effectively conveying the gravity of the events while maintaining accessibility for readers of all ages. The dialogue is authentic, reflecting the tension and hope of the era.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its ability to distill complex historical events into a format that is engaging and educational. Lewis and Aydin succeed in highlighting key moments and figures in the movement, providing context and clarity without overwhelming us as readers. This approach makes it an excellent resource for those new to this period of history, as well as a valuable supplement for those already familiar with it.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature because it is bringing the narrative to life with expressive and dynamic illustrations. The black-and-white art style is both evocative and powerful, capturing the intensity and emotion of the civil rights struggle. The use of shading and line work enhances the mood, adding depth and texture to each panel. The visual storytelling complements the narrative, making the historical events feel immediate and impactful.

The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, managing to cover significant ground in a short format while maintaining a cohesive and engaging narrative. Each scene builds on the last, creating a sense of progression and momentum that has kept me personally invested in the story. The balance between text and visuals is expertly handled, ensuring that the narrative flows smoothly and effectively.

While this comic book excels in many areas, its brevity means that some aspects of the story are only briefly touched upon. I personally found myself wanting more detail and exploration of certain events and figures. However, this is a common limitation of the format, and the special succeeds in sparking interest and encouraging further exploration of the “March” trilogy.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

Runako is studying hard to someday succeed as owner of her family’s maid dispatching service company. One day, a request comes in from an entertainment production company and shockingly, it’s for their super-popular star, Seirei Moroboshi! But could it be that the image he projects on the TV is far different than his true secret face…?!

This comic book introduces an intriguing domestic setup but ultimately falls short. Despite a promising premise of this comic book, this comic book struggles with character development and narrative depth, resulting in an underwhelming experience.

The story in this comic book follows the arrival of a mysterious maid in a household, setting the stage for potential drama and intrigue. While the setup hints at interesting dynamics and secrets, the narrative lacks cohesion and clarity. The plot feels fragmented, with scenes that transition abruptly, making it difficult for me personally to become fully invested in the storyline or the characters’ motivations.

The character development in this comic book is very minimal, with both the maid and the family members appearing one-dimensional. The protagonist’s motivations and backstory are not sufficiently explored, which has left me personally without a clear understanding of their personality or goals. This lack of depth makes it challenging to connect with the characters on an emotional level, reducing the impact of the story.

The artwork itself in this comic book, while visually appealing, cannot fully compensate for the narrative shortcomings. The illustrations capture the nuances of the domestic setting with clean lines and expressive character designs. However, the art alone isn’t enough to elevate the story, as the lack of strong storytelling and character work undermines the overall impact.

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

Despite its shortcomings, the concept of exploring domestic dynamics and hidden motives holds potential for future development. With more focused storytelling and robust character exploration, subsequent chapters could delve deeper into the intricacies of the household and offer more satisfying narrative arcs.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

Kanade, a girl gifted with an observing eye and an ability to get things done. This is the story about her journey discovering the beauty of classical ballet and the joy of dancing. From the popular author that brought us Vanitas, comes a romantic story that makes the beauty of classical ballet come alive.

This comic book introduces an intriguing premise but ultimately falls short. At the same time this comic book tries to blend drama and artistry but struggles with character development and narrative cohesion, leading to a somewhat unsatisfying experience.

The story in this comic book centers on a protagonist who is drawn into the world of ballet. While the setting provides ample opportunity for exploring themes of passion, discipline, and ambition, the narrative lacks depth and clarity. The plot feels disjointed, with scenes that jump abruptly, making it difficult for me personally to engage fully with the storyline or the characters’ motivations.

The character development in this comic book is very minimal, with the protagonist and supporting cast lacking sufficient depth and relatability. The central character’s journey into the world of ballet is portrayed without much context or emotional resonance, making it challenging for me personally again to connect with their struggles and aspirations. The interactions between characters feel superficial, failing to convey the depth of relationships and personal conflicts that could have enriched the narrative.

The artwork itself in this comic book, while visually appealing, cannot fully compensate for the narrative shortcomings. The illustrations capture the grace and elegance of ballet, with expressive character designs and dynamic compositions. However, the visuals alone aren’t enough to elevate the story, as the lack of strong storytelling and character work undermines the overall impact.

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

Despite its shortcomings, the concept of exploring the world of ballet holds potential for future development. With more focused storytelling and robust character exploration, subsequent chapters could delve deeper into the rich tapestry of the ballet world and offer more satisfying narrative arcs.

I Give This Book 2 / 5

The lands between the coasts are vast, slow to change, and full of hidden magics. Mistakes have been made, and in this NEW ONGOING SERIES, an unwitting adventurer searches for answers to quell a coming storm that knows his name. From author SKOTTIE YOUNG (I HATE FAIRYLAND, Deadpool) and artist JORGE CORONA (NO. 1 WITH A BULLET, Feathers, Big Trouble in Little China: Old Man Jack) comes the tale of Abel, a young boy who must navigate an old land in order to reconcile his family’s history.

This comic book is an intriguing introduction to a fantasy-infused tale. At the same time this comic book sets up a visually compelling world while exploring themes of family and self-discovery, though it occasionally falters in pacing and depth.

The story in this comic book follows Abel, a young boy living in a small town, who struggles with a tumultuous relationship with his father. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that blends the ordinary with the fantastical, creating a world where storms rage with supernatural fury. The plot hints at deeper mysteries and personal growth, promising an epic journey for Abel.

The writing in this comic book captures the emotional tension between Abel and his father, effectively conveying the boy’s internal conflict and yearning for something beyond his small-town life. The dialogue is natural and reflects the strained dynamics within Abel’s family. However, this comic book sometimes lacks depth, which has left me personally wanting more insight into the characters’ motivations and backgrounds.

The artwork itself in this comic book is the standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the world of “Middlewest” to life with a vibrant and expressive style. The illustrations we get in this comic book capture the energy and emotion of the narrative, from the mundane aspects of Abel’s life to the fantastical elements that disrupt it. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey motion and mood enhances the storytelling, making each panel visually engaging.

The pacing of this comic book is a mixed bag in this comic book. While this comic book introduces key plot elements and character dynamics effectively, some scenes feel rushed, affecting the overall flow. This inconsistency has left me personally feeling disconnected from the story’s emotional core, despite its intriguing premise.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as family conflict, identity, and the search for belonging. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the fantasy elements. The story in this comic book invites us as readers to consider the complexities of family relationships and the struggle for personal freedom, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

It’s the storm of the century, and it’s headed straight for Gotham City. The guardians of this sprawling urban center – Nightwing, Batwoman and the Batman himself – think they’ve prepared for the worst. They have no idea. Thanks to the machinations of the macabre scientist Dr. Hugo Strange, the storm has unleashed a rain of monsters upon the city. Colossal creatures are stomping through the streets, terrorizing the citizens and challenging the skills of even Gotham’s greatest heroes. Can the Dark Knight and his allies stem the tide of destruction? Or will the Night of the Monster Men mark the fall of the Bat?

This comic book is an exhilarating addition to the Batman series. At the same time this comic book captures the essence of Gotham’s atmosphere with a thrilling blend of action, horror, and character depth.

The story in this comic book is set during a monstrous storm in Gotham, the story follows Batman and his allies as they face a terrifying onslaught of giant creatures threatening the city. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both intense and engaging, expertly weaving horror elements into the Batman mythos. The plot balances high-stakes action with emotional moments, creating a rich and immersive experience.

The writing in this comic book excels in capturing the urgency and tension of the situation. Batman is portrayed with his usual determination and strategic brilliance, while his interactions with allies like Nightwing and Batwoman highlight the camaraderie and trust within the team. These relationships add depth to the narrative, showcasing the human side of Gotham’s protectors amidst the chaos.

The dialogues throughout this comic book are sharp and purposeful, reflecting the dire circumstances and the characters’ resolve. The pacing is expertly managed, maintaining a relentless momentum that has kept me personally on the edge of my seat. This balance between action and character development ensures that the story remains both thrilling and emotionally resonant.

The artwork itself in this cocky book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the terrifying world of “Night of the Monster Men” to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The art style we get in this comic book captures the horror and grandeur of the monstrous foes, while also conveying the intensity and determination of the heroes. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to create a sense of scale and urgency enhances the storytelling, making each panel a visual treat.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as fear, resilience, and the battle between humanity and monstrosity. The creators of this comic book weave these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book challenges us as readers to consider the nature of heroism in the face of overwhelming odds, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

Buckaroo, Oregon has given birth to sixteen of the vilest serial killers in the world. An obsessed FBI profiler investigating the town has suddenly gone missing, and now an NSA Agent must work with the notorious serial killer Edward “Nailbiter” Warren to find his friend and solve the mystery of “Where do serial killers come from?”

This comic book introduces a chilling premise but struggles in execution. While the concept in this comic book of a town that produces serial killers is intriguing, this comic book falls short in several critical areas.

The story in this comic book is set in Buckaroo, Oregon, notorious for being the birthplace of 16 of the world’s most infamous serial killers. The narrative follows Nicholas Finch, a disgraced NSA agent, who is drawn to the town by a friend’s mysterious disappearance. The creators of this comic book tries to create a compelling mystery, but the plot feels disjointed and lacks a clear direction, making it difficult for me personally to become truly invested in the unfolding events.

The character development in this comic book is one of the major weaknesses of this comic book. Finch, the protagonist, is introduced with minimal backstory, leaving his motivations and personality underexplored. This lack of depth makes it challenging for me personally to connect with him or care about his journey. Similarly, the supporting characters are introduced without much context, feeling more like plot devices than fully realized individuals.

The dialogues in this comic book often feels stilted and unnatural, failing to convey the tension and emotion necessary for a horror narrative. Conversations between characters lack the nuance needed to build suspense or deepen relationships, contributing to the overall flatness of the story.

The artwork itself in this comic book, while competent, cannot fully compensate for the narrative shortcomings. The illustrations capture the dark and eerie atmosphere of Buckaroo, but the art alone isn’t enough to elevate the story. Character designs are standard and lack the distinctiveness needed to make them memorable or impactful.

The pacing of this comic book is pretty uneven, with scenes that either drag without building tension or rush through potentially engaging moments. This inconsistency prevents the narrative from developing momentum or holding my interest in this comic book. Key plot points are introduced abruptly, making it difficult to fully grasp the stakes or significance of the events unfolding.

I Give This Book 1 / 5

“JIMMY OLSEN: MONARCH OF ALL HE SUBDUES!” Superman, Jimmy Olsen, and the Newsboy Legion have a showdown with Victor Volcanium, who hopes to conquer the world! Plus, “DNA PROJECT: GENETIC CRIMINAL” and The Newsboy Legion in “THE MEANEST MAN ON EARTH!”

This comic book offers a nostalgic dive into the Silver Age of comics. At the same time this comic book showcases the adventurous spirit and quirky charm characteristic of its era, while also highlighting some of the limitations in storytelling and character depth typical of the time.

The narrative in this comic book follows Jimmy Olsen, Superman’s intrepid pal, as he embarks on another wild adventure. The creators of this comic book creates a story brimming with fantastical elements and dramatic plot twists, capturing the whimsical tone that defined many comics of the 1950s and 60s. The plot unfurls at a brisk pace, filled with unexpected turns that has kept me personally entertained, even if they occasionally stretch believability.

The writing in this comic book, while imaginative, reflects the conventions of its time, with dialogue that often leans heavily on exposition. Characters tend to express their thoughts and motivations overtly, leaving little room for subtlety or deeper emotional exploration. Jimmy Olsen, as the protagonist, is portrayed with enthusiasm and pluck, though his character lacks the complex development seen in more modern interpretations.

The artwork itself in this comic book shines through, characterized by bold lines and dynamic compositions. The artwork we get in this comic book captures the energetic and larger-than-life feel of the story, with action-packed panels that convey a sense of movement and excitement.

One of the notable aspects of this comic book is the way it encapsulates the era’s storytelling style, focusing more on plot-driven adventures than character introspection. This approach offers a fun and escapist reading experience, though it has left me personally craving more nuanced narratives and character development.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

In “Anduin: Son of the Wolf,” a letter from Anduin’s father, King Varian, speaks of ill times ahead, prompting the young ruler to ponder leadership and responsibility. Anduin must face his fears and decide if he can defend Azeroth while still keeping true to his beliefs.

This comic book is a captivating addition to the World of Warcraft universe. At the same time this comic book explores the depth of Prince Anduin Wrynn’s character, blending rich storytelling with stunning visuals.

The narrative in this comic book focuses on Anduin Wrynn, heir to the throne of Stormwind, as he grapples with the burdens of leadership and the legacy of his father, King Varian Wrynn. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that delves into the complexities of Anduin’s character, highlighting his growth from a young prince to a wise leader. The story is filled with emotional depth, exploring themes of duty, legacy, and the search for peace in a world torn by conflict.

The writing in this comic book is insightful, capturing Anduin’s internal struggles and his desire to forge a path of peace amidst the chaos of war. The dialogue is authentic, reflecting the weight of Anduin’s responsibilities and his compassionate nature. The interactions with key figures, such as his father and other leaders, add layers to the narrative, making his journey both relatable and compelling.

The artwork we get in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the world of Azeroth to life with vivid detail and dynamic compositions. The illustrations capture the grandeur of the Warcraft universe, from the majestic landscapes to the intense battle scenes. 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 resonate with impact.

The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, balancing introspective moments with action-packed sequences. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in Anduin’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 and longtime fans of the Warcraft series.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as leadership, identity, and the moral complexities of war. 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 challenges us as readers to consider the complexities of leadership and the choices that shape a leader’s legacy, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

Despite its strengths, this comic book leaves some questions unanswered, which might intrigue some readers while leaving others wanting more immediate clarity. However, the strong premise and engaging characters promise further exploration in future comic books in this series.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

Okay, so a scarecrow walks into a bar…and proceeds to wreak havoc across two worlds! After a long absence, Rathraq, Scarecrow Warrior God, is back-and very unhappy. Bad news for his old enemies, yes, but worse news for everybody else! JOHN ARCUDI and JAMES HARREN bring you a modern day action/adventure fantasy thriller where rundown dive bars, undead kitty cats, psycho skinheads, and giant mummies all play a part. It’s Louis C.K. meets Robert E. Howard in a David Fincher universe.

This comic book is an engaging start to a unique series. At the same time this comic book artfully combines elements of urban fantasy, action, and dark humor, setting the stage for an intriguing journey.

The story in this comic book begins with Bobby, a bartender whose mundane life takes a dramatic turn when he encounters a scarecrow warrior named Rathraq. The creators of this cocoa book creates a narrative rich in mythology and modern-day grit, creating a world where ancient beings and urban life collide. The plot is well-paced, drawing readers into a mysterious and fantastical realm filled with unexpected twists.

The writing itself in this comic book excels in blending humor with the bizarre, making the characters relatable even amidst the chaos. Bobby is portrayed as an everyman, providing a grounded perspective to the unfolding supernatural events. Rathraq, with his enigmatic past and warrior ethos, adds depth and intrigue, hinting at a rich backstory that promises further exploration.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the vibrant and chaotic world of “Rumble” to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The art style we get in this comic book captures the intensity of action sequences and the surreal nature of the story’s supernatural elements. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through expressive character designs adds depth to the narrative, making each panel resonate with impact.

The pacing of this comic book is pretty well-managed, balancing action-packed sequences with moments of character development and world-building. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in the unfolding drama. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as identity, redemption, and the clash between the ancient and modern worlds. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the adventure. The story in this comic book invites us as readers to consider the complexities of power and responsibility, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

Despite its strengths, this comic book leaves some questions unanswered, which might intrigue some readers while leaving others wanting more immediate clarity. However, the strong premise and engaging characters promise further exploration in future comic books in this series.

I Give This Book 4 / 5