Tag: 3 Star Reviews

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

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

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

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

It’s 1987. Marcus Lopez hates school. His grades suck. He has no money. The jocks are hassling his friends. He can’t focus in class, thanks to his mind constantly drifting to the stunning girl in the front row and the Dag Nasty show he has tickets to. But the jocks are the children of Joseph Stalin’s top assassin, the teachers are members of an ancient league of assassins, the class he’s failing is “Dismemberment 101,” and his crush, a member of the most notorious crime syndicate in Japan, has a double-digit body count.

This comic book introduces us as readers to a gritty and visceral world. At the same time this comic book presents a unique blend of teenage angst and violent intrigue, set against the backdrop of a 1980s underground school for assassins.

The story in this comic book follows Marcus Lopez, a homeless teenager recruited into King’s Dominion Atelier of the Deadly Arts, a secret academy where the children of crime families learn the ins and outs of the deadly trade. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that dives into Marcus’s troubled psyche, exploring themes of alienation, survival, and the search for identity.

The writing in this comic book is both raw and engaging, capturing the harsh realities of Marcus’s life on the streets and his struggle to find a place in a world that seems relentlessly against him. The dialogue is sharp and often laced with dark humor, effectively conveying the intensity and danger of Marcus’s new environment. However, this comic book sometimes feels overloaded with exposition, which can slow the narrative’s momentum.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the chaotic world of “Deadly Class” to life with dynamic and energetic illustrations. The art we get in this comic book captures the gritty and frenetic atmosphere of the story, reflecting the turbulent emotions and high stakes faced by the characters. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey motion and emotion through expressive character designs and panel layouts enhances the storytelling, making each page visually compelling.

The pacing of this comic book is a mixed bag. While this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, some scenes feel rushed, impacting the overall flow. This inconsistency has left me personally wanting more immediate clarity and deeper exploration of the characters’ motivations and the school’s inner workings.

Despite its shortcomings, the concept of a high school for assassins holds potential for future development. With more focused storytelling and character exploration, subsequent comic book could delve deeper into the themes and offer more satisfying narrative arcs.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

When an eight-year-old girl literally begins to transform into a tree, her single mom, troubled brother, and possibly insane grandfather embark on a bizarre and heart-wrenching odyssey across the back roads of America in a desperate search for a way to cure her horrifying transformation before it’s too late. But the farther they get from home, the more forces threaten to tear the family apart as fanatical cults, mercenaries, and tabloid Paparazzi close in, determined to destroy the girl—or use her for their own ends. A new genre-defying series written by New York Times bestselling author JEFF LEMIRE (GIDEON FALLS, ASCENDER) and illustrated by acclaimed artist PHIL HESTER (Shipwreck, Green Arrow), FAMILY TREE combines mystery, action, and horror into an epic story about the lengths a mother will go to in order to keep her children safe.

This comic book offers a unique blend of horror and family drama. At the same time this comic book sets up an intriguing premise, though it occasionally struggles with pacing and character depth.

The story in this comic book follows Loretta Hayes, a single mother dealing with the challenges of raising her children while working at a grocery store. Her life takes a bizarre turn when her daughter, Meg, begins to transform into a tree. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that weaves together elements of suspense and emotion, exploring themes of family, transformation, and survival.

The writing in this comic book excels in capturing the everyday struggles of the Hayes family, making their dynamics relatable and grounded. The dialogue is authentic and reflects the tension and love within the family. However, this comic book sometimes lacks depth in character development, with certain motivations and backstories feeling underexplored. This can make it challenging for me personally to fully connect with the characters and their plight.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the eerie and unsettling world of “Family Tree” to life with bold lines and expressive character designs. The illustrations we get in this comic book effectively convey both the ordinary and the extraordinary, capturing the contrast between the normalcy of small-town life and the surreal nature of Meg’s transformation. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to depict emotion through facial expressions adds depth to the storytelling, making each panel engaging.

The pacing of this comic book is a pretty mixed bag. While this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and sets up the central mystery, some scenes feel rushed, impacting the overall flow. This inconsistency has left me personally wanting more immediate clarity and deeper exploration of the characters’ motivations and the story’s intricacies.

Despite its shortcomings, the concept of blending horror with a family drama holds potential for future development. With more focused storytelling and character exploration, subsequent issues could delve deeper into the themes and offer more satisfying narrative arcs.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

2017 marks the 25th anniversary of SPAWN, created by TODD McFARLANE. Spawn debuted to the public, selling 1.7 million copies in 1992 and is on track to be the longest running independent comic ever.

This comic book is a landmark comic that introduces the iconic anti-hero Spawn. While this comic book sets the foundation for a groundbreaking series, this comic book has its strengths and weaknesses.

The story in this comic book follows Al Simmons, a former government assassin who is betrayed and killed, only to be resurrected as Spawn, a Hellspawn with supernatural powers. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is rich in dark themes, exploring concepts of vengeance, identity, and redemption. The premise is intriguing, capturing my attention with its blend of horror and superhero elements.

The writing itself in this comic book establishes a strong atmosphere, but the narrative can feel disjointed at times. This comic book introduces multiple plot threads, leaving some readers wanting more clarity and focus. While the backstory of Al Simmons is engaging, the pacing is uneven, with certain scenes feeling rushed, making it difficult to fully connect with the character’s emotional journey.

Spawn’s internal conflict is a central theme in this comic book, as he grapples with his lost humanity and the memories of his former life. The creators of this comic book effectively portrays this struggle, laying the groundwork for deeper character development in future comic books in this series. However, the dialogue occasionally lacks nuance, relying on exposition rather than subtlety to convey the story’s themes.

The artwork itself in this comic book is pretty iconic, because it is bringing Spawn to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The art style we get in this comic book captures the intensity and horror of the narrative, with intricate character designs and atmospheric settings. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion and action through his art adds depth to the storytelling, making each panel visually engaging.

Despite its strengths, this comic book does have moments where the story feels fragmented, with a narrative structure that has left me personally wanting more cohesion. However, the strong visual style and intriguing premise set the stage for the series’ potential to evolve into something impactful.

I Give This Book 3 / 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

“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

NEW HORROR SERIES FROM THE WALKING DEAD CREATOR ROBERT KIRKMAN! Kyle Barnes has been plagued by demonic possession all his life and now he needs answers. Unfortunately, what he uncovers along the way could bring about the end of life on Earth as we know it.

This comic book delivers a promising start to a horror series. At the same time this comic book sets the stage for a dark exploration of demonic possession and personal redemption, though it sometimes stumbles in pacing and depth.

The story in this comic book follows Kyle Barnes, a man plagued by demonic possessions throughout his life. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both chilling and emotionally charged, exploring themes of isolation and trauma. The plot introduces a world where the supernatural intersects with the personal struggles of its protagonist, creating a compelling premise with potential for deep exploration.

The writing in this comic book effectively sets the tone, capturing the eerie and unsettling atmosphere of Kyle’s world. The dialogue is natural and reflects the tension and complexity of the characters’ relationships. Kyle is portrayed as a troubled and introspective character, whose past experiences have left him wary and withdrawn. However, this comic book doesn’t delve deeply enough into his backstory, which has left me personally wanting more context for his struggles.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the grim world of “Outcast” to life with a stark and haunting style. The illustrations we get in this comic book are detailed and atmospheric, effectively conveying the horror and tension that permeate the narrative. 

The pacing of this comic book is a mixed bag. While this comic book introduces key plot elements and characters effectively, some scenes feel drawn out, affecting the overall momentum. This uneven pacing can make the narrative feel slow at times, which at times made this comic book boring to me personally. However, the underlying tension and mystery maintain a level of intrigue that encourages continued reading.

One of the strengths of this comic book its exploration of themes such as guilt, redemption, and the battle between good and evil. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative, providing depth and complexity to Kyle’s journey. The story challenges readers to consider the nature of demons (both literal and metaphorical) and the struggle for personal salvation.

I Give This Book 3 / 5