Tag: 4 Star Reviews

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

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

Supercriminals don’t stand a chance in this free full issue of Dan Jolley and Leonard Kirk’s acclaimed action series Bloodhound ! Ex-cop Travis Clevenger was the most effective tracker of superhumans in the country, until he was sentenced to twenty years in a maximum-security prison for killing his partner. Content to do his time, Clev’s plans change when FBI agent Saffron Bell offers him a reduced sentence in exchange for help capturing a superpowered serial killer. Can the disgraced hero redeem himself, and can the FBI control him once they’ve let him loose?

This comic book is an engaging start to a gripping crime thriller. At the same time this comic book combines a compelling narrative with strong character development, setting the stage for a series that promises intrigue and intensity.

The story in this comic book follows ex-cop Travis Clevenger, a man with a dark past and a unique knack for tracking down super-powered criminals. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that blends gritty realism with a touch of the extraordinary, creating a world where the lines between hero and villain blur. The plot is tightly woven, which had immersed me personally in a tense and suspenseful atmosphere.

The writing in this comic book excels in character development, particularly with Clevenger. He is portrayed as a complex and flawed protagonist, whose past mistakes haunt him as he seeks redemption. This depth adds layers to his character, making his journey both compelling and relatable. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, capturing the rough edges of Clevenger’s personality and the tension of his interactions with others.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the gritty world of “Bloodhound” to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The art we get in this comic book captures the intensity and energy of the action sequences, while also conveying the subtleties of character interactions. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to depict emotion through facial expressions and body language enhances the storytelling, making each panel resonate with impact.

The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, maintaining a balance between fast-paced action and moments of introspection. 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 without overwhelming me personally, ensuring that the story remains accessible and intriguing.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as redemption, justice, and the consequences of power. 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 morality and the impact of past choices, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

SAGA writer BRIAN K. VAUGHAN launches a brand-new ONGOING SERIES with superstar Wonder Woman artist CLIFF CHIANG! In the early hours after Halloween of 1988, four 12-year-old newspaper delivery girls uncover the most important story of all time

This comic book is a captivating debut that combines nostalgia, mystery, and sci-fi elements. At the same time this comic book introduces a compelling narrative set in the late 1980s, following a group of paper delivery girls who encounter something extraordinary.

The story in this comic book begins on the morning after Halloween, as four twelve-year-old girls (Erin, Mac, KJ, and Tiffany) embark on their early morning paper route.  The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both nostalgic and intriguing, capturing the essence of suburban life while hinting at the supernatural. The plot quickly escalates as the girls stumble upon a mysterious event that changes everything they know.

The writing itself in this comic book is sharp and engaging, with dialogue that authentically captures the voices and dynamics of the young protagonists. Each girl is distinct, with unique personalities and backgrounds that add depth to the story. Their camaraderie and resilience are central to the narrative, making their journey both relatable and compelling.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the 1980s setting and its characters to life with vibrant and expressive illustrations. The clean lines and dynamic compositions enhance the storytelling, capturing both the innocence of the era and the tension of the unfolding mystery. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion and action through his art adds depth to the narrative, making each panel resonate with impact.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly handled, maintaining a balance between character development and plot progression. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in the growing mystery. 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 friendship, bravery, and the transition from childhood to adolescence. The creators of this cocoa book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the excitement and mystery. The story in this cocky book invites us as readers to reflect on the complexities of growing up and facing the unknown, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

Meet NICK SAX – a corrupt, intoxicated ex-cop turned hit-man, adrift in a stinking twilight world of casual murder, soulless sex, eczema and betrayal. With a hit gone wrong, a bullet in his side, the cops and the mob on his tail, and a monstrous child killer in a Santa suit on the loose, Nick and his world will be changed forever this Christmas. By a tiny blue horse called Happy.

This comic book delivers a gritty and darkly humorous introduction to a unique crime saga. At the same time this comic book combines the hard-boiled edge of noir with a surreal twist, setting the stage for an intriguing series.

The story in this comic book centers on Nick Sax, a disgraced and cynical ex-cop turned hitman, whose life takes an unexpected turn after a hit goes wrong. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both grim and oddly whimsical, capturing the chaos of Sax’s life spiraling out of control. The introduction of a tiny, blue, winged horse named Happy adds a fantastical element that contrasts sharply with the brutal reality of Sax’s world.

The writing itself in this comic book is sharp and unflinching, perfectly capturing the bleakness and absurdity of the narrative. The dialogue is gritty and raw, reflecting the seedy underbelly of the city and Sax’s jaded worldview. Despite his flaws, Sax is a compelling protagonist, portrayed with depth and complexity. His reluctant partnership with Happy promises an interesting dynamic that adds layers to the story.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the gritty urban landscape and its unsavory characters to life with detailed and expressive illustrations. The art we get in this comic book captures the intensity and chaos of Sax’s world, while also effectively conveying the whimsical and surreal presence of Happy. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to balance these contrasting elements enhances the overall impact of the story.

The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, maintaining a balance between fast-paced action and moments of introspection. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally  engaged and intrigued by the unfolding drama. The creators of this comic book effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics without overwhelming me, and ensuring that the story remains accessible and compelling.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as redemption, delusion, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. 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 hope and despair, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

Several years ago, a mysterious space-ship crashed on Marcross Island… in the intervening years, the people of Earth used the ‘Robotechnology’ from the ship to significantly advance their own technology. The ship – named by the humans as the Super-Dimension Fortress – actually belongs to a race of giant aliens, the Zentraedi. As the ship prepared to launch for the first time, the Zentraedi attacked and the crew of the SDF-1 were forced to space-fold away – taking a chunk of Macross City (and its 70,000 citizens) with them.

This comic book offers an exciting dive into the beloved Robotech universe. At the same time this comic book effectively captures the essence of the original series while introducing fresh narrative elements that intrigue both longtime fans and newcomers.

The story in this comic book revisits the iconic conflict between humans and the alien Zentraedi, adding new layers to the ongoing saga. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that balances nostalgia with innovation, which had drawn me personally into a world where epic battles and personal dramas coexist. The plot is engaging, setting the stage for future developments while delivering immediate thrills.

The writing itself in this comic book excels in capturing the spirit of Robotech, with dialogue that feels authentic to the characters and the universe. This comic book introduces intriguing plot twists and character dynamics, hinting at deeper mysteries and conflicts to come. The creators of this coco book manage to convey a sense of scale and urgency, ensuring that the stakes feel high and the action compelling.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the Robotech world to life with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The art we get in this comic book captures the grandeur of space battles and the intricacies of character interactions, creating a visually immersive experience. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey both action and emotion enhances the storytelling, making each panel resonate with impact.

The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, maintaining a balance between fast-paced action and moments of character development. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in the unfolding drama. This comic book effectively sets up future plotlines while delivering a satisfying self-contained story.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its ability to blend the classic elements of the series with new twists. The creators of this comic book weave themes of loyalty, survival, and the complexity of war into the narrative, providing depth without overshadowing the action. The story in this comic book invites us as readers to explore the moral ambiguities of the Robotech universe, adding layers of meaning to the epic battles.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

Thea dreams. Not of a better life, but of revenge on the clan that ruined her family. With ferocious battles between man, machines, and monsters ahead…who knows where her quest for vengeance will take her? Creator DANIEL WARREN JOHNSON (Space Mullet) and colorist MIKE SPICER present a bold new vision, where the beauty and imagination of Studio Ghibli meet the intensity of Mad Max, in this all-new Skybound Original.

This comic book is a gripping and visually stunning debut. At the same time this comic book introduces us as readers to a brutal and emotional tale of revenge and survival, set in a richly imagined world that is both beautiful and terrifying.

The story in this comic book revolves around Thea, a talented artist whose life is shattered when her home is attacked by a rival clan. With her family torn apart, Thea becomes consumed by a desire for vengeance. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both intense and poignant, exploring themes of loss, identity, and the cost of violence. The plot is well-paced, drawing readers into Thea’s struggle and setting the stage for an epic tale of retribution.

The writing itself in this comic book is powerful, capturing the emotional depth of the characters and the harsh realities of their world. The dialogue is sharp and purposeful, reflecting the tension and desperation that permeates the story. Thea is a compelling protagonist, portrayed with depth and nuance. Her internal conflict and determination add layers to her character, making her journey both relatable and engaging.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the world of “Extremity” to life with incredible detail and energy. The illustrations we get in this comic book are dynamic and expressive, capturing both the beauty and brutality of the setting. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through character expressions and body language enhances the storytelling, making each panel resonate with impact.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly handled, maintaining a balance between high-octane action and moments of introspection. The narrative flows smoothly, keeping readers engaged and invested in the characters’ fates. 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 vengeance, family, and the impact of war. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the action. The story challenges us as readers to consider the complexities of revenge and the toll it takes on those who pursue it, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

Preview the forthcoming full color, original “Space Pirate Captain Harlock” series from ABLAZE, personally overseen by the legendary Leiji Matsumoto! In this brand-new Captain Harlock adventure, planet Earth is threatened by an upcoming invasion by the Sylvidres and despite being banished as a pirate, Captain Harlock won’t give up trying to save the world. Will Captain Harlock and his crew manage to solve this mystery and save the Earth from yet another menace?

This comic book is a captivating reimagining of a classic sci-fi adventure. At the same time this comic book brings the legendary Captain Harlock back to life with a fresh, vibrant approach that honors the original while introducing new layers.

This comic book is set in a future where Earth is under threat from the alien Mazone, the story follows Captain Harlock and his crew aboard the spaceship Arcadia. The timeless narrative in this comic book of rebellion and heroism is given new energy through the modern artistic style. The plot effectively reintroduces Harlock’s mission to defend Earth, capturing the essence of his defiant spirit and commitment to freedom.

The writing itself in this comic book is engaging, balancing action with introspective moments that delve into Harlock’s motivations. His character is portrayed with depth, showcasing his unwavering determination and complex moral compass. The dialogue is crisp, reflecting the tension and camaraderie among the crew, while also highlighting the broader stakes of their mission.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing a contemporary flair to the iconic visuals of Captain Harlock. The illustrations we get in this comic book are both dynamic and detailed, capturing the grandeur of space battles and the intimacy of character interactions. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to blend classic elements with modern sensibilities elevates the visual storytelling, making each panel a feast for the eyes.

The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, maintaining a balance between fast-paced action sequences and character-driven moments. The narrative flows smoothly, which has kept me personally engaged and invested in the unfolding drama. This comic book effectively sets up the larger storyline, introducing key plot elements and character dynamics without overwhelming me.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as resistance, loyalty, and the fight for justice. The original themes are preserved and expanded upon, providing depth without overshadowing the adventure. The story challenges readers to consider the complexities of rebellion and the cost of freedom, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

As Hydra puts their plans into action, Nick Spencer and Andrea Sorrentino bring you the opening salvo in a story that will rock the Marvel Universe and leave fans’ jaws on the floor!

This comic book delivers an engaging prelude to the larger “Secret Empire” event. At the same time this comic book effectively sets the stage for the unfolding drama, blending action, intrigue, and character development.

The narrative in this comic book revolves around the increasing tension within the Marvel Universe as Captain America, secretly aligned with Hydra, begins to execute his plan for global domination. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that is both thrilling and unsettling, capturing the looming threat and the heroes’ struggle to respond. The plot balances between high-stakes action and the emotional turmoil of the characters, creating a rich and immersive experience.

The writing itself in this comic book excels in capturing the complexity of the situation, particularly through the internal conflicts faced by the characters. The dialogue is sharp and purposeful, highlighting the moral dilemmas and shifting alliances as the heroes grapple with the shocking reality of Captain America’s betrayal. This depth adds layers to the story, making it more than just a standard superhero conflict.

There is something about the writing in this comic book that bring a touch of humor and humanity, providing moments of levity amidst the tension. These lighter moments help to balance the narrative, preventing it from becoming overly grim and adding a relatable touch to the characters’ interactions.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing this tense and dramatic world to life with striking detail and dynamic compositions. The illustrations in this comic book capture the intensity of the battles and the emotional weight of the story, making each panel resonate with impact. In a way the artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey both the grandeur of the conflict and the subtleties of character expressions enhances the storytelling, which had drawn me personally deeper into the narrative.

The pacing of this comic book is well-managed, maintaining a brisk yet coherent flow that has kept me personally engaged from start to finish. The narrative effectively introduces key plot elements and character dynamics, setting up the larger storyline without overwhelming the reader. This balance ensures that the issue remains accessible to both new and returning fans.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its exploration of themes such as loyalty, power, and the consequences of deception. The creators of this comic book weaves these themes into the narrative seamlessly, providing depth without overshadowing the action. The story challenges readers to consider the complexities of heroism and the impact of betrayal, adding layers of meaning to the unfolding drama.

I Give This Book 4 / 5