“Escape From Wonderland #0” By Raven Gregory & Joe Brusha & Ralph Tedesco Review

The beginning of the end is here. The final piece to the Wonderland trilogy brings the powerful story of Calie Liddle full circle. Her infant daughter was taken from her arms and brought into the realm of madness. Now Calie must re-enter the one place she has tried for so long to escape. The moment of truth has arrived as the girl who became a woman now sets out to become a hero. The one person who can prevent pure insanity from escaping into this world must now find a way to defeat madness itself. The final chapter of the most intense, riveting and addictive comic book series you have read in years has arrived and this time around there may be no escaping Wonderland.

This comic book is a gripping entry into the twisted Wonderland saga. At the same time this comic book serves as an intriguing prelude, setting the stage for a dark and fantastical journey that promises to captivate and thrill.

The story in this comic book revisits the iconic Wonderland, reimagined with a sinister twist. The creators of this comic book creates a narrative that blends elements of horror and fantasy, exploring themes of madness, fear, and escape.

The writing in this comic book is pretty sharp and engaging, which has pulled me into a world where the familiar becomes unsettling, and every corner hides a new threat.

The protagonist, Calie Liddle, is portrayed with depth and complexity, embodying resilience and determination as she confronts the horrors of Wonderland. The creators of this comic book skillfully develop her character, capturing her internal struggles and the weight of her past experiences. Calie’s journey is both personal and epic, offering us as readers a heroine they can root for as she navigates a world fraught with danger.

The side characters in this comic book add richness and variety to the story, each contributing their own perspectives and challenges. Their interactions with Calie provide opportunities for growth and conflict, enhancing the narrative and adding layers to the plot. The dynamic between these characters enriches the story, creating a well-rounded and immersive experience.

The artwork in this comic book is a standout feature of this comic book, because it is bringing the eerie and fantastical world of “Escape From Wonderland” to life with vivid detail. The illustrations we get in this comic book are both dynamic and atmospheric, perfectly capturing the intensity and emotion of the narrative. The art style complements the story’s blend of horror and fantasy, creating an immersive and visually striking experience.

The pacing of this comic book is well-executed, balancing moments of suspense with character-driven scenes that allow for introspection and development. The creators of this comic book ensure that the story flows smoothly, maintaining a steady rhythm that has kept me personally engaged while building anticipation for future revelations. The seamless transitions between scenes contribute to a cohesive narrative flow, enhancing the overall reading experience.

At the same time this comic book explores the themes of fear, survival, and the struggle for redemption are intricately woven throughout the story. The creators of this comic book explore these concepts with depth and nuance, offering a narrative that resonates on multiple levels. Calie’s journey serves as a metaphor for the broader human struggle against inner demons and external threats, inviting us as readers to reflect on their own lives and challenges.

While this comic book excels in many areas, it occasionally leans into familiar horror tropes. However, the imaginative storytelling and captivating art ensure these elements feel fresh and engaging, breathing new life into the narrative.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Jagjivan Ram” By Various Review

Babu Jagjivan Ram was a man of extraordinary courage and integrity.  Protected by his family from the ugliness of a caste-based society, Jagjivan saw the real world only when he started going to school. The young boy rebelled against the injustice and bias that kept an entire community suppressed, and continued to fight against the scourge of casteism throughout his life. He played a critical role in the freedom struggle and after independence took on ministerial portfolios and excelled as an administrator. His greatest challenge came as the Defence Minister, when a war tested Jagjivan Ram’s political skills and proved him to be one of the greatest leaders of our country.

This comic book is a biographical look into the life and legacy of an influential Indian leader, offering a comprehensive yet sometimes uneven portrayal. At the same time this comic book seeks to capture the essence of Jagjivan Ram’s contributions to Indian politics and society, highlighting his role as a champion for the marginalized.

The narrative structure in this comic book is straightforward, aiming to present a chronological account of his life. The book details his early years, the challenges he faced due to caste discrimination, and his rise to prominence within the political arena. The various contributors effectively showcase his resilience and dedication to social justice, providing readers with insights into his motivations and achievements.

One of this comic book’s strengths is its focus on Ram’s relentless advocacy for the Dalit community and his efforts to promote equality and justice. Through his story, the book sheds light on the broader socio-political context of India during his time, offering us as readers a glimpse into the complexities of navigating a caste-based society. The authors provide ample context to understand the significance of Ram’s work, making it a valuable resource for those interested in Indian history and social reform.

However, this comic book occasionally struggles with maintaining a cohesive narrative. The multiple contributors bring varied perspectives, which, while enriching, sometimes lead to a disjointed reading experience. The transitions between sections can feel abrupt, disrupting the flow of the narrative and making it challenging for me personally to stay fully engaged. A more unified editorial approach could have enhanced the overall coherence of the work.

The depth of detail varies throughout this comic book. While some chapters delve deeply into specific events or aspects of Ram’s life, others skim over potentially significant details, which has left me personally wanting more context and analysis. This inconsistency can make it difficult to form a complete picture of Ram’s multifaceted legacy.

Despite these challenges, this comic book succeeds in highlighting Jagjivan Ram’s enduring impact on Indian society. His efforts to improve the lives of the marginalized and his contributions to the Indian independence movement are well-documented, showcasing his importance as a leader and advocate for change. The authors effectively convey the challenges he faced and the obstacles he overcame, making his story both inspiring and thought-provoking.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“The Valiant: Introduction” By Matt Kindt & Jeff Lemire & Paolo Rivera Review

Introduction for The Valiant! A battle ten millennia in the making is about to begin… The Eternal Warrior has protected the Earth for more than 10,000 years. A master of countless weapons and long forgotten martial arts, he is guided by the Geomancers – those who speak for the Earth. During his long watch, the Eternal Warrior has failed three times. Each time, the Geomancer was killed…and a new dark age for humanity began. Each time, he was unable to stop The Immortal Enemy – a monstrous force of nature. A civilization killer. A horror that appears differently each time it arrives…and whose seemingly only purpose is to bring disorder and darkness to the world. Now, the time has come for The Immortal Enemy to return once more. But, this time, the Eternal Warrior will be ready. This time, he has a force greater than any single warrior.

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 im gonna give you the answer for that at the end of this review.

This preview provides an engaging start to a promising series. At the same time this preview sets the stage for an epic narrative that blends action, mythology, and character-driven storytelling, offering a glimpse into the rich world of the Valiant Universe.

The story in this preview revolves around an ancient threat, the Immortal Enemy, resurfacing to challenge the heroes of the Valiant Universe. The creators of this preview create a plot that combines high-stakes action with intriguing lore, weaving together multiple threads that span time and space. The narrative is well-paced, maintaining a balance between suspenseful moments and character exploration, which have kept me personally invested in the unfolding drama.

The character development is a key feature of this preview. The creators of this preview introduce a diverse cast of characters, each with distinct personalities and motivations that add depth to the narrative. The Eternal Warrior, a central figure in the story, is portrayed with nuance and complexity, highlighting his eternal struggle against the Immortal Enemy. The interactions among the characters are rich with tension and camaraderie, adding layers to the story and enhancing the overall impact.

The artwork in this preview complements the narrative with its dynamic and detailed style. The illustrations capture the intensity and grandeur of the Valiant Universe, using bold lines to bring the story to life. The artwork in this preview has the ability to convey emotion and action through his artwork creates an immersive experience that have drawn me deeper into the heart of the adventure. The visual storytelling is both dramatic and expressive, enhancing the overall impact of the narrative.

The dialogues throughout this preview occasionally leaves certain plot points and character arcs underexplored, which had left me eager for more resolution.

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

“The Red Ten Vol. 1: Bonus Material” By Tyler James & Cesar Feliciano Review

When the world’s greatest detective is violently murdered by her nemesis, her corporate backed super team and former sidekick band together to bring the villain to justice. However, the mission goes terribly wrong, and before the night is out each of the ten “heroes” will pay dearly for past transgressions. Collects THE RED TEN #0-5.

This comic book is an intriguing and enriching companion to the main series. At the same time this comic book offers us as fans a deeper dive into the world of “The Red Ten,” providing a fresh perspective on its characters and themes with engaging content and stunning artwork.

This comic book includes character sketches, behind-the-scenes insights, and extended scenes that enhance the primary narrative. The creators of this comic book has created a compelling extension to the original storyline, allowing us as readers to explore the complexities and motivations of the characters in greater detail. This additional context enriches the overall experience, offering fans a more comprehensive understanding of the series’ intricate plot.

The character development is a standout feature in this comic book. This comic book delves deeper into the backgrounds and personalities of key players, revealing layers that add depth and nuance to their actions and decisions. By providing these insights, this comic book allows us as readers to connect more profoundly with the characters, enhancing the emotional impact of the main storyline.

The artwork in this comic book continues to impress, capturing the intensity and drama of “The Red Ten” with dynamic and detailed illustrations. The bonus sketches and concept art provide a fascinating glimpse into the creative process, highlighting Feliciano’s skill in bringing the characters and settings to life. The visuals are both striking and immersive, enhancing the reader’s engagement with the story.

The dialogues in this comic book are sharp and authentic, reflecting this comic book’s talent for crafting realistic and impactful character interactions. These conversations contribute significantly to character development and plot progression, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. The balance of tension, humor, and sincerity in the dialogue enriches the storytelling, making interactions both entertaining and meaningful.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its thematic exploration. Because this comic book delves into themes of power, betrayal, and morality, inviting readers to reflect on the ethical dilemmas faced by the characters. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth and resonance to the story.

Despite its strengths, this comic book occasionally feels constrained by its format which have left me wanting even more exploration of certain plot points and character arcs. However, this sense of anticipation serves to heighten interest in the main series, encouraging readers to revisit the original narrative with a new perspective.

I Give This Book 4 / 5

“Bughouse #1” By Steve Lafler Review

Set in a ‘bug noir’ Manhattan of the nineteen-fifties, Bughouse weaves the story of an ensemble of characters who are essentially human beings with bug-like features, as they dance on the edge of the abyss. Steve Lafler brings alive a lost era of jazz and drugs that evokes a range of emotions and experience rarely seen in comic books.

This comic book is an intriguing foray into a world where jazz and anthropomorphic characters blend seamlessly. At the same time this comic book introduces us as readers to a unique setting that combines the vibrant energy of the jazz age with a distinctly surreal twist.

The storytelling aspect of this comic book is both imaginative and quirky, inviting us as readers into a universe where the characters are not just inspired by the 1950s jazz scene, but are also depicted as anthropomorphic insects. This creative choice lends a whimsical yet gritty atmosphere to the narrative, which had drawn me personally into a world that feels both familiar and fantastical.

The plot of this comic book follows the lives of these jazz-playing insects as they navigate personal and professional challenges in a world that mirrors our own but is infused with elements of fantasy. The writing itself in this comic book captures the spirit of the era with its focus on musical passion and the struggle for artistic integrity. The dialogue is peppered with the lingo of the jazz scene, adding authenticity and flavor to the characters’ interactions.

The character development is a pretty mixed bag in this comic book. While some characters are vividly brought to life with distinct personalities and motivations, others feel somewhat underdeveloped, which has left me personally wanting more depth and dimension. The protagonist’s journey is engaging, with moments that hint at deeper themes of ambition, creativity, and the personal cost of pursuing one’s dreams.

The artwork is a highlight of this comic book, because it is showcasing a distinctive style that complements the story’s unique premise. The illustrations are expressive and dynamic, capturing the frenetic energy of jazz performances and the vibrant nightlife of the setting. The choice to depict characters as anthropomorphic insects is handled with creativity, adding a layer of visual interest that sets “Bughouse” apart from more conventional comics.

While this comic book excels in originality and atmosphere, it occasionally struggles with pacing. Certain scenes feel rushed, and the transitions between them can be abrupt, disrupting the flow of the narrative. A more measured approach could allow for deeper exploration of the characters and their stories, enhancing the overall impact of the issue.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“The Lexian Chronicles Preview #1” By Harry Gallan & Inaki Miranda Review

Special 10-page preview! Reena has few friends and finds it difficult to interact with her peers. As she struggles with her problems her father, Koss, relives the brutal past that resulted in the death of Reena’s mother. The resultant fury that Koss vents changes the balance of power and forges a powerful alliance. Reena’s destiny will determine the fate of her people.

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 offers an enthralling glimpse into a richly imagined fantasy world. At the same time this preview sets the stage for an epic tale of adventure and intrigue, capturing the essence of high fantasy with its compelling narrative and stunning artwork.

The story in this preview introduces us as readers to a realm teetering on the brink of conflict, where diverse factions and mystical forces vie for power. The creators of this preview create a plot that is both intricate and engaging, weaving together elements of magic, politics, and destiny. The pacing is well-balanced, providing a seamless blend of action and world-building that have kept me invested in the unfolding drama.

The character development is a highlight of this preview. This preview introduces a cast of diverse and intriguing characters, each with distinct personalities and motivations that add depth to the narrative. The protagonist, a courageous and determined figure, is portrayed with nuance, making their journey both relatable and compelling. The interactions among the characters are rich with tension and camaraderie, highlighting the complexities of alliances and enmities within the story.

The artwork in this preview elevates the narrative with its vibrant and detailed style. The illustrations capture the grandeur and mystique of the fantasy setting, using bold lines and rich colors to bring the world to life. The artwork in this preview has the ability to convey emotion and atmosphere through his artwork creates an immersive experience that have drawn me into the heart of the adventure. The visual storytelling is dynamic and expressive, enhancing the overall impact of the narrative.

The dialogues throughout this preview are sharp and engaging, reflecting this preview’s talent for crafting authentic and entertaining character interactions. Conversations feel natural and contribute significantly to plot progression and character development. The balance of tension, humor, and sincerity in the dialogue enriches the storytelling, making interactions both entertaining and meaningful.

One of the strengths of this preview is its thematic exploration. Because this preview delves into themes of power, loyalty, and the struggle for identity, inviting readers to reflect on the moral complexities faced by the characters. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth and resonance to the story.

Despite its strengths, this preview occasionally feels constrained by its brevity, leaving certain plot points and character arcs underexplored.

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 4 / 5

“Scionic: Preview” By Philip Daay & Victor Castro Review

10-Page Preview! Theophilus embodies the archetypal noble warrior. When the lines are clear in a just cause, he fights as your greatest champion. But, life rarely remains clear. Theophilus refuses to believe that breeding and sacrificing innocent children is necessary for his race’s survival. Unfortunately, his president and former military colleagues believe otherwise, and both sides are about to put the force of their convictions to the ultimate test.

This comic book is a riveting introduction to a thrilling new series. At the same time this comic book had captivated me personally with its dynamic storytelling and compelling characters, setting the stage for an epic adventure that blends science fiction with superhero elements.

The narrative in this comic book is sharp and engaging, which had immediately drawn me personally into a world where advanced technology and human potential collide. The story centers around a young protagonist with extraordinary abilities, thrust into a conflict that challenges both their strength and morality. The creators of this comic book expertly balances action with character development, creating a narrative that is both exciting and emotionally resonant.

The protagonist in this comic book is well-crafted, displaying a complex blend of vulnerability and power. This comic book skillfully explores their internal struggles and motivations, making the character relatable and intriguing. The supporting cast is equally well-developed, each adding depth and dimension to the story. Their interactions with the protagonist enrich the narrative, highlighting themes of friendship, loyalty, and the quest for identity.

The artwork itself in this comic book is a standout feature, because it is bringing the world of “Scionic” to life with vivid detail and dynamic compositions. The illustrations are both bold and expressive, capturing the energy and intensity of the action sequences. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion through character expressions enhances the storytelling, making each panel visually captivating.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its ability to blend science fiction with superhero tropes in a fresh and innovative way. The creators of this comic book create a world that feels both familiar and new, offering intriguing twists on classic themes. This blend of genres ensures that the story appeals to a wide range of readers, from sci-fi enthusiasts to superhero fans.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, maintaining a rhythm that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The creators of this comic book work seamlessly together to deliver a narrative that flows smoothly, each scene building on the last to create a cohesive and compelling introduction.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“Wildfire #1” By Matt Hawkins & Linda Šejić Review

Is genetically modified food an end to world hunger or a first class ticket to the apocalypse? Dan Miller is a plant biologist working with a small team perfecting an accelerated plant growth process. When things go wrong, Los Angeles pays the price in a disaster story unlike any before.

This comic book delivers an exceptional start to a series that blends science fiction with real-world issues. At the same time this comic book have captivated me personally with its intense narrative, compelling characters, and breathtaking artwork, making it a standout addition to the genre.

The story in this comic book revolves around a team of scientists experimenting with genetically modified plants, aiming to address global food shortages. However, their well-intentioned project spirals out of control, leading to catastrophic consequences. The creators of this comic book create a plot that is both thrilling and thought-provoking, exploring themes of scientific ethics, environmental impact, and human responsibility. The pacing is expertly managed, with a balance of suspenseful moments and thought-provoking reflections that have kept me engaged throughout this comic book.

The character development is a standout feature in this comic book. This comic book introduces a diverse cast of characters, each with distinct personalities and motivations that add depth to the narrative. The protagonist, Dr. Beth Silva, is portrayed with nuance and complexity, making her journey both relatable and compelling. Her internal conflicts and dedication to her work are explored in detail, inviting us as readers to connect with her struggles and aspirations.

The artwork in this comic book elevates the narrative with its vibrant and detailed style. The illustrations capture the intensity and drama of the unfolding events, using bold lines which bring the story to life. The artwork in this comic book has the ability to convey emotion and tension through her artwork creates an immersive experience that had drawn me personally into the heart of the action. The visual storytelling enhances the narrative, making each page a visual feast.

The dialogues throughout this comic book are sharp and engaging, reflecting this comic book’s talent for crafting authentic and thought-provoking character interactions. Conversations feel natural and contribute significantly to plot progression and character development. The balance of tension, sincerity, and subtlety in the dialogue enriches the storytelling, making interactions both meaningful and memorable.

One of the strengths of this comic book is its thematic exploration. Because this comic book delves into themes of scientific exploration, ethical dilemmas, and the unintended consequences of human actions, inviting us as readers to reflect on the complexities of progress. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth and resonance to the story.

The pacing of this comic book is expertly managed, balancing fast-paced action with moments of introspection and world-building. This balance ensures that the story remains engaging throughout, allowing us as readers to fully immerse ourselves in the unfolding drama. The seamless transition between high-stakes events and personal reflection enhances the narrative’s impact.

I Give This Book 5 / 5

“Evolution #1” By James Asmus & Joseph Keatinge & Christopher Sebela Review

Human evolution has taken millions of years to get to this stage. But next week, we become something new. Around the world, humanity is undergoing rapid and unpredictable changes, and only three individuals seem to notice that their world is being reborn. But what can they do about it? Skybound unites writers JAMES ASMUS, JOSEPH KEATINGE, CHRISTOPHER SEBELA & JOSHUA WILLIAMSON and artists JOE INFURNARI & JORDAN BOYD to create a new global phenomenon in this oversized debut issue.

This comic book offers an intriguing premise that delves into the complexities of human transformation and societal upheaval. At the same time this comic book introduces us as readers to a world on the brink of dramatic change, where evolution takes a dark and unexpected turn.

The narrative in this comic book is ambitious, weaving together multiple storylines that converge around a mysterious biological phenomenon. The creators of this comic book collaborate to create a tapestry of interconnected plots that span different locations and perspectives. This multi-layered approach adds depth to the story, offering a broad view of the global impact of the evolutionary changes. However, the complexity of juggling several narratives in one comic book can sometimes lead to a lack of clarity and focus

The character development in this comic book is a pretty mixed bag. While some characters are introduced with strong, distinctive voices, others feel underdeveloped due to the scattered focus of the narrative. This could potentially dilute the emotional impact, as readers may struggle to form a connection with the characters amidst the rapidly shifting scenes.

The pacing in this comic book is another area where the comic faces challenges. With multiple storylines unfolding simultaneously, this comic book occasionally feels rushed, with abrupt transitions that can disrupt the narrative flow. Some scenes end just as they begin to build momentum, leaving readers wanting more context and development. A more streamlined approach might have allowed for deeper exploration of the characters and their circumstances.

The artwork in this comic book is a huge highlight of this comic book. Because the illustrations effectively capture the eerie and unsettling atmosphere that permeates the story. The artists employ a gritty and detailed style, using shadow and contrast to enhance the sense of dread and tension. The depiction of the biological transformations is particularly striking, showcasing the grotesque beauty of the evolving humans.

Despite its challenges, this comic book succeeds in setting the stage for an intriguing exploration of human evolution and its consequences. The ambitious scope and thematic depth hold promise for future issues, where the narrative might find its footing and offer more cohesive storytelling. The potential for rich character development and dramatic twists makes it a series worth following.

I Give This Book 3 / 5

“Lost At Sea: Preview” By Bryan Lee O’Malley Review

Special 22-Page Preview! The critically lauded debut graphic novel from Bryan Lee O’Malley (Scott Pilgrim) returns to print! Raleigh doesn’t have a soul. A cat stole it – or at least that’s what she tells people – or at least that’s what she would tell people if she told people anything. But that would mean talking to people, and to her, the mere thought of social interaction is terrifying. How did such a shy teenage girl end up in a car with three of her hooligan classmates on a cross-country road trip? Being forced to interact with kids her own age is a new and alarming proposition for Raleigh, but maybe it’s just what she needs – or maybe it can help her find what she needs – or maybe it can help her to realize that what she needs has been with her all along.

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 offers a contemplative introduction to a story about self-discovery and introspection. At the same time this preview provides a glimpse into the emotional journey of its protagonist, capturing the essence of O’Malley’s signature storytelling style.

The narrative in this preview follows Raleigh, a teenager grappling with feelings of isolation and introspection during a road trip with friends. The creators of this preview create a narrative that is both intimate and relatable, delving into the complexities of identity and belonging. The plot is introspective, focusing on Raleigh’s inner thoughts and emotions as she navigates her personal journey.

The character development development is a highlight of this preview. Raleigh is portrayed with depth and nuance, capturing the confusion and self-reflection that often accompany adolescence. This preview delves into her internal struggles, making her journey relatable and compelling. The interactions with her friends add layers to the narrative, highlighting the dynamics of friendship and the search for connection.

The artwork in this preview complements the narrative with its clean and expressive style. The illustrations capture the subtleties of emotion and atmosphere, using simple yet effective designs to enhance the storytelling. The visual style adds an element of intimacy, which had drawn me into Raleigh’s world and allowing them to experience her journey on a personal level.

The dialogues throughout this preview are sharp and authentic, reflecting this preview’s talent for capturing the essence of youthful voices. Conversations feel natural and contribute significantly to character development and plot progression. The balance of humor and sincerity in the dialogue enriches the storytelling, making interactions both entertaining and meaningful.

One of the strengths of this preview is its thematic exploration. Because this preview delves into themes of identity, loneliness, and the search for meaning, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, adding depth and resonance to the story.

Despite its strengths, this preview occasionally feels constrained by its brevity, leaving certain plot points and character arcs underexplored. However, this sense of anticipation serves to heighten interest in the full story, encouraging us as readers to read the full version of this comic book.

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