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Elfbytes February '10

(Note: this is not your average cut and paste, we actually write this stuff.)

This is for product starting to ship in April 2010.

This months Elfbyte credit goes to:

Brock

Ethan

Craig

Sean

Thomas

For your convenience, click links below to jump to a certain Publisher.

Independent Comics | Dark Horse Comics | DC Comics
Image Comics | Marvel Comics | Toys & Stuff

Remember to get your orders in ASAP! Initial orders due February 24th!

IS SATURDAY MAY 1st 2010

FCBD is the best time of the year for comics! Nothing beats the experience of a FCBD however, we know that sometimes people can't make it and as a service to our saver file customers we allow you to pre-order your books at a net cost. We encourage you to strengthen your own comic book community by pre-ordering multiple copies to give away during Halloween, Birthday Parties, Charity Fundraisers, and any other way to help spread your love of comics.

Below are some of the books and merchandise being offered this year with their respective prices:

Diamond Code	Description	Selling Price
JAN100003	FCBD 2010 ARCHIES SUMMER SPLASH	0.30
JAN100034	FCBD 2010 ARTIFACTS FIRST LOOK	0.27
JAN100030	FCBD 2010 ATOMIC ROBO AND FRIENDS	0.41
JAN100016	FCBD 2010 BONGO COMICS FREE FOR ALL	0.32
JAN100056	FCBD 2010 COMIC ARTIST SERGIO BLACK T/S LG	19.95
JAN100055	FCBD 2010 COMIC ARTIST SERGIO BLACK T/S MED	19.95
JAN100054	FCBD 2010 COMIC ARTIST SERGIO BLACK T/S SM	19.95
JAN100057	FCBD 2010 COMIC ARTIST SERGIO BLACK T/S XL	19.95
JAN100058	FCBD 2010 COMIC ARTIST SERGIO BLACK T/S XXL	23.95
JAN100061	FCBD 2010 COMIC ARTIST SERGIO PURPLE T/S LG	19.95
JAN100060	FCBD 2010 COMIC ARTIST SERGIO PURPLE T/S MED	19.95
JAN100059	FCBD 2010 COMIC ARTIST SERGIO PURPLE T/S SM	19.95
JAN100062	FCBD 2010 COMIC ARTIST SERGIO PURPLE T/S XL	19.95
JAN100063	FCBD 2010 COMIC ARTIST SERGIO PURPLE T/S XXL	23.95
JAN100051	FCBD 2010 COMIC ARTIST SERGIO WHITE T/S LG	19.95
JAN100050	FCBD 2010 COMIC ARTIST SERGIO WHITE T/S MED	19.95
JAN100049	FCBD 2010 COMIC ARTIST SERGIO WHITE T/S SM	19.95
JAN100052	FCBD 2010 COMIC ARTIST SERGIO WHITE T/S XL	19.95
JAN100053	FCBD 2010 COMIC ARTIST SERGIO WHITE T/S XXL	23.95
JAN100018	FCBD 2010 DC KIDS MEGA SAMPLER 2010 EDITION	0.26
JAN100019	FCBD 2010 DEL REY SHOWCASE	0.54
JAN100006	FCBD 2010 DOCTOR SOLAR MAGNUS ROBOT HUNTER	0.31
JAN100014	FCBD 2010 FEARLESS DAWN ASYLUM PRESS SAMPLER (MR)	0.30
JAN100010	FCBD 2010 FRACTURED FABLES	0.23
JAN100031	FCBD 2010 FREEDOM FORMULA SPEED METAL OVERTURES	0.27
JAN100009	FCBD 2010 GI JOE A REAL AMERICAN HERO #155 1/2	0.34
JAN100020	FCBD 2010 GREEN HORNET	0.30
JAN100025	FCBD 2010 IRON MAN SUPVERNOVA	0.34
JAN100011	FCBD 2010 IRON MAN THOR	0.34
JAN100017	FCBD 2010 IRREDEEMABLE #1 (MR)	0.30
JAN100002	FCBD 2010 KIZOIC SHREK & PENGUINS OF MADAGASCAR	0.34
DEC090015	FCBD 2010 LANYARDS	2.69
JAN100023	FCBD 2010 LIBRARY OF AMERICAN COMICS #0	0.39
JAN100024	FCBD 2010 LOVE & CAPES #13	0.34
JAN100036	FCBD 2010 MARVEL HEROCLIX WAR MACHINE (SET OF 50 FIGURES)	39.95
JAN100004	FCBD 2010 MOUSE GUARD FRAGGLE ROCK FLIP BOOK	0.27
JAN100027	FCBD 2010 ONI PRESS FREE FOR ALL	0.36
JAN100022	FCBD 2010 OVERSTREET GUIDE TO COLLECTING COMICS	0.36
JAN100033	FCBD 2010 OWLY & FRIENDS	0.53
JAN100029	FCBD 2010 RADICAL BIGGER BOOKS BIGGER VALUE	0.34
JAN100015	FCBD 2010 S E HINTON FAME #1	0.54
JAN100028	FCBD 2010 SIXTH GUN #1	0.36
JAN100012	FCBD 2010 SONIC THE HEDGEHOG HIDE SEEK DESTROY #1	0.30
JAN100032	FCBD 2010 STUFF OF LEGEND & MORTAL INSTRUMENTS	0.47
DEC090011	FCBD 2010 TEMPORARY TATTOOS (BAG OF 100)	6.75
JAN100026	FCBD 2010 TICK #1 SPECIAL EDITION	0.47
JAN100005	FCBD 2010 TOY STORY	0.30
JAN100007	FCBD 2010 WAR OF THE SUPERMEN #0	0.35
JAN100021	FCBD 2010 WEATHERCRAFT (MR)	0.39
JAN100013	FCBD 2010 WORLDS OF ASPEN	0.47
JAN100008	FCBD 2010 YOW THE JOHN STANLEY LIBRARY	0.38
JAN100036	FCBD 2010 MARVEL HEROCLIX SET WAR MACHINE	0.79

Note: your saver file must be in good standing before you can place any orders for the above.

INDEPENDENT COMICS HIGHLIGHTS

ANTARCTIC PRESS

CELEBRITY SHOWDOWN PRESENTS: OLIVIA MUNN #1

Written by Brian Denham. Illustrated by Brian Denham.

If you are even remotely interested in anything geeky, you know who this woman is. Olivia Munn is easily the most famous geek girl out there, and it was only a matter of time before she popped up in a comic book. Well, here it is!

SARAH PALIN: ROGUE WARRIOR #1 (one-shot)

Written & illustrated by various.

This looks awful, but it was too funny (in a horrible way) not to mention.

ARCHAIA

FRAGGLE ROCK #1

Written & illustrated by various.

Yet another excellent new kids book hits the shelves this month, with the release of Archaia’s adaptation of Jim Henson’s classic Fraggles!

ASPEN MLT INC.

FATHOM: BLUE DESCENT #1

Written by David Schwartz. Illustrated by Scott Clark. Covers by Scott Clark and David Finch.

Everyone’s favourite sexy underwater chick has a brand new series coming out, and it promises to reveal the mystery of her past and how it will affect everyone’s future. Whatever you think of Fathom, it’s quite heartening to see that Michael Turner’s baby is still getting the care and attention he himself gave it.

MINDFIELD #0

Written by J.T. Krul. Illustrated by Alex Konat & Saleem Crawford. Covers by Alex Konat and Phil Noto.

A new limited series about the CIA’s secret telepathic agents, this issue #0 sets the stage for issue #1 coming in June.

AVATAR PRESS

CROSSED TP / HC

Written by Garth Ennis. Illustrated by Jacen Burrows.

Avatar allows Garth Ennis to write things he couldn’t anywhere else, and this series pushed the limits like never before. Civilization and humanity disappear in an instant, and this book shows the horrific outcome of every dark impulse made real. It’s being offered in both softcover and hardcover versions, so you can choose which way to enjoy reading it.

BOOM! STUDIOS

COLD SPACE #1 (of 4)

Written by Samuel L. Jackson & Eric Calderon. Illustrated by Jeremy Rock. Covers by Dave Johnson & Jeffrey Spokes.

Almost everything Sam Jackson touches (er… I’m discounting “THE SPIRIT” film) turns out to be bad-ass cool. So when he teams with his Afro Samurai co-creator for a bad-ass cool sci-fi action adventure, you know you’re in for a ride.

INCORRUPTIBLE VOLUME 1 TP

Written by Mark Waid. Illustrated by Jean Diaz.

If IRREDEEMABLE was about the world’s greatest superhero becoming a villain, Incorruptible shows the flip-side to that idea. What happens when the world’s greatest super-villain turns hero? Great comics, that’s what.

CARTOON BOOKS

RASL VOL. 2 TP: THE FIRE OF ST. GEORGE

Written & illustrated by Jeff Smith.

The second volume of Jeff Smith’s kick-ass dimension hopping thriller finally arrives, revealing more pieces to the unfolding mystery. Drastically different than his incredibly successful BONE, but equally as original and enjoyable, this volume is a must read for all.

DEL RAY

THE STUFF OF LEGEND TP

Written by Mike Raicht & Brian Smith. Illustrated by Charles Paul Wilson III.

This indie series has been a surprise hit and sold out of multiple printings of the individual issues. Now collected, you can enjoy this exceptional story about a young boy who is kidnapped by the evil Boogey-Man, and whose toys set out to save him.

DYNAMITE ENTERTAINMENT

ROBERT JORDAN’S WHEEL OF TIME #1

Written by Robert Jordan and Chuck Dixon. Illustrated by Chase Conley.

Very few fantasy epics can rival THE LORD OF THE RINGS in terms of popularity and depth, but the Wheel of Time series is one of them. Now, Chuck Dixon is leading the charge in adapting the beloved classic into comics form. This first issue contains a whopping 64 pages of material. Get it.

HARPER COLLINS

NEIL GAIMAN: INSTRUCTIONS HC

Written by Neil Gaiman. Illustrated by Charles Vess.

Gaiman fans rejoice! The master of fantasy re-teams with the master of fantasy artwork to bring us this hardcover book about what instructions to follow when you are lost in the enchanted woods.

I.D.W PUBLISHING

THE A-TEAM: SHOTGUN WEDDING #3 & #4

Written by Joe Carnahan & Tom Waltz. Illustrated by Stephen Mooney. Covers by John K. Snyder.

The final two parts of the action-packed series featuring everyone’s favourite undercover special-ops team, the A-Team. Can the team save the cruise ship, and the wedding, from the dangerous and mysterious threat?

THE A-TEAM: WAR STORIES: FACE (one-shot)

Written by Chuck Dixon & Erik Burnham. Illustrated by Alberto Muriel. Cover by Michael Gaydos.

THE A-TEAM: WAR STORIES: MURDOCK (one-shot)

Written by Chuck Dixon & Erik Burnham. Illustrated by Guiu Vilanova. Cover by Michael Gaydos.

The spotlight shines on the charismatic Face and the crazy Murdock this month, as the excitement for this summer’s A-Team movie begins here.

THE LAST UNICORN #1

Written by Peter S. Beagle. Adapted by Peter B. Gillis. Illustrated by Renae De Liz & Ray Dillon.

One of the most beloved fantasy tales becomes a gorgeous lyrical fantasy adaptation thanks to IDW. If you haven’t read this book yet, you’re in for a treat. If you have read the book, then you already know you want this comic.

STAR TREK: CAPTAIN’S LOG - HARRIMAN

Written by Mark Guggenheim. Illustrated by Andrew Currie.

Not much is known about the USS Enterprise NCC-1701 B and her captain, John Harriman. This comic aims to change that by showing Harriman in the aftermath of the incident that “killed” Kirk. Stories that flesh out the Star Trek mythos even further are always welcome.

ONI PRESS

12 REASONS WHY I LOVE HER

Written by Jamie S. Rich. Illustrated by Joelle Jones.

The acclaimed creative team of James Rich and Joelle Jones bring us a tender love story for fans of movies such as 500 DAYS OF SUMMER. This is a criminally underdeveloped genre, and books like this are a breath of fresh air in the current market.

LOVE BUZZ

Written by Len Wallace. Illustrated by Michelle Silva and Dave Tuney.

Here’s another graphic novel dealing with the trials and tribulations of young love, but this one hits a bit close to home since the lead character is a comic creator dealing with his muse.

RADICAL PUBLISHING

LEGENDS THE ENCHANTED HC

Written & illustrated by Nick Percival.

The series some have described as “FABLES meets Steampunk horror” is finally being collected in a gorgeous hardcover. And since it’s a Radical book, you know the production quality is going to be good.

TITAN PUBLISHING

TANK GIRL: SKID MARKS TP

Written by Alan Martin. Illustrated by Rufus Dayglo.

More Tank Girl is always a good thing. It helps us to forget about the movie.

UDON ENTERTAINMENT

APPLE VOL. 4

Written by Various. Illustrated by Various.

If every new volume of this incredible Korean art book series is a reason to celebrate, well break out the champagne because here’s a new one!

DARK HORSE COMICS HIGHLIGHTS

HELLCYON #1 (of 4)

Written & illustrated by Lucas Marangon.

Lucas Marangon cut his teeth illustrating the STAR WARS comics, and now takes a shot at his own story. Set on a neglected human colony, a young man returns home to find his world is on the verge of war - both civil and independence. Cool concept, and while artists becoming writers has had mixed results, you have to admit it goes a lot better than writers being artists. No telling how strong the story will be, but the art should be slick.

STAR WARS: PURGE – THE HIDDEN BLADE #1 (one-shot)

Written by Haden Blackman. Illustrated by Chris Scalf.

As long as they’re good, new issues of Dark Horse’s “Purge” series are always welcome, as the period between episodes III and IV feel like it needs to be fleshed out as much as it can. Thankfully, the issues have been great, and this one projects to be just as fun.

ALIENS: FAST TRACK TO HEAVEN HC

Written & illustrated by Liam Sharp.

Liam Sharp, veteran of such titles as JUDGE DREDD and HULK, pulls double duty in this exciting new original Aliens yarn. Set on a neglected human colony on Europa, a moon orbiting Jupiter, a deadly discovery is made. Probably nothing new, but who doesn’t like to see humans over run by acid blooded SOBs looking to lay eggs in your sternum? It’s great to see ALIENS getting such a strong push from Dark Horse again, and this stand alone graphic novel looks to be a great read for any fan of this classic sci-fi horror franchise.

AVATAR: THE LAST AIRBENDER—THE ART OF THE ANIMATED SERIES HC

Written & illustrated by Bryan Konietzko, Michael Dante DiMartino, and others.

Not to be mistaken with the recent visual masterpiece by James Cameron, this art book features everything from the first concept sketches to never released promotional images and even a sneak peek at the upcoming M. Night Shyamalan movie trilogy. If you haven’t seen this gem of a Nickelodeon series, you’ve missed out. With its mature (not in a dirty sense, you pervs) storylines and dynamic, bright art, this was the best TV cartoon not featuring a super hero since the 80’s heyday of TRANSFORMERS, GHOSTBUSTERS, et all.

BEASTS OF BURDEN HC

Written by Evan Dorkin. Illustrated by Jill Thompson.

Looking for something different and incredibly adorable? Try this fun little romp from Evan Dorkin and Jill Thompson (the lady who gave us THE LITTLE ENDLESS). Here, the two masterfully tell a tale of a group of paranormal investigators who happen to be animals. It’s HELLBLAZER, with dogs. And it’s darned good.

THE LIFE AND TIMES OF MARTHA WASHINGTON TP

Written by Frank Miller. Illustrated by Dave Gibbons.

The oversized hardcover (think Dark Horse’s version of an “Absolute” book) of this series was released last year, and now they’re releasing it in a more affordable softcover. Every story in Miller & Gibbon’s epic story of a dystopian future is collected, plus numerous extras, so this is a volume well worth owning.

MASS EFFECT VOL. 1 TP: REDEMPTION

Written by Mac Walters and Jon Jackson Miller. Illustrated by Omar Francia.

Still feeling the massive effects of Mass Effect hysteria? Well, Dark Horse has the book for you with this compilation of the four issue miniseries telling the story of what happened between games one and two.

NEON GENESIS EVANGELION: THE SHINJI IKARI RAISING PROJECT VOL. 5

Written by Osamu Takahashi. Illustrated by Osamu Takahashi.

If you’re an Evangelion fan, there’s no excuse to be missing this series, an alternate and more light-hearted look at the events of the anime epic. It’s only up to volume 5 so far, folks, so there’s plenty of time to catch up.

RED TIDE HC

Written & illustrated by Jim Steranko.

The man who helped define Nick Fury made some damn good books after his famous Marvel work. Red Tide is the first in what will hopefully be a long series of re-releases of Steranko’s fantastic original works.

DC COMICS HIGHLIGHTSTS

BATMAN #698

Written by Tony Daniel. Illustrated by Guillem March. Cover by Tony Daniel.

With Black Mask out of the way, the Falcone Crime family (can there really be any of them left at this point?) is making a power grab with reckless disregard for the innocents of Gotham. But even as Batman scrambles to stop the potential massacre, the Riddler sets his own plans in motion.

BRAVE AND THE BOLD #33

Written by J.M. Straczynski. Illustrated by Cliff Chiang. Cover by Jesus Saiz.

Wonder Woman, Batgirl and Zatana head out on the town for a night off, but as is seemingly always the case that is easier said then done when you’re a superhero. This girls’ night will take the pillow fight to a whole new level.

BRIGHTEST DAY #0

Written by Geoff Johns & Peter J. Tomasi. Illustrated by Fernando Pasarin. Cover by David Finch. Variant cover by Ivan Reis.

DC’s newest weekly series begins in the aftermath of the epic BLACKEST NIGHT, and promises nothing but shiny happy super heroes from now on. Great. I guess this spoils the ending, and we now know the good guys win. Thanks a lot DC Comics! You jerks! This series also marks David Finch’s run in the house that Batman and Superman built.

DOC SAVAGE #1

Written by Paul Malmont / co-feature written by Jason Starr. Illustrated by Howard Porter & Art Thibert / co-feature illustrated by Scott Hampton. Cover by J.G. Jones. Variant cover by John Cassaday.

DC’s new pulp heroes initiative continues to move ahead full force, with the launch of two brand new ongoing series. Of course, the marquee character of this new line is the man of bronze, Doc Savage, whose adventures will be chronicled in his very own book beginning this month. Also, the book will contain a JUSTICE INC. co-feature starring the Avenger. Both features will be written by crime novelists, Paul Malmont and Jason Starr, who should bring an authentic noir air to the book.

THE FLASH #1

Written by Geoff Johns. Illustrated by Francis Manapul. Cover and variant cover by Francis Manapul. Variant cover by Tony Harris.

As everyone knows, Barry Allen is back in the golden boots again, and the launch of his brand new book begins a new era of greatness under the pen of Flash’s #1 fan, Geoff Johns. And regardless of whether you’re a fan of the character, Francis Manapul’s stylized art work is the perfect fit for this re-launch of the scarlet speedster.

GREEN LANTERN #53

Written by Geoff Johns. Illustrated by Doug Mahnke & Christian Alamy. Cover by Doug Mahnke & Christian Alamy. Variant cover by Rodolfo Migliari.

The new order of space cops begins here, as all of the coloured Corps try and play nice now that those nasty Black Lanterns are all gone.

GREEN LANTERN CORPS #47

Written by Peter J. Tomasi. Illustrated by Patrick Gleason & Rebecca Buchman. Cover by Patrick Gleason & Rebecca Buchman. Variant cover by Rodolfo Migliari.

BLACKEST NIGHT is over and it’s time to pick up the pieces. But is there time to rebuild?

JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA #44

Written by James Robinson. Illustrated by Mark Bagley & Rob Hunter. Cover by Mark Bagley & Rob Hunter. Variant cover by David Mack.

It’s shake-up time once again for the JLA as a new era begins here. In the aftermath of BLACKEST NIGHT and CRY FOR JUSTICE, the League reinvents itself once more. This has the potential to be one of the most exceptional runs in the history of this great team. Beginning this issue, the newest incarnation of the Justice League teams with the remnants of the Justice Society. Plus DC offers the exciting hook that one hero will switch teams. Now, how many of you read that sentence to mean that someone goes from the Society to the League or vice versa, and how many read that as someone pulls a Green Arrow and turns rogue? Let the debate begin.

THE SPIRIT #1

Written by Mark Schultz / co-feature written by Dennis O’Neil. Illustrated by Moritat / co-feature illustrated by Bill Sienkiewicz. Cover by Ladronn. Variant cover by Mark Schultz.

DC’s other new pulp series features the classic Eisner character, the Spirit, written by the incredible Mark Schultz (CADILLACS & DINOSAURS), and with a Spirit: Black & White co-feature by Dennis O’Neil & Bill Sienkiewicz. This should be great!

BATMAN: ARKHAM ASYLUM - MADNESS HC

Written by & illustrated by Sam Keith.

Sam Keith’s style is not for everyone, but I’m super excited to see his take on the Joker and the chaos of Gotham’s infamous madhouse in this brand new graphic novel. I’m excited about the sheer potential for creepy coolness of a Sam Keith story set in the most infamous prison since Alcatraz.

BATWOMAN: ELEGY HC

Written by Greg Rucka. Illustrated by J.H. Williams III.

When she was first introduced, did anyone think that Batwoman would ever be the subject of one of the best written, best illustrated stories ever? Well, that’s exactly what happened when Rucka and Williams III took over DETECTIVE COMICS. If you’ve foolishly missed their excellent run featuring Batwoman, you really should do yourself a favour and read this book. Rucka’s passion for the character comes through on every page, and J.H. Williams is possibly producing some of the best work of his already stellar career. This is a great story in a beautiful hardcover.

COVER RUN: THE DC COMICS ART OF ADAM HUGHES HC

Written & illustrated by Adam Hughes (duh!).

Finally, an Adam Hughes art book from DC! For any fan of art books or fans who love their “good girl” art, this is the perfect book for you. Hughes has a large quantity of high quality work at DC, and this book collects some of his best work, and includes preliminary work and commentary from the artist himself.

GOTHAM CENTRAL BOOK 3: ON THE FREAK BEAT HC

Written by Greg Rucka and Ed Brubaker. Illustrated by Michael Lark, Jason Alexander, and others.

Before Brubaker went on to Marvel, he and Rucka collaborated on probably the best written Bat-family title of recent times. Chronicling the exploits of the GCPD, the series was gripping and smart, and is finally being collected in deluxe hardcovers, of which this is the third.

JUSTICE LEAGUE: CRY FOR JUSTICE HC

Written by James Robinson. Illustrated by Mauro Cascioli.

This series has been alternately lauded and derided by comic geeks from all corners, but this is the book that lays the foundation for everything about the Justice League for the foreseeable future, and is a must read for any fan of DC’s premiere super hero team. Even if you choose to side with those who disliked the series, this book is worth picking up for the undeniably lush artwork alone.

LEGION OF SUPER-HEROES: ENEMY MANIFEST TP

Written by Jim Shooter. Illustrated by Francis Manapul and Livesay.

For a while, it looked like the Waid and Kitson Legion reboot would be long term. Sadly, it wasn’t meant to be, but before LEGION OF THREE WORLDS changed everything (again), Legion legend Jim Shooter managed to team up with Francis Manapul to tell one last great Legion story for the current team. This book collects the final arc of that story.

SUPERGIRL: FRIENDS AND FUGITIVES TP

Written by Sterling Gates and Greg Rucka. Illustrated by Jamal Igle and others.

Nightwing and Flamebird guest star in this collection featuring a story about how Supergirl and Flamebird … er … ironed out their differences. Continuing the fine resurrection of Kara Zor-El from the depths of mediocrity, Gates, Rucka, and Igle definitely earn their paycheque with this one.

WONDER WOMAN: WARKILLER TP

Written by Gail Simone. Illustrated by Aaron Lopresti, Bernard Chang, and Matt Ryan.

Gail Simone is the right choice to write Wonder Woman stories. This collection is just the latest in a line of books that prove it. And hey! Black Canary is in here too!

DC - VERTIGO

AMERICAN VAMPIRE #2

Written by Scott Snyder and Stephen King. Illustrated by Rafael Albuquerque.

The vampire series to end all vampire series continues. It’s not too late to jump aboard!

CODENAME KNOCKOUT VOL. 1: THE DEVIL YOU SAY TP

Written by Robert Rodi. Illustrated by Amanda Conner, Yannick Paquette, and others. Cover by Joe Chiodo.

It’s been a long time coming, but the Codename Knockout series, a fine mix of James Bond and relentless T&A, is finally being collected into trades. Here’s your chance to discover (or rediscover) one of the 90’s most intriguing titles.

NEIL YOUNG’S GREENDALE HC

Written by Joshua Dysart. Illustrated by Cliff Chiang.

Whether you’re a Neil Young fan or not, this new graphic novel is definitely something you should pick up. Based on a concept album of Young’s from 2003, this urban fantasy is the tale of a young woman who must somehow save her town from literally going to hell. Writer Joshua Dysart (UNKOWN SOLDIER) is joined by the under-rated Cliff Chiang, making this a high-quality project worth reading.

SAGA OF THE SWAMP THING BOOK 3 HC

Written by Alan Moore. Illustrated by Stephen Bissette, John Totleben, Rick Veitch, and others.

Alan Moore’s “other” magnum opus has always deserved the deluxe hardcover treatment. Here’s book 3, collecting issues # 35 - #42. Want to know what else happens here? John Constantine debuts! Yay!

SWEET TOOTH VOL. 1 TP: OUT OF THE WOODS

Written & illustrated by Jeff Lemire.

The first volume of this exceptional new series is now available, and is the perfect chance for you to discover how good this quirky new Vertigo book is. And Vertigo is continuing with their policy of making first issues and first volumes affordably priced, so it’s a no-brainer of a purchase.

DC - WILDSTORM

DV8: GODS & MONSTERS #1 (of 8)

Written by Brian Wood. Illustrated by Rebekah Isaacs. Cover by Fiona Staples. Variant cover by Jim Lee.

Hard-core fans will be happy to see the return of these WildStorm favourites, but even if you’ve never read any of their previous series, this book is a must read. Fantastic scribe Brian Wood has been itching to write this story for years, and newcomer Rebekah Isaacs looks to be a perfect fit for this exciting time-jumping tale.

GARRISON #1 (of 6)

Written by Jeff Mariotte. Illustrated by Francesco Francavilla. Cover by Francesco Francavilla.

This new series examines a near future where constant surveillance is the norm, and the titular character has somehow remained an enigma to those who watch, making him very dangerous.

ABSOLUTE PROMETHEA BOOK 2 HC

Written by Alan Moore. Illustrated by J.H. Williams III and Mick Gray.

Quick … what was Alan Moore’s best work? Well, there are a number of correct answers, but Promethea should definitely be up for consideration. Apparently, DC agrees and is issuing the second Absolute volume of this wonderful, mythical, metafictional, and metaphysical series.

ROBOTECH: PRELUDE TO THE SHADOW CHRONICLES TP

Written by Tommy Yune, Jason Waltrip, and John Waltrip. Illustrated by Omar Dogan.

A few years ago, the Robotech franchise was (sort of) resurrected by a wonderful animated film called SHADOW CHRONICLES. This is its prequel.

IMAGE COMICS HIGHLIGHTS

THE LIGHT #1 (of 5)

Written by Nathan Edmondson. Illustrated by Brett Weldele. Cover by Brett Weldele.

This creepy new series tells the tale of a deadly virus that somehow spreads through electric lights, horribly killing anyone who looks at them. An intriguing tale of survival, with moody artwork that looks like it should be a perfect fit for such a story.

MAGDALENA #1

Written by Ron Marz. Illustrated by Nelson Blake II. Cover by Ryan Sook.

Frequent guest star in THE DARKNESS and WITCHBLADE, Magdalena now receives her own ongoing series. Written by Ron Marz, the man who has made WITCHBLADE into something much more than the T&A book it began as, this new book will focus on the Catholic Church’s secret warrior/protector as she battles mystical foes.

SHUDDERTOWN #2

Written by Nick Spencer. Illustrated by Adam Geen. Cover by Adam Geen.

This great new supernatural crime-noir series continues the story of a down on his luck homicide detective trying to solve the mystery of murders seemingly committed by the dead.

TURF #1 (of 4)

Written by Jonathan Ross. Illustrated by Tommy Lee Edwards. Cover by Tommy Lee Edwards. Variant covers by Duncan Fegredo, Jim Steranko, and Tommy Lee Edwards.

Every once in awhile the house that disgruntled Marvel artists built quietly puts out an absolute gem – WALKING DEAD or COWBOY NINJA VIKING for example – and this looks to be another. Uber British comics geek Jonathan Ross writes a high octane mash-up of Prohibition-era gangsters, vampires, and aliens. If this book adds zombies, ponies and kitchen sinks it will quite literally have everything. This looks like it will be a lot of fun and should be a great read, so make sure to pick this one up.

CHEW VOL 2 TP: INTERNATIONAL FLAVOR

Written by John Layman. Illustrated by Rob Guillory.

Cannibalistic detectives are always fun, as evidenced by this exciting series from Image. If for some reason you haven’t tried this fantastic book, this collection of the second storyline is your perfect chance to discover why we won’t shut up about it. And the first volume is also being offered for order this month as well, so you can enjoy it from the beginning. And for all of you who already know how fun this book is, you’ll be thrilled to dig in to volume two.

COWBOY NINJA VIKING TP

Written by A.J. Lieberman. Illustrated by Riley Rossmo.

On the surface, this book should have been a stupid toss away that was forgotten in the pile of bad ideas. Instead, this book could have been the best new series released, hands down, if the also excellent, also hard to believe it’s a hit CHEW hadn’t been released. Action-packed, funny, and definitely quirky, it features assassins with multiple personalities, fighting other assassins with multiple personalities, and an incredible amount of wonderful chaos.

SPLATTERMAN GN

Written by Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray. Illustrated by Giancarlo Caracuzzo and Paul Mounts.

Here’s a fun looking horror title. This is an original graphic novel about two comic creators and their ultimate horror bad guy. Written by the great team of Palmiotti and Gray, this looks to be a keeper for any slasher fan.

MARVEL COMICS HIGHLIGHTSHTS

AVENGERS: THE ORIGIN #1 (of 5)

Written by Joe Casey. Illustrated by Phil Noto.

This title was inevitable but very much welcome. Casey and Noto give us a limited series devoted to exploring untold facets of the Avengers’ first meeting.

BLACK WIDOW #1

Written by Marjorie Liu. Illustrated by Daniel Acuna. Cover by Daniel Acuna. Variant covers by Travel Foreman and Jelena Kevic-Djurdjevic. Movie variant cover also available.

Who would be your pick to illustrate a Black Widow ongoing? If you answered Adam Hughes … fair enough. But Daniel Acuna is no slouch with the ladies either, and, judging by the cover, he’s perfect for the Soviet spy’s new ongoing series. Everyone’s favourite sexy Russian super-spy gets her very own ongoing series. Yes, this is capitalizing on all of the attention that she will receive from this summer’s IRON MAN 2 movie, but it is also the chance for a long time secondary character to shine in the spotlight. And if this is even half as good as the myriad of limited series and one-shots we’ve enjoyed over the last decade then this will be the best espionage series since LOSERS.

DEADPOOL & CABLE #25

Written by Duane Swierczynski. Illustrated by Paco Medina. Cover by Simone Bianchi. Variant cover by Rob Liefeld.

The issue that’s so late no one had even thought of it back when the series had “ended”. Now you can see the flash bang ending to the most exciting team up since Batman failed to save Dick Grayson’s parents. Learn the key roll Deadpool played in helping Cable evade Predator X and the Purifiers before jumping the time stream.

DEADPOOL CORPS #1

Written by Victor Girchler. Illustrated by Rob Liefeld. Covers by Rob Liefeld.

I had really hoped that over saturation would kill Deadpool’s run before something terrible like this would happen. Sadly, no.

FIRESTAR #1 (one-shot)

Written by Sean McKeever. Illustrated by Emma Rios.

Firestar has been enjoying a bit of a popularity upsurge lately, so it’s appropriate that she’s next in line to get a one-shot to explore more facets of her story. And hey, it’s McKeever at the helm of a girl-centered book so it’s bound to be good.

GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY #25

Written by Dan Abnett & Andy Lanning. Illustrated by Brad Walker. Cover by Alex Garner. “Iron Man by Design” variant cover by Skottie Young.

Thanos returns! Pick this issue up to discover how he comes back and what it means for the fate of the rest of the universe.

HUSK #1

Written by Frederic L’Homme. Illustrated by Arnaud Boudoiron.

No, it’s not a new series based on the Generation X alumna … it’s a new Soleil title about giant robots!

INVINCIBLE IRON MAN #25

Written by Matt Fraction. Illustrated by Salvador Larroca. Covers by Salvador Larroca. “Iron Man by Design” variant cover by Joe Kubert. Foilogram variant cover by Ryan Meinerding. Movie variant cover also available.

After all of the struggles that Tony Stark has faced in his own book over the past year and half, his new era launches this month with a double-sized issue and will feature his brand new armour.

IRON MAN: LEGACY #1

Written by Fred Van Lente. Illustrated by Steve Kurth. Covers by Francis Tsai and Salvador Larroca. Variant cover by Ryan Meinerding. Movie variant cover also available.

Sure to get more attention following his new movie this May, Shell-head gets his second ongoing series, which will focus on tales from his past.

MARVEL ADVENTURES: SPIDER-MAN #1

Written by Paul Tobin. Illustrated by Matteo Lolli. Cover by Karl Kerschl.

Marvel’s “all ages” books get a re-launch this month, and hope to gain some additional attention and new readers with their brand new start. This title spotlights Spidey at his most accessible, without any of the cumbersome continuity issues his main book carries, and is the perfect way for any Spidey fan to enjoy his web-slinging adventures. Worth a look.

MARVEL ADVENTURES: SUPER HEROES #1

Written by Paul Tobin. Illustrated by Ronan Cliquet. Cover by Clayton Henry. Variant cover by Todd Nauck.

Marvel’s “all ages” version of the Avengers sees an exciting new re-launch this month as well, and spotlights some of Marvel’s greatest heroes banding together to fight global threats.

MARVEL HER-OES #1

Written by Grace Randolph. Illustrated by Craig Rousseau. Cover by Craig Rousseau.

I choose to judge this book by its cover; and its cover features a stupid title. So I judge this book to be stupid. Instead of buying this dredge, I urge you to pick up a quality, but under read title like BOOSTER GOLD, NOVA, or NORTHLANDERS before they go the way of GOTHAM CENTRAL or IMMORTAL IRON FIST.

MARVEL ZOMBIES 5 #1 & #2 (of 5)

Written by Fred Van Lente. Illustrated by Kano. Cover by Rafa Garres.

Why will this not just die!?!

NEW AVENGERS: FINALE #1 (one-shot)

Written by Brian Michael Bendis. Illustrated by Bryan Hitch. Cover by Bryan Hitch.

Spinning out of SIEGE, all of the Avengers books will wrap up this month, with all new titles launching next month as part of “the Heroic Age”. This one-shot features artwork by super-star illustrator Bryan Hitch, and promises to wrap up all of the loose ends from the more than five year run of this book, spinning into next month’s multiple new Avengers series launches.

NEW AVENGERS: LUKE CAGE #1 (of 3)

Written by John Arcudi. Illustrated by Eric Canete. Cover by Eric Canete.

Some poor gangbanger in east Philly stupidly tried to knock off an old chum of one Mr. Luke Cage, and drew the most hardcore hero since Shaft back to the mean streets of Eagles country (that’s a football reference if you don’t know). Now Luke Cage will face off against Hammer Head, even while hunting town the fool that pissed in his pool.

NOVA #36

Written by Dan Abnett & Andy Lanning. Illustrated by Andrea Di Vito. Cover by Mike Deodato. “Iron Man by Design” variant cover by John Tyler Christopher.

The book you should all be reading instead of the offensive LOCKJAW AND THE PET AVENGERS or HER-OES. Nova returns to Earth with Darkhawk and Quasar bearing a dire warning for the heroes of the Marvel U. Sadly, ripe from the events of ANNIHILATION and WAR OF KINGS, these cosmic heroes may never get their message home as the corrupted false Quasar seeks to slaughter them.

POWERS #6

Written by Brian Michael Bendis. Illustrated by Michael Avon Oeming.

Bendis steps away from the “event” comics and goes back to what he does best in this newest iteration of the Powers series. In this issue, Deena Pilgrim returns to mess up Walker’s life yet again.

S.H.I.E.L.D. #1

Written by Jonathan Hickman. Illustrated by Dustin Weaver. Cover and variant cover by Dustin Weaver.

Jonathan Hickman is definitely one of Marvel’s up and coming writers, and this brand new book shows just how much Marvel thinks of him. This looks to be a sprawling epic, spanning the entire history of mankind, and focusing on this secret group who has saved us from extreme threats throughout the ages. The odds are good that this book will shed a new light on many significant events in Marvel’s past, and with Hickman in charge it promises to be exciting. Or, maybe it’s going to simply be a cheap DAVINCI CODE knock off. You decide!

SIEGE #4 (of 4)

Written by Brian Michael Bendis. Illustrated by Olivier Coipel. Cover by Olivier Coipel. Variant covers by Olivier Coipel, Gabriele Dell’Otto, and Joe Quesada.

Marvel’s event series comes to its conclusion, and like almost every other “event series”, promises to change everything. Cynicism aside, we do know that “the Heroic Age” will begin after the events of this series.

And don’t miss these other SIEGE tie-ins:

AVENGERS: THE INIATIVE #35

DARK AVENGERS #16

MIGHTY AVENGERS #36

NEW AVENGERS #64

SIEGE: EMBEDDED #4 (of 4)

THOR #609

THUNDERBOLTS #143

Plus, these special epilogue one-shots (which all have their final titles classified):

FALLEN #1 (one-shot)

SIEGE: CAPTAIN AMERICA #1 (one-shot)

SIEGE: LOKI #1 (one-shot)

SIEGE: SECRET WARRIORS #1 (one-shot)

SIEGE: SPIDER-MAN #1 (one-shot)

SIEGE: YOUNG AVENGERS #1 (one-shot)

SPIDER-MAN: FEVER #1 (of 3)

Written & illustrated by Brendan McCarthy.

This series looks like it will be fantastic! Indy creator McCarthy brings a Steve Ditko era style to this tale starring Spider-Man and Dr. Strange. This is a must have for any classic Spider-fan, and everyone who likes the trippier Silver Age stuff.

ULTIMATE COMICS SPIDER-MAN #9

Written by Brian Michael Bendis. Illustrated by David LaFuente. Cover by David LaFuente.

This book continues to be incredibly strong since its re-launch, and this issue sees the return of everyone’s favourite clone, Spider-Woman.

UNCANNY X-MEN #523

Written by Matt Fraction. Illustrated by Terry Dodson. Cover by Adi Granov. Variant cover by David Finch. “Iron Man by Design” variant cover by Mike Perkins.

As the X-men race to find Cable before the Cabal do, Cyclops decides to buy his compatriots some time by taking the fight to Bastion and his mutant hating minions. Now the New Mutants and Scotty boy will be in deep in the hopes the rest of the team can find the child Hope. I guess this could have been summed up quite simply as “Cabal chases Cable; is there hope for Hope?”

THE MARVEL ART OF JOE QUESADA HC

Written by John Rhett Thomas. Illustrated by Joe Quesada (duh!).

This volume spotlights Joey Q’s talents as an artist, and delivers over 200 pages of his work from his many years at Marvel, including many unpublished and previously unseen pieces.

STRANGE: THE DOCTOR IS OUT TP

Written by Mark Waid. Illustrated by Emma Rios.

Mark Waid has been known to write some good comic books, and this recently concluded limited series is a perfect example of taking an often misused character and making him shine.

ULTIMATE COMICS WOLVERINE VS. HULK TP

Written by Damon Lindelof. Illustrated by Leinil Francis Yu.

The series that took almost forever to be completed is now collected in softcover so that you can enjoy the over-the-top carnage all at once.

ASTONISHING X-MEN: EXOGENETIC PREMIERE HC

Written by Warren Ellis. Illustrated by Phil Jimenez.

Warren Ellis proved that the Astonishing X-Men franchise was in good hands with the previous volume, and now here’s the second volume to continue the excellence. Now featuring Phil Jimenez artwork! Whoo.

ALICE IN WONDERLAND ULTRA DETAIL FIGURES

These 7” figures are imported from Japan, and based on the TIM BURTON designs of his newest 3-D movie. Alice looks cool, but Johnny Depp’s Mad Hatter looks like a serial killer clown trapped on a float during Pride Week.

BLACKEST NIGHT BUTTONS

Did you get your rings when they were offered during BLACKEST NIGHT? Well now you can add these buttons of each different colour / emotion to your collection.

BRIGHTEST DAY SYMBOL T-SHIRT

After giving us t-shirts based on the symbols of all the lantern corps, plus the Black Lanterns, did you really think DC wouldn’t give us one for the Brightest Day symbol? Of course not! Well, here you go.

CLASSIC MARVEL FIGURINE COLLECTION

Fan-favourite X-Man JUBILEE and rarely seen (and somewhat surprising addition) JACK OF HEARTS are the figurines offered this month, along with the informative magazines containing each character’s history.

DC HEROES MUGS

What better way to drink your coffee than by using ceramic mugs with images of DC’s greatest heroes on them? Available with “Superman” or “Wonder Woman” design.

DC SUPERHERO FIGURINE COLLECTION

This month sees figurines of GREEN LANTERN JOHN STEWART and Justice League stalwart BLACK CANARY, each of which will also come with a magazine with detailed background information.

DR. HORRIBLE MAQUETTE

Show your love for both Joss Whedon and Neil Patrick Harris by displaying this wonderful statue on your desk.

DRAGON AGE SERIES 1 ACTION FIGURES

The best RPG from 2009, Dragon Age: Origins, was full of characters that would make great action figures. Apparently, the boys at DC Unlimited thought so too and are so kindly giving us figures based on Duncan, Genlock, Loghain, and Morrigan.

MARVEL COMICS KOTOBUKIYA COLLECTION - IRON MAN MARK IV MOVIE STATUE

Just in time for the sure to be blockbuster movie IRON MAN 2, Iron Man’s movie armour is presented as the next Kotobukiya statue.

MARVEL SELECT CYCLOPS ACTION FIGURE

This figure is SO ugly that they’ve decided to run a solicitation for it two months in a row!

ROBOTECH: ZENTRAEDI TACTICAL BATTLEPOD VYNIL FIGURE

What child of the 80’s did NOT want his very own Zentraedi Battlepod? Here’s your chance to finally own one, albeit at 1/100 scale.

SIMPSONS MINI FIGURES

These cool 3” vinyl figures feature 24 different characters from Springfield.

STAR TREK: U.S.S. ENTERPRISE NCC-1701-E 1:2500-SCALE MODEL KIT

Bring home the sleek and sexy sovereign class starship and display your trek-cred proudly.

STAR WARS ANIMATED: SLAVE LEIA MAQUETTE

If you ever feel angry at George Lucas for whatever reason (Jar-Jar Binks comes to mind), just look at this statue representing one of the greatest moments in cinema, and all will be forgiven.

STAR WARS: OFFICIAL FIGURINE COLLECTION

First Marvel had their figurines, followed by DC, and then Buffy. Now the ultimate fan-boy figurines are here with Star Wars, beginning with DARTH VADER and LUKE SKYWALKER.

VILLAINS OF THE DC UNIVERSE: SINESTRO BUST

Designed by Gary Frank, this is one of the best ways to bring some fear into your house and onto your display shelf. It’s a perfect companion to your Hal Jordan statues.

WHITE QUEEN MODERN STATUE (BOWEN DESIGNS)

The beautiful Emma Frost is sculpted as a 12” statue by Bowen, and also being offered as a special Previews Exclusive Diamond edition.

WIZARD OF OZ PLUSHES

These plushes from the classic movie include Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, the Scarecrow, a Flying Monkey, and the Wicked Witch.

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