Kevin Keller #3 (Archie Comics, $2.99)
Story and art: Dan Parent
Ships 6/13 to comic shops
Kevin Keller #3 answered a question I've had ever since Archie Comics introduced their first openly gay character: What is the Riverdale response to homophobia?
The book-length "Stranded in Paradise!' pits the Riverdale gang against the snotty Pembrooke gang (which includes Cheryl Blossom, who makes an appearance) in a surfing contest for control of the beach. One subplot is a character named Sloane who keeps making gay slurs against Kevin. I was really interested in Kevin and the gang's response. I mean, we know the Riverdale kids will always do the right thing, but what IS the right thing in this case? Respond in kind? Threaten violence? Ignore it?
I won't spoil the story, but I will say I was pleased with how Parent handled it. I'm also coming to enjoy Parent's art more than I used to; he generally follows the Dan DeCarlo house style so successfully that on the occasions where he failed to do so it was jarring. This story is evident that he's now achieved a blend of styles that is more fluid and coherent -- and fun, which Archie Comics ought to be. And I'd be remiss if I didn't mention that Parent is much more aggressive and imaginative with layout and panel shapes than DeCarlo ever was, which adds a 21st century spin to the proceedings.
Overall, this is a pitch perfect story that is completely comfortable in 2012. I'm long past my junior high years -- prime time for Archie Comics -- but any age can appreciate a story this well done.
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