Needless to say, it's a big Avengers week!
First we have the final issues of Avengers and New Avengers, as "Time runs out"! The two main covers fit together for the large image seen below, which I'll repeat on the other title:
AVENGERS #44
Publisher: MARVEL COMICS
Writer: JONATHAN HICKMAN
Art: MIKE DEODATO
Cover by DUSTIN WEAVER
Variant Cover by Tony Harris
End Of An Era Variant Cover by Jim Cheung
AU Movie Connecting Variant A
40 PGS / Rated T+ / $4.99
FINAL ISSUE!
The Avengers and the Illuminati face down their final hours. The clock is winding down and the final incursion is upon us. Today, Marvel is proud to present your first look at fan-favorite artist Dustin Weaver’s interlocking covers to AVENGERS #44 and NEW AVENGERS #33 -- the cataclysmic final issues!
Superstar writer Jonathan Hickman along with blockbuster artists Mike Deodato and Kev Walker bring to a close the epic saga of the Avengers, the Illuminati, and a Marvel Universe on the brink of extinction. The Incursions from parallel Earths from other dimensions have taken their toll on our heroes, and the battle worn Avengers stand ready to face utter decimation.
Before the highly-anticipated SECRET WARS begins in May, close out Jonathan Hickman’s epic Avengers and New Avengers saga with these two, oversized final issues! What changes await Earth’s Mightiest Heroes? Be there when TIME RUNS OUT this April in AVENGERS #44 and NEW AVENGERS #33!
This April, Earth’s Mightiest Heroes face extinction. As Secret Wars and the final incursion looms, our heroes stand shoulder to shoulder for their cataclysmic end. Today, Marvel is pleased to present your look at superstar artist Jim Cheung’s FINAL ISSUE VARIANT to Avengers #44 – the last, epic issue!
Available to retailers only through Marvel’s Exchange Program, the AVENGERS 44 FINAL ISSUE VARIANT is exclusive to comic shops and can only be received by qualifying retailers who exchange stripped covers of unsold AVENGERS & X-MEN: AXIS #1 standard covers for this stunning variant!
Before the highly-anticipated SECRET WARS begins in May, close out Jonathan Hickman’s sprawling Avengers saga in style with this stunning variant rendered by one of the top artists in the industry! What changes await Earth’s Mightiest in the pages of Secret Wars? You’ll have to wait till May to find out. But before that, no fan should miss out on an opportunity to own this one of a kind variant cover when it hits stores this April!
NEW AVENGERS #33
Writer: JONATHAN HICKMAN
Art: KEV WALKER
Cover by DUSTIN WEAVER
Variant Cover by Tony Harris
End Of An Era Variant Cover by Jim Cheung
AU Movie Connecting Variant D
40 PGS / Rated T+ / $4.99
FINAL ISSUE!
The Avengers and the Illuminati face down their final hours. The clock is winding down and the final incursion is upon us. Today, Marvel is proud to present your first look at fan-favorite artist Dustin Weaver’s interlocking covers to AVENGERS #44 and NEW AVENGERS #33 -- the cataclysmic final issues!
Superstar writer Jonathan Hickman along with blockbuster artists Mike Deodato and Kev Walker bring to a close the epic saga of the Avengers, the Illuminati, and a Marvel Universe on the brink of extinction. The Incursions from parallel Earths from other dimensions have taken their toll on our heroes, and the battle worn Avengers stand ready to face utter decimation.
Before the highly-anticipated SECRET WARS begins in May, close out Jonathan Hickman’s epic Avengers and New Avengers saga with these two, oversized final issues! What changes await Earth’s Mightiest Heroes? Be there when TIME RUNS OUT this April in AVENGERS #44 and NEW AVENGERS #33!
Did you notice that both of those titles had variant covers that looked kinda movie-ish? That's because they are. And not only that, they fit together with some other covers to form a movie poster! Here's the scoop:
ULTRON FOREVER
Before Earth’s Mightiest Heroes do battle against Ultron in Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron on May 1, 2015, don’t miss your chance to own a piece of the action with these epic Avengers: Age of Ultron Movie Variants in April.
Originally debuting at Comic-Con International 2014, these epic pieces of theatrical concept art by Ryan Meinerding, Charlie Wen & Andy Park combine to form one stunning image of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes locked in combat against Ultron’s massive army. Coming to eight Marvel comics in the month of April, these covers are just like the Avengers – better when assembled!
Don’t miss a single variant when they come to these exciting Marvel comics in April!
Avengers: Ultron Forever #1 Variant Cover A
Avengers: Ultron Forever #1 Variant Cover B
New Avengers: Ultron Forever #1 Variant Cover A
New Avengers: Ultron Forever #1 Variant Cover B
Avengers #44
Uncanny Avengers: Ultron Forever #1 Variant Cover A
Uncanny Avengers: Ultron Forever #1 Variant Cover B
New Avengers #33
“These epic posters were really the hit of last year’s San Diego Comic-Con,” says Marvel SVP Sales & Marketing David Gabriel. “We’re glad that fans who attended the convention were able to get their hands on them but we’re even more excited to bring thousands of fans who may have missed this stunning image.”
Marvel urges retailers to check their orders on these hotly anticipated variant covers as they hit comic shelves through the month of April. No fan will want to miss the chance to own this stunning, epic image when the AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON MOVIE VARIANTS hit comic shops this coming April!
One book, Avengers: Ultron Forever #1, already shipped (on April 1). All the others are out this week except one -- and that one, weirdly, won't be out until May 28. (It's Uncanny Avengers: Ultron Forever #1.) But here's the other one for this week:
NEW AVENGERS: ULTRON FOREVER #1
Writer: AL EWING
Art/Cover: ALAN DAVIS
AU Movie Connecting Variant E
AU Movie Connecting Variant F
40 PGS / One-Shot / Rated T+ / $4.99
PART 2 OF 3 – The epic Avengers adventure continues!
• When Thors clash! Vision versus Vision -- to the death! The strangest Hulk-out of all! The Loki of the 25th Century!
• Ultron makes his move -- but does Doctor Doom have something even worse up his metal sleeve?
And, of course, there are plenty of Avengers collections, mostly focusing on the new kids: Ultron, Vision, Quicksilver and the Scarlet Witch.
AVENGERS EPIC COLLECTION: BEHOLD … THE VISION (TPB)
Volume #4 in the Avengers Epic Collections
Written by ROY THOMAS
Penciled by JOHN BUSCEMA, GENE COLAN & SAL BUSCEMA with BARRY WINDSOR-SMITH, FRANK GIACOIA & HOWARD PURCELL
Cover by JOHN BUSCEMA
456 PGS / Rated T / $34.99
Prepare yourself for one of the most stellar creative periods in Avengers history! Roy Thomas, John Buscema, Gene Colan and Sal Buscema raise Earth’s Mightiest Heroes to unheard-of heights with the debut of the Vision, an all-out battle with Ultron, and the introduction of Yellowjacket and an all-new Goliath! Then, Kang the Conqueror drops in from the 41st century, pitting our heroes against the Squadron Sinister in a cosmic chess match! As if one set of adversaries from across time wasn’t enough, the Avengers must also battle the Captain America, Sub-Mariner and Human Torch of 1941! Also featuring the Black Panther vs. the Sons of the Serpent, the return of Quicksilver and the Scarlet Witch, and barbarian Arkon the Magnificent! Collecting AVENGERS (1963) #57-76 and MARVEL SUPER-HEROES (1967) #17.
AVENGERS: VISION AND THE SCARLET WITCH (TPB)
Written by STEVE ENGLEHART & BILL MANTLO
Penciled by DON HECK & RICK LEONARDI
Cover by GIL KANE
128 PGS/ Rated T / $19.99
The unlikely romance between the Vision and the Scarlet Witch was one of the Avengers’ most famous storylines. Now, witness what happens when the two heroes finally get hitched and settle down in the suburbs! If you think they’re going to live the quiet life, think again! See how a match made in heaven led to a wedding in Limbo, and how a Halloween horror proves that there’s still magic in their marriage! Plus: A golden age mystery with ties to the Witch’s past is solved! The Vision bonds with his brothers in all but blood — but who is the Scarlet Witch’s father? Marvel’s oddest couple shows that home is where the heroes are! Guest-starring the Avengers and the Inhumans vs. Dormammu, the Grim Reaper and more! Collecting GIANT-SIZE AVENGERS #4 and VISION AND THE SCARLET WITCH (1982) #1-4.
AVENGERS WEST COAST: VISION QUEST (TPB)
Written by JOHN BYRNE
Penciled by JOHN BYRNE
Cover by JOHN BYRNE
216 PGS / Rated T / $24.99
It’s battles, betrayals and the bizarre as only Byrne could bring you! Watch as one of comicdom’s most recognizable talents remakes the West Coast Avengers, starting with the capture and dismantling of the Vision! As secrets about the synthezoid come to light, the Whackos are determined to get their teammate back, safe and sound — but what happens when the Vision they recover isn’t the Vision they remember? And most important, how will this shocking change affect the Vision and the Scarlet Witch’s marriage … and family? Plus: Ancient secrets of humanity revealed! The Scarlet Witch’s first step into the descent that disassembled the Avengers! The debut of the Great Lakes Avengers! And featuring the triumphant return of one of Marvel’s hottest golden age greats: the original Human Torch! Collecting WEST COAST AVENGERS (1985) #42-47 and AVENGERS WEST COAST #48-50.MARVEL’S AVENGERS: AGE OF ULTRON — THE ART OF THE MOVIE SLIPCASE (HC)
Written by JACOB JOHNSTON & JIM MCCANN
240 PGS / All Ages / $49.99
Trim size: landscape
The Avengers assemble again in Marvel Studios’ follow-up to the record-breaking Marvel’s The Avengers. Robert Downey Jr., Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson and Jeremy Renner reprise their roles as world-saving heroes in an adventure like no other. In this new collectible volume, go around the world with the Avengers in page after page of stunning concept art, production design, visual effects, revealing set photography, and commentary from cast and crew, including writer/director Joss Whedon and producer Kevin Feige. Marvel’s Avengers: Age of Ultron takes Marvel’s Cinematic Universe to new heights in yet another silver-screen triumph.
If you missed the advent of Spider-Gwen, here's your chance to catch up.
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN: EDGE OF SPIDER-VERSE (TPB)
Publisher: MARVEL COMICS
Written by DAVID HINE, FABRICE SAPOLSKY, JASON LATOUR, DUSTIN WEAVER, CLAY MCLEOD CHAPMAN & GERARD WAY
Penciled by RICHARD ISANOVE, ROBBI RODRIGUEZ, DUSTIN WEAVER, ELIA BONNETTI & JAKE WYATT
Cover by ROBBI RODRIGUEZ
112 PGS / Rated T+ / $15.99
Peer over the edge of the Spider-Verse, at five different realities — and five daringly different spiders! Spider-Man Noir returns, as the Peter Parker of the 1930s finds himself up against Mysterio and knee-deep in the biggest Spider-Man event of all! What is the secret of Dr. Aaron Aikman, the Spider-Man? Who are the villainous Red Eye and Naahmurah, and can Aaron live through Morlun’s arrival? In a universe where the story you know becomes as horrific as possible, a radioactive spider bites a high-school nerd who is already something of a monster. Then, what or who is the incredible SP//dr? And finally, the breakout character of Spider-Verse makes her exciting debut — in a world where the radioactive spider bit Gwen Stacy! Collecting EDGE OF SPIDER-VERSE #1-5.
Of course, Spider-Gwen's debut was just part of a prelude to this adventure, also collected this week:
SPIDER-VERSE (HC)
Publisher: MARVEL COMICS
Written by DAN SLOTT, CHRISTOS GAGE, MICHAEL COSTA, DENNIS HOPELESS & PETER DAVID with SKOTTIE YOUNG, ROBBIE THOMPSON, KATIE COOK, KATHRYN IMMONEN, JED MCKAY, ROGER STERN, GERRY CONWAY, TOM DEFALCO & MORE
Penciled by GIUSEPPE CAMUNCOLI, OLIVIER COIPEL, DAVE WILLIAMS, PACO DIAZ, GREG LAND & WILL SLINEY with HUMBERTO RAMOS, ADAM KUBERT, MIGUEL SEPULVEDA, JAKE PARKER, DENNIS MEDRI, KATIE COOK, MARK BROOKS, DAVID LAFUENTE, SHELDON VELLA, BOB MCLEOD, PAUL SMITH, RON FRENZ & MORE
Cover by OLIVIER COIPEL
624 PGS / Rated T / $75
Trim size: oversized
When the evil Inheritors begin exterminating spider-characters throughout the multiverse, every single Spider-Man ever is needed to save the day! An interdimensional spider-army gathers to fight Morlun and his deadly family, but none of them is safe as the Prophecy comes to fruition! What will this brutal war for survival mean for Peter Parker and the rest of the spiders? Starring the Superior Spider-Man, the Ultimate Universe’s Miles Morales and Jessica Drew, Spider-Man 2099, Spider-Woman, Silk, Kaine, Scarlet Spider, MC2’s Spider-Girl, Spider-Man Noir, Spider-Man 1602, Spider-Ham, Spider-Monkey, Lady Spider, Spider-Punk, Spider-UK, a spider-powered Gwen Stacy…and hundreds more, from the beloved to the obscure! Collecting AMAZING SPIDER-MAN (2014) #7-15, SUPERIOR SPIDER-MAN #32-33, SPIDER-VERSE #1-2, SPIDER-VERSE TEAM-UP #1-3, SCARLET SPIDERS #1-3, SPIDER-WOMAN (2014) #1-4, SPIDER-MAN 2099 (2014) #6-8 and material from FREE COMIC BOOK DAY 2014 (GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY) #1.
This is essentially a catch-all for Bat-stories that were published during "Zero Year" and "Dark City" but weren't part of those storylines. They don't hang together very well, and some tease to stories elsewhere (like to Batman Eternal) so it can't really stand alone. This is really for completists only.
BATMAN VOL. 6: THE GRAVEYARD SHIFT (HC)
Publisher: DC COMICS
Written by SCOTT SNYDER, MARGUERITE BENNETT and JAMES TYNION IV
Art by GREG CAPULLO, DANNY MIKI, ANDY KUBERT, DUSTIN NGUYEN, DEREK FRIDOLFS, ALEX MALEEV and others
Cover by GREG CAPULLO
On sale APRIL 29 • 224 pg, FC, $24.99 US
In these tales from BATMAN #0, 18-20, 28, 34 and BATMAN ANNUAL #2, look back to the early days of the Dark Knight, then see the impact of the wake of the death of his son Damian! Plus, has Batman’s worst foe become...Bruce Wayne? This title also includes three pivotal chapters from the epic ZERO YEAR storyline, and a chapter that ties in to BATMAN ETERNAL!
This could be very, very good or very, very bad. I'd have to look at it first.
BATTLE LINES GRAPHIC HISTORY OF THE CIVIL WAR (GN)
Publisher: HILL & WANG
Writer: ARI Y. KELMAN
Art/Cover: JONATHAN FETTER-VORM
$26.00
Featuring breathtaking panoramas and haunting images, Battle Lines is an utterly original graphic history of a nation transformed by the Civil War. A collaboration between the award-winning historian Ari Kelman and the acclaimed graphic novelist Jonathan Fetter-Vorm, Battle Lines begins each chapter with an object, and each object tells its own story. These objects, both iconic and commonplace, join with a cast of soldiers, farmers, slaves, and well-known figures to trace an ambitious narrative that extends from the early rumblings of secession to the dark years of Reconstruction. A daring presentation of the war that nearly tore America apart, Battle Lines is a monumental achievement.
Here are two comic-strip-collection series I'll start collecting when I win the lottery.
COMPLETE CHESTER GOULD'S DICK TRACY, VOL. 18
Publisher: IDW PUBLISHING
Writer/Art/Cover: CHESTER GOULD
HC • B&W • $39.99 • 276 pages
The 1950s just about come to a close as Chester Gould introduces one character after another whose crimes start off as relatively petty but who end up trapped in larger and more deadly conspiracies. New characters include the gamecock queen Miss Egghead, Cuban secret serviceman Wunbrow, the tragic Headache, and bizarre Popsie and her mother. Throw in a wacko named Pantsy, a cross-country chase after a million dollars of hidden heist loot, Tracy left for dead on a deserted island, a couple more million in slot machine coins, and a throwback to the 1940s in the Mole-lookalike named Rhodent, and it’s clear that Chester Gould is definitely not resting on his laurels. Includes all strips from December 15, 1957 through July 11, 1959.
“What great cartooning... it's time to build new bookshelves to welcome one of America's singular artistic achievements." -- Art Spiegelman
SECRET AGENT X-9: BY DASHIELL HAMMETT AND ALEX RAYMOND
Publisher: IDW PUBLISHING
Writer: DASHIELL HAMMETT
Art/Cover: ALEX RAYMOND
HC • B&W • $49.99 • 304 pages
The strip was a dailies-only serial. This volume collects the complete Hammett/Raymond strips, plus the subsequent stories by Raymond and Leslie Charteris, famous himself for “The Saint” novels, as well as the Charteris stories drawn by Charles Flanders. Included are strips from January 22, 1934 through October 31, 1936.
Hammett & Raymond! Two creative giants!I have only a vague awareness of this character/concept. But it's written by a young Peter Milligan, so how bad can it be?
COMPLETE JOHNNY NEMO (HC)
Publisher: TITAN COMICS
Writer: PETER MILLIGAN
Art/Cover: BRETT EWINS
$22.99
The existentialist hitman of the future! New London of 2921 is a crowded, filthy slime-pit awash with Death-Juice junkies, Latin-spouting armored fascists, exploding nuns and a religious cult who worship Bing Crosby's left testicle. It's also home to ultra-violent, foul-mouthed private eye Johnny Nemo, a streetwise PI who deals in death and simple solutions to complex problems! This classic, remastered collection features never-before-seen art and is the crowning glory of award-winning writer, Peter Milligan and artist Brett Ewins.
I'm a little disturbed at the way Sonja's sweater kittens are reacting to gravity here. Is this the boob equivalent of Gil Kane's up-the-nose shot? Frankly, I don't think that's how they work. But what do I know? I don't have any!
CONAN/RED SONJA #4 (OF 4)
Publisher: DARK HORSE
Writers: GAIL SIMONE, JIM ZUB
Pencils: RANDY GREEN
Inks: RICK KETCHAM
Colors: DAVE STEWART
Covers: DAN PANOSIAN
On sale Apr 8
FC, 32 pages, $3.99
Miniseries
Conan and Red Sonja are faced with the end of the world as Thoth-Amon’s plan is unleashed! Can our heroes overcome the impossible odds against them to save the world and their lives?
Comics superstars Gail Simone and Jim Zub write Conan and Red Sonja in this crossover of epic proportions.
Naturally, there are 11 more Convergence titles this week, which we'll talk about HERE. But here's the list, in case you need it:
CONVERGENCE #4
CONVERGENCE ACTION COMICS #1
CONVERGENCE BLUE BEETLE #1
CONVERGENCE BOOSTER GOLD #1
CONVERGENCE CRIME SYNDICATE #1
CONVERGENCE DETECTIVE COMICS #1
CONVERGENCE INFINITY INC #1
CONVERGENCE JUSTICE SOCIETY OF AMERICA #1
CONVERGENCE PLASTIC MAN FREEDOM FIGHTERS #1
CONVERGENCE SHAZAM #1
CONVERGENCE WORLDS FINEST COMICS #1
I know that variant cover is in the style of Roy Lichenstein. But does anybody know if it's an homage to a specific painting?
DAREDEVIL #15
Writer: MARK WAID
Art/Cover: CHRIS SAMNEE
WTD Variant by Marguerite Sauvage
32 PGS / Rated T+ / $3.99
• As an old foe makes a surprising return, Daredevil must make harder choices. But is he going off the deep end?
• Also, Daredevil’s got nothin’ on Kirstin McDuffie.
The final issue of Fantastic Four comes out this week, but nobody will probably notice amid all the Avengers hoo-ha. But here it is, with Cover B an homage to Fantastic Four #26, and Cover C an homage to the Fantastic Four T-shirt Marvel sold in the 1960s.
FANTASTIC FOUR #645
Written by JAMES ROBINSON, KARL KESEL, LOUISE SIMONSON, TOM DEFALCO & JEFF PARKER
Art by LEONARD KIRK, JOE BENNETT, DAVID MARQUEZ, TOM GRUMMET & PASCAL CAMPION
Cover by LEONARD KIRK
Connecting Variant by MICHAEL GOLDEN
Spotlight Variant by MICHAEL KOMARK
Avengers Variant by PASQUAL FERRY
68 PGS / Rated T / $5.99
THE MOST CONTROVERSIAL FANTASTIC FOUR STORY CONCLUDES IN AN EXTRA-SIZED SPECIAL!
This April, four will stand together … one last time! Today, Marvel proudly presents your first look at FANTASTIC FOUR #645 – the oversized, senses-shattering final issue! James Robinson and Leonard Kirk are joined by a murderers row of fantastic talent to give the First Family the grandest sendoff of them all!
Will the Fantastic Four defeat the Quiet Man and the corrupted forces of the Heroes Reborn universe? Will Johnny Storm get his powers back? Will Reed and Sue be a family again or will it all be torn asunder? Questions will be answered in this main feature story!
Then, special guests bring you four brand new stories featuring Marvel’s quintessential quartet! With heartfelt tales from Karl Kesel, Louise Simonson, Tom DeFalco and Jeff Parker and art by David Marquez, Joe Bennett, Tom Grummet and Pascal Campion – you can’t afford to miss this one!
Plus, iconic creators from across the Fantastic Four’s history share their all-time favorite covers! Hear from Stan Lee, John Byrne, Roger Stern, Mark Millar, Roy Thomas, Chris Claremont, John Romita Sr., Walt Simonson and more!
This is the end of the Fantastic Four – 4ever! Be there when the most controversial Fantastic Four story concludes in the extra-sized FANTASTIC FOUR #645!
I don't have any idea what this is, but IDW was proud enough of it to send out this press release.
HEADSPACE
Publisher: IDW PUBLISHING
Writer: RYAN K. LINDSAY
Art/Cover: ERIC ZAWADZKI
TPB • FC • $19.99 • 128 pages
What if your town were the mental construct of a killer? The inhabitants of Carpenter Cove are about to find out.
The thrilling and complex tale of a town that discovers their own terrible reality becomes even more frightening when the Sheriff of Carpenter Cove discovers whose mind he and his neighbors now reside in. “Headspace is a comic made by true craftsmen at the top of their game and the result is one hell of a trip,” says Paul Allor (G.I. Joe, TMNT) “Great characters, amazing art, and a central mystery that I actually care about. I have no idea where it's going, but I'm in for the ride
From breakout creators Ryan K. Lindsay (CMKY) and Eric Zawadzki (Last Born), Headspace delivers twists and turns that will make any fan of suspense squirm!
“Headspace is a personal tale Eric and I started kicking around over two years ago,” said series writer Ryan K. Lindsay, “It's been an honor to have it digitally distributed by Monkeybrain Comics, and to be able to bring in amazing talent like Sebastian Piriz, Marissa Louise, Chris Peterson, Chris Kosek, and Dan Hill in various guises has been a collaborative blast. Having the collection now through IDW is so, so cool and I feel the emotional core of the book is strong enough to shine through the Philip K. Dick insanity in a John Carpenter flick tone we were going for. This tale of a sheriff fighting his way out of a killer's mind is full of high concept right next to the emotional lows."
Look for the collection in stores this April, and remember you can get any of the acclaimed Monkeybrain titles in print from IDW at your local comic shop.
“Headspace is a phenomenal read on every level. The concept is brilliant and executed with such skill that’ll you’ll barely find time to take a breath.” –Bloody-Disgusting.com
This isn't really my cup of tea, but if your humor runs to the irreverent, you can't get much more irreverent than this:
HOLY F*CK (TPB)
Writer: NICK MARINO
Art/Cover: DANIEL ARRUDA MASSA
128 pgs / Mature Readers / FC / $14.99
Sister Maria has recruited two horny drug-fueled weirdos to stop the apocalypse. Their names? Jesus and Satan. Can these biblical frenemies help this nun with a gun defeat an army of pissed off mythological gods? Only one thing's for sure -- it's gonna be a wild ride! Collecting the controversially contagious Holy F*ck #1-4.
I've already written about this HERE.
THE LUNCH WITCH
Writer/Art/Cover: DEB LUCKE
180 PGS / 6 ¼ X 7 ¾ paperback with French flaps / $14.99
On sale March 17, 2015
Who says there’s no magic left in publishing?
Papercutz, the industry’s leading all-ages graphic novel publisher, is well known for their successful licensed publishing line. In addition to translating and publishing strong European properties like ARIOL and GERONIMO STILTON they’ve originated material for hit licensed characters like LEGO NINJAGO and NANCY DREW. They’ve also produced wildly popular parodies of successful kids’ properties like DIARY OF A WIMPY DEAD KID and THE FARTING DEAD. Now the company’s publishing program is moving to the next stage. In March 2015, Papercutz plans to release its first original graphic novel (not based on a pre-existing property), THE LUNCH WITCH.
The creation of children’s author Deb Lucke, THE LUNCH WITCH is an all-new 180-page graphic novel, detailing the travails of Grunhilda, a witch who has to find other employment because “nobody believes in magic anymore.” Since her only skill is cooking up pots of foul brew, it’s only natural that Grunhilda ends up as a school lunch lady. Although she tries hard to continue her evil ways, she ends up befriending a little girl named Madison. Madison needs Grunhilda’s help but doing something nice for another person violates the Witches’ Code. Will Grunhilda turn her back on Madison and stay true to her evil upbringing? Or will she decide that friendship is more important than her witchy past?
“We’ve published original graphic novels for adults for almost 40 years at [Papercutz’s sister company] NBM,” explained Papercutz Publisher Terry Nantier. “And ever since we started Papercutz, I’ve wanted to create quality original material for kids. When Deb Lucke sent us her proposal for THE LUNCH WITCH, I knew we’d found the perfect property to launch into all-new, creator-originated graphic novels for young readers.”
With artwork inspired by the likes of Tim Burton and Edward Gorey, two female lead characters, and a tween target audience, THE LUNCH WITCH is decidedly different from most other original graphic novels being published. Throw in a unique format, and you have a title that will stand out on the shelves.
“There’s no point in publishing original material if it’s not, in fact, original,” opined Papercutz Editor-in-Chief Jim Salicrup. “Deb Lucke has a unique voice and a unique art style that immediately capture the reader’s imagination. She’s developed a pacing to her narrative that gives you time to really get to know the characters. As a result, you’re deeply invested in what happens to them and seeing how they will resolve their problems. It’s the kind of story that could really only be told in a graphic novel format, free from the constraints of monthly comics or other illustrated media.”
While THE LUNCH WITCH is only the first in a planned series of original graphic novels from Papercutz, it’s a perfect example of the company’s plans for this new line.
“If there’s a consistent theme to our publishing philosophy it’s diversity,” said Nantier. “Our goal at Papercutz is to create all kinds of kids comics for all kinds of kids. And THE LUNCH WITCH looks and feels different from anything else that we publish. At the same time, I can totally see it appealing to the type of young reader who has enjoyed ARIOL or GERONIMO STILTON. The common element they all share is quality storytelling and a unique narrative voice that allows kids to experience a whole new world.”
Sounds like magic to us.
I'm really not sure what to make of this. Did a real "activity book" come out back in the 1980s? The interior art looks like Win Mortimer, during his Spidey Super Stories days, so I'm thinking this was a real thing.
MARVEL SUPER HEROES SECRET WARS ACTIVITY BOOK FACSIMILE EDITION
160 PGS / All Ages / $24.99
On Sale March 2015!
Love Marvel’s influential 1980s classic Marvel Super Heroes Secret Wars? Do you enjoy puzzles and games? Do you like FUN?! If you said yes to any of the above, have we got a book for you! Relive the unbridled joy of being a child of the 1980s with the MARVEL SUPER HEROES SECRET WARS ACTIVITY BOOK as it makes its triumphant return in 2015!
Time travel back to a simpler time and discover – or rediscover – the magic of the 1980s with this radical replica collection of coloring books, activities, and sticker albums and stamp books! It’s got games, it’s got adventures, it’s got posters – it’s even got stickers! All it needs now is you!
Back in the 1980s, Marvel produced a number of totally tubular activity and coloring books to coincide with the release of Marvel Super Heroes Secret Wars. With a brand-new Secret Wars on the horizon for 2015, there’s never been a better time to bring back these action-packed adventures where YOU CONTROL THE ACTION!
“With a new Secret Wars coming in 2015, the heroes of the Marvel Universe are in for some harsh trials and tribulations,” says Marvel SVP Sales & Marketing David Gabriel. “They won’t be having much fun come 2015. But that doesn’t mean you can’t, dear reader! Loaded with games, goodies and more, this facsimile collection lets you experience the magic of Marvel Super Heroes Secret Wars as only the 1980s can provide!”
Packed cover-to-cover with 160 pages of Secret Wars fun, if the Beyonder had one to enjoy, he never would’ve made it to Earth for SECRET WARS II! So dig out those crayons and prepare for adventure True Believer, because you’re about to embark on a journey deep into the Marvel Universe. But don’t forget your imagination – you’ll need it!
Collecting the SECRET WARS: THE CRIME OF CENTURIES and ESCAPE FROM DOOM coloring books, the SECRET WARS: SECRET OF SPIDER-MAN’S SHIELD and TOWER OF DOOM sticker books, the SECRET WARS: STAMP FUN and SPIDER-MAN’S STAMP FUN stamp books (no licking required!) and more, you’re in for hours of unadulterated, good ol’ fashioned fun in the Merry Marvel Manner!
I'm pretty sure we've all been waiting for this one, some more eagerly than others ...
THE MULTIVERSITY #2
Publisher: DC COMICS
Written by GRANT MORRISON
Art and cover by IVAN REIS and JOE PRADO
1:10 B&W Variant cover by IVAN REIS
1:25 Variant cover by MICHAEL ALLRED
1:50 Variant cover by JOHN ROMITA, JR. and KLAUS JANSON
1:100 Variant cover by GRANT MORRISON
Advance solicit • On sale APRIL 1 • 56 pg, FC, $5.99 US • RATED T
Retailers: This issue will ship with five covers. Please see the order form for details.
Every event in the history of the DC Universe has been leading to this! The final chapter of the greatest adventure of all time is here!
Issue #1 artist Ivan Reis reteams with mastermind Grant Morrison to end THE MULTIVERSITY and bring together the greatest and bravest heroes of the DC Multiverse to fight one last battle. But more than just some cabal of super-villains, they face the greatest evil that ever existed. An evil so massive, they actually may not stand a chance!
Who are the mystic Justice League of Earth-13 and what role does their leader Super Demon play in the crisis rising all around them? What shocking secret motivates the dark, nightmare henchmen known as The Gentry? And what is the final fate of Nix Uotan – the Super-God?!
You cannot miss this final, stunning chapter of Grant Morrison’s ultimate super hero epic!
HAHAHAHAHA! This is hilarious! Want!
THE ORDER OF THE FORGE #1 (OF 3)
Publisher: DARK HORSE
Writer: VICTOR GISCHLER
Art: TAZIO BETTIN (A)
Cover: JUAN FERREYRA
On sale Apr 29
FC, 32 pages, $3.99
Miniseries
“I cannot tell a lie. I f**king hate zombies.” -- G. Washington
Before he fathered a nation, young George Washington forged his legend in blood! Imbued with the mystical powers of America’s original inhabitants, George—along with his friends Ben Franklin and Paul Revere—must stop an evil governor who wishes to rule an empire!
• New series from Victor Gischler (Angel & Faith)!
• A dark fantasy/historical fiction genre smash-up!
• Perfect for fans of Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter!
Here's another new sci-fi title from Image. They've had a run of good luck on similar projects lately. I call it the "Walking Dead Syndrome" -- all of the better writers pitching their pet projects.
PISCES #1
Publisher: IMAGE COMICS
Story: KURTIS J. WIEBE
Art / Cover: JOHNNIE CHRISTMAS
APRIL 29 / 32 PAGES / FC / M / $3.50
Bestselling writer Kurtis J. Wiebe (RAT QUEENS, PETER PANZERFAUST) and Johnnie Christmas (SHELTERED) team up for an all-new science fiction, psychological body horror series in PISCES, coming to Image Comics/Shadowline this April.
PISCES introduces readers to former fighter pilot Dillon Carpenter, who found everything he wanted when he returned from the Vietnam War. A loving partner, a dream career training with NASA to travel through space, and soon, he will learn, a prime candidate for a secret mission, one that will forever change the world: First Contact.
But as Dillon prepares, his war trauma returns and he’s haunted by dark visions of his future. There is but one constant: the voice whispering from the stars.
" Pisces is a monster created from my deepest physical and psychological fears,” said Wiebe. “It's a series I've been afraid to write. This is me facing my demons.”
Christmas added: "Surreal, horrifying and beautiful, Pisces is part lullaby and part nightmare, wrapped within a pulse-pounding voyage of discovery."
Action Lab is pushing this pretty hard, with lots of extra covers and press releases, so they must have high hopes for it.
PUPPET MASTER #2
Writer: SHAWN GABBORIN
Art/Cover: MICHELA DA SACCO (pencils, inks) and YANN PERRELET (colors)
Tunneler cover: MICHELA DA SACCO (pencils, inks) and YANN PERRELET (colors)
Tunneler Sketch cover: MICHELA DA SACCO
Tunnerler Photo cover
32 pgs / Mature Readers / FC
$3.99/ $4.99 Variant
The Bodega Bay party goes sour when a dead body turns up. Now, as the remaining teens search the Inn for their missing friends, the Puppets increase the body count! But are the Puppets working on their own accord or is there a new Master in the shadows? Charles Band's legendary Puppets continue their first comic rampage in over 20 years!!
I just love Dodson covers.
RED ONE #2
Publisher: IMAGE COMICS
Story: XAVIER DORISON
Art / Cover: TERRY DODSON & RACHEL DODSON
APRIL 29 / 32 PAGES / FC / M / $2.99
The U.S.S.R.’s top agent, Vera Yelnikov, is working undercover in 1977 Los Angeles as Alabama Jones, a.k.a. RED ONE, America’s greatest hero!
Red One takes on her fiercest foe yet, the fascist serial killer THE CARPENTER, in a funky superhero romp by TERRY & RACHEL DODSON (Uncanny X-Men, Wonder Woman, Spider-Man, Harley Quinn) and XAVIER DORISON (Long John Silver, The Third Testament).
This is just a weird enough premise that I'm intrigued. The alien's name is an inside joke, of course -- Samhain is the Celtic festival from whence Halloween arose, although it's pronounced "SOW-en," like, I dunno, calling a pig or something.
RESIDENT ALIEN: THE SAM HAIN MYSTERY #0
Publisher: DARK HORSE
Writer: PETER HOGAN
Art/Cover: STEVE PARKHOUSE
On sale Apr 29
FC, 32 pages, $3.99
Miniseries
A stranded alien scientist hides out in the sleepy town of Patience, Washington, while federal agents begin to close in on him. Secrets about his home planet -- as well as his first months on Earth -- are revealed! Peter Hogan (Tom Strong) and Steve Parkhouse (The Bojeffries Saga) return to their unique science-fiction/mystery series!
Replies
Titan has buried me in press releases, art and interview offers for Scarlett Coutoure, so they obviously have high hopes for it. It seems a bit derivative of Black Widow to me, but I guess virtually all spy thrillers are derivative of other spy thrillers. Just the same, I'll have to read a few issues before I can push Natalia Romanova out of my brain.
SCARLETT COUTURE #1 (of 4)
Cover A: DES TAYLOR
Cover B: Photo featuring model Viktoria Dobos as Scarlett Couture
32pp / FC / $3.99
Globetrotting fashion heiress by day, ass-kicking crimefighter by night!
Beautiful. Intelligent. Deadly.
Scarlett Couture is all of these things, and more. She’s a spy.
Using her cover as Head of Security for her mother’s internationally renowned fashion house, she gathers intelligence for the CIA. In this explosive first issue, Scarlett follows her instincts right into the middle of the action and finds she needs to use all her wits to get herself out of hot water! A kidnapping in Las Vegas ignites a high-octane adventure from New York to the coast of Mexico! Join CIA special operative Scarlett in this race-against-time action-thriller!
Titan Comics brings you a brand-new action espionage mini-series created by Doctor Who cover artist Des Taylor!
Check out the trailer to the series:
"Des Taylor is the best artist I haven't worked with yet. ... Beautiful. ... I love this style!” -- Mark Millar (Kick-Ass, Secret Service)
"Super-stylish and super-sexy!" -- Dave Gibbons (Watchmen)
"Really fantastic stuff. I'm a fan!" -- Heath Corson (Writer/Producer, Justice League: War)
"With vivid artwork and intense action Scarlett Couture is a fun take on the Spy Thriller genre." -- Fanboy Comics
"Classic ... the glow of John Romita and '50s pin-up!" -- Comics Alliance
"A look and vibrancy that will resonate with fans of Dan Decarlo or Bruce Timm." -- Robot 6, Comic Book Resources
"This is a refreshing take in the realm of comics." -- Fangirl Nation
"Right up the alley of fans of James Bond and Noir and Pulp thrillers." -- Girls Read Comics
For more information visit: http://titan-comics.com/c/226-scarlett-couture/
SUNSTONE VOL 2 (OGN)
Story / Art / Cover: STJEPAN SEJIC
APRIL 29 / 128 PAGES / FC / M / $14.99
STJEPAN SEJIC continues the critically-acclaimed SUNSTONE series. A classy, sexy fun, and emotional look at two women and the alternative lifestyle they live.
SUPERMUTANT MAGIC ACADEMY
Writer/Art/Cover: JILLIAN TAMAKI
Jillian Tamaki is best known for co-creating the award-winning young adult graphic novels Skim and This One Summer, moody and atmospheric bestsellers. SuperMutant Magic Academy, which Jillian has been serializing online for the past four years, paints a teenaged world filled with just as much ennui and uncertainty, but also with a sharp dose of humor and irreverence. Jillian deftly plays superhero and high school Hollywood tropes against what adolescence is really like: the SuperMutant Magic Academy is a prep-school for mutants and witches but their paranormal abilities take a back seat to everyday teen concerns. Science experiments go awry, bake sales are upstaged, and the new kid at school is a cat who will determine the course of human destiny. Whether the magic is mundane or miraculous, Jillian's jokes are precise and devastating.
This volume combines the most popular content from the webcomic with a selection of all-new, never-before-seen strips that conclude Jillian's account of life at the Academy.
"The humor [in SuperMutant Magic Academy] is sometimes slapstick, but more often it offers ultra-dry observations on modern disengagement. Tamaki is playful and loose with her art, unafraid to be experimental as she draws us into a world where true feelings are the greatest danger." -- Publishers Weekly, Starred Review
"Though Tamaki’s black and white panels shift from detailed and realistic to dreamy and atmospheric and back again, she consistently and expertly captures subtle emotion and subtext with only a few strokes of the pen. [SuperMutant Magic Academy is] simultaneously heartbreaking and hilarious." -- Booklist, Starred Review
"SuperMutant Magic Academy ... gathers a momentum and depth without ever losing the humour....I laughed a lot. You should try it." -- Herald Scotland
"[SuperMutant Magic Academy's] poignant panels illustrate the students’ anxieties during their most formative years. Tamaki brings us characters who are trying to walk the fine line between performing their expected role in a (magical) high school society while simultaneously exploring their perceived internal selves." -- Maisonneuve
SuperMutant Magic Academy has won two Ignatz Awards. This volume combines the most popular content from the webcomic with an all-new, never-before-seen "Afterschool Special" that concludes Tamaki’s account of life at the academy.
Is the result of Vertigo's CMYK experiment? If so, I couldn't be more pleased. The market needs a good non-superhero anthology.
VERTIGO QUARTERLY: SFX #1
Written by PETER MILLIGAN, LAURIE PENNY, HOPE LARSON, CLAY CHAPMAN, ROBIN FURTH, ERICA SCHULTZ, DAVID WINNIC, JIM ZUB, LAUREN PETTY and NATHAN FOX
Art by HOPE LARSON, NATHAN FOX, CELIA CALLE and others
Cover by NATHAN FOX
On sale APRIL 29 • 80 pg, FC, $7.99 US • MATURE READERS
POP! SLAM! KRAK! BANG! Sound effects bring that extra bit of vibrancy to an already exciting comics page! Following the success of Vertigo’s CMYK Quarterly Anthology, which explored the four colors that make up a comic book, we continue to push the boundaries of short storytelling with 2015’s SFX Quarterly Anthology. Comics luminaries will converge with the next generation of talent as they interpret four different sound effects, leading to mind-bending innovations in story and art.
And if you're collecting TWD in trade paperback, there's a new one this week.
THE WALKING DEAD VOL 23 (TPB)
Story: ROBERT KIRKMAN
Art: CHARLIE ADLARD, STEFANO GAUDIANO & CLIFF RATHBURN
Cover: CHARLIE ADLARD & DAVE STEWART
APRIL 29 / 128 PAGES / BW/ M / $14.99
The new era of peace and prosperity is interrupted by a new type of enemy. One that travels amongst the walkers. One that will turn whispers of their appearance to screams.
Collects THE WALKING DEAD #133-138.
If I follow the solicitation correctly the Secret Agent X-9 volume has the complete Alex Raymond run. It's a while since I read the Hammett/Raymond stories, but I remember them as poorly-plotted. They're rather like early Phantom stories otherwise.
Secret Agent X-9 is the same strip as Secret Agent Corrigan. The Raymond and Mel Graff versions might as well have been different strips. (Mel Graff's stuff is Caniff-ish.) I've not read an Archie Goodwin/Al Williamson Secret Agent Corrigan sequence, but I'd guess it was radically different again in their period. Their run is also currently being collected.
Thanks for the info, Luke. My knowledge of comic strips is spotty, and I'll see a solicitation for something like this and generally opt not to buy it if I don't have time to look it up. Having knowledge aforehand is most useful!