My Top 12 Comics For April 2013

TPB of the Month

Manhattan Projects Vol 2 from Johnathan Hickman, Nick Pitarra and Jordie Bellaire

12. It Girl and the Atomics #9 (Image)

Writer: James S. Rich * Artist: Mike Norton

Luna is there (and she provides a few chuckles), but this sweet anniversary story focuses primarily on the Slug and Black Crystal.

11. Phantom Stranger #7 (DC)

Writer:  Dan Didio & J.M. DeMatteis * Artist: Gene Ha

This title just gets better and better since Dematteis signed on as it is focusing more on developing the character of the Stranger, rather than simply using him as a conduit to introduce other figures to the DC U. Dialog is strong and delves into some heady ontological discussion.

10. Constantine #2 (DC)

Writer:  Jeff Lemire, Ray Fawkes * Artist: Renato Guedes

John uses guile and parlor tricks to worm his way out of several sticky situations in this globe trotting adventure. The art; it has an odd perspective to it, almost a fishbowl view, rather rounded (using tight vanishing points perhaps?) It lends the title a dreamy, otherworldly quality.

9. Batman #19 (DC)

Writer:  Scott Snyder * Artist: Greg Capullo

Sad moment with Bruce remembering Damian, Batman does some much welcome detective work and an old villain gets an interesting upgrade that makes him even more a threat. Backup with Superman team-up was stellar and very creepy

8. Red She-Hulk #64 (Marvel)

Writer:  Jeff Parker * Artist: Wellinton Alves, Carlo Pagulayan

This issue was 100% pure unadulterated FUN! It was a great adventure packed with huge laughs, as Red and Machine Man, with the aid of the Mole Monster (?) continue their search for Tesla, the missing girl with the special power and Red's 'big $#@* sword!" Jeff Parker… you sir, rock!

7. Journey Into Mystery #651 (Marvel)

Writer: Kathryn Immonen * Artist: Pepe Larraz

An old style, one and done issue. The Gods of Asgard take on the Fenris wolf. But for all that power it might be a little slip of a girl who holds the key to victory. You can always count on Kathy Immonen to tell fun, clever, adventurous “quality” tales. Knowing that, why doesn’t this title sell?

6. Supergirl #19 (DC)

Writer: Mike Johnson * Artist: Mahmud Asrar

I am going to miss Mike Johnson. His Power Girl is so much better here than she is in WF and the connection (and adventure) she shares with SG is fascinating and cleverly explored in story and art. The rapport between the two ladies is strong and the way we get PG in her classic battle togs made sense.

5. Animal Man #19 (DC)

Writer: Jeff Lemire * Artist: Steve Pugh

Dear Lord the pain and anguish in this issue is palpable. It’s so sad and the hits just keep piling up on poor Buddy. Still, it is sooo expertly rendered, authentic and heartfelt. And Pugh’s pencils convey every tragic incident, every emotional extreme to perfection.

4. Thor: God of Thunder #7 (Marvel)

Writer: Jason Aaron * Artist: Esad Ribic

See Thor buck-naked! Aside from that -- The banter between old and middle age Thor was funny, and the shame and fear of young Thor was well written and illustrated. That ending -despite the title spoiling it- was a knockout.

3. New Avengers #5 (Marvel)

Writer: Jonathan Hickman * Artist: Steve Epting

The plot thickens as we learn of the Black Swan’s origins, why she’s vital to the team. And of the unstoppable force, and terrible burden that await the Illuminati. Hickman’s book offers incisive character work and a thought-provoking dilemma.

2. Batman Incorporated #10 (DC)

Writer: Grant Morrison * Artist: Chris Burnham

Morrison has got this baby running at full throttle! And it looks like Talia’s going to learn what happens when you %$#! with the Bat! (But at what cost to Bruce?) Great scene between her and her father.

1. Wonder Woman #19 (DC)

Writer: Brian Azzarello * Artist: Goran Sudzuka, Tony Akins

Another winner - Jam packed with twists and turns, shady machinations and family drama. And funny? Man this was a hoot. I loved how the baby charms everyone... even Hera. The naming bit was cute. Even the first-born story works well this month, as it ties in closer to the intrigue of the bigger overall picture. I’m drawn to smart powerful women… and Diana is all that and more.

To May 2013

Back to March 2013