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MARVEL ADVENTURES SPIDER-MAN: BACK IN BLACK (MARVEL Comics)

Written by Sean McKeever; Zeb Wells; & Fred Van Lente

Art by Patrick Scherberger; Michael O’Hare; Cory Hamscher; Norman Lee; Guru eFX; & Dave Sharpe

Cover Art by Patrick Scherberger. ‘Paris;’ & Guru EFx

SUMMARY:

As a 2007 Target exclusive, this 96-page paperback reprints Marvel Adventures Spider-Man # 6, # 15, and # 21-22 from 2005-2006. 

“Picture Perfect Peril!”  Accepting a bounty from art collector Justin Hammer, Spider-Man finds that retrieving a stolen painting from the Sandman is easier said than done. 

“How Spider-Man Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Arms!”  A scheming Doctor Octopus sends his cybernetic arms to attack Spider-Man as a legal ruse to free him from prison.  Yet, those same cybernetic arms have a different idea. 

“Fashion Victims!”  New villains Rocket Racer, Stilt-Man, & Leap-Frog set up the webslinger on a collision course with criminal gimmicks genius, the Tinkerer.  This tale establishes an alternate (and kid-friendly) explanation for how Spider-Man acquired his black-and-white costume. 

“World War G”  Spider-Man gets caught in a feud between the Green Goblin and the debuting Hobgoblin.  This villainous rivalry prompts  J. Jonah Jameson into bringing along Peter Parker along for an exclusive stakeout. 

REVIEW:

While this unrelated compilation’s title plays off Spider-Man’s extensive “Back in Black” storyline, the four tales still serve up some decent kiddie entertainment.  All four Spider-adventures are ideal for younger readers, as the visuals deliberately make this teen Peter Parker relatable to elementary schoolers.  If it can be found for a reasonable price, this Marvel Adventures Spider-Man: Back in Black ages well as for the intended audience.      

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

Each issue’s cover art is reprinted in a full-page format.  The cover artists are: Tony S. Daniel & Soto’s J. Rauch (Issue # 6); Amanda Conner & Chris Sotomayor (Issue # 15); Scherberger, ‘Paris,’ & Guru EFx (Issue # 21); and Scherberger, Hamscher, & Guru eFX (Issue # 22). 

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                 5½ Stars

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Comic Books & Graphic Novels Marvel Comics MARVEL's Hardcovers & Paperbacks

NEW AVENGERS {1st SERIES}: COMPLETE COLLECTION, VOLUME 3 (MARVEL Comics)

Written by Brian Michael Bendis

Art by Dan Jurgens; Sandu Florea; Frank D’Armata; Richard Starkings; Comicraft’s Albert Deschesne; David Finch; Danny Miki; Rick Mays; Jason Martin; Rob Schwager; Dave Sharpe; Frank Cho; Jason Keith;  Steve McNiven; Dexter Vines; Morry Hollowell; Mike Deodato Jr.; Joe Pimentel; Dave Stewart; Richard Isanove; Olivier Copiel; Drew Geraci; Drew Hennessy; Livesay; Rick Maygar; Mark Morales;  Mike Perkins; Tim Townsend; June Chung; José Villarrubia; Alex Maleev; VC’s Chris Elipoulos; Howard Chaykin;  Leinil Francis Yu; Dave McCaig;  Pasqual Ferry; Paul Smith; Dean White; Jim Cheung; Justin Ponsor;  & Josh Singh

Covers by Dan Jurgens, Sandu Florea, & Frank D’Armata; David Finch, Danny Miki, & Frank D’Armata;  Andrea Di Vito & Laura Villari; Frank Cho & Jason Keith;  Steve McNiven, Dexter Vines, & Morry Holowell;  Mike Deodato Jr. & Dave Stewart; Olivier Coipel, Mark Morales, & José Villarrubia; Gabriele Dell’Otto;  Howard Chaykin  & Dave Stewart;  Leinil Francis Yu & Dave McCaig; Oliver Coipel, Mark Morales, & Dave Stewart; Adi Granov;  Jim Cheung, John Dell, & Justin Ponsar; & Alex Maleev

Collection Cover Art by David Finch; Danny Miki; & Frank D’Armata

SUMMARY:

Released by Marvel Comics in 2017, this 496-page compendium reprints The New Avengers # 11-25; the New Avengers Guest-Starring the Fantastic Four one-shot; the lead story from Giant-Size Spider-Woman # 1; New Avengers Annual # 1; the New Avengers: Illuminati one-shot; and the Civil War: The Confession one-shot (all from approximately 2006-2007). 

First up is a New Avengers/Fantastic Four team-up investigating a mysterious alien craft hidden on Earth for five million years.  Pursuing the Silver Samurai in Japan, the temporarily short-handed team recruits a stealthy new member, Ronin, for a heavy-duty skirmish vs. The Hand’s ninja forces backed by Madame Hydra (Viper) and the Yashida crime syndicate.  Suspecting a team mole, Captain America demands answers from an evasive Spider-Woman. 

Narrated by Ms. Marvel’s blog, The New Avengers publicly debuts for the world’s media.  Luke Cage inspires the New Avengers’ new public relations policy in Detroit.  In the aftermath of “The House of M,” a veteran super-team is massacred. The New Avengers and SHIELD descend on Cleveland to face off against the cosmic-level mutant threat: Michael Pointer.  Even bolstered by Ms. Marvel (in fully Binary mode), the Vision, and Spider-Man’s new ‘Iron Spider’ costume, the heroes seemingly stands little chance.  This fiery showdown leads to a Genosha horror-fest. 

The renegade Black Widow II, Yelena Belova, mutates into a new threat.  After the birth of their child, Luke Cage and Jessica Jones become the first married New Avengers.  The Illuminati disbands over its exile of the Hulk and the onset of Iron Man’s commitment to forcing super-heroes’ government-approved subordination to SHIELD. 

Marvel’s first Civil War ignites, as ideological dissension between Iron Man and Captain America shatters the team.  The war’s dark outcome is seen through the eyes of these two perennial Avengers.  Guest appearances include Alpha Flight; The Inhumans; The Young Avengers; Magneto; Daisy Johnson; Sharon Carter; the Hulk; Daredevil; The Illuminati; J. Jonah Jameson; and a surprise cameo by Stan Lee.

REVIEW:

After a fun Fantastic Four team-up, The New Avengers – Complete Collection, Volume 3 features some outstanding storytelling from Brian Michael Bendis.  Adapting to various visual styles, Bendis’ structured plotting segues well from one arc to the next, especially the Illuminati’s behind-the-scenes dissension and individual showcases revealing the war’s effect on various members (Luke Cage, Spider-Woman, & Sentry). 

In particular, the various Luke Cage-Jessica Jones segments are frankly stellar depictions of these two characters.  The realistic personality depth Bendis instills in his hand-picked New Avengers (minus Spider-Man and Wolverine, who make minimal contributions) is also exceptionally well-played.  However, there are some sporadic missteps, such as a New Avenger openly speculating about Michael Pointer as a potential super-hero (after all the mass destruction and deaths he has caused, no less), or Wolverine’s underwhelming emotional response to a tragic event impacting him.    

Aside from some speechifying by Captain America & Iron Man, Bendis often finds the right formula of dialogue (i.e. team banter), action sequences, and plot twists.  Readers also benefit from high-caliber artwork (particularly from David Finch) befitting the various storylines.  Protected by an excellent binding, this compilation proves excellent in all its facets, minus some pages where the continuity order of the dialogue/art panels can be hard to follow.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

All the covers are included in a full-page format, as are the Wizard Magazine # 153 and # 171 promo covers.  Howard Chaykin & Dave Stewart’s 2nd-run New Avengers # 21 cover is in full-page color.  Their black-and-white sketch variant of their Issue # 23 cover also appears. 

Provided in a half-page, black-and-white format are a Silver Samurai image by David Finch & Danny Miki (pages 21-22 from Issue # 12) and Frank Cho’s Spider-Woman montage (pages 4-6 from Issue # 14).  There is also Annual # 1’s unused black-and-white full-page group shot from Oliver Coipel & Mark Morales.  The front inside cover promotes Complete Collection, Volume 1.  

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8 Stars

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Comic Books & Graphic Novels Marvel Comics MARVEL's Hardcovers & Paperbacks

NEW AVENGERS {1st Series}: THE COMPLETE COLLECTION, VOLUME 1 (MARVEL Comics)

Written by Brian Michael Bendis

Art by David Finch; Olivier Copel; Danny Miki; Frank D’Armata; Stan Lee; Jack Kirby; Dick Ayers; Bob Sharen; George Pérez; John Byrne; Scott Kolins; Kieron Dwyer; Alan Davis; Michael Golden; Brent Anderson; J.G. Jones; Alex Maleev; Steve Epting; Lee Weeks; Michael Gaydos; Eric Powell; Darick Robertson; Mike Mayhew; David Mack; Gary Frank; Michael Avon Oeming; Jim Cheung; Steve McNiven; Brian Reber; Morry Hollowell; Pete Pantazis; Avalon’s Andy Troy; Mark Morales; Mike Perkins; Justin Ponsor; Allen Martinez; Victor Olazaba; John Dell; Jae Lee; & José Villarubia

Covers by David Finch; Danny Miki; Frank D’Armata; Neal Adams; & Laura Martin

Collection Cover Art by David Finch; Danny Miki; & Fran D’Armata

SUMMARY:

Released by Marvel Comics in 2017, this 504-page compendium reprints 2004’s Avengers # 500-503 and Avengers: Finale from the “Avengers Disassembled” saga, as well as the initial ten issues of its immediate sequel series: The New Avengers

In tragic fashion, a seemingly impregnable Avengers Mansion falls to a massive explosion.  Devastating subsequent assaults soon cripple the team.  The surviving Avengers ominously realize one of their own has turned against them.  Facing financial problems and public backlash, the team later disbands. 

Six months later, thwarting an orchestrated mass prison break at the SHIELD-controlled Raft brings Luke Cage, an injured Spider-Man, Captain America, Iron Man, Jessica Drew’s Spider-Woman, & Matt Murdock (aka Daredevil) forge a makeshift team.  The mysterious prisoner known as the Sentry also joins the violent skirmish.  Only Daredevil declines Captain America’s recruitment to pursue the forty-some Raft escapees-at-large as ‘The New Avengers.’

After missions capturing fugitives Electro and the Wrecker, the team journeys to the Savage Land to face off against the monstrous Sauron and the second Black Widow.  Stumbling upon rogue SHIELD black ops, the New Avengers add Wolverine to the team before tackling the enigma of the Sentry.  His vast unknown powers, as well as that of the unstoppable Void, may well consume them all. 

Guest appearances include The Illuminati, the X-Men, the Fantastic Four, and the Inhumans, as well as Mary Jane Watson-Parker, Foggy Nelson, Dr. Strange, several surviving Avengers, and a treasure trove of characters from archival flashbacks.    

REVIEW:

Its best asset are consistently stellar visuals led by David Finch.  As much credit as writer Brian Michael Bendis deserves, it’s Finch and the art squad that admirably cover up Bendis’ over-indulgences.  Aside from Bendis’ propensity for relying on “ohmigod,” “oh, no,” and “aargh!” as his dialogue of choice far too often, two-thirds of this Bendis collection really is a knock-out. 

While the team conveniently doesn’t even realize a particular member is missing until the big revelation, Avengers # 500-503 is top-caliber storytelling.  Avengers: Finale, as its epilogue, is poignant at the right moments, if not self-indulgent.  However, the New Avengers # 1-10 spread is far more a mixed bag. 

The prison break-out, the team’s recruitment (including Spider-Woman’s unknown allegiances), and even the Savage Land sequence are exceptionally well-played.  The only qualm is too often these New Avengers concede that they can’t decipher who is covertly masterminding an assortment of schemes they’ve uncovered. 

Yet, it’s the dismal Sentry storyline (approximately Issues # 7-10) that sucks readers into a joyless vacuum.  Bendis’s confusing Sentry in-joke dilemma and its resolution requiring a lengthy Emma Frost intervention takes seemingly forever to finish. 

There’s plenty of great visuals down this stretch, but Bendis’ monotonous storytelling becomes one pothole after another.  Still, this collection boasts a horde of extras making The New Avengers: The Complete Collection, Volume 1 a true Marvel gem.  Protected by an excellent binding, this compilation is a great read — that is, excluding when Bendis fixates on the Sentry.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

Also included are New Avengers # 1 – Director’s Cut and New Avengers: Most Wanted Files (with full-page covers).  All the covers and variants for Issues # 1-10 appear in a full-page format. 

The variant teams are: David Finch, Danny Miki, & Frank D’ Armata (B) – Joe Quesada & Richard Isanove (C) – Steve McNiven & Richard Isanove (D) for Issue # 1; Trevor Hairshine & Richard Isanove for Issue # 2; Oliver Coipel & Richard Isanove for Issue # 3; Jim Cheung & Richard Isanove  for Issue # 4; Adi Granov & Richard Isanove for Issue # 5; Bryan Hitch & Richard Isanove for Issue # 6; an uncredited combined variant of New Avengers # 1-6; Neal Adams & Laura Martin for Issue # 7; John Romita, Sr., Al Milgrom, & Paul Mounts for Issue # 8; Herb Trimpe & Paul Mounts for Issue # 9; and Saul Buscema & Paul Mounts for Issue # 10.

Full-page promotional cover images from Wizard Magazine # 161 and # 163 are also included.  Others features are: a montage of mini-cover images of Avengers # 1-500; the full-page cover for Avengers # 500 (Director’s Cut) by John Cassaday & Laura Martin; a single-page draft synopsis by Bendis for Avengers: CHAOS; a three-page interview with Bendis; artist David Finch’s four-page commentary; the script page for a deleted Thor cameo from Avengers # 501; a two-page “Hembeck” comic strip by Fred Hembeck & Chris Sotomayor; an eight-page guide identifying the Raft’s  escapees; and the New Avengers Vol. 2 trade paperback cover image by Steve McNiven, Dexter Vines, & Morry Hollowell.  Lastly, the back inside cover promotes the cover image for The New Avengers: Complete Collection, Volume 3.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:               8½ Stars

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Comic Books & Graphic Novels Marvel Comics MARVEL's Hardcovers & Paperbacks

MARVEL CHILLERS: FANTASTIC FOUR – THE FRIGHTFUL FOUR (MARVEL Comics)

Written by Joey Cavalieri (Based on Stan Lee’s Story)

Art by Hyperdesign, Inc. and Jack Kirby; & Joe Sinnott

Cover Art by Casey Jones; Tom Simmons; & Don Cassity

SUMMARY:

Published in 1996 by Marvel Comics, this 96-page novelization divides into eighteen short chapters adapting Fantastic Four # 94 and # 126.  At the team’s Baxter Building, Reed and Sue Richards proudly introduce their infant son, Franklin Benjamin Richards, to Ben “The Thing” Grimm; Crystal; and his uncle, Johnny “Human Torch” Storm. 

After a brief flashback explaining the Fantastic Four’s origin, the team take Franklin on an upstate journey to meet the reclusive Agatha Harkness, who has agreed to be the boy’s nanny.  The Fantastic Four isn’t aware that their evil rivals, The Frightful Four (Wizard; Sandman; Trapster; and Madame Medusa), are after them.

At Agatha’s gothic home on secluded Whisper Hill, Ben ponders how she could possibly anticipate that a sudden storm necessitates the team’s overnight stay.  The Frightful Four’s ambush neutralizes the team, but could one of the Frightful Four be a traitor?  Also, how can elderly Agatha and her black house cat, Ebony, be any match for The Frightful Four, if the Fantastic Four was easily defeated?  Miss Harkness and her cat may be more fearsome than the villains ever imagined.        

REVIEW:

Putting basic logic aside (i.e. how locking their guest room door effectively traps the Invisible Woman and Mr. Fantastic isn’t explained; and neither is how the Frightful Four secretly breaches Agatha’s house), this undemanding book is a solid treat for 10-and-under crowd. 

Nicely reprinting Jack Kirby & Joe Sinnott’s artwork in black-and-white, readers can compare the text in some of the original panels to writer Joey Cavalieri’s adaption.  For instance, Stan Lee’s dialogue for Ben Grimm differs from Cavalieri’s more contemporary wording, but kids should easily grasp the difference between the two versions.   

More so, this book makes a decent transition for younger readers who will soon move on to junior novelizations.    

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

Each chapter concludes with the same full-page, blue-and-white image of the Fantastic Four (as seen below).

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                5 Stars

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Comic Books & Graphic Novels Marvel Comics MARVEL's Hardcovers & Paperbacks

FANTASTIC FOUR: THE UNIVERSAL GUIDE (MARVEL Comics)

Written by Tom DeFalco

Art by Various Artists

Cover Art by Carlos Pagulayan; Jeffrey Huet; & Chris Sotomayor

SUMMARY:

Published by Marvel Comics in 2007, this 148-page DK Books-style digest by veteran Marvel editor-writer Tom DeFalco is a complete guidebook to comics’ First Family: the Fantastic Four.  DeFalco summarizes the team’s history and storylines during each decade; provides character bios of the team, supporting players, and recurring guest stars; offers a section re: its temporary members; and even counts down the Thing’s ‘Top Ten Best Stories.’  The books is heavily decorated with reprinted images from countless comic books and their covers.  The book concludes with a promo two-page interview with Stan Lee hyping his Last Fantastic Four Story one-shot project.

Note: This book focuses solely on the comic books, so the team’s animated and live-action exploits aren’t included.

REVIEW:

Despite the eye-squinting small font size, this kid-friendly book proves a Fantastic Four fan’s dream.  In terms of its present relevancy, DeFalco’s text impressively extends into the 2000’s by discussing Fantastic Four 2099, Ultimate Fantastic Four, and the team’s Marvel Knights 4 imprint.  Yet, this book’s best section may well be its remarkable solo tribute to Ben Grimm’s Thing, as DeFalco describes the character’s best-ever stories.  To the credit of DeFalco and the contributing artists, they have done a truly commendable job of consolidating forty-six years of information re: Marvel’s first super-team into a handy reference guide.  This paperback should be treated as a worthy standard for future projects like this one.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

Stan Lee provides a foreword.  There’s also two sticker pages (with four stickers per page).

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                    9 Stars

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Books & Novels Comic Books & Graphic Novels Fantasy, Horror, & Science Fiction Marvel Comics MARVEL-Related

FANTASTIC FOUR: TO FREE ATLANTIS (by Nancy A. Collins & Illustrated by Paul Ryan)

Written by Nancy A. Collins & Illustrated by Paul Ryan

SUMMARY:

This original 305-page paperback was published by Boulevard Books in 1995.  Once an insidious royal coup imperils Atlantis, a poisoned Namor the Sub-Mariner is forced to seek help from his trusted allies: the Fantastic Four.  Saving Namor from a synthetic virus, the team deduces that Doctor Doom has evidently orchestrated this attempted assassination.  It’s up to Mr. Fantastic (Reed Richards), the Invisible Woman (Sue Storm-Richards), the Human Torch (Johnny Storm), and the Thing (Ben Grimm) to reach Atlantis in time to help Namor thwart Doom’s scheme to seize an ancient undersea weapon capable of devastating Earth. 

REVIEW:

Author Nancy A. Collins’ continuity-faithful storyline is solid, as are her character depictions.  For instance, the Thing’s indignance early on being mistaken by onlookers for the Hulk is a nice touch.  Yet, with the exception of Ben Grimm and a regal Namor, the plot becomes bogged down in pure formula because the other characters aren’t compelling. 

Johnny Storm’s exuberant antics and Sue’s old feelings re: Namor merely play out as one might expect, as do Mr. Fantastic’s scientific deductions.  Though the Thing scores some fun underwater action in the climax, there isn’t anything new or some unexpected twists in To Free Atlantis to generate fresh interest.  If this story had existed in graphic novel form, perhaps it would make for a more compelling read (at least, visually).  Though artist Paul Ryan’s black-and-white chapter illustrations are an asset, they only stoke a casual reader’s imagination so much. 

Fantastic Four fans will likely enjoy this adventure, but anyone else may find it too bland to finish.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES:

Depicting an imminent scene, each chapter leads off with a Ryan illustration.  The author acknowledges that her storytelling is meant in the spirit of comic book legends Jack Kirby and Bill Everett.  She also indicates what three source books that she sought background material re: Atlantis.  Specifically, those works are Robert Graves’ Cladius the God; The Who’s Who of Ancient Greek and Roman Mythology; and Suetonius’  The Twelve Caesars. An excerpt from poet John Milton’s “A Mask Presented at Ludlow Castle [Comus]” leads off the story.  

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                    5 Stars

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Comic Books & Graphic Novels Marvel Comics MARVEL's Hardcovers & Paperbacks

CAPTAIN MARVEL (CAROL DANVERS), VOLUME 3: ALIS VOLAT PROPRIIS (MARVEL Comics)

Written by Kelly Sue DeConnick & Warren Ellis  

Art by David Lopez

SUMMARY:

This ultra-slim 96-page paperbck reprints Marvel Comics’ Captain Marvel # 12-15 from 2015.  Now firmly established as Captain Marvel, Carol Danvers’ year-long Avengers deep space patrol encounters a dire predicament, as she returns to her disabled starship.  Bloodthirsty pirates (known as the Haffensye) have forcibly abducted her sidekicks: alien friend Tic and Carol’s alien orange tabby, Chewie.  Simultaneously pursuing the thugs and trying to make necessary repairs, Carol’s starship must breach a cosmic phenomenon ominously known as the “Endless Envelope,” if she has any chance of intercepting them. 

Carol faces heated competition to retrieve a potentially evil cosmic mirror during the Black Vortex storyline.  Evidently, this mirror allows those who view it to merge with their vastly powerful cosmic counterparts.  The story’s conclusion specifies where this storyline continues on elsewhere.  Carol at last returns home with Chewie, only to discover that a beloved friend on Earth sadly died of cancer the week before.  Guest stars include fellow Avengers: best friend Jessica “Spider-Woman” Drew and Carol’s significant other, James “War Machine” Rhodes. 

REVIEW:

Though Marvel Comics inexplicably doesn’t translate its classy Latin title, it means “She Flies With Her Own Wings.”  It’s an apt description.  Well-anchored by Lopez’s likable artwork, writers Kelly Sue DeConnick & Warren Ellis take readers on an intergalactic hot pursuit that vividly blends Star Wars-style action and humor.  The writing duo also deserve kudos for the minimal techno-babble during Carol’s starship chase.  Carol and her onboard A.I. computer’s ongoing banter is entertaining and easy to follow.     

However, the same doesn’t apply to the baffling Black Vortex cross-over (which is actually the saga’s eleventh installment).  Despite some cool moments (i.e. the cover image), this story is hard to grasp.  A quick intro helps, as readers won’t be completely lost.  However, it’s still a major cheat that the storyline abruptly cuts off, as readers must then separately seek out Legendary Star-Lord # 11.  At a minimum, adding some before-and-after material re: Black Vortex would have been appreciated.  The one-shot wrap-up poignantly completes Carol’s journey home.  It’s really this book’s best asset. 

There’s no question that writers DeConnick & Ellis have smartly updated Carol Danvers.  She has wonderfully morphed from her reckless ex-alcoholic phase several years ago to a surprisingly relatable intergalactic crusader.  Her new association with the Guardians of the Galaxy’s goofy style of sci-fi humor makes perfect sense here, including some terrific Star Wars in-jokes.  Beyond naming her cat in honor of the galaxy’s most famous Wookie, there is Chewie’s amusing mistaken identity sub-plot involving moronic alien goons deeming him the “greatest weapon in the galaxy.” 

More so, Carol’s starship (courtesy of Stark Enterprises) has its own Knight Rider-like personality that she has dubbed as ‘Harrison,’ presumably in homage of Han Solo’s alter ego.  As one could expect, Carol’s wildly dangerous piloting is deliberately reminiscent of a brash Corellian smuggler from a galaxy far, far away.  

Finally, one must consider this book’s inexplicable skimpiness.  The lack of padding — any vintage bonus reprints from Carol’s early days (or maybe one of her pivotal Avengers appearances) — frankly undervalues her character.  The other detriment pertains to those not readily familiar with this series. Clearly, Alis Volat Propriis is meant for those who have at least perused the two prior volumes. 

Though Marvel offers some introductory material, not enough in-story references are made explaining who’s who and what’s what for those now just tuning in.  Still, this classy book contains some terrific material and is definitely worth at least one read.  Had there been more pages for the buck, Alis Volat Propiis would be a true keeper.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

In addition to the cover pages (among them is a stellar variant for issue # 14), there is a four-page, black & white showcase of David Lopez’s in-progress artwork for scenes from this book.  

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                        6 Stars

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Comic Books & Graphic Novels Marvel Comics MARVEL's Hardcovers & Paperbacks

MARVEL ADVENTURES AVENGERS: MISCHIEF (MARVEL Comics)

Written by Tony Bedard

Art by Shannon Gallant; John Stanisci; Cory Hamscher; Norman Lee; Dave Sharpe; Sean Chen; Sandu Florea; etc.

SUMMARY:

As a Target exclusive, this 96-page paperback reprints the all-ages Marvel Adventures: Avengers # 5-8, which were originally published in 2006-2007.  The Avengers team consists of Storm (in a black-and-yellow, Ms. Marvel-inspired costume); Giant Girl (aka the Wasp); Iron Man; Spider-Man; Hulk; Captain America; and Wolverine.  In this storyline, the Avengers’ new nemesis, Loki, conjures up new super-villains to challenge these Avengers. 

The first story is entitled “The Trickster & the Wrecker.”  After facing the Avengers, Loki magically transforms a burglar by enchanting his crowbar and transforming him into the powerful Wrecker.  In an origin reflecting evil’s answer to the ‘Fantastic Four,’ the second story introduces the Hulk’s four U-Foes (X-Ray, Ironclad, Vapor, & Vector).  A third tale pitches an alternate origin for the Juggernaut.  The collection concludes with a rematch vs. Loki, as it comes down to the last Avenger standing. 

REVIEW:

In this alternate ‘reality,’ it’s more or less implied that these Avengers are the world’s sole heroes (at least, on-screen).  Using that context, these stories mostly make sense delving into the villains’ origins.  Still, it’s odd seeing the Wrecker without his formidable Wrecking Crew pals (Piledriver, Thunderball, & Bulldozer). 

Even more so, the odd absence of Thor and other  Asgardians, given Loki’s presence, is frankly a letdown.  Loki’s battle scenes are okay, but the Avengers’ brawls vs. the U-Foes & then the Juggernaut are neat.  As for the Avengers themselves, this squad sports relatively good chemistry, considering half of the team consists of two X-Men and loners like Hulk and Spider-Man.

Requiring minimal Marvel knowledge, “Mischief” is enjoyable, especially the first story.  The plots re: the U-Foes and Juggernaut follow similar formulas, but their stories live up to modest expectations.  The surprisingly sharp artwork makes an engaging asset for writer Tony Bedard’s storytelling.  This collection should make a satisfying, if not memorable, read for your elementary-age Avengers.   

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

Full-page replicas of the covers are included.

BRIAN’S 10-STAR RATING:                       5 Stars

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Comic Books & Graphic Novels Marvel Comics MARVEL's Hardcovers & Paperbacks

AVENGERS: EARTH’S MIGHTIEST HEROES {Based on the Animated TV Series}, VOLUME 1 (MARVEL Comics)

Written by Christopher Yost

Art by Patrick Scherberger; Scott Wegener; Sandu Florea; Jean-Francois Beaulieu; Dave Sharpe; & VC’s Joe Sabino

SUMMARY:

Published by Marvel Comics in 2011, this 112-page, 6” x 9” trade paperback reprints Avengers: Earth’s Mightiest Heroes # 1-4 (first published in 2010-2011).  As a comic book companion to the animated TV series, the stories are:

  • “Adaptation.”  As the Wasp ponders how to welcome Captain America into the 21st Century, the newly-thawed Captain spends his day off trouncing Batroc’s Legion in Times Square.  The team encounters the robotic Super-Adaptoid, which is capable of mimicking the Avengers’ powers.
  • “Trust” (short story): Black Panther & Hawkeye bicker while pursuing the female Whiplash in a darkened warehouse.
  • “Obsession.”  In Switzerland, Iron Man’s grudge in reclaiming his stolen armor technology forces the Avengers into battle against Russia’s Winter Guard (Darkstar; Ursa Major; Vanguard; and Titanium Man) over which team gets to take the fugitive Crimson Dynamo into custody.
  • “Mutual Respect” (short story): A bickering Hulk & Ant-Man team up to thwart the Mad Thinker; Quasimodo; and ‘Awesome Andy’ the android.
  • “Savage.”  Setting up a mind-controlled Thor vs. the Hulk, the Grandmaster bets the Collector over who wins the battle of the Mightiest Avengers.  It’s up to the Hulk’s ingenuity to free Thor from the Collector’s ‘mind game.’ 
  • “Courage” (short story): Protecting a semi-conscious and critically-wounded Captain America, an outmatched Wasp must fend off the monstrous Wendigo amidst a blizzard. 
  • “Team.”  Zemo’s Masters of Evil deploys the gigantic Ultimo robot for their latest assault.  Wasp takes some candid photos of the battle.  A familiar Daily Bugle photographer who snaps the team’s portrait is a Marvel in-joke.          

REVIEW:

Despite Christopher Yost’s fun scripting, the artwork is generally pedestrian.  A sole exception is the candid ‘photos’ from “Team,” as they are the sole jewel of this book’s visuals.  Curiously, the short story artwork proves far better than the longer stories — go figure.  In terms of the complete package, Yost’s creativity makes this collection at best a decent read for the elementary school crowd.     

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

The 16-page Character Profile gallery reviews:

  • Iron Man; Captain America; Thor; Hulk; Wasp; Ant-Man; Hawkeye; Black Panther; Nick Fury; Black Widow; Baron Zemo; Kang; Baron Strucker; Zemo; Ultron; Enchantress; Crimson Dynamo; and the Abomination.
  • Hawkeye’s arrows and sky-cycle; & Thor’s Mjolnir hammer;
  • A quick quiz to identify four different villainous weapons;
  • A simplified diagram of Iron Man’s interface.

A copy of each issue’s cover by Patrick Scherberger and Scott Wegener (for Issue # 4) is also included.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                   5 Stars

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Comic Books & Graphic Novels Marvel Comics MARVEL's Hardcovers & Paperbacks

MARVEL KNIGHTS 4 (FANTASTIC FOUR), VOLUME 5: THE RESURRECTION OF NICHOLAS SCRATCH (MARVEL Comics)

Written by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa

Art by Valentine DeLandro; Mizuki Sakakibara; Clay Mann; Batt; Jon Sibal; Avalon’s Dave Kemp & Dan Kemp; Virtual Calligraphy’s Dave Sharpe & Joe Caramagna; Tony Harris; Gary Frank; Andy Brase; David Aja; & Clayton Crain

Book Cover Art by Gary Frank; Clayton Crain; & Chris Sotomayor

SUMMARY:

Released in 2006 by Marvel Comics, this 144-page paperback reprints Marvel Knights 4 # 25-27 and the subsequently renamed Four # 28-30 (all from 2005-2006), which effectively ends this particular series.  The three-part “Resurrection of Nicholas Scratch” teams the Fantastic Four, Doctor Strange, and reluctant ally Diablo vs. the devilish Scratch, his mutant offspring: The Salem Seven, and possibly his late mother, Agatha Harkness. 

Once a monstrous demon returns, more than one unholy alliance comes into play.  In “Private Lives, Public Faces” (Issue # 28), Sue & Reed each contend with a friend’s personal crisis where inner heroism takes precedence over their super-powers. 

In “Fallout” (Issue # 29), the team returns to The Savage Land to confirm Godseye’s recent destruction.  Yet, Sue becomes suspicious of Reed’s possibly hidden motives.  Finishing this series, “Open House” (set prior to Civil War # 1), the team experiences mixed emotions surrounding a public meet-and-greet at the Baxter Building.  Guest stars include The Inhumans and Namor the Sub-Mariner.

Note: Though not officially billed as such, this book is Volume 5 (and last) for the Marvel Knights 4 imprint.

REVIEW:

Despite shifts due to varying artistic styles, the book’s visuals remain classy from start to finish.  Case in point: the cover images are high-caliber.  As to writer Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa’s scripting, this collection is a fairly complex read rather than a thrill ride.  Of the Fantastic Four itself, Sue “Invisible Woman” Richards and Ben “The Thing” Grimm come off as the most likable and down-to-earth. 

The appeal of Reed “Mr. Fantastic” Richards varies – mostly due to his condescending super-genius persona.  Yet, the last two stories imbue Reed with a more enigmatic flair.  Johnny “Human Torch” Storm is predictably one-dimensional, as his immature antics demonstrate zero growth for his character.    

Aguirre-Sacasa first devises an intriguing supernatural tale that challenges this veteran (and somewhat snooty) super-team with multiple old foes.  To his credit, “Scratch” engages some well-played plot twists.  As for the one-shot “Private Lives, Public Faces,” Aguirre-Sacasa smartly depicts Sue & Reed discreetly helping others, as a hint of a marital wedge is slowly brewing between them. 

While this tale balances bleak realism (without resorting to graphic details) and possible hope, what Issue # 28 does best is convey Mr. and Mrs. Richards as relatable human beings rather than merely cardboard super-heroes.  The last two stories are good, but the underlying melancholy don’t necessarily make them entertaining reads.

This Marvel Knights 4 finale should satisfy Fantastic Four fans, but, for casual (teens-and-up) readers, it’s more akin to a wholesome family drama than crowd-pleasing action-adventure.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

The covers are reprinted as full-page images.  There’s also an interesting, two-page, black-and-white cover image development for Issue # 28 by artist David Aja.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:               7 Stars