Collection of Graphic Novel Reviews/Recaps
The following was written a few years ago...
Preacher, a graphic novels review
Do not read any further if you do not want any spoilers. I can not stress that enough, the graphic novel really is worth a read. I have just recently finished all six volumes of it. I would even say it’s the best graphic novel series I have read that does not include superheroes. Preacher tells the story of Jesse Custer, a preacher in the small Texas town of Annville. Custer is accidentally possessed by the supernatural creature named Genesis, the infant product of the unauthorized, unnatural coupling of an angel and a demon. The incident flattens Custer’s church and kills his entire congregation. The series consists of 75 issues in total – 66 regular, monthly issues, five one-shot specials and a four-issue Preacher: Saint of Killers limited series.
Originally it was published under DC vertigo. The story is dark and only get more intense as you read it. Tulip O’Hare, a hitwoman has an interesting relationship with Jesse while a different relationship is formed with the vampire known as Cassidy. The three travel together a lot in the many stories of the graphic novel. They intend to find god and make him answer for his crimes. They meet some very interesting characters on the way. They include the klan, secret Christian society called the grail, angels, sex detectives, rednecks, mutants, demons and even god.
Stephen King has said that his comic book series The Dark Tower: The Gunslinger Born was influenced by Preacher. IGN declared Preacher the third-greatest Vertigo comic, after Swamp Thing and Sandman. Jesse Custer was ranked the 11th Greatest Comic Book Character by Empire magazine. The Saint of Killers was ranked at number 42 on the same list. Preacher #18 reached 50,000 monthly sales in August 1996 making it one of the most popular Vertigo single comic book issues in its history.
On November 16, 2013, it was announced that AMC will be shooting a pilot for Preacher. On November 18, 2013, BleedingCool confirmed that Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg developed the series pilot with Sam Catlin and that it will be distributed by Sony Pictures Television. On February 7, 2014, it was made public that AMC is officially developing the series to television based on the pilot written by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg. The tv show has many differences then the graphic novel. As you see below, the two characters from both stories have a wide age gap.
Overall, the ending was sad but very satisfying. You learn a lot more about the character Cass in the last volume and makes you question everything you like about him. All the characters along the way such as Arseface, God, Herr Starr, the saint of killers and even Tulip have been amazing and show great character development in each scene. Adding to its awesomeness, the references and the scene with Bill Hicks is amazing too. The style and art in the graphic novel is also impressive for its time. Thank you Garth Ennis for a great piece of dark humour and a fascinating story.
9.3/10
Rick and Morty Volume 1, a graphic novel review
“It’s like a game of baseball but the ball hovers maybe! or it could be like a weird type of basketball but maybe it’s played underwater, I’m not really sure! Goodnight folks!” – Alien news reporter
Went into Melbourne and picked up one of these bad boys. With the show being quite possible being my favourite animated tv series ever, I had to buy it. It is written by Zac Gorman and art is done by CJ Cannon. With one hundred and twenty-three pages, you will want to read the whole thing in a night.
Storywise, it’s full of jokes in-between texted burps of Rick. Straight from the start they mess with Jerry strong. Then all the chapters go into interesting topics while somewhat relating to each other. Overall each chapter seems like a solid short story more than a developing story. The art style to the show is different for the graphic novel. Still… each image tells the story in a creative way and interesting way.
Extras in this graphic novel are great too. After the main story theres shorts from possible other realitys and dimensions. First its a short Summer story, then an alternative Rick and Morty, then Jerry and finally a Beth story. Unrelated, I read the whole book in an hour and twenty minutes including breaks.
Overall, just finishing it, I wanted more. I need volume 2. This Rick and Morty compared to the show is similar but goes into different types of themes and storys. The ending does not lead into a sequel but, leads into a good ending. I hope in the next one its starts developing a stronger story in the overall book series. I recommend the graphic novel to people who love the show and likes the shows type of humour.
7.6/10
The Complete Maus, a graphic novel review
“To die, it’s easy. But you have to struggle for life.” ― Art Spiegelman, Maus I: A Survivor’s Tale: My Father Bleeds History
This old school graphic novel tells one of the most interesting holocaust stories of all time. The Jews are rats the Nazis are cats and pigs are the Polish. The story is split into two timelines with rats old and young. Then the tales of the old rat is told in a historic and brutal way. This is mostly world war two story told in mixed genres of reading.
For its time, I wonder what the response of it would be. Its topics and themes are broad enough to get a lot of attention. I first learnt of this book from a Simpsons episode. The one with a comic book convention and the writer of this, Alan Moore and a writer of a book called Ghost world makes an appearance. Since then I always wanted to check it out. I was not disappointed.
“I’m not talking about YOUR book now, but look at how many books have already been written about the Holocaust. What’s the point? People haven’t changed… Maybe they need a newer, bigger Holocaust.” ― Art Spiegelman
The story starts as Art the son wants to make a book about his father. With age and Jewish stereotype, he tells his world war 2 story. Art wants as much detail as possible. The old rat gives him and the audience a crazy story Each chapter is worth remembering for dialogue and creative art style. The ending gets sad quick and may get you emotional. I recommend the graphic novel to anyone who likes war stories and wants something older to read.
7.71/10
“No matter what I accomplish, it doesn’t seem like much compared to surviving Auschwitz.” ― Art Spiegelman, Maus II: A Survivor’s Tale: And Here My Troubles Began
Rick and Morty Volume 2, a graphic novel review
“No wonder there’s no Rick in this universe. I would’ve offed myself years ago if I had to look at this cyber trash everyday,” – Rick Sanchez
Rick and Morty Volume 2 is the second collected trade paperback of the Rick and Morty comic series. It was released on May 10, 2016 by Oni Press. Alternate dimensions and new bad guys. New storys and more jokes. Everyone who likes Rick and Morty should check this book series out. I bought this copy on the website fishpond.com.
Catch up on the adventures of degenerate genius Rick Sanchez and his bumbling grandson Morty as they explore the outer reaches of time, space, and decency. This collection features issues #6-10 of the comic book series, including the “Ball Fondlers Special” by guest artist Andrew MacLean, “A Very Special Blumbus,” illustrated by series writer Zac Gorman, and a cyberpunk adventure across the multiverse. Plus: bonus mini-comics showcasing fan-favorite characters!
I need more Rick and Morty graphic novels. This one was better than the first volume, I now need the third volume. The ending contains many short storys with the Rick and Morty characters in it. Also there’s some interesting Jerry stuff in the book. I recommend this book to everyone who likes the tv show and liked the first graphic novel.
7.65/10
“I’ve been to the edge of our universe. Slept underneath stars we can’t even see from here. Danced with alien royalty in glittering palaces millions of light years away. But – but I’m standing still.” – Morty Smith
Watchmen, a graphic novel review
“Heard joke once: Man goes to doctor. Says he’s depressed. Says life seems harsh and cruel. Says he feels all alone in a threatening world where what lies ahead is vague and uncertain. Doctor says, “Treatment is simple. Great clown Pagliacci is in town tonight. Go and see him. That should pick you up.” Man bursts into tears. Says, “But doctor…I am Pagliacci.” ― Alan Moore, Watchmen
Always mentioned, this graphic novel is said to be one of the best graphic novels of all time. The graphic novel is about an alternative history where superheroes emerged in the 1940s and 1960s. In 1985 the country is heading towards World War 3 with Russia and superheros are outlawed. A murder of a government owned superhero pulls out the former superheros from retirement. The story focuses on personal development of the characters and moral struggles. It was originally released as issues in comics in the year of 1986.
A worldwide success, Watchmen has received respect from both comics and mainstream press and is considered by several critics and reviewers to be one of the most impressive works of 20th-century in literature. Watchmen was shown in Time‘s List of the 100 Best Novels as one of the best English language novels published since 1923. The BBC described it as “The moment comic books grew up.”. It has also been called the “Citizen Kane.” of comics.
After a number of attempts to adapt the graphic novel into a feature film, director Zack Snyder’s Watchmen was released in 2009. Watchmen had been shopped as a potential film property as far back as 1986, when producers Lawrence Gordon and Joel Silver bought the film rights. The writer, Alan Moore was originally supposed to write a series about the characters DC comics purchased from Charlton Comics. Not scraping the plot, Moore made up his own characters based on the purchased characters DC comics brought. And watchmen was born.
Gritty and grim, itself and Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Returns influenced the style we see today in various content. The story is very realistic to if we had great superheros emerge. All the characters are shown strong in the story. Each character has many memorable scenes in the overall story. Dr Manhattan (The only real super powered human in the story) is my favourite character, while many other characters had consistent interesting dialog. The ending is very different in the movie and was controversial. I recommend this graphic novel to all fans who read graphic novels/comic books or just like the superhero genre.
9.15/10
PS – Alan Moore has written many more interesting stories worth checking out. Only if you like his style of story creation.
“A live body and a dead body contain the same number of particles. Structurally, there’s no discernible difference. Life and death are unquantifiable abstracts. Why should I be concerned?”
Deadpool Kills the Marvel Universe, a graphic novel review
“I already killed you once… And I bet you’ll come back again and again… No matter how many times I slaughter you. Your tendency to come back from the brink of death has nothing to do with your healing factor. Your mutant power isn’t regeneration. It’s popularity.” ― Cullen Bunn, Deadpool Kills the Marvel Universe #3
If you liked the Deadpool movie, you should check out this graphic novel. As the tittle suggests this graphic novel is about Deadpool killing everything in the Marvel universe. Why is he doing that? Deadpool has some different personality traits from the movie adaption. This graphic novel is has a lot of violence and features Deadpool’s complete loose of reality.
In this story the fourth wall is broken a lot. Deadpool tears down all wall that we would normally expect to see. It starts of the story strong with the death of the Fantastic four and a flashback of the X-men putting Deadpool into an asylum. Then Deadpool is triggered and starts seeing his Avenger team mates as bizarre versions of them self. Deadpool can not stop himself and in this story it is different because he calls for help, during and after killing his targets.
Marvel comic superheroes killed in this movie:
The Fantastic Four
Spider-man
Luke Cage
Thor
The Hulk
Wolverine
Dr Strange
The Punisher
Even more superheros from Marvel comics!
One of the best Deadpool storys I have ever read. If they were to make a movie from it, it would be amazing. Like the graphic novel its art style could be interesting. Even though this graphic novel has mixed reviews by critics, it is highly regarded by others as a must read for Deadpool fans. I recommend this graphic novel to everyone who likes Deadpool and a gory expressed comedy.
7.65/10
Whatever Happened to the Caped Crusader? A graphic novel review
“You don’t get heaven or hell. Do you know the only reward you get for being Batman? You get to be Batman.” ― Neil Gaiman, Batman: Whatever Happened to the Caped Crusader?
A two-part story featuring DC Comics character Batman. Written by Neil Gailman, the story is a last Batman story based after the stories from Batman R.I.P and Final Crisis. The overall concept of the story is Batman’s funeral with less action and more of everyone showing up. Remembering Batman, they all seem to think the details of his life and death was different. This story could be used for any future Batman story or live-action movie.
It was published originally in the final issues of the series Batman (#686) and Detective Comics (#853). Gaiman said about writing the story “It’s one of those things where they phoned me up and said, ‘This is what’s going to be happening with Batman. Would you like to write the last issue of Batman and the last issue of Detective Comics? And when they make an offer like that, you say yes,”.
This graphic novel also has extra short stories such as A Black and White World, Pavane, Original Sins and When Is A Door. Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow? a Superman comic story written by Alan Moore and also Where Were You on the Night Batman Was Killed? was an inspiration to this story.
Awards and accomplishments:
2010 “Best Comic” SFX Sci-Fi Award
2009 British Fantasy Award for Best Comic/Graphic Novel.
2009 Goodreads choice award for Graphic Novel.
2010, it was nominated for the Hugo Award for Best Graphic Story.
This was my first time reading anything from Neil Gaiman. I was recommend this book and Gaiman wrote The Sandman series I have wanted to read. Reading this graphic novel I want to check out more of Gaiman’s stuff. It shows Batman being reborn over and over again in well told stories. The artwork was the style of the eighties and seventies while still giving out a great modern look. While it has some recycled ideas it remains fresh full of philosophy and depth. I recommend this Batman story to people who have read the earlier stories mentioned in the first paragraph and people who have already read a lot of Batman.
7.18/10
“It doesn’t happen like this! Everybody, you put him in a death trap, he pulls something outta his utility belt and he’s away. Same bat time, same bat channel.” ― Neil Gaiman, Batman: Whatever Happened to the Caped Crusader?
Batman: The Black Mirror, a graphic novel review
“Combines the real world elements that have made the Christopher Nolan movies so successful with stylised visuals that only the comic medium can provide.” – COMPLEX MAGAZINE
Selling as a NEW YORK TIMES bestseller, this story ends the final arc in the original run for Detective Comics before the series was rebooted. The issues of Detective Comics are #871 – #881. Set after the changing events of Final Crisis, Dick Grayson picks up the mantle as the new Batman. The storyline deals with the villain Tiger Shark and the return of James Gordan JR. This story is written by Scott Snyder with illustrations by Jock and Francesco Francavilla.
Batman was presummed dead in Final Crisis, but re-appears in this story and creates Batman Incorporated. Using his money for Gotham to be better prepared. The story continues as the crime in Gotham does not stop and there is a mass murderer on the loose. Then things start to pick up as James Gordan Jr returns after a long hiatus. Eventually there is even an appearance from the Joker which is always fun.
Does wonderful things in low-key moments while each part of the dialog has great development and connections. It’s dark, the character of Dick Grayson is great as Batman. A story I would read again. And finally it has some of the greatest artwork to be part of Batman comics/grahic novels. The ending may be a bit predictable but the journey to it is done in a great way. I reccomend this grahic novel to every who like good Batman stories.
7.9/10
“The art is beatiful. The writing is terrifyingly spectacular… one of the darkest, most enjoyable Gotham City sagas in recent memory.” – IGN
The Sandman – Vol 1: Preludes and Noctures, a graphic novel review
“Some things are too big to be seen; some emotions too huge to be felt.” ― Neil Gaiman, Preludes & Nocturnes
I have heard about The Sandman from reviews online and some mentions of him in other comics/graphic novels. Today I get to share my thoughts and opinions of the graphic novels/comics . Preludes & Nocturnes is the first trade paperback collection of the comic book series published by the DC Comics imprint Vertigo. It collects issues #1–8 in colour. It was first issued in paperback in 1991, and later in hardback in 1995 and features an introduction by Paul Wilson.
In 1988, Neil Gaiman wrote an eight-issue outline for a new Sandman series. Reading some of his other DC work and recommendations from friends I had to check out The Sandman. Even Gaiman says this series was the best he has ever written. The story is about an occultist attempting to capture Death instead traps her younger brother Dream instead. After his years of imprisonment and eventual escape, Dream goes on a quest for his lost objects of power to reclaim his reign.
Issues in the graphic novel:
Sleep of the Just
Imperfect Hosts
Dream a Little Dream of Me
A Hope in Hell
Passengers
24 Hours
Sound and Fury
The Sound of her Wings
This book past my expectations and much more. Firstly the art, style and content is very original and fascinating. The story is dark, gritty and philosophy to a point where I can say it’s really good. Then the main character Dream is awkward, smart and very god like. The Sandman is just one of The Endless. There is so many great concepts developed in it that the DC universe where the story is based in is pushed very far to the back. John Constantine makes a cameo in this book. I recommend this graphic novel to everyone who like the super hero genre. The next volume in the series is The Doll’s House and I have already read it since finishing this review..
8.5/10
“You can know anything. It’s all there. You just have to find it.” ― Neil Gaiman, Preludes & Nocturnes
Regular Show Vol. 1, a graphic novel review
“The book matches the tone and style of the show perfectly: a surreal sitcom where almost literally nothing makes complete sense but nothing happens at random.” – COMIC VINE
The first collection of the all-ages comic based on the Cartoon Network animated series. Regular Show is an Emmy-wining show that is now currently over. But the comics of the series continue. In this first graphic novel of a collection of crazy short stories is very similar to the animated show. But these stories are drawn with a unique style and new original content. It was written by K.C. Green and illustrated by Allison Strejlau. This collection of sort stories is the first to fourth issue of the comics put together.
The comedy based in this graphic novel and animated television show is based on mundane situations and developed into a surreal situation. Also it shows satire and farce elements in its characters and stories. Mordecai and Rigby, the two main characters bring their comedy chemistry to this graphic novel as well as the park’s crew. In the original concept for Regular Show, it was called Normal Show and it was about animals who take care of humans on display in a zoo.
Stories included in this graphic novel:
Thrill Baby
Wide Awake
Sugartown
Freegans
Re-reading this graphic novel today, I want to buy the second volume and more of the series. First off this grapic novel is funny and very quick to read. The art work is impressive. My favourite story in this graphic novel is the first story where Muscle Man creates a mosh pit. Hearing that in the later issues they create stories based 25 years later, I am interested to read more. Even the Adventure Time/ Regular Show comics sound interesting. I recommend this graphic novel to every who is the fan of the show.
7.39/10
“… this comic book nails it and nails it hard. Fans of Regular Show will be right at home here, and who are unfamiliar with the show are in for a zany treat.” – IGN
Flashpoint, a graphic novel review
One of the best DC Comics crossover stories ever told. In an altered DC Universe, Barry Allen goes back in time to stop his mother’s murder and then this one action changes everything you have previously known about DC Comics. Changing the status quo for the DC Universe, it helped the launch of the New 52. Released originally in 2011, the story has to lead to prequels, stories in future comic stories, an animated movie and much more. The writer of this series was Geoff Johns and the artist, Andy Kubert.
Owning this graphic novel and all the prequel graphic novels, there are too many differences and points of interest in this story arc to describe. But I will describe what happens to each member of the Justice League. In this new world Aquaman and Wonder Woman have become evil and at war with each other due to a past failed marriage. Superman did not crash as a baby in Kansas but a large city. And Batman is not Bruce Wayne. But in fact, the night of Bruce’s parent’s death happened in the opposite. Bruce died and his father became the Batman.
If you have not seen the animated movie yet, you should watch the video from YouTube below from Comicstorian. This may be This may be The Flash’s best story as the main protagonist. And also The Reverse Flash’s one as well. This time-travelling concept is done to perfection. Each individual story is very interesting and continues to develop as it goes. The visual style complements all character scenes and action. It all leads to a powerful ending that is worth reading. I recommend this graphic novel to all fans of DC Comics and fans of The Flash tv show. This graphic novel is way better than the Flashpoint episode apart of the television show.
8.4/10
Batman: The Long Halloween, a graphic novel review
“When faced with a seemingly insurmountable problem… your only option is to act swiftly, some might even say irrationally. Removing the most dangerous elements first… and methodically attacking each subsequent challenge in a separate, but deliberate manner.” – Jeph Loeb, Batman: The Long Halloween
The Long Halloween was one of the comics that influenced Christopher Nolan’s Batman Trilogy. It was the follow-up to Batman: Haunted Knight. Which is set between Batman: Year One and The Long Halloween. Each chapter of this story is set around a murder on a holiday while having a full collection of interesting stories and visual art. This is a great graphic novel to start reading Batman.
Borrowing this graphic novel from a friend, it was recommended in many different places. It is a classic Batman story with a sense of noir, crime, drama and mystery. This one took me about two hours to finish reading and it was worth it. It has clever writing, that delivers in dialogue and character development while still holding great twists and turns. The ending is different from what I was initially expecting. I recommend this graphic novel to anyone who has not read Batman from the nineties.
8/10
PS – Now I want to read more Batman that’s based in the same series so I understand the chronological order better.
“The town isn’t big enough for two homicidal maniacs.” – Jeph Loeb, Batman: The Long Halloween
Batman: Year One, a graphic novel review
Many people can write Batman. Frank Miller is one of them. This story has influenced many of the live-action Batman movies and origin stories as a whole. Just reading it you can tell it was revolutionary for its time. In the publication of Batman, it has evolved from its golden age beginnings in 1939. This story arc started the era of darker and grittier content for all writers in DC Comics.
There are many ways to read comic stories in chronological order. This graphic novel is a perfect place to start reading Batman stories. Visually this story character develops its characters to a believable level. It has a balance of being minimum while being very detailed. And a unique perspective from Batman.
I watched the animated movie adaptation first and thought it was impressive. Bryan Cranston even voiced Detective Gordan. Reading this graphic novel in one hour all in one shot, it stands out as its own thing. And I am glad that I got the opportunity to borrow it. The end is what they did in the first Christopher Nolan Batman movies. I recommend this graphic novel to everyone to
7.67/10
Deadpool Kills the Marvel Universe Again, a graphic novel review
The first one they did was so good they had to make an entirely new story based on the same sort of concept. Here is my review of the first one https://ungroovygords.wordpress.com/2018/04/11/deadpool-kills-the-marvel-universe-a-graphic-novel-review/. As the title suggests, Deadpool kills a lot of people. Compared to the last one, this one feels more character-driven. How it expresses Deadpool’s anger in a more direct way. On the front of this graphic novel is a parental advisory on it.
An advertising quote from the publisher – “The writer and artist of the original slaughterfest reunite! Prepare for an all-new, all-different tale of death and destruction starring the Merc With A Mouth! You won’t believe your eyes when Deadpool kills the entire Marvel Universe…again!”
A list of some people who die in this story:
Gambit
MODOK
Doctor Voodoo
Rogue
Quicksilver
Synapse
Thor
Loki
Hercules
Valkyrie
Hippolyta
Ganesha
Short and to the point, I read this all in one sitting. All the issues in one graphic novel. Mind-controlled in this one. You can visually see his messed up brain while he slaughters many heroes in the Marvel universe. All the story is packed tight with excellent dialogue. I can definitely see them making a Deadpool movie based on these graphic novels. Near the end of a Deadpool movie franchise. This one is not a necessary one you need to read to know Deadpool’s story. While it is definitely worth a read. I recommend this graphic novel to fans of Deadpool and people who enjoyed the first one.
7.68/10
Adventure Time, Vol 1. a graphic novel review
“Boom! Studios has a strong track record when it comes to adaptations, but none have captured the tone and visual style of the source material as completely as ADVENTURE TIME.” – The Onion A.V.
What Time Is It? Oh My Glob! Adventure Time! The weird and wacky Adventure Time on Cartoon Network has its own comic book series. Loved by many and just like the animated show, this volume of four comic book issues appeals to the young and the old. Best pals, Finn and Jake join together with many other quirky characters to fight off the return of the Lich King who wants to use the Bag of Holding to suck up the Land of Ooo and throw it into the sun/
The characters of Adventure Time have developed over time while this comic book series restarts the story and reintroduces everyone. As for the writer of this series, Ryan North doesn’t miss a beat as his characterizations, plots, and dialogue flows just right enough to make it feel like you are watching a new tv show episode of Adventure time. Not only that but also has little quotes at the bottom of the page that breaks the fourth wall which are some of the best parts of the whole graphic novel.
Visually impressive, these Adventure Time stories capture the essence of what the show is about. Full of the typical humour expected from Adventure Time all your favourite characters are featured (If you have not seen the tv show). I was so impressived with this graphic novel that I brought the second volume. I recommend this graphic novel to all fans of the show or new fans who have never seen the show and want something new and fun to read.
7.6/10
“Ryan North and artists Shelli Paroline and Braden Lamb have created a comic that is as great as the show.” – Comics Bulletin
Blackest Night, a graphic novel review
“If you’ve read a superhero book published by DC Comics within the last few years, and were completely blown away by it, there’s a good chance that it was something written by Geoff Johns,” – Washington Examiner
Blackest Night was my first Green Lantern graphic novel I brought a few years ago. The crossover of DC Comics shows how epic a Green Lantern story can be in comparison to how the Green Lanterns are portrayed in pop culture. Death is a common element that is shown in this story that conflicts with Green Lantern’s emotional spectrum.
Directly speaking to your expectations do not listen to the mixed reviews. Something sucks you into this story where you must stick around to see the major event at the end. After reading this story you will want to read its sequel and any other Green Lantern stories to gain more context with the characters.
As our most iconic characters face brutal downfalls it creates doubt in the eyes of the reader. As a result, it made me believe there was not going to be a happy ending. If interested in an introduction Green Lantern story and are not familiar with the Green Lantern concepts, do what I did and read this graphic novel.
8.3/10
As our most iconic characters face brutal downfalls it creates doubt in the eyes of the reader. As a result, it made me believe there was not going to be a happy ending. If interested in an introduction Green Lantern story and are not familiar with the Green Lantern concepts, do what I did and read this graphic novel. Easily in my all-time favorite comics. I told myself I was just going to finish part 3 last night and sleep. Then I read parts 4 and 5. Then I gave up and read it before I went to sleep. And let me tell you, it was better than sleep. Geoff Johns really crafted something amazing here. The storytelling was phenomenal and the dialogue was impeccable. Ivan Reis… *slow clap evolves into a disturbing cacophony of congratulation* … This guy can illustrate. He’s one of my favorite artists now. His work here was jaw-dropping. Some of the full 2-page panels just blew my mind with how detailed they were. I’m not really going to go into the plot because there’s just so. much. there. But Johns and Reis really made a distinct impact on my introduction to the other five Lantern Corps. I had always known about the Green Lantern Corps and the Sinestro Corps, but I didn’t know there were five others. And then other forms of light: black and white. And then the sheer number of other characters in this. It was a Green Lantern comic, but the entire Justice League, Teen Titans, etc. was in this thing. And the way they changed the characters for this comic was so awesome. I LOVED IT. What can I say? Superhero crossovers make me extremely happy. – Eli (goodreads.com – 5/5)
Final Crisis, a graphic novel review
“All is one in Darkseid. The mighty body is my church. When I command your surrender, I speak with three billion voices…” – Grant Morrison, Final Crisis
Final Crisis is a massive crossover storyline event written by Grant Morrison in 2008. Non-stop this story has a lot going on around Earth and in space at the same time. Even a story about Superman going into a limbo world where he joins with many other multidimensional Superman and they save millions on parallel worlds at the same time as everything else. This read made me believe in the character of Darkseid as a credible villain.
The destruction of the Justice League of America in this story takes nods to previous superhero stories as well. Referencing previous DC tales things get brutal as Darkseid’s army destroys strongholds and mind control people. Such as brainwashing Wonder Woman to go crazy. And as you can see in the above image, Batman dies in this story in the most important part of the story which is worth remembering. (That is not a spoiler!)
It is enough to keep you reading without any boring scenes. The conflicts in combination with action develops into a complex story that flowed. The detail in the art style compliments the dialogue and what is happening on each page. Just thinking about it makes me want to start re-reading it again.
It is noteworthy to mention that this mini-series was preceded by Countdown to Final Crisis, Terror Titans, Final Crisis Aftermath and a host of others in the comics. So good Final Crisis has been a choice of mine that should be made into a movie with a huge budget. Or a special from one of the many DC fictional universes in tv to movies. I stand by my rating out of ten and highly recommend reading it regardless if you know the previous stories surrounding it.
8.5/10
“The multiverse has natural defenses none of you could have imagined. No one %$%$ with the judge of all evil.” – Grant Morrison, Final Crisis
Lucifer: Devil In The Gateway, a graphic novel review
“A work of genius in the dark fantasy genre… Lucifer remains the crown jewel of the VERTIGO throne – apparently the Devil really does have the best comics!” – Comics Entertainment
Having seen the entire first season of Lucifer, the TV show and seen his original appearance in the Neil Gaiman ‘Sandman’ series, this character intrigued me. Sarcastic but charming, Lucifer, Lightbringer or the angel Samael is a not what you expect as an anti-hero. I am late to this series which was published back in 2001 although I am hooked after finding a cheap copy randomly at a miscellaneous local store.
Having three stories in the collection I own, volume one tells two long and fascinating stories that are within the DC Comics universe. Establishing that Lucifer has retired from his throne from hell, on Earth he does Heaven’s dirty work, but he gets to name his price. Originally poetic, each line delivered is a piece of relevant art collaborating with the dark fantasy nature of all the spiritual/magic concepts
Story one takes on a concept of ‘First there was darkness. Then there was light’. Lucifer is omnipresent so he becomes a narrator and the star. Developing into an origin adventure, it leads to an adventure throughout the various realms of hell. In the second story, we see flashbacks from Heaven and a connection with a cursed man with cursed cards. Which has an impressive payoff compared to the last story.
Then the last story may have been the weakest and the shortest. Overall this first volume has many similarities to Alan Moore and Neil Gaiman’s writing and makes me think how good this comic series author Mike Carey’s other stuff is. Made a long time ago, I highly recommend this volume as it still holds up in 2019. I could comment on my favourite moments within the three stories, but it is too good to spoiler for anyone.
7.77/10
“It’s in these self-contained stories that we see just how talented Carey is. His imagination and appreciation of human heart make for storytelling that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.” – Fandom.com
Justice League: Trinity War, a graphic novel review (The New 52!)
“There’s a reason I don’t have a list of villains as long as Bruce’s, Barry’s, or even yours. When I deal with them, I deal with them.” ―Geoff Johns, Justice League: Trinity War
In the first big event of The New 52! the arc leading to this payoff spans over several titles. Justice League Dark and Justice League of America join together to solve the mystery of Pandora’s Box. Linking an alternative universe Earth-3’s Crime Syndicate is introduced in this part that leads into the “Forever Evil” Storyline.
Delivering everything you would want in action and mystery, the visual style of each page adds suspense to both genres. It captures the supernatural themes from the DARK side of the Justice League, with the common themes of what makes a hero on the other. Focusing on Martian Manhunter and Constantine as key characters were what carried this book to end.
Finding this to be one of the most standouts from The New 52! Series, the interesting cameo appearances was not enough to make it seem less simple and straightforward it was. The graphic novel is thick and turning a page just flys by. Although holding some originality in some sections above the cliche civil war concept, there is some mess there with so many characters packed into their panels.
It was engaging in intensity but something did not feel right in what it could have been. Still, for dialogue sake, it was able to correctly flow. Watching the sequel Forever Evil in the video below that review may be rated higher than this. Would recommend if you don’t mind my negative comments, and are intrigued by the positives.
“TRINITY WAR has all the bells and whistles you need” – CRAVEONLINE
7.45/10
Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors, a graphic novel review
“Green Lantern: Emerald Warriors is the real deal..” – IGN
Being a Brightest Day Spinoff, it is just one of many sequels to the famous Blackest Night graphic novel. Buying this at an Australian comic book festival cheap to my memory, I did not release until now it was a part of the Brightest Day series. Focusing on the best Green Lantern Guy Gardner, the animated movie has no relation to the 1998 comic book or this one with the same name.
The story is about Guy who is known to be religious in nature teaming up with the bad guys and more to explore the uncharted sectors in space. Getting the most out of the Lantern universe in the DC comics franchise, the team up with Atrocitus and Ganhet is worth checking out alone among much more. Whatever some may say about the Green Lanterns, there’s still so much source material to be made into movies the world needs to see.
A lot of lore deep within its history displayed in visually impressive artwork. A start that leads to more stories that you want to know how it plays out. Solid enough to keep you engaged from start to finish. A bit short for its own reasons will cost it at its score from me although valuable enough to make me want to re-read it.
“Tomasi writes the most relatable Guy Gardner I’ve ever read” – PHILADELPHIA DAILEY NEWS
7.65/10
DC Universe By Alan Moore, a graphic novel review
Green Arrow: “That’s my whole point… it’s like Darwinism or something… we’re gradually weeding out all the just-plain-average goons, gradually improving the strain…”
For some of the earlier work by infamous comic book Alan Moore, this compiled assortment of various character stories just fit with what the best of DC Comics is all about. Tight plottings and a focus on the narrative, with each story becoming more diverse and will appeal to different people’s tastes for Superhero tales. Then there is some artwork that is spectacular as the style changes when you finish at least half a dozen to start another.
Moore’s work has defined the public’s expectations of the medium – The Los Angelos Times
Alan Moore may be one of the most impressive writers to ever write Superman and The Green Lantern. I remember fondly a story in this with Superman meeting Swamp Thing for the first time. And the complexity Green Lantern has in its comics is done in this writer’s vision. While I liked over half of the stories, there were a few dull ones in my opinion also maybe there was one or two that I can’t remember being of a quality that I have missed.
Collection of Moore contributions to DC Comics with the following comics of this graphic novel:
For The Man Who Has Everything (Recommended)
Night Olympics Part 1 (Recommended)
Night Olympics Part 2 (Recommended)
Father’s Day (Recommended)
Father’s Day Part II (Recommended)
Brief Lives(Recommended)
A Man’s World
The Jungle Line (Recommended)
Tygers (Recommended)
Footsteps
In Blackest Night (Recommended)
Mortal Clay (Recommended)
Whatever Happened To The Man Of Tomorrow? (Recommended)
The Big Chill
Legba
Erzulie
Samed
Damballa
Byblows Part One (Recommended)
Byblows Part Two (Recommended)
Byblows Part Three (Recommended)
Reincarnation
Phantom Stranger: “Blunting the sharp pebbles of memory with ten thousand years of footsteps, I walk.”
Dark and gritty to the core, while some may be disturbing, you can not deny how intriguing they get. The science-fiction elements are somewhat realistic, while the moral decisions are artistically subjective in a good way. Getting weird at points, you can point out some methods authorized by Moore that influenced his later would well-known work in Watchmen and/or V for Vendetta.
Overall, even though this is back when it was released as a cash-grab by DC spawning more collection books, it has the potential to be valuable one day soon. Being one of the last graphic novels on my shelf to review, I either need to buy more or am more likely to borrow from a friend who has some recommendations for me.
7.75/10
Kingdom Come, a graphic novel review
“One of the best comic stories ever told” – Washington Examiner
Recently purchasing six books of booktopia.com a few weeks ago now, Kingdom Come was the graphic novel of the bunch. From the quote above and this mini-series highly regarded on goodread.com, It is a book 20 years old I needed in my collection. Reminded of many other comic stories where the Justice League end up being the bad guys, this original ranks among them. The extra time waiting for it in the post was totally worth it.
Four main chapters and an exclusive epilogue/drafts and concept image, Kingdom Come in an alternative world gets dark and dystopian. While the classic characters are older, there are hundreds of generations of heroes playing roles. Philosophical, the dialogue questions morality and the differences between humanity and something else. Reminded of Neil Gaiman’s influence, was the preacher with Spectre, The Sandman in human form?
In the narrative roles those two played to a tee, they sure hint it mixed with Christianity, bible morals. Visually the artwork has its own unique style, filling pages full of action and scenes of solid back and forth during individual dilemmas. Overall I highly recommend it if you’re looking to check out more of the history within DC Comics. Lots of new and old cameo appearances literally. And a credible pace to read it, if like me, in two days through my personal experience.
7.96/10
“No library should be without sine edition of this book” – Library Journal (Starred Review)
Flashpoint: The World of Flashpoint Featuring Batman, a graphic novel review
I was tottering on 4 stars because I really didn’t like the last story, but the Batman story was SO good and SO engrossing that I bumped up anyway. The Robin/Deadman story was both deep and fun, and the Deathstroke-pirate story was super fun. Well-done departures. And that Batman! The Joker! The weirdness! Excellent. – Michelle Cristiani (Goodreads – 5/5)
By far, this spin-off graphic novel is the best within the Flashpoint universe. Owning hard copies of the entire series, I can say it offers the most intriguing events within the complex world of a lot going on. IF you do not know by now, the plot focuses on Barry Allen as most of the main Justice League completely change in personality and personal histories.
Spoilers! Like many other unique changes to previous protagonists, this Batman is different. Firstly you get to see a narrative of Bruce Wayne being killed as a kid and his father taking control of the role. To further thicken the vision, the mother becomes the Infamous Joker. All this back story makes the main complete story even more epic, including one of the best-animated movie adaptations.
Then we get b short stories with Cyborg, The Outsider, The Secret 7, S!H!A!Z!A!M!, Citizen Cold and more cameo appearances. Quoting John Yelverton on Goodreads ‘Of all the Flashpoint books, this was the most enjoyable, with a twisted ending that you never saw coming.’ giving it a 5 out of 5 stars. I know from the reasons listed and much more positive reception online, my bookcased collection shall be valuable one day to many people!
7.99/10
The Walking Dead (Book One), a graphic novel review
Wow. I love this. Why didn’t I read these sooner? I’m not sure how I managed to watch the show and never read these. – B.A. Wilson (5/5)
While I have gone off the television series, the original 3 books that I read still remain of top quality in the zombie genre. Quoting Meegy from goodreads.com ‘Nice and quick read. A lot of differences between the comic book and the TV show’. Containing 24 issues of the first comics to come through, big graphic novels like this make for a fun binge-read, creative images and character origin stories. With over 300 pages, Robert Kirkman’s innovation was a hit in the early 20th century.
While the tv show has flaws in rushing things, the flow and timing are just right on every page. The greater details of the soul are put into all the scenes, settings, thoughts, feelings, and emotions. In the wasteland it keeps you guessing not knowing what will happen next in perspectives you can’t get on the moving screen. Then this story is more about the humans than the zombies if that could become a factor in considering this or not.
Overall I highly recommend it to the television fans and causal fiction readers of all kinds. After consuming this, you will be surprised at how much you enjoyed the experience the flew by. I would try to find where I was up to and finish the series, but what I completed was borrowed from friends. Concluding with this statement, this must be the last great zombie universe out there and would become surprised if any other form of media will be able to match it in the future.
It was a good book that put a twist on those zombie apocalypse horror franchise it’s a thrilling story that compelled me to buy the second book which I’m currently reading. Good read – Richard Short (5/5)
8/10
Deadpool: Secret Invasion (Vol 1), a graphic novel review
Daniel Way is THE BEST Deadpool writer, as far as I’m concerned anyway! Hell, he’s a great writer full stop, I’m kinda shocked he barely works these days – his last gig was 2013’s Thunderbolts! I’ve yet to read a Daniel Way Deadpool comic that’s not any good and his first book at the start of his 2008 run, Secret Invasion, is one of the best Deadpool books I’ve ever read. – Sam Quixote (Goodreads 5/5
Much different than Deadpool kills the Universe, one man interacts with the enemy Skrulls. In one of his original solo series, he also likes many others whatever the hell he wants in messing with people. Emphasis on being completely insane, this stuff is equally as good as him on the silver screen. Going on literal tears, the brutal and wacky adventures, the content is perfect for any type of graphic novel format.
The A story is pure madness in what you can expect while more importantly unpredictability going in a lot of directions. Where the following plot involves a zombie and themes of being broke plus board. Both go fairly fast but if it was any longer you might not appreciate it as much. Regardless, I have the next volume (Dark Reign) as well to deserve a bump in a cool series.
Charismatic expressed plenty, heaps of other details are hidden behind the delightful artwork. Reading this a couple of years ago now, flicking through pages for a couple of minutes instantly brought it all back. If anything there is re-consume value with the character worthy of mentioning. Overall recommend it to all fans and even those new to looking at words regularly.
7.5/10
Batman/Superman: Cross World (Vol 1), a graphic novel review
Very nice! The artwork is gorgeous, but that’s what we expect from Jae Lee after all. The story is intriguing: Batman and Superman meet as teenagers, then get sucked into a parallel world to encounter adult versions of themselves. Not real crazy about the ending, but this IS volume 1, so … There’s also a short story of the New Gods to round out the volume. Not bad. Looking forward to volume 2. – Stewart Tame (4/5 – goodreads.com)
A part of The New 52! shows the meeting of the two infamous characters for the first time. Giving greater context to the first Justice League in that series, leading to Justice League: Trinity War. Setting an origin mood, naturally, they do not like each other at first. Then spoilers as the plot develop in a bunch of vague excuses for alternatives to continue clashing with each other.
Wonder Woman and Darkseid are introduced but out of nowhere and very non-relevant. Consuming out of order, this one shows a demon called Kaiyo plus versions of themself, other than that there was no particular story in it. I am usually in for multidimensional stuff although this individual line might be the worst from DC Comics I’ve seen. Most comics have their own style, on the other hand, more of the modern stuff recycles and oversaturates stuff you can predict fairly easy.
Struggling to have fun, there are so many others I would recommend from my bookshelf alone. Not worthy of being remembered because it was dull at best. Overall it comes more across as fan fiction than an original writer releases their heart and soul into what was deserved. Very critical, the drawings are very solid towards practical/logical praise.
6.4/10
Brightest Day (Vol 1) – Graphic Novel Review
This is excellent storytelling, and I’m totally into every part of it! I’m just glad that I have volume 2 sitting on a shelf waiting for me right now. I’d like to write a longer review, but I really can’t wait to see what happens next. – Anne (goodreads.com – 5/5)
Straight after Blackest Knight, this crossover maxiseries was born! The former also gets its own collection in this universe, this one moves towards the resurrection of twelve heroes and villains. Written by Geoff Johns and Peter Tomasi depict the aftermath of the white light expelled deep from within the centre of the earth. Some call it a miracle, the mystery here in rebirth goes in all sorts of directions.
Aquaman, Martian Manhunter, Firestorm, Hawkman, Hawkgirl, Deadman, Jade, Osiris, Hawk, Captain Boomerang and Zoom are those affected. Swapping between them focusing on the new individual backstories reminded me of death. Written one at a time to also coming out in separate issues, the artwork is highly rememberable.
The messages crossing into the philosophical superhero book is not for children. Maybe teenagers because the Manhunter story can get gory. Fewer zombies with Deadman being the main character, the transitions to others can get a bit choppy. Significant enough to be one whole digit less than this link https://ungroovygords.wordpress.com/2019/03/24/blackest-night-a-graphic-novel-review/
Overall I recommend it if put in the right order reading otherwise the a to b and sometimes c falls flat at points in time. Happy to have it on my bookshelf, rereading it was as underwhelming as the first time years ago I consumed it. To conclude, a decent part of a collection although a starting point that can not get you fully invested right away.
7.3/10
This is a fantastic book that amazes you with every page that you turn. A must read for comic book fans. – John Yelverton