From The Comic Shop #15: Saturday November 20, 2010:

Superman #705 (DC) So far, I've liked recent issues, but they haven't changed my lack of enthusiasm for the reasons behind Superman's walk across America. Forrest Gump did it better. No matter how much I enjoy the story, I'm left with the same feeling,; walk faster, Superman, and get this thing over.

Legion Of Super-Heroes #7 (DC) This new Legion series has been more enjoyable. I have to say I prefer Paul Levitz's writing over J. Michael Straczynski.

From the Back Issue Bins:

Action Comics #762, February 2000 (DC)

I've decided to begin filling in the hole in my Superman comic book collection which extends from 2000 to 2003-4. I started today with this issue of Action Comics. I stopped collecting for a few years when there was no longer a local comic book shop where I live. For a while I went to Acme Comics, but I took what I later discovered was the long way, and decided it was too far to drive. I started collecting again when a new comic shop opened nearby. It has since went out of business, and I found a shorter route to Acme, so now it is my local shop. Even if a new shop opens near me, I don't think I will switch. Acme has been in business for 30 years, through all of the booms and busts of the comic book industry. I know it won't be going anywhere.

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Superman Fan Podcast can be found at http://supermanfanpodcast.mypodcast.com. Expanded show notes are available at http://supermanfanpodcast.blogspot.com. Send e-mail about the podcast to supermanfanpodcast@gmail.com.

You can join both the Superman Fan Podcast and My Pull List groups on facebook. Follow both the podcast and blog on twitter @supermanpodcast.

Preview #26: Comic Books For The Week Of Wednesday, November 17, 2010:

Superman #705 (DC)

It's harder to hold any more enthusiasm for this storyline than what I was barely able to muster before, since J. Michael Straczynski jumped ship to concentrate on the sequel to Superman: Earth One, the graphic novel. Dan Didio seems to be hailing it as the "good" Superman, or else I'm reading too much into his comments. The graphic novel may be good, and I'm not knocking it sight unseen, since I really can't afford to buy it. It just seems that the powers that be at DC Comics are treating their flagship character as if he's on his deathbed. Maybe it's the ongoing lawsuit. I don;t know. It does seem that the top DC Comics management is in love with two characters, Green Lantern and Batman. After 75 years, it's hard to come up with an original idea. It shouldn't be hard to come up with a good story, While recent issues have been enjoyable, the reasons for Superman's walk across America just don't add up for me. Superman can't walk too fast for me to get this trip overwith.

Legion Of Super-Heroes #7 (DC)

On a brighter note, this has been the more enjoyable DC title that I'm reading. It is Superman related, since he is the Legion's inspiration.

Send e-mail to mypulllist@gmail.com.
Superman Fan Podcast can be found at http://supermanfanpodcast.mypodcast.com. Expanded show notes are available at http://supermanfanpodcast.blogspot.com. Send e-mail about the podcast to supermanfanpodcast@gmail.com.

You can join both the Superman Fan Podcast and My Pull List groups on facebook. Follow both the podcast and blog on twitter @supermanpodcast.

Issue #101: Comic Books For The Weeks Of Wednesday, October 27 & November 3, 2010:

Comic books for the week of Wednesday, October 27, 2010:

Superman #704 (DC)
Action Comics #894 (DC)

Comic books for the week of Wednesday, November 3, 2010:

Adventure Comics #520 (DC)
Invincible #75 (DC)

Comic books for the week of Wednesday, October 27, 2010:

Superman #704 (DC) *  *  * 1/2

This issue highlights Lois Lane as Superman walks through her old home town. The title on the cover explains it all, The Road Not Taken. Lois meets her old high school flame. Not only do we get a peak at what might have been, but another lesson in why it's not always a good idea for the wife to meet an old girlfriend. There aren't any fireworks but there are a few uncomfortable moments, although things go well overall. I continue to like these stories better than I think I will, but I can't help but think that the questions Lois faced in this issue were ones she would have resolved a long time ago. It's the same feeling I fall back to with each issue of Superman's quest, which pulls my opinion of the issue down a bit.

Action Comics #894 (DC) *  *  * 1/2

This issue has generated a lot of buzz, as Luthor meets Death from the Sandman series. They have quite a philosophical conversation that, surprisingly, kept my interest. It was a good exploration of Lex's character. The issue ends on an interesting note, leading into who the villain Luthor will face next. But one of my problems with this storyline is that there are a few questions about Luthor's quest that really haven't been answered, yet. Is Lex making any progress in his search? How close is he to his final goal? Individually these have been okay stories, but as parts of an extended story it isn't it hasn't shown any progress. That makes it harder to enjoy this storyline, beyond the fact that Superman still isn't appearing in the title that first introudced the Man of Steel to the public. The Jimmy Olsen "co-feature" or backup story was more enjoyable, showing off his ability to think on his feet, as he introduces some extraterrestrial partiers to Metropolis' night life. I have to say that I enjoyed this story better than the main one in this issue.

Comic books for the week of Wednesday, November 3, 2010:

Adventure Comics #520 (DC) *  *  *  *

This issue revisits a story long time Legion fans like me are familiar with, the first Legionnaire to die. At first I thought of Ferro Lad, who had the most memorable death in Legion history, but then I remembered there was an earlier one. If you're not familiar with Legion history I won't spoil the story for you. We also learn the source of the phantom voice in Legion HQ. I didn't see it coming, but I should have, after I read the issue. What I liked about the story was that it was not just rehashing an early Legion story, but adding details to it that made it fresh again. And the Atom second feature is getting better and better, as Ray Palmer faces bigger challenges with each installment of his story.

Invincible #75 (Image) *  *  *  *  *

This milestone issue contained a milestone story worthy of a 75th issue, especially for an independent title. The Viltrumite War becomes a pitched battle, with casualties on both sides. The war takes another turn with a monumental event that changes the status quo in a big way. And the cover for the next issue which is previewed on the inside back cover promises more of the same. Writer and co-creator Robert Kirkman is unafraid to challenge his characters in any way imaginable. That's why I enjoy reading Invincible so much.

Send e-mail to mypulllist@gmail.com.


Superman Fan Podcast can be found at http://supermanfanpodcast.mypodcast.com. Expanded show notes are available at http://supermanfanpodcast.blogspot.com. Send e-mail about the podcast to supermanfanpodcast@gmail.com.

You can join both the Superman Fan Podcast and My Pull List groups on facebook. Follow both the podcast and blog on twitter @supermanpodcast.

Issue #100: Catch Up Week #24, Part III: Comic Books For The Week Of Wednesday, October 20, 2010:

I went to my local comic book store, Acme Comics, on Saturday, October 23. That day, Acme had their Halloween party and sale, with everything in the store on sale at 25% off, including new comic books. Since I only had one new title that week, I was able to take advantage of the sale and buy a few back issues I couldn't have otherwise afford.

Millennium Edition (#43): Detective Comics #359 (DC)
The Tick: Big Summer Fun Special #1 (One Shot) (New England Comics)
Superman/Batman #75 (DC)
Legion Of Super-Heroes #6 (DC)

Millennium Edition (#43) Detective Comics #359 (DC) *  *  *  *

This was one of those issues that I had as a young boy in the 1960's. Marked at $2.50, and cheaper with the sale discount, it was a nice trip down memory lane. Barbara Gordon's career as Batgirl began with sewing a costume for a masquerade party. The backup story with the Elongated Man was fun to re-read as well. His appearances in Detective Comics during the '60's made him one of my favorite second tier heroes, along with Metamorpho. It was one of those old silver age stories that holds up with time.

The Tick: Big Summer Fun Special #1 (One Shot) (New England Comics) *  *  *  *

I had lost an earlier copy of this issue some years ago, maybe loaning it to someone who never returned it, but I'm not sure. Arthur goes to a summer camp for superhero sidekicks, but it turns out to be one big seminar on pampering their superhero. Arthur refuses to stand for it, which makes him a discipline problem. The Tick also serves as a last minute replacement as a camp counselor, which only adds to the humor. Throw in a few aliens from outer space on top, and you've got another zany Tick story. It was a grat story written and drawn by Sean Wang, who has also created his own comic book story Runners.

Superman/Batman #75 (DC) *  *  *  *

This was originally released on August 18, but I did not get it when it was originally published. I had dropped this title from my subscription list a long time ago, plus it's $5.99 price tag. But I couldn't resist the main story in the issue, involving the Legion of Super-Heroes drawn by Jerry Ordway. The issue also had a great cover drawn by Frank Quitely. There are shorter features in the back of the issue. My favorites were one by Billy Tucci, a Luthor & Joker strip drawn in the style of the classic comic strip Calvin & Hobbes, and one involving Conner Kent adnd Damian. It was worth the wait.

Legion Of Super-Heroes #6 *  *  *  *

Earth Man continues to be an intriguing character, whose development has taken some unexpected turns. Shadow Lass has been full of surprises as well.  Between Earth Man and the Titan refugees, the Legion has its hands full. The backup story involving the Legion Academy was nice to see once again, as well as the call to vote for a new Leegion leader. A great marketing tool to attract readers, and I enjoyed seeing Matter Eater Lad again.

Send e-mail to mypulllist@gmail.com.


Superman Fan Podcast can be found at http://supermanfanpodcast.mypodcast.com. Expanded show notes are available at http://supermanfanpodcast.blogspot.com. Send e-mail about the podcast to supermanfanpodcast@gmail.com.

You can join both the Superman Fan Podcast and My Pull List groups on facebook. Follow both the podcast and blog on twitter @supermanpodcast

Issue #100: Catch Up Week #24 Part II: Comic Books For The Week Of Wednesday, October 13, 2010:

Continuing catchig up on the recent comic books I've read:

Madman #1 (Image Firsts $1.00 reprint)
Superman #703 (DC)
Adventure Comics #519 (DC)

Madman #1 (Image Firsts $1.00 reprint) *  *  *  *

Back when my son was quite a bit younger, he really liked the crossover title Superman/Madman Hullabaloo. That was my first exposure to the character of Madman. I enjoyed the zaniness of the characters and story, as well as Mike Allred's art style. It really reminded me of underground comic book artists such as Charles Burns, whose work I've never read (or underground comics in general) but have seen examples of his work. This was a fun read as well, as we get hints of Madman's origin and his first crazy adventures. If you haven't read Madman befroe, this reprint is the perfect introduction.

Superman #703 (DC) *  *  * 1/2

While I remain underwhelmed by the premise of this storyline, this is the second straight issue that has given me a pleasant surprise. For the first time in JMS's run, the events of New Krypton are brought into the plot, as well as the aftermath of War of the Supermen for the Man of Steel, through a conversation with Batman. This issue also brings in a topic that is all too often ignored in superhero coics, collateral damage. I do think that Superman would give more regard to peripheral damage, it works well in this story. The Man of Steel just needs to walk faster to get this storyline over as soon as possible.

Adventure Comics #519 (DC) *  *  *  *

This issue combines two plots, the Legion Espionage Squad going after the Khund Zaryan, and a visit to the 20th Century by another group of Legionnaires, as Brainiac checks off his own bucket list. While the Zaryan story was interesting, my favorite part of the issue was Brainiac's bucket list. This look at the early years of the Legion is a lot of fun. It adds to Legion lore without contradicting anything which came before it.

Send e-mail to mypulllist@gmail.com.


Superman Fan Podcast can be found at http://supermanfanpodcast.mypodcast.com. Expanded show notes are available at http://supermanfanpodcast.blogspot.com. Send e-mail about the podcast to supermanfanpodcast@gmail.com.

You can join both the Superman Fan Podcast and My Pull List groups on facebook. Follow both the podcast and blog on twitter @supermanpodcast.

Issue #100: Catch Up Week #23 Part I: Comic Books For The Week of Wednesday, October 6, 2010:

Time has gotten away from me more than it ever has on this blog, Now I start reeling it back in as I catch up on a month's worth of comic books. As my favorite science fiction character, Honor Harrington, would say, "Let's be about it."

Star Spangled War Stories Featuring Mademoiselle Marie #1 (One Shot) (DC)
Terry Moore's Echo #25 (Abstract Studios)
Superman: Last Family Of Krypton #3 (of 3) (DC)

Star Spangled War Stories Featuring Mademoiselle Marie #1 (One Shot) (DC) *  *  *  *

After reading Billy Tucci's mini-series Sgt. Rock: The Lost Batallion and his WWII story for DC's Holiday Special 2009, I keep my eye out for any WWII era Billy Tucci comic book story. His research is impeccable. According to some recent podcast interviews, the story in this issue was inspired by a real woman who served as a special forces operative during WWII. Mademoiselle Marie is an old DC Comics character from its war titles. The story in this issue is about one of her missions in Occupied France. The twists and turns of the mission serve as a great platform to develop Marie's character. It's worth the price of admission.

Terry Moore's Echo #25 (Abstract Studios) *  *  *  *  *

With only five more issues in this series, the action is becoming more intense with each issue. Our main characters find not only the HenRi employee they were looking for, but they also face the mysterious crazy old man. This issue is full of surprises as the plot gives up its secrets approaching its climax. I keep saying it, but this series has not had a bad issue. It will be worth buying the collected editions of this series if you haven't picked up any of the individual issues.

Superman: Last Family Of Krypton #3 (of 3) (Elseworlds/DC) *  *  *  *  *

Cary Bate's return to comic book writing was not a disappointment. This final issue unleashed the building threats against the Els, but came from some unexpected quarters. The family's own development was also an interesting part of the story. Kal-El's journey to becoming Earth's protector took an interesting path, as did the path of another DC hero. This series brought in Superman's familiar supporting cast in different and interesting ways. It was everything I enjoy in "imaginary stories."

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Superman Fan Podcast can be found at http://supermanfanpodcast.mypodcast.com. Expanded show notes are available at http://supermanfanpodcast.blogspot.com. Send e-mail about the podcast to supermanfanpodcast@gmail.com.

You can join both the Superman Fan Podcast and My Pull List groups on facebook. Follow both the podcast and blog on twitter @supermanpodcast.

From The Comic Shop #14: Saturday, November 6, 2010:

I have been to my local comic shop, Acme Comics, the last couple of weeks, but have fallen behind on this blog. I will catch up on my reviews soon. For now here's what I got today.

From last week, Wednesday, October 27, 2010:

Action Comics #894 (DC)

I have not read much of the Sandman series, but I'm looking forward to reading about Lex Luthor's encounter with Death, from the same series.

Superman #704 (DC)

I'm intrigued by this "what-if" story featuring Lois. I've been pleasantly surprised by the last few issues, but I can't wait until Superman "flies" again. The basic premise of this whole storyline just doesn't work for me.

From this week I bought the following:

Adventure Comics #520 (DC)

The cover alone has me looking forward to reading this issue. One of the hallmarks of classic Legion stories is that once in a while a Legionnaire would lose his life in the line of duty. An old time Legion fan like me knows who that first death was, but I'm anxious to read this modern look at a classic story.

Invincible #75 (Image)

This over sized hallmark issue promises to pack a big punch as the Viltrumite War storyline should have some big plot developments in this landmark issue. Robert Kirkman and crew never disappoint me with this title.

Send e-mail to mypulllist@gmail.com.


Superman Fan Podcast can be found at http://supermanfanpodcast.mypodcast.com. Expanded show notes are available at http://supermanfanpodcast.blogspot.com. Send e-mail about the podcast to supermanfanpodcast@gmail.com.

You can join both the Superman Fan Podcast and My Pull List groups on facebook. Follow both the podcast and blog on twitter @supermanpodcast.