Thursday Morning Superhero

Looks like the first week of February is going to be a memorable one.  The polar vortex continues and I am ever thankful that ComiXology can pull through when it isn't safe to drive to the LCS.  My preregistration code has been secured and I will join the mass hysteria this Saturday to see if my random spot in line will be good enough to secure my pass for the four day nerd nirvana that is San Diego Comic Con.  In the mean time I will turn to some comics to calm me down before the storm.

Pick of the Week:
Ms. Marvel #1 - Kudos to Marvel for launching a powerful, female, Muslim, superhero.  Ms. Marvel, aka Kamala Khan, is a teenager who is trying to fit in.  Hailing from New Jersey and the daughter of immigrant parents, Kamala seeks approval from her peers.  She writes Avengers fanfic and secretly wants to join the super team and fight for the cause of justice.  She is granted that wish and it appears as if she may have bit off more than she can chew.  This book was refreshing, respectful, and seemed very honest to me.  I think there are probably many individuals who will identify with Kamala right from the get go.  For whatever reason people are treated differently, religion, gender, sexuality, etc., Kamala seems to be someone they can all look to.  I feel this book has a lot of pressure on it and I hope it can live up to its potential.

The Rest:
Secret #5 - This is a very difficult book to review.  It is very well written, features great art, and is has been very enjoyable to read.  The issue, like Infinite Vacation, is that there is such a huge delay between books.  Issue 1 came out almost two years ago and the web that Hickman has weaved is one that is easier navigated if the content is fresh.  With each title I feel I need to go back and reread the series.  It is an enjoyable reread, but I wish these were coming out with more regularity.  Issue #5 is a great success and Grant is seeking revenge on the Kodiak group.  We are teased with how the plan will unfold and I hope it is not a long wait before we see how things turn out.  If you haven't picked this book up yet I highly encourage checking out the entire five issue run to this point.

Bad Blood #2 - I must say that issue #2 was both unexpected and enjoyable.  I was surprised by the lack of action, but Trick's journey through the "vampire" underworld felt realistic and helped ground this title.  The fact that, even with the help of Lolly, a stripper and purveyor of "vampire" themed bars and bondage clubs, Trick can't seem to find any hint of actual vampires.  This slow pace served this book well and really made it easier to suspend my disbelief over the existence of vampires and fully engage with the characters on a personal level.  Very interesting series that is worth your time.

Archer and Armstrong: Archer #0 - If you are looking for a fun new title to pick up then the good folk at Valiant have given you a chance to hop on the critically acclaimed Archer and Armstrong series.  I have read a few Archer and Armstrong comics and have enjoyed them, but this book really impressed me.  It demonstrated just what Obadiah Armstrong might be capable of and was much darker then I had envisioned.  It also begins the connection that Archer and Armstrong have and definitely lays the foundation for a good origin story.  Throw in some fantastic art and I am an immediate fan.  Definitely worth your time and money this week.

Apocalypse Al #1 - Allison Carter, Al, is a private investigator that specializes in stopping demons that want to devour the world.  This responsibility has remained in her family for generations, but Al is the first female to carry the torch.  Issue 1 does a solid job introducing the colorful cast of characters and establishing a premise that warrants some attention.  Humorous tone that has good potential.  Another bonus is included for having Al jump in a toilet to escape from a dream in which she is trapped as a legal temp.

POSTED BY: Mike N.-- comic guy, proudly raising nerdy kids, and Nerds of a Feather contributor since 2012.