Absolute Kingdom Come

Book Description

DC Comics Absolute Editionsset the standard for the highest quality, most in-depth presentation of classic graphic novels. Each oversized volume is presented in a slipcase and includes unique additional material making each Absolute Edition a cornerstone of any serious comiccollection. The latest Absolute Collection is the classic KINGDOM COME, written by Mark Waid and illustrated by Alex Ross.This riveting story set in the future pits the old guard - Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and their peers - against a new, uncompromising generation of heroes in the final war to determine the fate of the planet. Published to tie-in with the 10th Anniversary of its original publication, ABSOLUTE KINGDOM COME is packaged in a beautifully designed slipcase that features an all-newpainted image by Alex Ross, annotations of the entire series, rare art, promotional images, a gallery of DC Direct Kingdom Come products, a feature on the evolution of a story page and much more.

Customer Reviews:

Outstanding story, story, and highly recommended.......2007-08-16

The hardcover Absolute Kingdom Come is one of the BEST hardcover comics I own. The story is excellent as well. If you want a comic that will boost your collection this is definitely one of the ones to choose!

Absolute Kingdom COme.......2007-01-16

Exactly what I was looking for at a great price! My husband could not get enough of it - he has read it from cover to cover!!

Absolute Kingdom Come.......2007-01-09

This book was the best gift I've ever given. I've read it before and its a must read by for any comic lover. Plus, the price is unbeatable because it normally goes for atleast $75 in any give bookstore. It came in awesome condition and very timely. A high reccomended item for any comic fan.

Wonderful.......2007-01-04

A complete encyclopedia of superheroes. If you ever had a question of who came from where, this is your book. Excellent graphics. And huge!!! You absolutely get what you pay for!

....THY WILL LOVE THIS BOOK!!!.......2006-12-26

When I first bought and read the original Kingdom Come series, I had them signed by Alex Ross. I thought that was great back then. Reading this in the 'absolute format' just takes my breath away. Everything you could appreciate about this series comes out like gangbusters. You will not want to but it down. Buy It!!! Keep It!!!

Average customer rating:

The newest X-men alternative history
Graphic SF Reader
"Marvel Event of the Decade?"
A great story that justifies all the hype
I Dug It!

House of M (X-Men, New Avengers)
Brian Michael Bendis
Manufacturer: Marvel Comics
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0785117210

Book Description

The Marvel event of the decade is here! The Avengers and the X-Men are faced with a common foe that becomes their greatest threat: Wanda Maximoff! The Scarlet Witch is out of control, and the fate of the entire world is in her hands. Will Magneto help his daughter or use her powers to his own benefit? Starring the Astonishing X-Men and the New Avengers! You know how sometimes you hear the phrase: and nothing will ever be the same again? Well, this time believe it, buster! Nothing will ever be the same again! Collects House of M #1-8, and Pulse House of M Special Edition Newspaper.

Customer Reviews:

The newest X-men alternative history.......2007-10-02

In the beggining I bought this book for curiosity because I read de review and I didn't like the story, but when I read this book I changed my mind totally because it was written with a dramatic point of view, I mean, the history is about what happen when the skarlet wich loose her mind and Pietro (quicksilver) manipulate her and she changed the world, now the mutantkind command the entire world, and she gives to all her friends the ability to have the life they always wanted, for example Spiderman is married to Gwen Stacy his uncle ben is alive, Cyclops and the White Queen are married and live together, Magneto is the ruler of the world is his catle in genosha (House Of M) but the only problerm is that Wolverine always wanted to remember everything, and of course he remembers what happened eith the Skarlet Wich, and he recruit all the avengers and the x-men (with the help of a mutant child) and the fight begins, and the final is amazing. This book is relly good, and I now want to read DECIMATION X-MEN: THE DAY AFTER, because I want to know much more. And I almost forget the drawing of Oliver Coipel is excellent.

Graphic SF Reader.......2007-09-03

Coming out of the events of Avengers Disassembled, the Scarlet Witch has clearly gone completely round the bend. Her bend is a bit of a Mobius strip type doozy, as she recreates the whole world in a manner that her warped mind sees fit.

Everything is now different, and only a few realise it, or begin to realise. Those that do have to work out what to do about it. Save her, or annihilate her.

Generally pretty average.

"Marvel Event of the Decade?".......2007-07-11

This book was hyped as the "Marvel event of the decade" in 2005. Since then, we've been hit with the Civil War, World War Hulk, X-Men: Endangered Species, and (soon) the Skrull War. That's some stiff competition for the best Marvel book of the decade, but "House of M" still stacks up pretty well.

The infamous "no more mutants" decree by Wanda Maximoff led to plenty of great spin-offs after the event, such as "198" and "Son of M". (The cross-overs that occurred during the "House of M" event, however, aren't necessary to the main storyline here and are mostly just of the "What If...?" variety.)

If you haven't read Marvel comics for a while, this is the book to start with.

A great story that justifies all the hype.......2007-05-28

HOUSE OF M is easily one of the most hyped and talked about comic series in recent years. This is the series that took the Marvel universe and turned it upside down and inside out. Following this almost everything you thought you knew about the world of Marvel had to be reevaluated and the fallout still affects a whole range of comic heroes. Even for comics relatively outside all these events, like my favs The Runaways, they take place with the events in this story as background (for instance, Molly Hayes, the group's lone mutant, is one of the world's few remaining mutants).

I won't rehearse the events in the story because so many have already done so. I'll merely state that the story is better than a mere recap can do justice to. I find sometimes in the Marvel world that many stories are conceived better than they are executed. But this is one time when the story exceeds any expectations. One of the things that constantly recurred in BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER was the idea that breaking the rules of magic had consequences. That principle is definitely present here. The Scarlet Witch twice reimagines all reality, each time with massive consequences for everyone, hero and nonhero alike. One is impressed by the pathos that drives her two fantasies: first, a mutant utopia in which mutants and heroes reign as lords of the world, second, a world in which she has managed to eliminated all but a couple of hundred mutants. Marvel has sometimes been a somewhat conservative organization, creating a host of characters, but nearly all a variation on a theme. Characters have died and there have been some shocks and surprises, but rarely have they truly shaken things up. But here they did something truly gutsy: the changed all the rules. HOUSE OF M fed directly into the CIVIL WAR stories, which I find pretty exhilarating. Not all agree. Many comics fans are conservative creatures, who would not agree that change is good. Personally, I love for creative artists to take risks.

The hero of the story, to the degree that there is one, is Wolverine, the one Marvel hero you figured would be impervious to manipulation. He says in the story that he had been memory wiped so many times that he had grown immune to it, but you figure that such a prickly soul would have gotten past it anyway. If the Marvel universe has an ultimate survivor, Wolverine would be that.

The cover, interestingly, does not really feature the central characters in the story. A number of characters who play little or no role are featured, like McCoy, Colossus, and Captain America, while some who play major roles, like Cloak, Dr. Strange, and Xavier are not depicted at all. Not really complaint; more of an observation.

If you like comics or graphic novels at all, this is one you should own. It's as good as its reputation would suggest.

I Dug It!.......2007-04-29

Brian Michael Bendis is hands down the best and most prolific writers in comics today. I'll read anything he does (although I may not be able to buy all of them). Another great Marvel Universe bending story from Bendis. I follow the writer in comics more than the title. With following a writer like Bendis you'll enjoy more comics more often. This is a great book and it's got great art.

Average customer rating:

Pretty and Interesting
Graphic SF Reader
Still spectacular all these years later
very good graphic novel...
Marvels, an engrossing study of a world with heroes

Marvels
Kurt Busiek
Manufacturer: Marvel Comics
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0785100490

Customer Reviews:

Pretty and Interesting.......2007-09-20

Marvels offers a look at the greatest moments in the Marvel comics universe but for the first time from the perspective of the common citizen. It features the hatred and contempt that the ordinary people feel toward something different then themselves and applies it towards superheroes instead of people of different genders or races. When matched with beautiful artwork the interesting perspective is very enjoyable.

Graphic SF Reader.......2007-09-03

An introduction to the greatness of Alex Ross' style, with Busiek providing more Astro City style commentary. This is the Marvel universe seen through the eyes of your garden variety photojournalist. The point of view character here is just a normal man, trying to get along in this world of giants, gods and monsters. Not to mention mutants and aliens. Also an introduction to the breathtaking painting style of Alex Ross.

Still spectacular all these years later.......2007-07-20

The comic series that helped make writer Kurt Busiek and artist Alex Ross household names for comic book fans is re-produced brilliantly in this handsome, 10th Anniversary hardcover edition. Marvels tells the story of photographer Phil Sheldon; an average joe who witnesses pivotal events in Marvel history through his eyes as well as his camera. From the first battle between Namor the Sub-Mariner and the original Human Torch, to the coming of Captain America in World War II, to the fear and hatred expressed by normal people towards the mutant menace, to the coming of Galactus, to the death of Gwen Stacy at the hands of Spider-Man's arch nemesis the Green Goblin; Sheldon is there to witness it all. Throughout the mini-series, Busiek manages to pack in plenty of events and tell a very poignant story, but it's the brilliantly painted artwork of Ross that makes Marvels worth owning. His lush and lifelike interpretations of classic Marvel icons remain some of the best work the in-demand artist has ever done, and only makes readers ache for him to do more Marvel work. In addition to the story, there is a horde of extras included in this pricey hardcover, including essays and reflections from Busiek, Ross, Stan Lee, and John Romita, Sr. among others. Also included are some of Ross' early designs, the original proposals and scripts, and even a look at the many cameos packed throughout Ross' illustrations. While the main story itself begs to be just a little bit longer, Marvels was a classic then, and it remains so all these years later. All in all, this anniversary edition of Marvels is a must own for Marvel comic fans new and old alike.

very good graphic novel..........2006-11-30

alex ross is the greatest comic artist out there. marvels is a fine story, a kind of overview to the goings on of the marvel universe as seen from a normal guy outsider. but this is why the story isn't a true 5 star graphic novel, because let's be honest no one cares about the normal guy watching we're just waiting for the superheroes to pop in and out. by itself it is not so bad, but if you read kingdom come and earth x you'll see the guy watching from the outside type thing gets old.

Marvels, an engrossing study of a world with heroes.......2006-08-07

Marvels is one of the few books that examines the plausability of a world in which superhumans are a reality.

Showcase Presents: Legion of Super-Heroes, Vol. 1

Average customer rating:

Back to the Future
LIVE FAST, TIME TRAVEL YOUNG
Some of the Best of Yesteryear

Showcase Presents: Legion of Super-Heroes, Vol. 1
Jerry Siegel
Manufacturer: DC Comics
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1401213820

Customer Reviews:

Back to the Future.......2007-08-13

If you were a baby boomer who read DC comics as a kid, you'll love this collection of Legion of Super-Hero stories. These early years established much of the Legion lore and besides that you get an entire 500+ pages at a bargain price. I especially enjoyed the art of John Forte who's pen defined the Legion for so long.

LIVE FAST, TIME TRAVEL YOUNG.......2007-07-05

You should know right up front that these DC SHOWCASE reprints are in black and white. For long time fans this is seen as something of a sin, while new fans might find these collected issues incomplete - and they're both right - but, to keep the price down and the volumes bulging with material, a middle ground had to be reached and DC has gone out of their way to present these issues in the best possible light. The artwork is clear, clean and still fresh even without the color, but, I can't lie, the color really MADE some of these issues work.

Superpowers are always on display with the LEGION and in black and white it loses some of its punch - so it's lucky that the stories make up for it. This is the launch of the LEGION, first as a one off issue with SUPERBOY being inducted into the club as a honorary member for all his heroic (and historical) deeds, and then as a full member on call (via a flashing lamp in his bedroom) when they need him. As the series rolls on, and as the Superboy/Superman mythology expanded new heroes and villians would be added to the roll call. Supergirl would become a member of the LEGION (after failing her first try due to some unexpected side effects brought on by red kryptonite and some close minded attitudes from the perfect people of the future, seriously, Supergirl is robbed by the LEGION in their first encounter), and every collected Superpet from Kypton and beyond would get their own LEGION as well as a LEGION of outcasts and casts off from the LEGION (proper) itself.

Truly the LEGION of the 30th century (or the 21st, depending on the writer, year or need for the story - Supergirl would mostly see the LEGION in the 21st century, unless she was a guest star in the SUPERMAN series, then it would be the 30th... but, even in Superman, that would flip as well) became a very busy place for super-heroes. All the groundwork and what would become the "classic" continuity for the LEGION is here. Mon El, the death of Lighting Lad, the creation of the Science Police, and every whacked out time travel adventure you could imagine, and more, more, more - it's all in here, and it's a mess. Continuity is contstantly being rewritten, or just plain forgotten for the sake of the story (Supergirl's first audition would be for the LEGION's heirs - the children of SATURN GIRL, LIGHTING BOY and COSMIC BOY, yet they would be forgotten completely by her next adventure). And sometimes when the series recounts origins or past adventures, writers mix up facts or outright alter them to, sometimes, greater effect, but in one case (found on page 253 - SHOWCASE numbering) to what amounts to murder on Superboy's part when trying to prove that Mon El did not come from Krypton. If you're looking for trivia, then this run of LEGION stories will give you tons of question to quiz people with.

DC has done a good job, and these SHOWCASE editions are an excellent and cheap way of jumping on the bandwagon. While the loss of their original colors is a bump in the road, it does not ruin the ride. Highly recommended.

Some of the Best of Yesteryear.......2007-04-24

These are reprints of the great tales of the Legion of Superheroes. All are stories that I've read over and over as a kid and now have the chance to enjoy them all over again. My only drawback to not giving it 5 stars is that they are all in Black and White and not the original color which is somewhat distracting to the reader. All in all though, really worth the purchase.

Invincible: The Ultimate Collection, Vol. 2

Average customer rating:

Hero in training
Great shape - Speedy Delivery
Good but feels incomplete
A worthy successor to vol. 1
Great Stuff, but Somewhat Unsatisfactory.

Invincible: The Ultimate Collection, Vol. 2
Robert Kirkman , Ryan Ottley , and Bill Crabtree
Manufacturer: Image Comics
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1582405948

Book Description

In the aftermath of Mark's revelation concerning his father, he's forced to pick up the pieces of his life and carry on. The Ultimate Collection, Vol. 2 collects Invincible's struggle to become his own man, to stand on his own and live his own life. This is a can't-miss for any Invincible fan and a perfect addition to any bookshelf.

Customer Reviews:

Hero in training.......2007-07-07

In this second hardcover collecting Robert Kirkman's Invincible Volumes 3 & 4 (issues 14 - 24 and Origins) we see Mark Grayson maturing into the world's soon-to-be most powerful superhero. After the climactic and disturbing events in the first collection where Mark discovered the truth about his father our hero is left to figure out things for himself. Without the guidance of his super-parent Invincible sets off for college and starts working for Cecil Steadman and the government, which pits Mark against villains and monsters capable of mocking his superhero monicker by actually hurting and beating him. Relationship troubles with Amber and his Mom who is still dealing with his dad's absence put a strain on Mark's life that not even his superpowers can alleviate (a la Spider-man). I am glad to say that I enjoy this comic because of the fact that Invincible is, strangely enough, NOT invincible. Sure, Mark doesn't have a weakness like Kryptonite, and can't be hurt by conventional weapons, but other supers can with a bit of trying inflict some damage upon him, either by thrashing him physically or going after his loved ones, showing that a secret identity is not as easy to hide as in the Superman universe. Kirkman handles his character much like Alan Moore handled Miracle Man all those years ago, pointing out that even the most invulnerable of beings has limits, and that the world does not always recover when these creatures cut loose. Often violent and bloody, the Invincible comics in this collection also contain moments of tenderness and genuine feeling between characters that make each story addictively readable and leaves you begging for more.

Great shape - Speedy Delivery.......2007-03-27

The book got here quick, packaged well and in great shape. What more is there to say.

Good but feels incomplete.......2007-03-19

Invincible is quickly becoming one of my favorite comics, the art, pacing, characterization and plot are all very solid. It has a great cast of characters and has something new to say about superheroes.

The only reason this collection does not get 5 stars is it ends on a very abruct note. While some collections focus on including an entire story arc, this one ends halfway through a story and leaves literally dozens of subplots hanging.

A worthy successor to vol. 1.......2007-01-26

After reading volume 1 I had one thing to say: WOW....OH WOW!!!
This is the most innovating comic series in ages. It combines humour, clean-styled drawings and a great storyline.
That style continues in this long awaited volume 2... Lots of hints and pokes at other comics and movies (expecially the star wars one in this volume.... you just have to appreciate it..).
Kirkman picks up events where vol.1 one took a dramatic turn in the plot....gives us an insight in the spendings of the taxpayers money (haha) and Allan the Alien, my god.. was that NECESSARY ?!!?!?! **crying **

I hope this series keeps on going forever. If there is going to be a volume 3 out soon I will definately buy that one as well... and 4 ...and 5 ..... and....

Great Stuff, but Somewhat Unsatisfactory........2006-12-11

Like the other reviewers may have mentioned, I also agree that this is not as good as the first volume. I know that Robert Kirkman said that he consciously tried to expand the universe, and the way he did that was by adding one subplot on top of another. However, by the end of the book, most of the subplots are not resolved, thus leaving the reader (or at least me) feeling unsatisfied. It's like reading the first two-thirds of a book, and then coming to an abrupt stop without resolution. The first volume was far more self-contained. All you needed to read was that one volume, and if you never read any more Invincible, you'd still have closure. This one - no resolution, which is annoying.

Nevertheless, this is still a great a read. The plots are interesting, the characters are likeable, the dialogue is sharp and witty, and the art is beautiful and consistent. Overall, I was entertained, and recommend that you pick it up. I just wish I don't have to wait year or whatever until the next hardcover collection comes out. Bring on the next collection!

Average customer rating:

Garbage....
A Treasure!
The World's Greatest Super-Heroes
Not bad, but could have been better...
the "ultimate" edition for superheroes.

The World's Greatest Super-Heroes
Paul Dini , and Alex Ross
Manufacturer: DC Comics
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 1401202543

Book Description

This oversized hardcover edition collects six stories by Paul Dini, the Emmy Award-winning producer of Batman Beyond and The New Batman/Superman Adventures, and superstar illustrator Alex Ross. These classic works feature Superman, Batman, Captain Marvel and Wonder Woman in a unique storytelling format that combines aspects of both comics and picture books. Plus, the entire Justice League, which includes those four iconic heroes plus others like Flash, Green Lantern, Aquaman and Hawkman, is featured in a full-length story created in a traditional comics format. Also included are several pages of promotional art, sketches, art done for DC Direct product, and much more!

Customer Reviews:

Garbage...........2007-10-01

Forget about these reviews, This book is trash. High price for no story and over-made paintings. It's hard to justify when the characters are little more then cheap cartoon drawings.

A Treasure!.......2007-07-01

From beginning to end, this book is gorgeous. This hardcover slipcased edition is a tactile wonder. Everything from the cover to every single page has a pleasant, glossy sheen not found even in other DC Absolutes. Now in previous absolute editions, I have lamented the inclusion of both a slipcase AND a dust jacket, (hello, redundant!) I am pleased that this book features both, because it's just more canvas to feature the Ross's to-die-for art.
Now if you're expecting to see a lot of the Justice League together, you'll be disappointed because 2/3 of this book is Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and Captain Marvel in their own stories. However, the 80 page LIBERTY AND JUSTICE story that concludes the book is the cream of the crop. If you need a bigger JLA fix, then look to Ross's series JUSCICE.

In short, this should be on the shelf of any DC comics fan, and considering that the BATMAN and WONDER WOMAN paperbacks are selling for more than this collected edition, it's a friggin' steal at 32.99.

The World's Greatest Super-Heroes.......2007-05-14

EXCELLENT! Astonishing artwork and vivid stories that do justice for these classic DC heroes. NUFF SAID!

Not bad, but could have been better..........2007-03-12

I find Alex Ross to be the best artist in the comic book industry, period. Some people say that a comic shouldn't be painted, but they're just being closed minded. It's about time anyway, especially with some of the work out there being done today. Some comic book artists need a lesson in proportion and figure study, that's all I'm saying. (And for some inkers, a class about understanding the role of light and shadow wouldn't be too bad a thing to take either.)

Anyway, like I've probably hinted, I bought this book because of the art. And considering Dini's past experience, I'd expected the writing to be pretty good as well. Unfortunately, it's not all that great. Most of the stories don't use word bubbles (excluding the Justice League story,) in what I'm guessing to be a sort of different take on the standard comic book. I have nothing against that move, but what came out of it was rather flat. A narrative, I believe, doesn't conjure as much interest as dialogue (which would be word bubbles.) Not that there isn't any sort of dialogue in these stories, there are, but more room is taken up by the thoughts of the narrator, which would be the lead super hero in each story. Of course, to read the inner workings of Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman sounds like great fun, but it just comes out rather bland and uninteresting.

Two stories that I think worked the best were the Batman and Captain Marvel stories. The two that I think were the least engaging were the Superman and Wonder Woman ones. Others may think differently, but we all have different opinions, so it's up the person. All of the stories in the book deal with humanity issues, which is a nice change. And the Justice League comic isn't bad. And Alex Ross is doing his Alex Ross thing. So overall, if you want the art, just buy it, considering the savings you get with Amazon. If you're more the person that wants an interesting and engaging storyline, you might want to look elsewhere.

the "ultimate" edition for superheroes........2006-11-10

I own the single books from Dini/Ross teamup. Great books. They capture the essence of each character to build upon it a very meaningful and clever tale. Nothing to add about the art: Ross is well known and always getting better and better, with panels as evocative as the prose. The hardcover edition is the perfect way to enjoy these masterpieces (even if a bit heavy to handle.....). But if you are looking for extra material (as the new edition of Mythology) you could be disappointed.

Captain America Vol. 1: Winter Soldier, Book One

Average customer rating:

A litle bit disapointing
Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Vol. 1
so-so captain america story...
Brubaker Restores My Faith in the Comic Medium
Excellent Reboot for Captain America

Captain America Vol. 1: Winter Soldier, Book One
Ed Brubaker
Manufacturer: Marvel Comics
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0785119205

Book Description

Cap is awakened in the dead of the night by agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., who need the kind of help only he can provide. But the corpse he finds on the Heli-carrier brings him face-to-face with the unthinkable, and opens doors to terror and manipulation he never dreamed possible! It's a new beginning as four-time Eisner-nominated Best Writer Ed Brubaker makes his Marvel debut, joined by white-hot artist Steve Epting! As the new regular creative team, they will take Cap's life in directions fans will never see coming! Collects Captain America (2005) #1-7.

Customer Reviews:

A litle bit disapointing.......2007-08-20

Well I bought this book with the hope to read a graet story, but the art is just great but the story is too slow and boaring, I fellaslep many times.

Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Vol. 1.......2007-04-14

This product was excellent. The story line and the ultimate ending which kills Captain America right in front of our eyes. Who knew. Highly recommended.

so-so captain america story..........2007-01-11

average predictable story, the art is nice. this installment is better than part 2, which is a total mess. overall if you are a captain america fan you'll probably hate this for many reasons, if you are a casual comics fan you might think its ok, if you read a lot of comics and are tired of the same overused garbage from the big two publishers you'll hate this.

Brubaker Restores My Faith in the Comic Medium.......2007-01-10

I had bailed out on the comic scene for good following High School, although I continued to pick up Jeff Smith's "Bone", since I knew it was a finite series, so I wouldn't have to be chained to it forever. Well, the day came and the series ended, and quite frankly, I missed my bi-monthly excursions to the comic shop. I missed the smell of paper. I even dreamed about it.

So I was on my Honeymoon in the frozen north when I stopped into a Supermarket and happened to glance at issue #1 of Captain America written by Ed Brubaker. I've never been a fan of Cap or his Avenger buddies. Just a bunch of Government tools. But this issue rocked. The art was really great and when I sat down and read it I found a story I could really dig to. So I was hooked, and I count each new issue as another month of marriage. Since then, I've also opened the door to Ed Brubaker's Daredevil too. Daredevil was my favorite growing up, so I'm glad to have him back in my life.

Writing and art are equally sublime. The perfect creative team. The story is fresh and up to date. Flashbacks to WWII were an added thrill. Real gritty storytelling. This Ed Brubaker knows what he's doing.

I'm with this book for the long haul, and I am grateful to know that each month I have this marvelous little treat to look forward to. EXCELSIOR!

Excellent Reboot for Captain America.......2006-12-09

This is a great Captian America story. As a reboot on his origin, it doesn't try to start at the very beginning. It takes almost all the current elements and lines them up for a total change of perspective. We know who the Red Skull is, we know who Bucky is, we know who Nomad is, we know who Nick Fury and SHEILD is...all of them come together in the story and are essential in changing Cap's life in many ways.

Brubaker does a great service to fans and newcomers alike, giving us a complex story that delivers all that we know with an intelligent refocus. Cap is a different person, making his political views very clear in many cases, most of which were formed during the war by all the fighting as well as the inspirational stories he experienced.

The artwork is outstanding. Cap looks real, not so much the stoic figure that stood an easy 6'5" as a vision of Patriotism. He's suffering a bit, but underneath you know he still believes in the basic principles of the Red, White and Blue, and not the political quagmire that has clouded the views of it's people.

In the story, he is called to help look into the death of a character that has been a part of his life since the war, the Red Skull. As pieces of the puzzle are found he discovers that someone is manipulating his thoughts and memories, that there is greater mystery than the death of an old enemy. He finds inconsistencies in his thoughts and recollections, so much so it affects his fighting ability and concentration.

As the terrorist aspect grows more dangerous and the plot expands, Cap comes closer to the truth, and closer to one of the most shocking revelations of his life.

Average customer rating:

An improvement compared to the first story
What the Heck?
Great art, very confusing story
Huh?
i agree with the other reviewer...

Supergirl Vol. 2: Candor
Greg Rucka , Mark Verheiden , and Joe Kelly
Manufacturer: DC Comics
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1401212263

Customer Reviews:

An improvement compared to the first story.......2007-09-16

Compared to the first Supergirl story arc, this book isn't as bad as most make it seem. First off, we get to return to Kandor which hasn't been seen since Godfall (A pretty good Superman read). The adventure in Kandor is interesting and has Power Girl and Supergirl take on the identities of Flamebird and Nightwing, heroes from Krypton's past. I admit when I first heard of this I wasn't sure it would be good but it really surprised the heck out of me.

The true gem is the way KAra Zor-el was displayed in this arc. We were shown how powerful Supergirl was in her first trade but this collection goes into her character more then her abilities. Supergirl is unsure of her role in a world that looks up to her cousin, Superman. The writers here do a good job of not only displaying a teenaged superhero who might not want to put on the cape because she has the power to make a difference. Instead we see a girl who hasn't grown up yet, She runs from responsiblity and avoids the one person who cares about her the most.

As far as the extra story thrown in involving the JLA, I guess that was DC trying to show what Supergirl was doing before the crisis and how she was recruited by Donna Troy. The thought of making sure the reader knows what happens before OYL is appreciated but they could of just easily put a paragraph explaining what happened (and saved money)

People can say what they want about this title but I feel the writers have done an excellent job of making the Girl of Steel as human as possible. The upcoming thrid volume of Supergirl is even better.

What the Heck?.......2007-06-24

It only gets two stars because of the artwork

As everyone else says, these story makes absolutely no sense. It exhibits the same problems that are occurring more often in the series: "Let's just have stuff happen and ignore whether it fits into anything". It's like they were making it up as they went along hoping no one would notice they didn't know where they were going.

They made it clear that the black costume Supergirl was a physical manifestation, not an illusion. She could physically interact with other objects (including the "real" Supergirl) and they saw her and talked with her. Where did she come from? Who knows? What was she? Dunno. At the end, when she disappears when confronted by "Truth"--Why? Where did she go? Apparently we aren't supposed to be concerned with these howlers.

BTW, DC, you've got to know better this, but you seem to keep ignoring it (or maybe your authors and editors really don't know it): You don't just run out of air when you find yourself in a vacuum, your internal organs rupture fairly quickly because your internal pressure is still there but there's no corresponding external pressure. Even more basic: YOU CAN'T TALK IN A VACUUM!

Great art, very confusing story.......2007-06-10

Title says it all. As the other Supergirl books, it's beautiful art. However, the book takes place halfway between the recent Crisis and then it has a very abrupt shift in story in the middle of the book and it makes it hard to pick back up.

Huh?.......2007-06-06

Am I the only one who had no idea what was going on? Not only is it confusing between the stories but the individual stories are confusing. I can't find enough continuity to figure out what's happening.

(I wasn't even that impressed with the artwork.)

i agree with the other reviewer..........2007-05-11

i also didn't hate supergirl: power and thought it was pretty good, even though i'll admit it was a bit wacky with the premise of let's make a black costume supergirl fight everyone. but who knows what's going on in this book. it seems to be a collection of unrelated stories.

Captain America Vol. 2: Winter Soldier, Book Two

Average customer rating:

Captain America: Winter Soldier, Vol. 2
On par with the first volume
Finally...Back from the dead
Believe the Brubaker hype!!
not so good...

Captain America Vol. 2: Winter Soldier, Book Two
Ed Brubaker
Manufacturer: Marvel Comics
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0785119213

Book Description

The questions plaguing Captain America's dreams and memories have been answered in the most brutal way possible. And in the wake of this brutality, General Lukin makes his first all-out assault - tearing open old wounds and threatening to make new scars that will never heal! Collects Captain America #8, 9 and #11-14.

Customer Reviews:

Captain America: Winter Soldier, Vol. 2 .......2007-06-08

A fantastic read, I couldn't put the book down.

On par with the first volume.......2007-05-27

The second collected storyarc in Ed Brubaker's relaunched Captain America series is pretty much on par with the first volume. That means, if you enjoyed Brubaker's first collection, you'll dig this as well. However, that also means that if you didn't like Brubaker's first collection, this one won't win you over. Continuing where the first Winter Soldier collection left off, Cap learns that the Winter Soldier is indeed his old, thought long dead partner Bucky; resulting in a face off between the two. Throughout this TPB, there are also appearances from the Falcon, Nick Fury, and a hint in regards to the "death" of the Red Skull. The book is well paced and full of espionage and action, while Steve Epting's artwork is pretty solid as well. All that being said, there's nothing really special about the second volume of Brubaker's run on Captain America, but it's not as bad as some reviewers are making it out to be. Yes, no one in comics stays dead forever (ironic considering Cap himself recently bit the big one), but at least it gets to be moderately entertaining from time to time.

Finally...Back from the dead.......2007-03-17

It is not unusual to kill off a comic book character. What is rare is to have the departed one stay dead. DC was successful in killing and reviving Superman and has recently brought both Green Lantern and Green Arrow back from the land of the almost dead. Marvel is giving us a look at their first Captain Marvel again.

One of the few characters who managed to stay dead was Captain America's original partner: James Buchanan Barnes. Aside from a pseudo return in the fifties, Bucky has remained safely frozen in the past. According to artist Mike Perkins, Marvel editors were skeptical about the pitch by writers to revive Bucky, but were convinced by the strength of the proposed storyline.

Winter Soldier is fun to read with the usual Cap elements: Nick Fury, Sharon Carter, WW2 flashbacks, Red Skull with the Falcon thrown in for good measure. The artwork is dark or sepia-toned and blends well with flashback pages. There is the usual Cap soul-searching and shield-slinging. I did find his black ops work a little disturbing as I can remember Cap changing his identity to Nomad when disillusioned over Watergate revelations. In the pages of Winter Soldier, however, he mentions disappointment in the current administration because they are too committed to the rule of law.

However, it is just a comic book and not an editorial. So, regardless of the reader's ideology, if you are a Cap fan, you will enjoy Winter Soldier. If not, this arc is a good way to reconnect with the character and to read the background to Cap's own shuffling off of this mortal coil (at least for a while.)

Believe the Brubaker hype!!.......2007-02-17

Ed Brubaker and Steve Epting's WINTER SOLDIER arc for Captain America is as defining for the character of Cap as it is for the agents of SHIELD and for those who believed that certain characters shouldn't come back from the dead. It's a great story with great development and it truly is a great arc.

not so good..........2007-01-13

part 2 is a total mess (pt 1 wasn't much better). overall if you are a captain america fan you'll probably hate this for many reasons, if you are a casual comics fan you might think its ok, if you read a lot of comics and are tired of the same overused garbage from the big two publishers you'll hate this.

Marvel Encyclopedia Volume 1 HC (Marvel Encyclopedia)

Average customer rating:

Marvel Encyclopedia Volume 1 HC
Marvel for Dummies
An excellent resource!
WHERE IS THE GUIDE TO MARVEL UNIVERSE AT?
Waste of Money

Marvel Encyclopedia Volume 1 HC (Marvel Encyclopedia)
David Bogart
Manufacturer: Marvel Comics
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0785109846

Book Description

At last, the long awaited, complete and up-to-date listing of more than 100 top Marvel heroes and villians, from A to Z. This fully illustrated, comprehensive hardcover includes biographies, statistics, essential reading and quizzes on all the Mighty Marvel's most popular characters. How did they get their powers? What were their greatest adventures? Who are the deadliest adversaries? All is revealed in the Marvel Encyclopedia.

Customer Reviews:

Marvel Encyclopedia Volume 1 HC.......2006-08-22

Although the book was a thorough accumulation of Marvel characters, the pictures were in black and white, and the level of artistic talent was limited. The inexpensive printing shows and I was completely dissatisfied with the flimsy pages and grainy print.

Marvel for Dummies.......2003-08-06

The book looks great, the problems start when you search for information on a caracter and you only find the ones you already know. I understand that Marvel dedicate more space to it's icons, but it's illogycal to exclude 80% of your caracters, even if they are well know outside the comic comunity (Apocalyps, Mr. Sinester, Hobgoblin, Tigra, Machineman, Valder, Mr Hyde, Omegar Red, Lady Deathstrike, etc).
Almost every art piece has already been publish, and the ones who haven't are not very good (Quicksilver and Scarlet Wish).
The information is scarce to say the least, and the recomended reading is almost limited to recent issues.
Sometimes the power level of the caracters dosen't make any sense. (according to the guide Jubilee has more energy than Gambit).
If you have never read a Marvel Comic this might be your cup of tea, otherwise don't buy it.

An excellent resource!.......2003-02-07

I have to wonder whether some of the other reviewers read the same book I did. No, not everyone knows what Captain American, Hulk, and Wolverine have done in the comics. No, the entries weren't "just cut-and-pasted from the Marvel Web site". And I had to laugh at the obviously clueless person that said "many of the people writing Marvel now know less about the characters than a lot of us older fans"! This is an excellent, well-researched, visually-attractive, informative, and up-to-date guide to the Marvel Comics universe that will appeal to both new and long-time readers. Granted, it's nowhere near as in-depth as Marvel's older Encyclopedias, but it was never meant to be. Marvel are promising future editions and updates of the new Encyclopedia, so If you like Marvel's comics, movies, or TV shows, and want to know more about the characters, then get in on the ground floor with this great book!

WHERE IS THE GUIDE TO MARVEL UNIVERSE AT?.......2003-01-23

I bought this under the false belief that this would be an awesome edition to my collection.
this is so full of errors those tech specs are soo off when it comesto strength.. duribablity and fighting skill. Contradictions to what the Bio says and the Tech Spec shows.
It's mainly Eye candy and not even that when it comes to artwork because it's artwork we've already seen before*repeatly*. The bio history for a majority of the characters even established ones is IMO brief and actually forgets some good points in character development.

I'd say this is good for a kid ,but not a mature comic reader. If you want info and accurate info on character look for the guide to the marvel universe set. I'm sure, the usual net surfing will give you better..

Waste of Money.......2002-12-27

Everyone already knows what Captain American, Hulk, and Wolverine have done in the comics. I thought this book would be an (almost) complete encyclopedia of marvel characters. Due to its small size I just figured it would provide brief descriptions of each character. It doesn't even cover all of the first x-men. And yes, everything was just cut-and-pasted from the marvel website.

Don't judge a book by its attractive cover!

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