Top Picks: Volume 1 Issue 1

I try to keep up with what books are coming out each week. I do this with my handy-dandy Smartphone.  Typically I shop at Midtown Comics. They have a great app that tells you what is being released. This makes it very easy for me to navigate through the titles. I just do a quick search while I'm on the subway and when I walk in the door, it's easy pickins.

This past Wednesday had a lot to offer for Batman and X-Men fans.

Just a warning, this post may contain spoilers.

And here we go...

5. Talon #2

    Written by: Scott Snyder & James T Tynion IV

    Art by: Juan Jose Ryp







Credit: DC Comics

From the pages of Batman comes Calvin Rose a.k.a. Talon. This book is only on its second issue -- third if you count #0 -- so your wallet won't hate you if you want to start reading from the beginning.

If you haven't read the Court of Owls storyline from Batman, I recommend you do so. It's a great companion to this story. The first half of the Court of Owls arc is available in hardcover. You won't be disappointed. Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo have been keeping Batman fans on the edge of their seats since the New 52 started last year.

But back to Talon. The issue picks up with Calvin breaking into a hotel that houses important items to the Court of Owls. It turns out that there are some items in the hotel that have value to Calvin, who is met with some opposition in his attempt to collect.

I'm really enjoying this book and I'm looking foward to seeing where it will go. The writing is great -- as is anything Scott Snyder does. But the artwork is where it fell flat for me. The first issue was drawn by Guillem March, who was replaced with Juan Jose Ryp for issue #2. While Ryp does a decent job, it doesn't compare to March's work.

***3/5 Stars: Good***





4. Wolverine Max #2    
      Written by: Jason Starr   

    Art by: Roland Boschi & Felix Ruiz



Credit: Mavel Comics

This isn't your grandpa's comic book. If friendly teamwork is what you're looking for... you've come to the wrong place. However, if violence and curse words are your cup of tea, than look no further.

Logan has been in a plane crash and is looking for answers. Much like issue #1, there are some really nice flashbacks. One thing I really enjoy about these flashbacks is that whenever they happen, the artist changes. This may distract some people, but I find it refreshing.

The main focus of this issue is Logan trying to figure out who Yami is. She was on the plane with him and died in the first issue. Logan had some kind of relationship with her... we just don't know what.


***3/5 Stars: Good***





3. The Dark Knight #14

    Written by: Gregg Hurwitz    

    Art by: David Finch



Credit: DC Comics

This issue does not start off very well for Scarecrow or Batman. Each encounter a pretty nasty boo-boo during a fight. But Scarecrow does get the last laugh... at least for now.

I've absolutley loved this book ever since Gregg Hurwitz took over writing duties from David Finch. Don't get me wrong, I'm a big fan of Finch, but I enjoy him more in the art department.

Hurwitz's knack for writing crime-based stories has really shined since issue #10. We have gotten a great story that shows the struggles Jonathan Crane has encountered in his life -- particularly as a small child -- that have made him into the person he is today.

There is one issue left in this story arc. We will then move onto a new villian and new artist -- The Mad Hatter and Ethan Van Sciver, respectivly. 

***4/5 Stars: Great***



2. All-New X-Men #2

    Written by: Brian Michael Bendis 

      Art by: Stuart Immonen & Wade von Grawbadger

Credit: Marvel Comics

Beast is on a mission here. His goal is simple... stop Scott Summers from starting a mutant war. Sounds easy enough, right?

Let the time traveling fun begin!

As present-time Beast visits the early X-Men, there is a lot of convincing being done on Beast's part. He reveals some information that some members of the group are shocked to hear.

Most of the material from this book is fallout from the Avengers vs. X-Men story. So you might want to refeshen up on that before giving this a read.

This was just a fun book to read. I found myself enjoying every panel as I turned the pages. I even let out a laugh at certain points. Like when a young Iceman sees what he'll look like in the future. Their facial expressions were just great.

Another funny moment was when Wolverine falls asleep at the hands of a young Jean Grey. I don't know if it's the way he was drawn or what, but the way he was just sitting there on the ground was pretty good. 

***4/5 Stars: Great***

1. Batman Incorporated #5    

    Written by: Grant Morrison     

      Art by: Chris Burnham

Credit: DC Comics

Every week, there is one book that I can't wait to read. It's usually on the top of my stack. This week, that book was Batman Inc. #5.

Whenever Grant Morrison's name appears on something, there's a good chance you're going to get a great story. It may be a little out there -- but it's good. With this run of Batman Inc., the star is Chris Burnham. Every issue has been a delight for my eyes.

This issues brings up a lot of past Batman history. Stuff you can check out in Batman #666.

Morrison gives us a glimpse of Damian, Bruce Wayne's son, as Batman. Let me tell you, Gotham does not look like a place I would want to visit any time soon with Damian behind the cowl.

Batman Incorporated #5 has a little something for everyone. Explosions, Joker references, and zombies... oh my!

Buy this book... and the rest of the previous ones while you're at it.

***5/5 Stars: Amazing***




Well, there you have it. Until next week... happy reading!


Eric    Follow me on Twitter