New Comics Collected Editions: Hulk! Conan! Howard Chaykin!

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The Incredible Hulk Epic Collection: And Now...The Wolverine

Hulk is the strongest! Why? Because it’s hard not to be when you go from strength to strength with artists Herb Trimpe and Sal Buscema. Trimpe defined The Incredible Hulk in an artistic tenure stretching from 1968 to 1975. When Sal Buscema took over the reins, not only did the series gain a great talent, but one that, unbelievably, would have a tenure longer than even Trimpe’s. Add to that Len Wein writing some of his greatest Hulk stories—including the first appearance of Wolverine—and you better believe it’s good to be green! The adventures collected here include Hulk smashing his way through the Mole Man, the Gremlin, the Shaper of Worlds, Doc Samson, the Abomination and, of course, the never-ending military machinations of Gen. Thunderbolt Ross.

    COLLECTING: Incredible Hulk (1968) 179-203; material from Giant-Size Hulk (1975) 1, Marvel Treasury Edition (1974) 5

Time² Omnibus

Graphically experimental, narratively daring and visually explosive, Howard Chaykin’s Time2 was a work ahead of its time. Now, to commemorate the project’s 35th anniversary with the arrival of its long-awaited conclusion...it still is.

    In addition to remastered versions of the long-out-of-print first two volumes, The Epiphany and The Satisfaction of Black Mariah, the Time2 Omnibus completes the trilogy with the new 48-page volume Hallowed Ground0, plus many never-before-seen extras from the project.

The Savage Sword of Conan: The Original Marvel Years Omnibus Vol. 8

Few, if any, comic magazines have had such an abundance of amazing artists as The Savage Sword of Conan. This eighth Marvel Omnibus edition is proof positive with work by a host of talents including the iconic energy of Ernie Chan, the flowing beauty of Rudy Nebres, the airbrushed action of Dave Simons and the Conan artist of all Conan artist Big John Buscema, who illustrates the never before reprinted adaptation of Conan the Destroyer! New visual talents join as well with Gary Kwapisz crafting a new visual pace for Savage. Conan’s exploits in this volume include the return of Captain Bor’aqh Sharaq, the resurrection of the Devourer of Souls and all-out war with an undead army!

    COLLECTING: Savage Sword of Conan (1974) 102-116; Marvel Comics Super Special (1977) 35

New Book By Comics Vet Paul Kupperberg Features Interviews with Bronze Age DC Comics Creators

Veteran comics writer Paul Kupperberg is offering a new book via Kickstarter. More info here.

Details:

Where were you in 1975?

I was twenty and in my first year as a comic book professional. After a lifetime of reading comics and an adolescence devoted to collecting them and participating in comics fandom and fanzines, I realized my ambition of breaking into the comic book business. The way some kids wanted to grow up to be actors or baseball players or architects, I dreamt of writing for DC Comics.

And I wasn’t alone.

Between May and August of 2022, I sat down for a series of conversations with ten of my old friends and DC Comics colleagues, many of whom shared my childhood four-color obsession, about their own journeys from fans and readers to professionals during that pivotal time in comics history for DIRECT CONVERSATIONS: TALKS WITH FELLOW DC COMICS BRONZE AGE CREATORS:

• Howard V. Chaykin
• Jack C. Harris
• Tony Isabella
• Paul Levitz
• Steve Mitchell
• Bob Rozakis
• Joe Staton
• Anthony Tollin
• Bob Toomey
• Michael Uslan

Comics was changing. The audience was getting older, readers demanding more sophisticated storytelling and art, and, very soon, the industry’s entire business model would be upended as distribution shifted from newsstands to comics specialty shops. Even the old guard like DC vice president and production manager Sol Harrison, who had been working in the business since comics began in 1935, recognized that the new generation of readers called for a new generation of creators, ones closer to their ages and interests than the 20-, 30-, 40-year veterans than responsible for most of the current output.

At least half the people I spoke with for DIRECT CONVERSATIONS had been hired under the general umbrella of Sol Harrison’s search for young talent, including Michael Uslan, later the producer of the Batman film franchise, inker, production artist, and later documentary filmmaker Steve Mitchell, colorist and production artist Anthony Tollin, writer and production manager Bob Rozakis, and editor and writer Jack C. Harris. Paul Levitz, my cohort in publishing the early-70s fanzines that led to his being temporarily hired in 1972 as legendary artist and editor Joe Orlando’s assistant for a summer, ending in his retirement as DC’s president and publisher in 2009. Tony Isabella took an unusual route, coming to DC after a stint writing and editing for Marvel, while Howard Chaykin, Joe Staton, Bob Toomey, and myself were freelancers who took slightly different routes.

In DIRECT CONVERSATIONS my DC Comics Bronze Age peers and I talk about the good (and some not so good) old days, in the years when comics was still a small enough world where everybody knew everybody else, and where we found ourselves rubbing shoulders with and being mentored by the giants who had created the business over its first 40 years.

Why focus on DC Comics? Because that’s the place I knew. I discovered comics before the Marvel Comics we know today even existed, and characters like Superman and Wonder Woman and Martian Manhunter were indelibly stamped on my psyche as I learned to read from their stories. I got my first glimpse of the world inside the business on one of DC’s weekly office tours in 1968. When I started pitching stories to publishers, I took a couple of practice swings at Gold Key (strike out!) and Charlton (home run!), but once I landed at DC I never looked back. My creative heart, and most of my friends, were at DC.

New Comics Collected Editions: Black Panther Masterworks

Our pick this week:

Mighty Marvel Masterworks: The Black Panther Vol. 1: The Claws of the Panther

The Mighty Marvel Masterworks are proud to present the early adventures of the Black Panther! In the 1960s, Stan Lee and Jack Kirby created one of the most iconic super heroes ever conceived, the regal king of the Wakandas—the Black Panther. Roy Thomas, joined by top artists including John Buscema, brought the Panther into the ranks of the Avengers and delved into his origins and backstory. From T’Challa’s first appearance and his battle with Klaw through his adventures with Captain America and his joining the ranks of the Avengers, each page in this Mighty Marvel Masterworks volume is history in the making!

    COLLECTING: Fantastic Four (1961) 52-53, 56; Tales of Suspense (1959) 97-99; Captain America (1968) 100; Avengers (1963) 52, 62, 73-74; Daredevil (1964) 52; material from Fantastic Four (1961) 54

 

New Comics Collected Editions: Conan! Archie!

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Conan the Barbarian Epic Collection: The Original Marvel Years - Vengeance in Asgalun

    Conan the Barbarian and the pirate queen Bêlit continue their quest to reclaim her rightful place on the throne of Asgalun. They must descend deep down the River Styx into Luxur, the capital city of Stygia, land of snake-worshippers, in search of Bêlit’s father. Along the way they’ll encounter raiders off the coast of Shem and the famous—and deadly—Hawk-Riders of Harakht. The journey also takes Conan to the Lost Valley of Iskander as he pursues the powerful Eye of Set and into swamps where a sultry witch and man-dragons threaten to devour him alive! Then, Conan is joined by one of the fiercest allies he’ll ever know—the formidable fighter and skilled mage, Zula!
    COLLECTING: Vol. 6: Conan the Barbarian (1970) 72-88

Conan the Barbarian: The Original Marvel Years Omnibus Vol. 8

In the late ’80s, artist Val Semeiks took the reins on Conan the Barbarian injecting a powerful new energy into the series. Semeiks’ work was a force multiplier for the latter half of Christopher Priest’s era-defining run. Together, they crafted one of the greatest Conan epics of all time, a massive story line building issue #200 and a showdown with the Devourer of Souls. As the Devourer reveals his final gambit, drawing upon the power of the Elder Gods, Conan must seek aid from one whose name even he dreads: Thulsa Doom! Also featuring the return of Red Sonja, the acclaimed “Heku Trilogy” and early work by Andy Kubert, this is one Omnibus you don’t want to miss! By Crom!

    COLLECTING: Conan the Barbarian (1970) 195-213, Conan the Barbarian Annual (1973) 12, Official Handbook of the Conan Universe (1986) 1

The Archie Encyclopedia

Sure, you may know who Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead, and Reggie are, and maybe you even know a thing or two about Dilton, Ethel, Cheryl, and Moose! But that's still only just scratching the surface of the vast library of Archie Comics characters! An ideal collector's item for mega-fans as well as the perfect jumping-on point for any fans that are new to Archie Comics, get set for an expansive tour of Riverdale and beyond with The Archie Encyclopedia!

New Comics Collected Editions: Batman: One Dark Knight! Batman: Black and White! Human Target!

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Batman: One Dark Knight

All they had to do was get him across town.

     It was the sort of mission Batman had run a thousand times. From high above the sweltering summer streets of Gotham, Batman would escort the GCPD as the dangerous metahuman super-villain known as E.M.P. was transferred from a temporary holding cell to his permanent home at Blackgate Prison in Gotham Harbor. E.M.P.’s electrical powers posed a dangerous threat, but the situation was well in hand.

     Until it wasn’t.

     Now every light in Gotham is out, the police have been knocked into disarray, and a broken, bleeding Batman must fight his way to Blackgate, block by block, dragging E.M.P. behind him. But it’s not just the gangs who want to make life difficult for him. The dark corners of Gotham contain many surprises…and E.M.P. has many more shocks to deliver before the night is through!

     One of the most iconic Batman artists of the 21st century, the incomparable Jock (THE BATMAN WHO LAUGHS, BATMAN: THE BLACK MIRROR), has focused all his storytelling powers on the tale of one very, very dark night in Gotham City. It’s always darkest before the dawn—if it ever comes… 

     Collects Batman: One Dark Knight #1-3.

The Human Target: Book One

Christopher Chance has made a living out of being a human target—a man hired to disguise himself as his client to invite would-be assassins to attempt his murder. He’s had a remarkable career until his latest case protecting Lex Luthor when things go sideways.

     An assassination attempt Chance didn’t see coming leaves him vulnerable and left trying to solve his own murder, as he has 12 days to discover just who in the DC Universe hated Luthor enough to want him dead by slow-acting poison. And the prime suspects happen to be…the Justice League International?

     Human Target is a hard-boiled, gritty story in the vein of classic detective noirs, told by bestselling and critically acclaimed creators Tom King and Greg Smallwood!

     This volume collects Human Target #1-6, the first half of the murder mystery.

Batman: Black & White

Featured in a new prestige format, Batman: Black & White features the Dark Knight in multiple interpretations, all varying in terms of theme, tone, and setting, yet all connected with a distinctive black-and-white color scheme. With an all-star roster of creators from Paul Dini and Andy Kubert to Joshua Williamson and Riley Rossmo to G. Willow Wilson and Greg Smallwood, there's a Batman for everyone!

    The miniseries inspired by the Eisner Award-winning series BATMAN BLACK & WHITE is here! Collects the new Batman Black & White #1-6.

New Comics Collected Editions: Hulk! Steve Canyon! How to Read Comics the Marvel Way! More!

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Mighty Marvel Masterworks: The Incredible Hulk Vol. 2: The Lair of the Leader

Every great Marvel hero has a great nemesis, and Marvel’s greenest hero has the greenest nemesis: the Leader! For every ounce of strength the Hulk possesses, the Leader packs an intellectual punch to match. Now, in the Hulk’s second Mighty Marvel Masterworks, witness the jade giant descend into the lair of the Leader and his horrible Humanoids! Brought to you by creative titans Stan Lee, Steve Ditko and Jack Kirby, it’s a saga from the peak of the Marvel Age of Comics, and more fun than you can shake a tank at! Dr. Robert Bruce Banner will also tangle with General Thunderbolt Ross, and compete for the love of Betty Ross against Major Glenn Talbot!

    COLLECTING: Tales to Astonish (1959) 59-74

Steve Canyon Vol. 12: 1969-1970

The landmark Steve Canyon, Volume 12 brings Milton Caniff’s picaresque novel through the end of the tumultuous 1960s and into a brand-new decade. Everyone’s favorite bird colonel travels from Alaska to Latin America and romances women from dominating millionaire Copper Calhoon to… Poteet’s old friend, Bitsy Beekman? Things are not always as they seem, but the course of love finally runs true on April 24, 1970.

     The Rembrandt of the Comic Strips also does a serious turn, once again tackling the issue of addiction, more than eighteen months before President Nixon declared a “War on Drugs.” Meanwhile, Poteet Canyon covers the Powder Puff Derby as Bitsy enters the race, vying to become the champion woman pilot of 1969! On land or thousands of feet in the air, the action never stops in Steve Canyon, Volume 12!

 The Greatest Generation's cartoonist-in-chief, Milton Caniff, continues to appeal to two disparate groups--comics aficionados as well as active military and veterans. The Air Force created an official record for Steve Canyon, the only time a fictional character was so honored.

The EC Archives: Shock SuspenStories Vol. 2

This high-quality trade reprints the issues #7–#12 of the pulp-comic classic Shock SuspenStories! Featuring 24 stories by the all-star artistic talents of Al Feldstein, Jack Kamen, Jack Davis, Joe Orlando, Al Williamson, and Wally Wood.

How to Read Comics the Marvel Way

Presenting a universal gateway into the House of Ideas! You know you've experienced it before, True Believer: you loan your friend a comic book, only to have it returned unfinished. "I tried to read it," they say, "but I just got lost." What went wrong? Comics can be like a foreign language - if you don't learn them young, you might need extra help to catch on. Other clever cartoonists and scribes have shared their theories on the grammar of comics...but it's never been done in the Mighty Marvel Manner before! So get ready, because Mysterio has trapped Spider-Man inside a comic book - and Spidey's going to help you navigate through the gutters, balloons, panels, pencils and more! Follow along as Spidey figures out how to escape and save the day!

New Comics Collected Editions: Batman '89! Crime Patrol!

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Batman '89

Continuing the adventures of the Dark Knight from Tim Burton's classic movie Batman, Batman '89 pulls on a number of threads left dangling by that film while continuing in the tradition of DC's very successful Batman '66 series.
    In 1989 moviegoers were amazed at the new vision of the Dark Knight brought to the screen by filmmaker Tim Burton, starring Michael Keaton as Batman and Jack Nicholson as The Joker. Now, in the tradition of DC's very successful Batman '66 series, Batman '89 is set in a truly gothic Gotham City and features colorful villains including The Joker, Two-Face, and many more.
    Collects the first 12 chapters of the Batman '89 digital comics series.

EC Archives: Crime Patrol

Presenting tales of horrific crimes, grisly murders, and bizarre homicide cases featuring the titanic artistic talents of Johnny Craig, Sheldon Moldoff, H. C. Keifer, Ed Walden, Ann Brewster, and Stan Ashe.

    EC's "Pre-Trend" titles were published by M.C. Gaines, and then William Gaines after his father's death in 1947.

    Collects Crime Patrol issues #7–#11.

New Comics Collected Editions: Fantastic Four! Tarzan!

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Fantastic Four Epic Collection: Annihilus Revealed

Fantastic Four enters a new era as Roy Thomas and Gerry Conway take the reins. Thomas begins where it all began—with the Mole Man. This time, paired with Kala, Queen of the Netherworld, and topped off with a retelling of the FF’s origin. The drama remains at its peak as the Human Torch’s relationship with Crystal runs head on into Quicksilver. Meanwhile, the Frightful Four launch a surprise attack that pushes Reed and Sue to the breaking point. In the aftermath, Medusa will become the FF’s newest member. Then, it’s into the Negative Zone for the origin of Annihilus. Also featuring a new look for the Torch; classic battles with Thundra and the Hulk; the return of Doctor Doom; and the world’s creepiest babysitter, Agatha Harkness. 

    COLLECTING: Fantastic Four (1961) 126-146, Annual (1963) 10 (cover only); Giant-Size Super-Stars (1974) 1; material from FOOM (1973) 1, 4, 5

Tarzan of the Apes

Previously available only to subscribers of the Edgar Rice Burroughs website, Tarzan of the Apes is at last available in print.

    Presented in Sunday newspaper landscape format in a handsome hardcover edition, these adaptations of Edgar Rice Burroughs’ classic tales are scripted by comics legend Roy Thomas and illustrated by Pablo Marcos. Presenting the origin of the Jungle Lord and his earliest adventures, any Tarzan comics collection begins with Tarzan of the Apes.

New Comics Collected Editions: Robin & Batman! Always Never! King Conan! More!

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Robin & Batman

The legendary story of Batman and Robin has reached nearly mythic proportions: the crime-fighting Dynamic Duo, always one step ahead of the criminals they pursue and never meeting a case too big. This isn’t that story. This is the story of a young Dick Grayson, newly orphaned, struggling to find his way in a strange, difficult, dark new world…This is the story of Robin and Batman.

Always Never

Ana is a brilliant, headstrong, and compassionate mayor of a small city, with a lovely husband, daughter, and granddaughter.  Yet there has been a lingering piece of her life missing -- a thread of happiness she hasn't been able to pull on for most of her life. Zeno, a lifelong bachelor, bookstore owner, intrepid traveler, and theoretical physicist determined to figure out how to turn back time. Handsome, clever, and kind, he is often questioned about his failure to "settle down." Over the years, they have woven together an impossible and inexhaustible love. Their paths constantly intertwining, from a chance meeting on a boat to clumsily bumping into each other in the city they share. Eventually keeping in touch by letters and late-night phone calls across the world.

    A luxuriously illustrated love story full of heart, comedy and universal truths, published in English for the first time. Written and illustrated by Spanish cartoonist Jordi Lefebre, co-creator and artist of the graphic novel series Glorious Summers, as well as La Mondaine, and Lydia.

Conan the King: The Original Marvel Years Omnibus Vol. 1

Conan the barbarian…the thief…the mercenary…and now, at last, Conan the king! A new era of begins in adventures set after Conan has deposed the tyrant Numedides to become ruler of Aquilonia. But Conan on the throne is still Conan. The savage action that made him a comic book legend fills page after page while palace intrigue adds a new level of drama with Queen Zenobia and heir to the throne Prince Conn taking prominent roles. Old nemesis like Thoth-Amon return, while mystical prophecy ties Conan to the first king of the realm. Each issue is a double-sized extravaganza with scripts by the godfather of Conan comics Roy Thomas, Doug Moench and Alan Zelenetz and artwork by John Buscema and then-up-and-comer Marc Silvestri. All hail King Conan!

COLLECTING: King Conan (1980) 1-19

Time2 Omnibus

Graphically experimental, narratively daring and visually explosive, Howard Chaykin’s Time2 was a work ahead of its time. Now, to commemorate the project’s 35th anniversary with the arrival of its long-awaited conclusion...it still is.

    In addition to remastered versions of the long-out-of-print first two volumes, The Epiphany and The Satisfaction of Black Mariah, the Time2 Omnibus completes the trilogy with the new 48-page volume Hallowed Ground0, plus many never-before-seen extras from the project.

Goldfish

After years away, con man David Gold returns to the city he once called home and finds nothing as it was. But the man known as “Goldfish” has come back for one reason, and one reason only: his son. This enigmatic grifter returns to his old haunts to find his old flame practically running the city's underbelly. His oldest friend and ex-partner in crime a police detective. The town itself seems to have turned on him. With everything going against him, how can Goldfish reclaim the only person that he still cares about?

    Written and illustrated by the legendary New York Times best-selling author Brian Michael Bendis, Jinxworld and Dark Horse release an all-new edition of one of his grittiest works ever!

The EC Archives: Crime Patrol

Presenting tales of horrific crimes, grisly murders, and bizarre homicide cases featuring the titanic artistic talents of Johnny Craig, Sheldon Moldoff, H. C. Keifer, Ed Walden, Ann Brewster, and Stan Ashe.

EC's "Pre-Trend" titles were published by M.C. Gaines, and then William Gaines after his father's death in 1947.

Collects Crime Patrol issues #7–#11.

New Comics Collected Editions: Gil Kane's Spidey! Kamandi! Jinx! More!

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Gil Kane's The Amazing Spider-Man: Artisan Edition

Gil Kane’s The Amazing Spider-Man Artisan Edition presents each page in what appears to be black and white, but has actually been scanned in color. Readers view the art in its most natural form—blue pencils, ink gradients, and editorial notations all clearly visible—so they can (ahem) marvel at all the little nuances that make original art unique.

    This volume contains the infamous three-part drug story that was not approved by the Comics Code Authority (Amazing Spider-Man #96–98). The second three-part story features the legendary six-armed Spider-Man saga (Amazing Spider-Man #100–102). Additionally, one of the most famous—and most shocking—Spidey tales is included: the death of Gwen Stacey! (Amazing Spider-Man #121). You can’t get a better line-up of Spider-Man stories than this!

    Gil Kane is regarded as one of the finest comic artists in the history of the medium. His dynamic sequential storytelling abilities, coupled with impeccable draftsmanship, make him a true artist’s artist—as this book will attest!

Kamandi by Jack Kirby Vol. 1

In these tales from KAMANDI #1-20, Kamandi—one of the few survivors of a Great Disaster that has destroyed civilization—must make his way in a world populated by bizarre mutated animals and other strange wonders! Considered one of Jack Kirby's most creative works, KAMANDI features a band of anthropomorphic supporting characters who accompany Kamandi as he searches for answers and adventure across the wastelands of Earth.

Captain America Epic Collection: Sturm Und Drang

Death…and Deathlok! The living legend takes on the cyborg demolisher as Captain America gets a shocking glimpse of the future…and Deathlok begins a new path in the present! Cap meets the mystical Black Crow — but as an adversary or an ally? Meanwhile, a dark union between Baron Zemo and the deadly Mother Superior — the diabolical daughter of the Red Skull — becomes a nightmare for Steve’s closest friends. Nomad, the Falcon, the Avengers and Superior’s Sisters of Sin all join the fray — leading to one of the all-time great confrontations between Cap and the Skull! What will it cost Cap to rid the world of his evil arch-enemy? Plus, the Falcon flies solo, standing up for the residents of Harlem while battling Electro, a Sentinel and more! 

    COLLECTING: Vol. 11: Captain America (1968) 286-301, Captain America Annual (1971) 7, Falcon (1983) 1-4

The EC Archives: The Haunt of Fear Vol. 2

Collecting issues #7–12 of the classic terrifying cult horror series, and features gorgeous new digital colors—using Marie Severin’s original palette as a guide, this volume includes unforgettable stories drawn by all-star comic artists Johnny Craig, Graham Ingles, Jack Davis, Jack Kamen, George Roussos, Ed Smalle, and Joe Orlando!

The Jodorowsky Library Vol. 3

The third installation of The Jodorowsky Library: a collection of deluxe matching volumes showcasing the iconic works of the legendary Alejandro Jodorowsky (The Incal, Metabarons, Jodorowsky's: Dune)

    Included in this volume are the epic origin story behind the universe's greatest warriors, METABARONS GENESIS: CASTAKA (illustrated by Das Pastoras), and a tale about how No Name, the most ruthless mercenary of them all, built his arsenal of war, WEAPONS OF THE METABARON (illustrated by the legendary Travis Charest and Zoran Janjetov). Coupled with the landmark AFTER THE INCAL (illustrated by the legendary Mœbius) and FINAL INCAL (with Eisner-winning artist Ladrönn), this is a must-have volume for fans of Alejandro Jodorowsky!

Jinx

Brian Michael Bendis, the New York Times bestselling, Peabody and multi-Eisner award-winning co-creator of Miles Morales, Naomi, Jessica Jones, and POWERS tells a modern noir tale of crime, greed, and double cross.

    A female bail agent, a low-level confidence man and his loose-cannon sidekick form an unlikely alliance to track down the ultimate score—a hidden stash of life-altering, untraceable mob cash.

    For this hard-luck trio, however, the old saying "more money, more problems" will prove to be disturbingly prophetic.

    This innovative crime story is part of a remarkable run of groundbreaking black-and-white graphic novels that launched Bendis’ legendary career.

    Collecting all of the original Jinx issues published by Caliber Press and Image Comics, this comprehensive trade paperback edition features an introduction by acclaimed comics creator David Mack and includes more than 60 pages of behind-the-scenes bonus material!

The EC Artists' Library- Deadly Beloved and Other Stories

Illustrated by Johnny Craig

This volume of Craig’s crime and horror work collects comics stories he wrote and drew for Vault of Horror, Shock SuspenStories, and Crime SuspenStories, as well as the complete collection of all his “Dateline” stories from Extra!. In our title story, a reporter stranded in a Louisiana bayou seeks shelter in a seemingly abandoned mansion, only to discover and fall in love with a beautiful woman living there. He wants to be with her, and she wants to be with him; there’s only one way that can happen.

    Also: Craig’s murder masterpiece, “Understudies,” in which two lovers conspire to remove their respective spouses, in a twisted twist recalling The Postman Always Rings Twice and Double Indemnity; and his signature horror story “…All Through the House” (twice adapted to film ― for 1972’s Tales From the Crypt movie and HBO’s 1989 Tales From the Crypt pilot episode).

    Plus, the debut of EC’s enigmatic horror hostess, Drusilla, and a look at the work of EC artists Harry Harrison, Howard Larsen, Sheldon Moldoff (Moon Girl) as well. Thirty-one stories in all, with essays and commentary by EC experts.

    Introduction by Grand Master crime novelist Max Allan Collins. Black-and-white illustrations throughout.

New Comics Collected Editions: Batman Earth One! Avengers Kang War! More!

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Batman: Earth One Complete Collection

In a Gotham City where friend and foe are indistinguishable, Bruce Wayne's path toward becoming the Dark Knight is riddled with more obstacles than ever before. Focused on punishing his parents’ true killers, and the corrupt police that allowed them to go free, Bruce Wayne's thirst for vengeance fuels his mad crusade and no one, not even Alfred, can stop him. This stunning collection contains all three volumes of the Batman: Earth One series! Contains Batman: Earth One, Batman: Earth One Vol. 2, and Batman: Earth One Vol. 3

The Avengers Epic Collection: Kang War

Throughout his Avengers’ run, Steve Englehart slowly built the mysterious Mantis into one of ’70s Marvel’s most intriguing characters. Here, her tale reaches its cosmic climax in a saga spanning space and time—“The Celestial Madonna!” When Kang the Conqueror arrives, the action begins. Before it’s over, Kang, Rama-Tut and Immortus will have you time-twisted in two. And that’s just for starters! The origin of the Vision is revealed and he and the Scarlet Witch wed. Then, the Avengers put out a call for new members. Beast, Hellcat and Moondragon join, while Captain America, Yellowjacket and the Wasp return. Each will be tested in a second war with Kang and the Squadron Sinister. It’s a classic conflict that teams the Avengers with the Marvel heroes of the Old West!
    COLLECTING: Avengers (1963) 129-149, Giant-Size Avengers (1974) 2-4; material from Giant-Size Avengers (1974) 5, Marvel Treasury Edition (1974) 7, FOOM (1973) 12

Marvel

Unforgettable stories from a once-in-a-lifetime assemblage of talent! Thirty years ago, Alex Ross had a vision for a new series showcasing Marvel’s heroes in a way they’d never been seen before. The first realization of that idea became the blockbuster MARVELS — but now Ross finally brings his original dream to life! MARVEL is an anthology of stories by unique, exceptional talents, many of whom are working with these characters for the very first time. And all these tales are linked together by an overarching story by Ross featuring the dread dream lord Nightmare, who threatens the entire Marvel Universe — and possibly beyond! Featuring Spider-Man, the Avengers, the X-Men, the Thing, Doctor Doom, the Vision, Namor the Sub-Mariner, Warlock, Rocket Raccoon, the Golden Age Black Widow and more!
    COLLECTING: Marvel (2020) 1-6

Mighty Marvel Masterworks: The X-Men Vol. 2 - Where Walks The Juggernaut

The stories that built the Marvel Universe, from the brilliant minds of legendary creators — now available in an accessible new format the whole family can enjoy! The original X-Men return for a second volume of mutant misadventures — including the devastating debut of the unstoppable Juggernaut, where you’ll learn his shocking connection to Charles Xavier! Plus, thrill to the debuts of the cosmic Stranger, the power-copying Mimic, and — in a classic three-part saga — the mutant-hunting robots known as the Sentinels! And for good measure, it’s all topped off with the return of Magneto and his Brotherhood of Evil Mutants and the introduction of Lucifer, one of Professor X’s earliest foes! They’re mutant milestones one and all!

Marvel Comics Library. Avengers. Vol. 1. 1963–1965

Relive the classic early adventures of Avengers Nos. 1–20 in an XXL-sized edition that’s bigger than the Hulk’s fist, weightier than Thor’s hammer, and with more extras than Iron Man’s armor. TASCHEN has attempted to create an ideal representation of these books as they were produced at the time of publication. The most pristine pedigreed comics have been cracked open and photographed for reproduction in close collaboration with Marvel and the Certified Guaranty Company. Each page has then been digitally remastered using modern retouching techniques to correct problems with the era’s inexpensive, imperfect printing―as if hot off of a world-class 1960s printing press.

    Accompanying the stories are an original foreword by Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige and an in-depth history by the Eisner Award-winning writer Kurt Busiek that’s illustrated with original art, little-seen photographs, and rare documents. This mighty collection about Earth’s Mightiest Heroes is worthy of Tony Stark’s library―or yours.

New Comics Collected Editions Out This Week: Epic Spider-Man! Aztec Ace Complete!

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The Amazing Spider-Man Epic Collection: Man-Wolf at Midnight 

There’s no questioning it, Peter Parker has never had it easy, but when the Parker luck is in full effect, you know it means epic Spider-Man adventures! A new era of villains keeps the bad luck streak alive when Col. John Jameson’s is marked by the werewolf’s curse becoming the Man-Wolf. Meanwhile, Peter Parker’s best friend Harry Osborn descends into madness, paranoia and a certain green costume. The first appearance of the Punisher raises the tension even higher, while the nefarious Jackal draws up schemes that will forever change the web-slinger’s life! Also featuring the introduction of the hilarious Human Torch-built Spider-Mobile; the shocking wedding of Aunt May and Doctor Octopus; the Tarantula, Mysterio and so much more!
    COLLECTING: Amazing Spider-Man (1963) 124-142, Giant-Size Super-Heroes (1974) 1, material from Marvel Treasury Edition (1974) 1

Aztec Ace: The Complete Collection

An action-packed, intellectual, time-travel adventure, Aztec Ace stars Caza (AKA Ace) as he travels between the Aztec Empire and his home in the 23rd century. Ace, along with his pupil Bridget Chronopolis and his navigator named Head (the floating disembodied head of Sigmund Freud), struggles to save his own dimension from time paradoxes created by his enemy, the mysterious Nine-Crocodile. Includes a new foreword by original series editor Cat Yronwode, a new introduction by series creator himself Doug Moench, and more.  Also includes more text pieces, an Aztec Ace short story by Doug Moench and Tim Sale, and an Aztec Ace pin-up gallery with new artwork by Bill Sienkiewicz, ChrisCross, Dan Day, Jeff Lemire, Joe Staton, Jok, Kelley Jones, Matt Kindt, Michael Avon Oeming, Michael Wm Kaluta, Paul Gulacy, Paul Pope, Ron Harris and more!

    Collects Aztec Ace comics #1 to #15.

Out Now: Lavish Avengers Anthology from Taschen Collects first 20 Issues of Classic Comics Series

Order "Marvel Comics Library: Avengers. Vol. 1 1963–1965" now from Amazon.

Details:

Super-hero teams had been around since the 1940s, but Thor, Ant Man, the Wasp, Hulk, and Iron Man broke new ground when they joined forces to form the Avengers in 1963. They not only fought together, they occasionally fought each other! The first 20 stories from the Avengers are collected in this Hulk‑sized volume and have been meticulously photographed from the most pristine copies of these rare comic books—a fine art celebration worthy of Tony Stark’s library.

New Comics Collected Editions Out Today: Marvel Penguin Classics! Batman Adventures!

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The Amazing Spider-Man (Penguin Classics Marvel Collection)

Collects “Spider-Man!” from Amazing Fantasy #15 (1962); The Amazing Spider-Man #1-4, #9, #10, #13, #14, #17-19 (1963-1964); “Goodbye to Linda Brown” from Strange Tales #97 (1962); “How Stan Lee and Steve Ditko Create Spider-Man!” from The Amazing Spider-Man Annual #1 (1964). 

    This anthology contains twelve key stories from the first two years of Spider-Man’s publication history (from 1962 to 1964). These influential adventures not only transformed the super hero fantasy into an allegory for the pain of adolescence but also brought a new ethical complexity to the genre—by insisting that with great power there must also come great responsibility.

    A foreword by Jason Reynolds and scholarly introductions and apparatus by Ben Saunders offer further insight into the enduring significance of The Amazing Spider-Man and classic Marvel comics.

    The Deluxe Hardcover edition features gold foil stamping, gold top stain edges, special endpapers with artwork spotlighting series villains, and full-color art throughout.

Captain America (Penguin Classics Marvel Collection)

Collects Captain America Comics #1 (1941); the Captain America stories from Tales of Suspense #59, #63-68, #75-81, #92-95, #110-113 (1964-1969); “Captain America…Commie Smasher” from Captain America #78 (1954). 

    Drawing upon multiple comic book series, this collection includes Captain America’s very first appearances from 1941 alongside key examples of his first solo stories of the 1960s, in which Steve Rogers, the newly resurrected hero of World War II, searches to find his place in a new and unfamiliar world. As the contents reveal, the transformations of this American icon thus mark parallel transformations in the nation itself.

    A foreword by Gene Luen Yang and scholarly introductions and apparatus by Ben Saunders offer further insight into the enduring significance of Captain America and classic Marvel comics.

    The Deluxe Hardcover edition features gold foil stamping, gold top stain edges, special endpapers with artwork spotlighting series villains, and full-color art throughout.

Black Panther (Penguin Classics Marvel Collection)

Collects Fantastic Four #52-53 (1966); Jungle Action #6-21 (1973-1976). It is impossible to imagine American popular culture without Marvel Comics. For decades, Marvel has published groundbreaking visual narratives that sustain attention on multiple levels: as metaphors for the experience of difference and otherness; as meditations on the fluid nature of identity; and as high-water marks in the artistic tradition of American cartooning, to name a few.

    The Black Panther is not just a super hero; as King T’Challa, he is also the monarch of the hidden African nation of Wakanda. Combining the strength and stealth of his namesake with a creative scientific intelligence, the Black Panther is an icon of Afro-futurist fantasy. This new anthology includes the Black Panther’s 1966 origin tale and the entirety of the critically acclaimed “Panther’s Rage” storyline from his 1970s solo series.

    A foreword by Nnedi Okorafor, a scholarly introduction and apparatus by Qiana J. Whitted, and a general series introduction by Ben Saunders offer further insight into the enduring significance of Black Panther and classic Marvel comics.

    The Deluxe Hardcover edition features gold foil stamping, gold top stain edges, special endpapers with artwork spotlighting series villains, and full-color art throughout.

Batman: The Adventures Continue Season Two

Gotham City is changing. After Mayor Hill is killed by a mysterious assailant, Batman finds himself tracking down an ancient order that’s long been buried under the streets of Gotham: the Court of Owls. But what does this group have to gain from the death of Mayor Hill…and how can Deadman help the Dark Knight? Will the clues lead Batman to an ancient Gotham City legend?

    Alan Burnett, Paul Dini, Ty Templeton, and Monica Kubina return to comics for an all-new season that picks up where the classic animated series left off.

    Includes Batman: The Adventures Continue Season Two #1 – 7.

New Comics Collected Editions: Captain America! Captain Action! Phoenix Omnibus! More!

Out this week. Order now from Amazon.

Mighty Marvel Masterworks: Captain America Vol. 1 - The Sentinel of Liberty

The stories that built the Marvel Universe, from the brilliant minds of legendary creators — now available in an accessible new format the whole family can enjoy! As America prepared to enter World War II, a secret military project gave birth to the greatest one-man fighting force ever known — Captain America! But an accident left Cap frozen in suspended animation, while the world turned on for decades. Now, found and revived by the Avengers, Steve Rogers is a man out of time, tormented by the loss of his wartime partner Bucky — but no less committed to fighting evil in all its forms! Stan Lee and Jack Kirby present the rebirth of an American icon, pitting Cap against Baron Zemo’s Army of Assassins, the Sleepers, Batroc the Leaper…and Cap’s Nazi nemesis the Red Skull!

    Collecting material from TALES OF SUSPENSE (1959) #59-77.

Phoenix Omnibus Vol. 1

The cosmic cycle of life, death and rebirth begins as the Phoenix Force debuts! When Marvel Girl sacrifices herself to save the X-Men, she rises again…as Phoenix! Jean Grey has somehow attained power beyond conception, but Cyclops and the X-Men can only watch as Phoenix is corrupted, absolutely. As the team faces the Shi’ar Empire, Hellfire Club and more, can Jean Grey be redeemed? Chris Claremont, Dave Cockrum and John Byrne weave a galaxy-spanning tale of triumph and tragedy that changed everything for the X-Men, the Marvel Universe — and all of comics! The full, original Dark Phoenix Saga is presented alongside bonus tales illuminating Jean Grey’s defining story!

    Collecting X-MEN (1963) #97-105, #107-108 and #125-138 and PHOENIX: THE UNTOLD STORY — and material from CLASSIC X-MEN #6, #8, #13, #18, #24 and #43; BIZARRE ADVENTURES #27 and WHAT IF? (1977) #27.

Iron Man Epic Collection: Battle Royal 

Tony Stark’s life takes a turn for the extraordinary when his ESP-empowered fiancée, Marianne Rodgers, is tormented by visions of Iron Man’s death. As if that wasn’t drama enough, the Stark Industries’ Board of Directors vies to force Tony from his company as protesters riot at the gates. Then, Iron Man goes cosmic with the first appearances of Thanos, Drax the Destroyer and Moondragon. Next, a gauntlet of classic villains—from the Mandarin to Whiplash—push our hero to his limits. It stands against the backdrop of an increasingly tense love triangle between Tony Stark, Pepper Potts and Happy Hogan. An Avenger vs. Avenger battle and Roy Thomas and Barry Windsor-Smith’s stunning retelling of Iron Man’s origin top off this epic era!
    COLLECTING: Iron Man (1968) 47-67

The EC Artists' Library: Code of Honor and Other Stories

When John Severin became editor of Two-Fisted Tales, he expanded the scope of its stories beyond its traditional war stories to head off to far-flung times and places, searching for adventure. This volume collects all those stories ― the EC stories that Severin had the most control over. Severin wrote and drew the title story, about an old-fashioned Southern "gentleman" who sees grievance at every turn and regularly challenges those who are less skilled than he is to pistol duels. Is it murder when a man is defending his honor?

    The other tales range from action and intrigue in the Old West to exploring for a lost city in the jungles of Peru, to facing danger in the Khyber Pass, to a Cold War chiller about the "ultimate weapon," to EC's only Vietnam story, "Dien Bien Phu!" Plus ― the complete run of Severin's stories of globe-trotting two-fisted news photographer Steve Rampart, from the pages of Extra!. Severin was a master of detail, emotion, and reaction thanks to his precise, detailed line; it brought such realism to the page, it seems as if he is reporting from the scene.

    BONUS: This volume also delves into the EC Pre-Trend era with a sampling of the work of lesser-known EC artists Lee J. Ames, Stan Ash, Ann Brewster, H.C. Kiefer, and Ed Waldman. Code of Honor And Other Stories, like its companion volumes, features extensive story notes and a Severin biography. Black & white

Captain Action: Classic Collection

The CAPTAIN ACTION comic, based on the classic action figure, has been out of print for more than 50 years. Written by Jim Shooter and Gil Kane, drawn by Kane and Wally Wood-a legendary roster of talent if there ever was one-and containing the origin of Captain Action and Action Boy and featuring their arch-nemesis, the diabolical Doctor Evil!

    All five original issues are collected in this volume and have been meticulously scanned from crisp first generation stats, and painstakingly recolored (using the original comics as guides), beautifully representing a long-lost treasure!