Coming This Week: "I Read Dead Russian Authors Volumes At A Time"

For me, this is a huge week. I don’t remember the last time I bought this many single issues *and* a hardcover graphic novel all at once. It’s interesting that the list is dominated by DC (including a lone Vertigo book), with two entries from the small press. I’ll be picking up Batman & Robin #7 (DC) from Grant Morrison and Seaguy collaborator Cameron Stewart. I don’t get that ecstatic feeling of anticipation I got from Frank Quitely’s tenure, but Cam will surely be more well-received than poor Philip Tan. Along those lines, this week sees Detective Comics #861 (DC) hit the stands, with Jock now on art chores following the critically acclaimed run of JH Williams III. I’m giddily awaiting my copy of Justice League: Cry For Justice #6 (DC) since I know I will enjoy loathing it immensely. Even though Coco railed against cynicism in his farewell speech, it’s not cynical if the quality is genuinely poor and you’re genuinely enjoying its earnestness. I think Justice League of America #41 (DC) has finally shed its Blackest Night bonds and the actual forming of the new team will now commence. I’m looking forward to seeing how this eclectic and temporary team will interact – Batman (Dick!), Green Lantern (which?), The Atom (which?), Green Arrow (alas, not Red Arrow), Donna Troy (filling Diana’s spot), The Guardian, Cyborg, Mon-El (Daxamite in lieu of Kryptonian), Starfire (along with Dick’s other ex, Donna… awkward!), Dr. Light, and Congorilla - hopefully having some cool moments along the way. It’s nice to see such a large group of Titans “graduate” and that cast is so full of odd prior relationships that I’m sure it has the *potential* to be interesting. I think I’ll either enjoy it for a few fanboy moments or it’ll be a complete train wreck in the way that Cry For Justice has been, either way, some nice entertainment. Brian Wood begins his onslaught of titles early this year with Northlanders #24 (DC/Vertigo), and it’s always fantastic to get another issue of Terry Moore’s masterpiece, with Echo #19 (Abstract Studio) arriving this week. Lastly, I’m thrilled that the Afrodisiac HC (AdHouse) is finally finding its way to the public; the rare appearances of Afrodisiac to date have easily been some of the funniest things I’ve read.