Buying comics can be an expensive hobby. A lot of fans simply can’t afford everything they’re interested in, due to rising prices and the over-saturation of the market with superhero titles.
That’s why we’re here. Every week, the Multiversity staff is asked “What would you buy this week if you couldn’t go over $20?” and shares their reasons why, in order to help others who might have similar tastes make their own decisions in buying comics on a budget. Be sure to leave your own picks in the comments!
Leo’s Picks:
Godshaper #1 ($3.99) – Si Spurrier and Jonas Goonface tell a story set in a world where each person has their own personal god, except for our main character Ennay. Instead, he’s teamed up with a humanless god and travels town to town essentially as a bum. The high concept of this book – everyone having their own personal god – is something that is really interesting to me. Here’s hoping Spurrier and Goonface deliver.
Grass Kings #2 ($3.99) – I really, really loved this first issue and even got to talk to Kindt and Jenkins about the book during ECCC. They’ve created a story that’s got a good mystery to it and pulls the reader in, along with some of the most gorgeous watercolors I’ve seen from Tyler Jenkins yet. This is a definite must read.
Copperhead #12 ($3.99) – After far, far too long a hiatus, “Copperhead” came back last month. While I miss Godlewski’s art, Drew Moss is no slouch and hit the ground running. The story also hits the ground running, as we get a murder and a very nice “oh shit!” moment at the end of the first new issue. It’s good to see this book back.
Total: $11.97
Matt’s Picks:
All Time Comics: Bullwhip #1 ($3.99) – It’s time to get your Silver Age superhero feel on with the latest installment in Fantagraphics’s “All-Star Comics” line. Thing is, these new books probably showcase more imagination and a stronger sense of fun than anything the traditional superhero comic corporations put out, so if you want to remember why you love superheroes again, you can’t go wrong over here.
American Gods Shadows #2 ($3.99) – P. Craig Russell turns in some of the best Neil Gaiman adaptations (“Murder Mysteries”), but also some of the most unnecessary (“Coraline”). In the first issue, Scott Hampton demonstrated a remarkable grasp on capturing Russell’s romantic comiking, but I think it’s far too early to tell if this adaptation is successful or not. The images from Russell and Hampton, however, are more than worth the price of admission.
The Wicked + the Divine #28 ($3.99) — Gillen and McKelvie bring another arc to a close. And this might have been the first time in a while I’ve spotlighted this title, but when did it go from $3.50 to $3.99?
Black Panther & The Crew #1 ($3.99) – Yes, Marvel has a diversity problem. According to the New York Times, the statement David Gabriel made about retailers saying diversity wasn’t selling comics was made by only a couple of the present retailer representatives, where most of the others claimed they liked the variety of people being depicted because the books were bringing in new readers. So it sounds like Mr. Gabriel was just relaying the information he wanted to hear. (Which shouldn’t come as no surprise to the Marvel MO, considering Isaac Perlmutter’s relationship with Immorten Trump.) “Black Panther & The Crew” is odd because it both boosts the representation in Marvel Comics but it’s also another big crossover. You could argue all of Marvel Comics is a crossover but that’s neither here nor there. Ta-Nehisi Coates continues developing his own corner in Wakanda.
Total:$15.96. Also, if you’re willing to break the budget, the second volume of the original “Aliens” series is out from Dark Horse while Kieron Gillen and Jamie McKelvie’s breakout, “Phonogram,” gets the one volume hardcover edition.
Vince’s Picks:
New Super-Man #10 ($3.99) – One of DC Comics’ best and most original titles just keeps doin’ its thing. Gene Yang has done a tremendous job of giving each member of the Justice League of China their own unique personality that isn’t necessarily what you’d expect from their corresponding costumed identity.
Continued belowBlack Panther & The Crew #1 ($3.99) – I’ve been mostly out on Marvel for the last few years for a whole host of reasons, but Ta-Nehisi Coates writing Black Panther has been one reason to at least keep a toe in the water.
X-Men Blue #1 ($4.99) – Another thing that’s bringing me back to Marvel is the X-Men “relaunch.” I’m sampling everything and giving it every chance to win me over.
All Time Comics Bullwhip #1 ($3.99) – The legendary Al Milgrom joins Fantagraphics’ new shared superhero universe. I can’t help but be fascinated by the publisher’s approach here.
Total: $16.96
Mark’s picks:
Harrow County #22 ($3.99) — Last month’s issue kicked off this new arc fantastically, creating a very personal conflict for Emmy, the like of which we haven’t really seen since the series began. I love the Emmy and Bernice relationship, and I’ve kind of watched with trepidation as a rift as formed between the two girls. This has been brewing for a long time, and it’s extremely satisfying to see things reach this breaking point.
The Stone Heart ($14.99 softcover, $21.99 hardcover) — OK, so technically I should have listed this one last week, but I totally messed up the release date. That being said, this was my most anticipated book for the year and it did not disappoint. This an absolute must pick-up title for me.
Total: $18.98.
Matthew’s Picks:
The Wicked + The Divine #28 ($3.99) – End of an arc. Probably bad things in store. As always, prepare for feels.
Wonder Woman #20 and The Flash #20 ($2.99 each) – These plus “Batman” equates to my entire DC pull. I still recommend following with all three, but it’s the week where you get these two.
Total: $9.97 – Light week, huh? I hear that Phonogram Complete Hardcover is going on sale this week, if you’ve got an extra $50
Brian’s Picks:
American Barbarian: The Complete Series ($19.99) – Tom Scioli is one of the most exciting creators working in comics, and “American Barbarian” was my first glimpse at his work. These pages crackle with energy and are what so many comics forget to be today: fun. This is some of the most purely joyful comics making you’ll ever read. You won’t regret the purchase, trust me.
Total: $19.99
