Now
that Summer 2012 is pretty much over, the Suspended Animation column returns to
its bi-weekly schedule.
Free Comic Book Day was May 5th
of this year. Having visited The Toy and
Action Figure Museum in Paul’s Valley, OK the day before, my family and I
enjoyed the annual event at The Cave, a comics shop in the neighboring city of
Ada. While I don’t quite remember
everything the kids got, below are a couple of titles which are worthy of
mention and further pursuit.
Donald Duck Family Comics
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This Disney property, as presented
by master sequential storyteller Carl Barks, is a pop art pleasure for kids and
adults alike! Barks’ characters are
lively and visually comedic, and his storylines are engaging, while staying
all-ages friendly.
This FCBD offering has Scrooge
McDuck going through mental and emotional contortions, as he tries to protect
his money from the paroled Beagle Boys.
It also sees Donald take up crocheting as a solution to his nightmare
problem; however, his new “hobby” presents an even worse conundrum. Equally enjoyable is the story of how Donald
and his nephews trick Uncle Scrooge into becoming a fish monger. All this, plus seven other one-page stories
brings a hearty amount of fun for comics fans and Disney enthusiasts, alike.
Atomic Robo
This anthology book boasts three
different stories, featuring three different properties. However, the only boasting I’ll be doing is
of Atomic Robo, by Brian Clevinger
and Scott Wegener.
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Created by
Nikola Tesla, Atomic Robo leads an organization called Tesladyne, as they
safeguard the world using science.
Quirky and fun, A.R. has its
own flavor, thanks to Clevenger’s comedic-yet-exciting plot, and Wegener’s
highly-stylized penciling style.
Together, the team has created something which I plan on indulging in to
the fullest extent.
Though many titles were proffered on
Free Comic Book Day, these two made it memorable for me. Donald
Duck Family Comics is recommended for all ages, and Atomic Robo for all but the youngest of readers. Find them at comics shops, as well as online
retailers and auctions. But, try your
local comics shop first.
Review by
Mark Allen
