Category: Comic Books

Len Wein Dies, At 69 – Bleeding Cool News And Rumors

When I lived in LA, I met Len through mutual friends and we became friendly. Every couple of months or so, we would go out for lunch or meet up at a movie and hang out. Yes, I was a comic fan, but honestly, I didn’t know the half of who he was or what he’d done (hell, I’m still learning now as I delve deep into comics history for my own research).

What I did know was that he was a hell of a guy. He took the time to hang out with a young punk who thought he knew much more than he did. And even though we hadn’t really seen each other in years, the mark he left on my life is indelible and he will certainly be missed.

Rest easy, my friend. And may they have great delis wherever you’re going. Continue reading “Len Wein Dies, At 69 – Bleeding Cool News And Rumors” →

The death of reading is threatening the soul – The Washington Post

So there was this article a few weeks back in The Washington Post: The death of reading is threatening the soul. Pretty heady stuff. Their subhead is Commitment to reading is an ongoing battle.

And I read it at a most opportune time.  Continue reading “The death of reading is threatening the soul – The Washington Post” →

Wonder Gal | David Magazine

David May 17 CoverThis month, for David Magazine, I take a look at the new Wonder Woman film starring Gal Godot, as well as a brief history of the character and her creator. Of course, while you’re there, you might want to check out this related article about women in the Israeli army (of which Gadot herself was a member a few years back)

At the same time, there’s some interesting commentary happening at The Mary Sue about the lack of advertising and promotion for this film.

11 things you need to know about the Far Side

wrong-solar-systemSo when I was growing up, aside from Bloom County (which, thankfully, returned on my birthday in 2015), The Far Side was probably the funniest cartoon out there. And if you ever need a quick laugh, Gary Larson’s got you covered. So with that in mind, here’s 11 things you need to know about the Far Side.

1978/2017 Spider-Man Calendar Desktop Wallpapers – Andertoons Cartoon Blog

Mark Anderson, who is a great cartoonist and prime level geek, realizing the cyclical nature of calendars decided to scan his old superhero yearly markers for everyone to enjoy. This year, it’s the 1978 Amazing Spider-Man edition he’s gracing us with. In the past, it’s been the 20th anniversary of Marvel and DC Super Powers (and then there were the amazing superhero Valentine’s day cards). Anyway… enjoy. And when you get a chance, thank Mr. Anderson for what he’s doing!

ZEN PENCILS » 193. JACK KIRBY: Hero worship

Always a big fan of Zen Pencils, and this time he’s taken on the words of Jack “King” Kirby  (there’s a great YouTube documentary about him which starts here).

It’s a great place to get inspiration on a Sunday morning.

Source: ZEN PENCILS » 193. JACK KIRBY: Hero worship

Superhero Comic Books: The 100 Best Runs You Must Read | Hollywood Reporter

If you’re just getting started with comics (or even a long time fan), this is a great place to learn more. From here you’ll discover not only these characters but others as well. (and yes, my favorite character, Johnny Blaze/Ghost Rider, is not represented but that’s okay. I’m excited to discover new reads).

Source: Superhero Comic Books: The 100 Best Runs You Must Read | Hollywood Reporter

JACK KIRBY: Hero worship

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Gavin over at Zen Pencils takes great, inspirational quotes and then draws fabulous cartoons to illustrate them. While I’ve been a long time fan, this is the first time I’m sharing one. I think this, a quote by the great Jack Kirby is important for a number of reasons. But don’t take my word for it. Read it. Enjoy it.

Olivia Munn and The Threat of the Fake Geeks – Paging Dr. NerdLove

Cliff Breczinski accused Olivia Munn of being a fake geek girl and of appropriating nerd culture. Why are we inventing new boogeymen to “oppress” nerds?

This is a long read, but well worth the time. It points out how everyone is looking for someone to hate, to pick on, or otherwise make feel bad for some reason. In this case, it’s the love of geek things.

Source: Olivia Munn and The Threat of the Fake Geeks – Paging Dr. NerdLove

Belgium 2016 Day 2 – Doing it the way the Belgians Do

Atomium Welcome SignI awoke with a plan… and someone else’s alarm. There were these four young college guys from Jersey in our room and they were planning on hitting Amsterdam today (it’s a three-hour train ride – something I would remember a couple of days later) and so had set alarms to get up in time to make the early train. Unfortunately, being college guys, they were not to be roused by a mere alarm. Me, however, being an old college professor, I get up at the slightest sound so when his alarm went off for the second time, I was ready to hit the day. Continue reading “Belgium 2016 Day 2 – Doing it the way the Belgians Do” →

Belgium 2016 Day 1 – Mannekin (and sky) Pis

With RocketSo, Belgium.

Wasn’t supposed to be here all by myself but them’s the breaks. Rasa was supposed to join me, but they wouldn’t give her the time off work and then sent her to Germany besides, so here I am. Thing is, a couple months back, RyanAir (that bane of the comfortable traveler) had a special and it was either Brussels or Paris for us. Since that was right around the time of the terrorist attack in Paris, we opted for Belgium. Besides, I’d never been before and it was as good a place as any. So I booked the flights and we figured Rasa would get the time off after the three months probation period. At least we hoped so. We we wrong. Continue reading “Belgium 2016 Day 1 – Mannekin (and sky) Pis” →