Rundown of Free Comic Day Offerings: Part Three

Toy Story:

With the films, toys and straight to video releases you would think that there couldn’t be any more to write about a group of toys that belong to a ten year old, but there is. Toy Story the comic actually has a gripping storyline and a cliffhanger that will make you pick up the ongoing series, no matter what your age may be.

DC Kids:

Captain Marvel, The Tiny Titans and Batman (The Brave and the Bold version) are featured in this all-star comic sampler. Captain Marvel deals with disappearing livestock, the Tiny Titans deal with being super-powered friends when their families are archenemies and Batman and Martian Manhunter team up. Though geared towards a preteen age group, the dialogue and situations are not childish. Instead they offer an entertaining glimpse into their respective worlds.

Iron man/Nova:

Written for the younger set this super-hero team-up may not have you beating a path to your favorite comic book store’s door to get a copy. The escaped ape storyline seems too cutesy and somewhat insulting. However the mini-story of The Superhero Squad Show is a riot as Hulk smashes everything in sight.

Archie’s Summer Splash:

Remember when comics were just a way to pass the time? After you read it you weren’t left with any lingering, philosophical thoughts about the meaning of life. Well that’s what Archie’s Summer Splash does for you. Yes, there is an oil spill that closes a private beach for the entire summer, but this timely plot device is just that – a way to get everyone on one beach. The bottom line is that it’s a fun read that you’ll be glad you’ve spent ten minutes on.

Fractured Fables:

A wolf who gets his butt kicked? An affable prince? These are just a few of the entertaining fairy tales that get turned on their head in Fractured Fables. These tales are familiar enough to keep you laughing out loud as they play with the storylines’ outcomes. Look out for what Rumpelstiltskin does to himself to get out of his bargain with the princess. You’ll never see it coming.

Yow! Grab Bag:

If you’ve only read Nancy in the newspaper, then you’re missing out. The story about trying not to wake a sleeping giant will have you laughing out loud. Then there’s the rest of the gang, Tubby, Judy Junior and Melvin Monster. Each character gets a chance to shine in this freebie that gives subtle commentary on freedom and deception. Who would think that you would get this from a group of comic book characters created in the height of the Depression?