If you're at NYCC you need to check this out. If not for you, then for me. I just hope that this is being used to light the fire on a live action movie because I would then ask Matt Kindt to write it and I'm not even in charge! Crazy right?! Here's some pics and a blurb from Valiant about it, but seriously, if you're one of the thousands of people at NYCC, check it out.
Read MoreWhat do you do when a furry, sprite-like creature falls from the sky and onto your park bench? You invite him to live with you, naturally. Spirit of the Staircase, the newspaper cartoon strip currently running in the Knoxville Mercury , will be available in two brand new formats on October 10, 2016: Tap Water and Tuna Party, the first collected volume from all-ages publisher Karate Petshop, and on Universal Uclick's GoComics.com.
Created by cartoonist and illustrator Matthew Foltz-Gray, Spirit of the Staircase is an all-ages, whimsical story of Matt, an introverted human, and his best friend Mumford, an outgoing furry creature of indeterminate species, and the everyday adventures they have in the semi-magical realm of Knoxville, Tennessee. Their exploits include a trip to the grocery store where Mumford attempts to act like a human and succeeds more than he knows, employing spiders to hang the Christmas lights, and of course, hosting a tap water and tuna party.
According to Foltz-Gray, “Spirit of the Staircase is about friendship among a bundle of misfits swimming through the issues of everyday living. These characters aren’t rich or successful, but are surviving and doing just fine. It’s a strip that caricatures the small adventures and experiences every human and creature alike goes through on a daily basis and gives the readers a second away from their own daily struggles to laugh, relate, celebrate, and ponder.”
Foltz-Gray cites as his influences for Spirit of the Staircase including Bill Watterson’s Calvin and Hobbes, Richard Thompson’s Cul de Sac and Charles Schulz's Peanuts.
Spirit of the Staircase started as a weekly cartoon strip in the independent newspaper The Knoxville Mercury in 2015. Since its debut, Foltz-Gray won a silver medal from the Society of Illustrators for the individual Spirit of Staircasecomic strip, “The Game of Snooze.” “The Game of Snooze” was exhibited in the Society of Illustrators’ New York gallery during June and July 2016 and earned Foltz-Gray the attention of Universal Uclick's GoComics.com where the entire archives of Spirit of the Staircase will be available for readers on October 10, 2016.
In light of these accomplishments, Karate Petshop Publisher Norm Harper knew that it was time to bring a collected print edition of Foltz-Gray’s work to a wider audience. "When I saw Spirit of the Staircase for the first time, I was immediately floored, “said Harper. “Matthew’s artwork has a way of making the mundane seem magical, and the strip's biggest laughs often come not from a final panel punchline, but from the ongoing interaction of characters who feel real and relatable. I am thrilled and honored that Karate Petshop could help Matthew expand the ways in which the comic strip is reaching its audience."
Tap Water and Tuna Party collects the first 56 Spirit of the Staircase comic strips and includes commentary and brand new illustrations by Foltz-Gray as well as a foreword by Coury Turczyn, Foltz-Gray’s Editor at The Knoxville Mercury.
In his review of Tap Water and Tuna Party, comic critic Justin Wood called Spirit of the Staircase, “…funny, capable of originality, and arguably the best-looking strip I’ve seen in the newsprint format since Bill Watterson put down the weekly pen in 1995.”
Tap Water and Tuna Party is priced at $9.99 and will be available for purchase on October 10, 2016 from Karate Petshop’s website, KaratePetshop.com, and comic conventions across the country.
ABOUT MATTHEW FOLTZ-GRAY
Matthew Foltz-Gray received his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Illustration and Storyboarding from the Academy of Art in San Francisco. After graduating, he began his professional career taking on small freelance projects with his local design agencies and clients. Matthew’s first illustration job was providing the art for Karate Petshop’sRikki, a graphic novel adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s “Rikki Tikki Tavi.” This was followed by his own cartoon strip, Spirit of the Staircase, in the independent newspaper The Knoxville Mercury. Matthew’s work on Spirit of the Staircase has been recognized by the East Tennessee Society of Journalists, The Society of Illustrators West, and The Society of Illustrators.
ABOUT KARATE PETSHOP
Founded by Norm Harper in 2015, Karate Petshop publishes books and graphic novels for grown-up geeks to share with the next generation. Our focus is on producing quality books with dynamic art and unique voices that can create a shared fan experience for the whole family; from elementary to high school and even something for the parents, too. For more information, review and interview opportunities, and more, please visit KaratePetshop.com or email us at KaratePetshop@gmail.com
ABOUT GOCOMICS AND UNIVERSAL UCLICK GoComics, from Universal Uclick, is home to many of the most popular comics and cartoons in the world. GoComics.com is the web's largest catalog of syndicated newspaper strips and web comics, offering new, fresh and free content every day. Universal Uclick is the largest independent syndicate in the world and a leading digital entertainment provider of humor, comic strips, political cartoons and gaming content for print, web and mobile devices. Universal Uclick provides editorial development, licensing and other distribution services for iconic brands likeDoonesbury, Dear Abby, Miss Manners and some of the most significant comics in history, including Calvin and Hobbes, The Far Side, Garfield, Peanuts, Dilbert, For Better or For Worse, Cathy, and Ziggy. Recent standout successes include Lio, Cul de Sac, Pearls Before Swine, Get Fuzzy, Big Nate and The Argyle Sweater. A full comic catalog can be found at GoComics.com. For more information, visit UniversalUclick.com.
TITLE: Tap Water and Tuna Party AUTHOR: Matthew Foltz-Gray PUBLISHER: Karate Petshop DATE OF PUBLICATION: October 10, 2016 RETAIL PRICE: $9.99 US (Trade Paperback) ISBN-13: 978-0-9966046-2-8 PAGES: 60
VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), a premier company in the fields of publishing, animation distribution, and global entertainment licensing, offers a paranormal dark fantasy about humans and angels by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata, creators of DEATH NOTE and BAKUMAN。. PLATINUM END launches on October 4th, is rated ‘M’ for Mature Readers, and will be published under the company’s Shonen Jump imprint. Volume 1 will carry a print MSRP $9.99 U.S. / $12.99 CAN. The series also will be available digitally from VIZ.com/read and the VIZ Manga App, as well as from the Nook, Kobo, Kindle, iBooks, comiXology, and GooglePlay stores. Future volumes of the ongoing series will be published twice a year.
In PLATINUM END, as his classmates celebrate their middle school graduation, troubled Mirai is mired in darkness. But his battle is just beginning when he receives some salvation from above in the form of an angel. Now Mirai is pitted against 12 other chosen humans in a battle in which the winner becomes the next god of the world. Mirai has an angel in his corner, but he may need to become a devil to survive.
“PLATINUM END’s digital-exclusive chapter releases have been thrilling readers and we are very excited to now launch the series on its own,” says Alexis Kirsch, Editor. “Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata’s latest creation showcases the duo’s characteristic crisp artwork and edgy storyline. We look forward to manga fans diving into the launch of the opening volume next month!”
Writer Tsugumi Ohba is the author of the hit series DEATH NOTE and BAKUMAN。.
Takeshi Obata first achieved international recognition as the artist of the wildly popular Weekly Shonen Jump title, HIKARU NO GO, which won the 2003 Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize: Shinsei "New Hope" Award and the 2000 Shogakukan Manga Award. He went on to illustrate the smash hit supernatural crime thriller, DEATH NOTE, as well as the hugely successful manga BAKUMAN。 and ALL YOU NEED IS KILL.
For additional information on anime and manga titles distributed and published by VIZ Media, please visit www.VIZ.com.
Image Comics is pleased to announce that for the first time in eight years, Jonathan Hickman (THE BLACK MONDAY MURDERS, EAST OF WEST) will both write and draw an all-new ongoing series, FRONTIER, which will launch this November.
A somber science-fiction epic in the same vein as Star Trek, FRONTIER #1 will embark on on a vast, world-building story about utopia lost, and how humanity might just gain it back.
“I’m so excited about this book,” said Hickman. “It’s been a long time coming, and I’m so glad I’m a working cartoonist again. I really think people are going to get a kick out of both what Frontier looks like and where the story takes them. I can’t wait!”
Readers will enjoy a double-sized first issue and each issue in the series will contain galaxy-expanding bonus content like star maps, breakdowns of alien races, interstellar factions, and detailed spaceship schematics.
FRONTIER #1 (Diamond Code SEP160623) hits stores on Wednesday, November 16th. The final order cutoff for comics retailers is Monday, October 24th.
Valiant Entertainment – the award-winning publisher of the largest independent superhero library in comics – and The Keep A Breast Foundation – the leading global youth-based breast cancer prevention organization – are proud to announce a new ongoing partnership dedicated to furthering the California-based non-profit’s ongoing mission with new initiatives in educational publishing, fundraising merchandise, convention and exhibitions outreach around the world, and much more.As detailed today at Fast Company, the new face of this first-of-its-kind collaborative partnership will be Valiant’s own leading super-heroine, Faith, who will make her debut as Keep A Breast’s official “comics ambassador” at New York Comic Con 2016. Faith will then subsequently be utilized throughout a number of Keep A Breast promotional endeavors globally in 2016 and beyond. “The foundation of everything Keep A Breast does is art, and it absolutely thrills us to team up with people, like Valiant Comics, that are breaking the norm in their own industries,” said Keep A Breast Founder & CCO Shaney jo Darden. “When we read Faith, we were so excited to see a hero that was so funny, real, and full of self-love. Art has the power to heal and impact people in the best way, and this partnership will further prove how art can put a spotlight on real issues and start important conversations that can save lives.”
“Creativity can be the catalyst for great change, and it is often said there is no medium more creative than comic books,” said Valiant Chief Operating Officer & CFO Gavin Cuneo. “With Faith at the forefront of a wide variety of upcoming Keep A Breast programs, we look forward to aiding them in their vitally important and all-too-needed cause of combating breast cancer through art, education, and the creative spirit. As one of the most optimistic heroes in comics today, Faith is already an inspiration to many. Now, in her new role as an ambassador on Keep A Breast’s behalf, it is our sincere hope that her unbeatable spirit will inspire a new contingent of fans and enthusiasts to join their campaign against this tragically common condition.”
Additionally, Valiant and Keep A Breast’s joint mission to promote breast health and cancer prevention across all facets of comics fandom and culture will continue with special fundraising endeavors throughout New York Comic Con 2016. From Thursday, October 6th through Sunday, October 9th, Valiant’s Faith will appear on two limited-edition collectibles, specially produced to benefit Keep A Breast and available exclusively at the publisher’s NYCC booth #1635:
Artwork by Diego Bernard.
Additionally, Keep A Breast Founder & CCO Shaney jo Darden will appear at the VALIANT: SPOTLIGHT ON FAITH panel presentation on Thursday, October 7th at 6:45 pm in Room 1A05 to further detail plans for the newly minted partnership, alongside Faith writer Jody Houser, comics legend Louise Simonson, multiple Harvey Award nominee Rafer Roberts, and Valiant CEO & Chief Creative Officer Dinesh Shamdasani.Future collaborations between Keep A Breast and Valiant will include specially designed Faith comics content promoting breast health and cancer prevention, an array of co-branded Faith/Keep A Breast merchandise, and, most notably, Valiant-sponsored Keep A Breast programming at more than 50 live events and comic book conventions nationwide – furthering Keep A Breast’s noted and longstanding mission to empower young people around the world with breast health education and support.
Future collaborations between Keep A Breast and Valiant will include specially designed Faith comics content promoting breast health and cancer prevention, an array of co-branded Faith/Keep A Breast merchandise, and, most notably, Valiant-sponsored Keep A Breast programming at more than 50 live events and comic book conventions nationwide – furthering Keep A Breast’s noted and longstanding mission to empower young people around the world with breast health education and support.Over a decade ago, Keep A Breast’s founders, then involved in their own arts organization, rallied to support a friend with breast cancer. They developed an idea to express the female experience of breast cancer by reimagining the traditional canvas as a participatory sculpture. After some experimentation and partnerships with the right people, they developed and tested a technique for capturing the female bust in a plaster. The result was a white cast that was then customized by artists, such as Shepard Fairey, Mike Giant, Dalek and
Over a decade ago, Keep A Breast’s founders, then involved in their own arts organization, rallied to support a friend with breast cancer. They developed an idea to express the female experience of breast cancer by reimagining the traditional canvas as a participatory sculpture. After some experimentation and partnerships with the right people, they developed and tested a technique for capturing the female bust in a plaster. The result was a white cast that was then customized by artists, such as Shepard Fairey, Mike Giant, Dalek and many more. The success of these breast casts as conversation starters, awareness builders and fundraising tools ultimately led them to what is now the non-profit The Keep A Breast Foundation. Their mission is simple: equip young people with breast health education early on in their lives. They do that by talking to them face-to-face about breast cancer in their own voice and on their own turf. As the latest promotional affiliates dedicated to enabling Keep A Breast’s vital mission, Valiant joins a long list of individuals and organizations past and present that also includes 100% Pure, bareMinerals, Harveys, Pacifica,
Their mission is simple: equip young people with breast health education early on in their lives. They do that by talking to them face-to-face about breast cancer in their own voice and on their own turf. As the latest promotional affiliates dedicated to enabling Keep A Breast’s vital mission, Valiant joins a long list of individuals and organizations past and present that also includes 100% Pure, bareMinerals, Harveys, Pacifica, preen.me, Spy Optics, Stance, and the Vans Warped Tour, as well as musicians Blink 182, Devo, Foo Fighters, Katy Perry, Iggy Pop, Sonic Youth, and dozens more.“Keep A Breast is an incredible organization with a long and storied history of using music and the arts as a vehicle to educate and inform untapped and often underserved audiences about one of the true scourges of our age – breast cancer,” said Valiant’s President of Consumer Products, Promotions and Ad Sales Russell A. Brown. “Valiant is honored to assist in that mission as Keep A Breast now prepares to expand its efforts into the comics community, and Faith is the perfect ambassador to help them accomplish just that.”
“Keep A Breast is an incredible organization with a long and storied history of using music and the arts as a vehicle to educate and inform untapped and often underserved audiences about one of the true scourges of our age – breast cancer,” said Valiant’s President of Consumer Products, Promotions and Ad Sales Russell A. Brown. “Valiant is honored to assist in that mission as Keep A Breast now prepares to expand its efforts into the comics community, and Faith is the perfect ambassador to help them accomplish just that.”Created by former Marvel Editor-in-Chief Jim Shooter and Eisner Award-winning writer and artist David Lapham in Valiant’s acclaimed HARBINGER series in 1992, Faith has long been a central icon of Valiant’s award-winning publishing line. Then, in January 2016, Faith took her long-awaited,
Created by former Marvel Editor-in-Chief Jim Shooter and Eisner Award-winning writer and artist David Lapham in Valiant’s acclaimed HARBINGER series in 1992, Faith has long been a central icon of Valiant’s award-winning publishing line. Then, in January 2016, Faith took her long-awaited, much-demanded first step toward solo stardom with FAITH #1 (of 4) – a groundbreaking debut that quickly became the first and biggest breakout hit of the New Year from any major comics publisher. In the months since, Faith’s first solo adventure has garnered near-universal critical acclaim; generated attention from a host of international media outlets, including The Atlantic, The A.V. Club, Cosmopolitan, The Guardian, The Hollywood Reporter, The Huffington Post, The Independent, MTV, The New York Times, NPR, PBS Newshour, People, Seventeen, Today, Vox, The Washington Post, and dozens more; and become the first series of 2016 to reach a much-vaunted fifth printing – making it one of only a handful of hit series in the past decade to achieve that pivotal benchmark of fan and commercial demand. Then, Faith’s streak of unprecedented achievements hit a new high with the freshly sold-out FAITH #1 – a first issue that has already rocketed onward to become the highest selling superhero debut of 2016 from any independent publisher in the industry today.
Then, Faith’s streak of unprecedented achievements hit a new high with the freshly sold-out FAITH #1 – a first issue that has already rocketed onward to become the highest selling superhero debut of 2016 from any independent publisher in the industry today.For more information, visit
For more information, visit Keep-A-Breast.org and ValiantUniverse.com.
From the #1 Amazon.com bestselling creator of SUNSTONE, Stjepan Sejic returns with SWITCH, the paranormal teen series that garnered millions of views on Deviant Art before hitting print. SWITCH, VOL. 1 will collect issues #1-7.
In SWITCH, VOL. 1, a teen girl with enough normal problems just trying to fit in (stand out?) in high school stumbles upon an medieval and transformative power. This haunted artifact possesses mysterious, immense powers. High school just got a lot more complicated…
A witty reimagining of the classic WITCHBLADE, but skewed for a teen audience, SWITCH is the heartfelt, deadpan-humored story of a girl who must navigate the usual high school dramas with the added burden of possessing an ancient power. Readers won’t need to be a WITCHBLADE fan to appreciate it, but those who are will enjoy some clever nods to the series and cameos of other characters from the universe.
SWITCH, VOL. 1 trade paperback (Diamond Code: AUG160704, ISBN: 978-1-63215-712-6) will hit comic book stores on Wednesday, December 21st and bookstores onTuesday, December 27th. The final order cutoff for comics retailers is Monday, November 7th. It is also available for pre-order on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Indiebound.
Select praise for SWITCH:
“Gorgeous art, an interesting plot, and woman-empowering message.” —PopOptiq
“If you're even remotely a fan of Witchblade you should check Switch out. Now the big question is, ‘what if you're not a fan of Witchblade?’ That's easy, you should definitely check it out.” —Comic Bastards
Penguin Random House UK has expanded its distribution deal with Diamond Comic Distributors (DCD) to sell and promote its entire line of Doctor Who books and novels to comic book specialty stores, bookstores, mass-market merchandisers, libraries and other outlets in the United States. Previously, Diamond represented only Penguin Random House’s young adult and children's line of Doctor Who books and novels, but the deal has now been expanded to include its adult line of Doctor Who titles.
Robert Waddington, International Sales Director, Penguin Random House UK comments: “Diamond Comic Distributors have proven themselves a strong partner on our young adult Doctor Who range, and we are delighted to now be selling our adult list through them as well. We feel very positive about our relationship moving forward, and 2017 will be a big year for Doctor Who with the series returning to television.”
Penguin Random House UK has published hundreds of books and novels in its Doctor Who line and releases coming soon include reprints of the 60’s classic tales, Doctor Who and the Crusaders, Doctor Who and the Daleks, and Doctor Who and the Zarbi. Penguin Random House UK also boasts a strong backlist of Doctor. Who titles, led by Doctor Who: Who-ology, Doctor Who: The Official Quiz Book, and Doctor Who: Beautiful Chaos."Doctor Who has always been an important brand license for Diamond and we’re happy expand our deal with Penguin Books UK to represent their entire line of Doctor Who books in the United States," said Tim Leneghan, Executive Director-Purchasing for Diamond Comic Distributors.
"Doctor Who has always been an important brand license for Diamond and we’re happy expand our deal with Penguin Books UK to represent their entire line of Doctor Who books in the United States," said Tim Leneghan, Executive Director-Purchasing for Diamond Comic Distributors.
We've been trying to warn you about Reggie Mantle for the last seven months on our Twitter account but it wasn't enough. Now you'll all see exactly the type of person we've been dealing with when REGGIE AND ME #1 launches on December 7th! The next hit New Riverdale series, REGGIE AND ME, arrives this Winter from the side-splitting creative team of Tom DeFalco, Sandy Jarrell, Kelly Fitzpatrick, and Jack Morelli."It’s a great honor to be paired with a dynamic and fun artist like Sandy on one of my favorite characters," says series writer Tom DeFalco.
"Reggie Mantle has been called a self-aggrandizing egotist, a sinister super-villain, a merciless monster and worse, but his dog loves him. Sandy and I intend to show all the doubters and haters exactly why Reggie should be named the true master of this universe…or else!"
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"The town of Riverdale has been part of my life as long as I can remember, and there couldn't be a more exciting time to visit," says series artist Sandy Jarrell. "Reg is more than a little salty he had to wait this long for his solo relaunch, so we've to make this count. I, for one, have no intention of getting on Mantle's list."
Following hot on the heels of the blockbuster ‘New Riverdale’ re-launches ARCHIE, JUGHEAD, BETTY & VERONICA, and September's new JOSIE AND THE PUSSYCATS series, REGGIE AND ME takes a look at the life of everyone's (okay, not exactly everyone's) hero, the handsome and hilarious Reggie Mantle. The new series will arrive in
The new series will arrive in comic book stores this December featuring an assortment of variant covers from fan favorite artists including Derek Charm, Robert Hack, Ryan Jampole, and more.
Visit the official Archie Comics website for more information, follow us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest news and updates, and download the Archie App for iOS and Android to read all your favorite Archie Comics!
Valiant is proud to present your first look at DIVINITY III: KOMANDAR BLOODSHOT #1 – the first of four essential specials revealing the worldwide Communist regime behind the winter’s most startling comics event! On December 28th, out of the pages of DIVINITY III: STALINVERSE, join New York Times best-selling writer Jeff Lemire (BLOODSHOT REBORN, Death of X) and comics superstar Clayton Crain (4001 A.D.) as they present a blood-curdling examination of the Stalinverse’s ultimate state-sponsored assassin: the merciless KOMANDAR BLOODSHOT!
He’s put down protests, led the purge of political undesirables, and executed dozens of traitors to the Soviet super-state. His name is KOMANDAR BLOODSHOT…and his existence is a hushed whisper among the terrified populace of the 21st century’s global Soviet Union. But just who is this unrelenting enforcer of state superiority… and what is the shocking truth about his power, his allegiances, and his true identity?
“This isn’t an Elseworlds story. This happens in the Valiant Universe. This is the Valiant Universe. How do we wake up one day and see Stalin portrayed as a hero instead of a mass murderer?,” Valiant Editor-in-Chief Warren Simons told Newsarama. “Bloodshot is an unstoppable force. He’s imbued with millions of nanites that allow him to heal from any wound, change shapes, interact with technology — and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. A weapon like this — who’s built and controlled by a communist regime that’s killed tens of millions of civilians — is a frightening prospect.”
On December 28th, Valiant’s first reality-shattering event explodes outward with a gut-wrenching tale of power, sacrifice, and authority as Jeff Lemire and Clayton Crain take Valiant’s bloodstained icon to his most punishing depths yet! Don’t miss the shocking twists and turmoil that await in DIVINITY III: KOMANDAR BLOODSHOT #1 – featuring an iron-clad line of covers from Clayton Crain (Carnage),Ryan Bodenheim (The Dying & The Dead), Greg Smallwood (Moon Knight), Trevor Hairsine(DIVINITY III: STALINVERSE), and Kano (Daredevil)!
Plus: On December 21st, discover the roots of the new world order as DIVINITY III: STALINVERSE #1 (of 4) rewrites the fabric of reality itself! This winter, the sold-out sci-fi saga that redefined the Valiant Universe begins a reality-shattering comics event that will collide the world’s most formidable heroes with a disturbing new vision… One where a worldwide Soviet empire now rules a world order… The Iron Curtain extends across continents, shattering governments and armies in its wake… And the communist global super-state rules not only with an iron fist, but powers far beyond the comprehension of mortal men.
Earth has a new god. The world you know is gone. Welcome to the Stalinverse, comrade.
Then: Stay tuned as the Stalinverse spreads with more top-secret DIVINITY III one-shots detailing the redacted history of the Soviet Union’s most notorious patriots, agitators, and outcasts in January and beyond!
Now that 3 states have legalized it for recreational use, 19 for medical use, and with legalization on the November ballot in 5, it is especially fun to relive the hysteria surrounding marijuana as a perceived gateway drug from the 1930's to the 1950's and beyond. And now you can do so in the comfort of your home with Reefer Madness from Dark Horse Books.
Like the anti-drug propaganda films of that era, these stories range from comically misinformed to soberly concerned about the influence of Mary Jane on the youth of America. With titles like Teenage Dope Slaves,Satan’s Cigarettes, and Hopped-Up Killer, the gulf in attitudes between today and the days of Reefer Madness could not be wider.
Includes a long introduction summarizing the anti pot campaigns of the first drug czar, Harry Anslinger, and newspaperman William Randolph Hearst, with lurid covers from many of the comics and magazines of the day. The comics collected in Reefer Madness come from comic book legends like Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster (Adventure Comics), Frank Frazetta, Jerry Robinson, and Jack Kirby. Eisner and Harvey award winner Craig Yoe brings a new collection of wacky, wild, and culturally relevant comics to the mix.
Reefer Madness goes on sale March 29, 2017.
IDW Publishing today announced some exciting editorial shifts with a major promotion and a new hire. David Hedgecock has been promoted from Managing Editor to Editor-in-Chief. In his new role, David will be handling the day-to-day management associated with producing the company’s print publications, providing direction and supervision for the editorial staff, while also focusing his attention on increasing readership and utilizing new media. David joined IDW as Managing Editor in 2013 after having previously served as CEO for Ape Entertainment. He is currently spearheading the Revolutionevent series, which sees multiple Hasbro properties merge into a single shared universe.
Chris Ryall continues as the company’s Chief Creative Officer in an expanded capacity by concentrating his efforts on developing new creative opportunities for all divisions of IDW. This includes the pursuit of new creative talent, stories, and licenses, developing proposals, and identifying new publishing opportunities, distribution channels, and formats. Having joined IDW as Editor-in-Chief in 2004, Chris boasts one of the longest-standing stretches for this position in comics and under his watch helped grow the company into an editorial powerhouse, developing such properties as the award-winning Locke & Key, Hasbro's Transformers, Toho’s Godzilla, CBS/Paramount's Star Trek, and 2000 AD's Judge Dredd, among many others. He will also remain actively involved in writing for the company including Rom, which will tie-in closely with the new universe established in Revolution.
“In his three years at IDW, David has shown the drive and commitment that is needed to be successful in his new position,” says Chief Creative Officer Chris Ryall. “This move is well-earned and I can’t think of anyone better suited to succeed me in this position. I’m excited to continue working with him and the rest of the team while working to take the company to even greater heights.”
“Chris has given me big shoes to fill,” said newly minted Editor-in-Chief David Hedgecock. “Working with the editorial team at IDW over the past few years has been a career high. I’m excited for this next chapter to begin and for many more years of creativity to come working with the the most talented people in comics.”
Joining the newly restructured editorial department is Chris Cerasi, who has held various editorial positions over the years with a concentration in licensed publishing having handled some of today’s biggest global properties, including the Star Wars franchise for LucasBooks, and the pantheon of the DC Universe in the Licensed Publishing division of DC Entertainment. He has project managed titles tied in to both the comic and multi-media interpretations of DC's characters, including Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy, Smallville, Su
“We’re excited to welcome our newest addition to the team, Christopher Cerasi, who brings with him a wealth of talent and experience from his considerable time at DC, Lucasfilm, and Rovio,” said David Hedgecock. “Chris is another perfect addition to the IDW staff.”
Mad Event Entertainment and Long Beach Comic Con announced today that nominations for the 2017 Dwayne McDuffie Award for Diversity in Comics are now open. This McDuffie Award has a new director, Will J. Watkins, and several new Selection Committee Members: Mark D. Bright, Don McGregor, Kevin Rubio, Cassandra Pelham and Gail Simone. The third annual Dwayne McDuffie Award for Diversity in Comics reception will be held February 18, 2017, in Long Beach, CA during the Long Beach Comic Expo.
The motto of The Dwayne McDuffie Award for Diversity in Comics comes from Dwayne’s own words, “From invisible to inevitable.”
“The Dwayne McDuffie Award for Diversity in Comics is the very first award ever established in my husband’s name," said Dwayne’s widow, Charlotte (Fullerton) McDuffie, “and we are tremendously proud that in just its third year, both the comic book and animation industries are already beginning to see some evidence of the DMAD's powerful mission statement demonstrably influencing reality by helping a more diverse range of outstanding creative voices finally find some inclusion in the media, with the careers of our first two winners and finalists starting to take off at major entertainment companies. To paraphrase Dwayne: Everyone deserves to see themselves represented in the media. And everyone deserves to participate in telling their own story.”
To commemorate his vision and contributions, the new Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture, grand opening September 24th, has invited Dwayne McDuffie to be included for posterity.
“Everyone has heroes, but most people never get the chance to ensure that their hero's legacy will endure,” said Watkins. “Dwayne McDuffie was my hero, and for the last two years I've been honored to be on the selection committee for an award in his name that promotes diversity and inclusion in the comic book industry. This year I'm doubly honored to be the award's director, and my efforts to ensure Dwayne's legacy endures will be nothing short of heroic.”
The deadline for completed submissions for the third annual Dwayne McDuffie Award for Diversity in Comics is December 31, 2016.
“Long Beach Comic Con and Long Beach Comic Expo are committed to celebrating diversity in comics,” said Martha Donato, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Long Beach Comic Expo, on the eve of Long Beach Comic Con. “This is not a fad, this is not an isolated moment. We are committed to diversity in storytelling. Last year, the number of submissions were three times that of the first award last year--and a third of those were from women. This is the future.”The Dwayne McDuffie Award for Diversity in Comics Selection Committee consists of twelve prominent comics and animation professionals who have demonstrated a commitment to McDuffie’s vision of inclusiveness:
The Dwayne McDuffie Award for Diversity in Comics Selection Committee consists of twelve prominent comics and animation professionals who have demonstrated a commitment to McDuffie’s vision of inclusiveness:
Mark D. Bright is a storyboard artist for commercials, television and feature films. Prior to his career as a storyboard artist, he was an artist for Marvel, DC, Acclaim and Milestone Media working on titles including Iron Man, Green Lantern, G.I. Joe, Power Man and Iron Fist and Icon. He is also the co-creator of Quantum and Woody.
Neo Edmund – is a former child actor turned bestselling author, screenwriter, comic book writer, story development exec, and Virtual Reality director. He is the author of The Red Riding Alpha Huntress series published by WordFire Press. He is currently writing numerous books including a Predator anthology and the reboot of Colt The Outlander.
Joan Hilty is Comics Editor at Nickelodeon and editor-in-chief of Pageturner, a boutique comics/graphic novel production house. She was formerly a Senior Editor at DC/Vertigo and syndicated cartoonist. She teaches at the School of Visual Arts in NYC and the Maryland Institute College of Art.
Joseph Illidge is a Senior Editor for Lion Forge Comics, a columnist for Comic Book Resources and The Shadow League, and the co-writer of Solarman for Scout Comics. His editorial career began at Milestone Media, Inc. He then joined the Batman Editorial Group at DC Comics, and later worked for Archaia, now a division of BOOM! Studios. His graphic novel, The Ren will be published by First Second Books, a division of Macmillan.
Heidi MacDonald is the editor-in-chief of Comicsbeat.com and a former editor for Disney and DC Comics. She also edits the graphic novel review section for Publishers Weekly and can be heard on PW's weekly podcast More To Come.
Don McGregor is a writer whose notable comic books for Marvel Comics include Jungle Action, where he did the seminal work on Black Panther and Amazing Adventures Featuring Killraven, which contained the first interracial kiss in a color comic book. He also created Sabre, one of the first modern graphic novels. Don's groundbreaking career garnered him the Bill Finger Award for Excellence in Comic Book Writing last year.
Kevin Rubio is a writer/producer who has contributed to Justice League Action, Avengers Assemble, Thunderbirds Are Go!, Green Lantern: The Animated Series and My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic. He is also the creator and writer of the Star Wars graphic novel Tag & Bink Were Here and Red 5 Publication’s Abyss Vol. I & II. He is an inaugural recipient of the George Lucas Film Award for his Star Wars short film, TROOPS, a Promax Award winner and Emmy nominee.
Cassandra Pelham is a senior editor for the Graphix and Scholastic Press imprints at Scholastic, where she has edited award-winning, #1 New York Times bestselling, and USA Today bestselling graphic novels.
Gail Simone is a writer known for the DC titles Birds of Prey, Secret Six (for which she was nominated for a GLAAD Media Award), Batgirl, Wonder Woman and The All-New Atom. She recently wrote Dark Horse's Tomb Raider, Dynamite's Red Sonja and is currently working on DC/Vertigo's Clean Room.
Will J. Watkins is a film and animation writer who is also comic book story/world-building consultant on The Protectors graphic novel published this year by Athlita Comics. He had a stint as an assistant editor at DC Comics and before moving to L.A. he owned Chicago's first African American-owned comics store and is currently writing a novel about the experience.
Len Wein is the legendary animation and comic book writer who co-created Swamp Thing, Wolverine, and the wildly successful diverse new team of X-Men that debuted in 1975; He’s had the distinction of serving both as Editor-in-Chief of Marvel Comics and Senior Editor at DC Comics. The Will Eisner Comic Book Hall of Famer’s most recent comic book Batman “66: The Lost Episode was released last year.
About Dwayne McDuffie:
Dwayne Glenn McDuffie was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. The middle son of Leroy McDuffie and Edna (Hawkins) McDuffie (now Gardner), Dwayne attended the prestigious Roeper School for gifted children before going on to earn undergraduate degrees in both English & Physics as well as a graduate degree in Physics, all at the University of Michigan. (Go, Blue!) He later also studied filmmaking at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.
Dwayne first entered the comic book industry as an Editor at Marvel Comics, thanks to his NYU friend Greg Wright with whom he recreated the Deathlok character into the one in use today. With artist Ernie Colón, Dwayne also co-created the comedic Marvel team book, Damage Control.
Frustrated by the lack of diversity of both characters and creators in comics, Dwayne—together with Derek Dingle, Denys Cowan, and Michael Davis--co-founded MILESTONE COMICS (later MILESTONE MEDIA), the first African-American owned comic book company in history, with a mission to provide a wide array of characters, content, and creators that more accurately represent the racial, ethnic, religious, and gender diversity of real life. (Also? They were just outstandingly good books. Seriously. If you haven’t read them, seek them out. Now. You won’t believe what you’ve been missing!)
Static, Icon, Hardware, Xombi—to name just a few. Throughout his career in the comic book industry, Dwayne created or co-created these and more than a dozen other series, in addition to writing stories for too many other titles to list but here are some highlights: Justice League of America, Fantastic Four, Spider-Man, Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight, Captain marvel, Avengers Spotlight, Hellraiser, Ultraman, even The Tick, and Back to The Future. Dwayne also co-created The Road To Hell with fellow writer and Milestone editor, Matt Wayne, the inaugural Director of the Dwayne McDuffie Award for Diversity in Comics, established posthumously by Dwayne’s widow, Charlotte (Fullerton) McDuffie.
Dwayne transitioned into the animation industry as a Story Editor and Writer on the Emmy-winning Kids WB series, Static Shock, which he co-created and for which he won the 2003 HUMANITAS PRIZE.
Dwayne was also a Producer, Story Editor, and Writer on Cartoon Network’s JUSTICE LEAGUE and JUSTICE LEAGUE UNLIMITED animated series, for which he received a 2004 WRITERS GUILD nomination.
With artist Glen Murakami, Dwayne redeveloped Man of Action’s BEN 10 animated series into BEN 10: ALIEN FORCE then BEN 10: ULTIMATE ALIEN—98 episodes of what became and continues to be an on-going, blockbuster, 230-episodes-and-counting franchise for Cartoon Network.
Dwayne also wrote the animated features JUSTICE LEAGUE: CRISIS ON TWO EARTHS, ALL-STAR SUPERMAN, and JUSTICE LEAGUE: DOOM, as well as episodes of WHAT’S NEW, SCOOBY-DOO? and TEEN TITANS, all for Warner Bros.
For his indelible work in animation, Dwayne was posthumously presented with the WRITERS GUILD OF AMERICA’s 2011 ANIMATION WRITING AWARD, the first African-American in history to be so honored.
The winner of 3 EISNER AWARDS for his work in comic books, 11 PARENTS’ CHOICE AWARDS, 6 “BEST EDITOR” awards, the 2009 INKPOT AWARD presented by Comic-Con International, and a GOLDEN APPLE AWARD from his alma mater for his “use of popular art to promote and enhance human dignity,” Dwayne McDuffie’s life’s work exemplified both diversity and excellence.
He led by example while presciently stating, "From invisible to inevitable”--now the motto of the "Dwayne McDuffie Award for Diversity in Comics." The man may be gone, but his mission lives on.
Limerence Press, an erotic and sex education comics imprint of the publisher Oni Press, is excited to announce OH JOY SEX TOY: THE COLORING BOOK by Erika Moen and Matthew Nolan, THE GLASS MOUNTAIN COLORING BOOK by Trungles, andTHE QUEER HEALTH FIELD GUIDE by Jude Vigants and Mady G. Every week Erika Moen draws a cornucopia (pornucopia?) of fun, naughty pairings for the critically-acclaimed sex education comic Oh Joy Sex Toy. Now YOU can join in the sexy fun by adding your own color choices in Oh Joy Sex Toy: The Coloring Book! An alluring collection of NSFW illustrations, featuring a wide variety of sexy humans, awaits you! Whether you want to color for relaxation, saucy enjoyment, or to make a unique work of art for a special someone, this book is sure to please.
“I had a blast making all these naughty drawings and I’m delighted at the thought of people adding their own artistic touches to them!” creator Erika Moen told The Comics Beat in today's announcement.
Oh Joy Sex Toy: The Coloring Book goes on sale in comics shops and bookstores on February 8, 2017 (just in time for Valentine’s Day)! DETAILS: (W/A/CA) Erika Moen (W/C) Matthew Nolan ON SALE: 02/08/2017 ISBN: 978-1-62010-376-0 AGE RANGE: 18 and up GENRE: Humor PRICE: $11.99 120 PAGES
THE GLASS MOUNTAIN COLORING BOOK
The Glass Mountain Coloring Book promo image illustrated by Trungles
The Glass Mountain Coloring Book by Trungles is an erotic coloring book for adults. Offering a loose interpretation of the fairy tale by the same name, the book will feature illustrations that tell the story of an enchanted lover on a glass hill.
“I’m so glad to see coloring books are growing up along with us!” says creator Trungles. “It’s my hope that folks will find this book somewhere between meditation, play, and erotic fantasy.”
The Glass Mountain Coloring Book goes on sale in comic shops and bookstores in September 2017.
The Queer Health Field Guide is an educational comic appropriate for both teens and adults that covers subjects such as dating, sexuality, gender, and coming out, presented in a friendly and conversational way.
“The Queer Health Field Guide has the potential to educate and break down barriers between people of all walks of life,” says cartoonists and creators Mady G. and Jude Vigants. “We’d like to engage people academically as well as easily articulate the science and sociology behind our bodies and identity, with an emphasis on transgender health. We are putting our all into this, with extensive research and many personal interviews. The personal journey one embarks on can be terrifying and exhausting—so we are here to hold your hand through it with this book!”
The Queer Health Field Guide goes on sale in comic shops and bookstores in2018.
First came fire… Then the wheel… Now, after centuries of struggle, the most acclaimed publisher in comic books today is proud to present the next great advancement in human civilization: the VALIANT CAT COSPLAY cover! As revealed today at ComicBook.com, Valiant is bringing the three capital Cs of popular culture – cats, comics, and cosplay – together for the first time anywhere in December as ordinary, household feline companions are transformed into the world’s most valiant heroes for a fur-bulous new line of shelf photo covers spanning 10 best-selling series! From teenage martial arts master Archer to reality-warping cosmonaut Divinity to sky-soaring sensation Faith and MI-6 super-spy Ninjak, each VALIANT CAT COSPLAY cover captures a furried friend pouncing into action as one of Valiant’s leading heroes inside a custom-built costume – tailor-made and photographed by the minds behind the Cat Cosplay of the Feline Variety blog.
Featured by CNET, CrunchyRoll, the Daily Mail, Geek and Sundry, IGN, Kotaku, Mashable, NPR,Paste Magazine, Tech Times, and dozens more around the world, Cat Cosplay of the Feline Variety is the gold standard of the “cat cosplay” genre and boasts a legion of fans and followers across Tumblr, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook since its creation in early 2015. Valiant’s VALIANT CAT COSPLAY covers mark their first officially sponsored collaboration with a comic book publisher or entertainment company.
“This might be the single best thing anyone anywhere has done, ever,” said Valiant Assistant Editor Lauren Hitzhusen. “All of Valiant’s numerous accomplishments – the biggest debut of a new publisher in more than a decade, the best reviews in the industry, a record-setting 50 nominations at this year’s Harvey Awards – pale in comparison to the glory that you now behold before you. But, all joking aside… No, really, this is the best.”
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Available as “order-all” covers across all of Valiant’s December 2016 series, each VALIANT CAT COSPLAY cover will be available for retailers to order in unlimited quantities at the standard suggested retail price:
A portion of the proceeds from all VALIANT CAT COSPLAY covers sold will benefit the Brooklyn Animal Rescue Coalition (BARC), a New York-based non-profit that operates a beloved, no-kill shelter for cats and dogs in Brooklyn’s Williamsburg neighborhood. BARC’s mission is to provide a safe haven for abandoned animals – with quality food, shelter, medical attention, and the love they deserve – and to find permanent loving homes for them.
They’re intrepid! They’re fearless! They’re cats! This December, the animal kingdom is invading the Valiant Universe…and cat lovers and comics fans will finally stand united when VALIANT CAT COSPLAY covers scratch their way onto shelves worldwide! Contact your local comic shop to pre-order your VALIANT CAT COSPLAY covers today! (Lint roller not included.)
This December, a new world order takes control as DIVINITY III: STALINVERSE rewrites the fabric of reality itself! As revealed today at Comic Book Resources, Valiant is proud to present your first look insideDIVINITY III: STALINVERSE #1 (of 4) – the FIRST ISSUE of the event-level epic from the visionaryDIVINITY creative of New York Times best-selling writer Matt Kindt (4001 A.D.), blockbuster artistTrevor Hairsine (X-Men: Deadly Genesis), Harvey Award-nominated inker Ryan Winn (A&A: THE ADVENTURES OF ARCHER & ARMSTRONG) and master colorist David Baron (BLOODSHOT REBORN, Planetary)! This winter, the sold-out sci-fi saga that redefined the Valiant Universe begins a reality-shattering comics event that will collide the world’s most formidable heroes with a disturbing new vision… One where a worldwide Soviet empire now rules a world order… The Iron Curtain extends across continents, shattering governments and armies in its wake… And the communist global super-state rules not only with an iron fist, but powers far beyond the comprehension of mortal men.
Earth has a new god. The world you know is gone. Welcome to the Stalinverse, comrade.
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“STALINVERSE has always been something we’ve been building towards since the very beginning of DIVINITY,” said Valiant Editor-in-Chief Warren Simons. “This series will not only have major repercussions for every key hero and villain in the Valiant Universe, but will also give us our first glimpse of new characters with a long-term trajectory. From HARBINGER WARS to BOOK OF DEATH to 4001 A.D., Valiant’s events have always been big, but Matt and Trevor are elevating the stakes to a truly global concern here – they’re building not just an event, but an entirely new and terrifying world.”
On December 21st, reality runs red as Matt Kindt and Trevor Hairsine present the most startling comics event of the season in DIVINITY III: STALINVERSE #1 (of 4) – presented in the deluxe VALIANT PRESTIGE format and featuring covers by Jelena Kevic-Djurdjevic (DIVINITY), Tom Muller (Zero), Jeffrey Veregge (Red Wolf), Greg Smallwood (Moon Knight), and Adam Gorham (The Violent)!
Plus: stay tuned as the STALINVERSE spreads with four top-secret DIVINITY III one-shots detailing the redacted history of the Soviet Union’s most notorious patriots, agitators, and outcasts in December and beyond!
Critically-acclaimed writer Alex de Campi (NO MERCY, Grindhouse) teams up with artist Tony Parker (Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?, This Damned Band) and colorist Blond (Red Hood and the Outlaws, Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?) for the Cold War thriller MAYDAY, an all-new series launching this November from Image Comics.
It's 1971, and two young Soviet operatives are sent to California to kill a defector and recover top-secret information. As the mission dissolves into a mess of good sex, bad drugs, and ugly violence, the young Russians face a new problem: they’ll need to rely on each other to escape America, but to survive Russia they’ll have to betray each other.
“MAYDAY is a very fast-paced, violent, 5-issue miniseries with a lot of sex and drug use (hey, they always say "write what you know"). But it's also got that early-1970s thriller thing going,” said de Campi in an interview in Image+. “You can tell a lot about an era by its criminals.”
“It's not the ‘70s that most people envision,” said Parker in the same interview. “Most people picture the late ‘70s and the Disco era. This was a disillusioned, dark, distrusting, dirty, and angry time.”
Blond aptly summarized: “the band is back."
MAYDAY is a Cold-War action-thriller unlike any other. Get ready.
MAYDAY #1 Cover A by Tony Parker (Diamond code: SEP160631), as well as Cover B, also by Tony Parker (Diamond code: SEP160632), will hit comic book storesWednesday, November 2nd. Final order cutoff deadline for retailers is Monday, October 10th.
Image Comics is pleased to announce that the short sequential story ANCESTOR by Matt Sheean and Malachi Ward, first appearing in ISLAND, will be made available in a standalone graphic novella trade paperback form this October. In ANCESTOR readers uncover the truth behind The Service and search for answers from the mysterious Patrick Whiteside. Whiteside doesn’t require much: An open mind. Determination. The ability to make sacrifices.
ANCESTOR trade paperback (ISBN 978-1632159236) will hit comic book stores onWednesday, October 19th and can be pre-ordered using Diamond Code AUG160689. The final order cutoff deadline for retailers is Monday, September 19th. It will also be available in bookstores on Tuesday, October 25th.
Mark Millar (HUCK, Kick-Ass, Kingsman: The Secret Service) and Greg Capullo (Batman) join forces for one of the most talked about and highly anticipated series of the year in REBORN, set to launch from Image Comics this October. A sprawling, science-fiction/fantasy epic, REBORN explores a jaw-dropping world of possibility. Where do you go when you die? Not heaven or hell; somewhere else. Somewhere you have to fight to survive. Somewhere the people from the past are waiting for you—the good and the bad.
REBORN #1 hits stores on Wednesday, October 12th. Final order cutoff for comics retailers is Monday, September 19th.
A special New York Comic Convention variant of REBORN #1 will also be available for sale at the Image booth (#1444) at the show, Thursday, October 6th - Sunday, October 9th.
REBORN #1 Cover A by Capullo can be pre-ordered with Diamond Code AUG160565. REBORN #1 Cover B by Capullo can be pre-ordered with Diamond Code JUL168775. REBORN #1 Cover C (incentive) Capullo Sketch cover can be pre-ordered with Diamond Code AUG160566. REBORN #1 Cover D by Jock can be pre-ordered with Diamond Code AUG160567. REBORN #1 Cover E by Cho can be pre-ordered with Diamond Code AUG160568. REBORN #1 Cover F by Cassaday can be pre-ordered with Diamond Code AUG160569. REBORN #1 Cover G Blank cover can be pre-ordered with Diamond Code AUG160570. REBORN #1 Cover H (incentive) McFarlane cover can be pre-ordered with Diamond Code AUG160571.
An army veteran and comic book super-fan is to have the character he created immortalised in print, four months after his tragic death. As a life-long fan of legendary weekly comic book 2000 AD, Stewart Perkins, 48, of Wymondham, was looking forward to fulfilling his dream of seeing Harry Heston, an ape-Judge character he created in the 1990s with friend Jake Lynch, finally appear in an official Judge Dredd story.
But tragically Stewart died suddenly and unexpectedly in May while working in Norway with the United States Air Force.
Next week, 2000 AD’s publisher Rebellion will publish the story that Stewart never got to see in its sister title Judge Dredd Megazine.
Based at RAF Lakenheath, Stewart – known to fellow 2000 AD fans as “W.R. Logan” – was a popular Army Cadets instructor as well as a veteran of the Queen's Own Hussars. Born and raised in Stratford-Upon-Avon, his funeral took place in Norwich on 16th June.
Named after Dirty Harry and Charlton Heston, Stewart and Jake created Harry Heston for their Judge Dredd fan comic Class of ’79, which won Best Self Published/Independent Comic at the National Comics Awards in 1999.
Drawn by Jake, the new story has been written by Judge Dredd writer Arthur Wyatt and is set in Dredd’s world 122 years in the future where genetic experimentation has given primates human speech. Heston is a smart-talking gorilla who lives in a shanty town outside the violent Mega-City One on the east coast of America. Modelling himself on Judge Dredd, Heston takes on a gang of muggers but, when they seek revenge, Heston and Dredd are forced to work together to take them down.
His partner, Deborah Ward, said: “About a year ago, Stewart burst through the front door, with a big grin on his face. Jake had just emailed over the first draft of the new Heston story and Stewart loved it. Many emails had gone back and forth since that day, and I remember Stewart proudly telling my friends about the forthcoming publication. I confess it was rather lost on them but no-one could resist getting swept along with his enthusiasm! Enjoy the strip and raise a glass to W.R. Logan, doing us proud yet again.”
His friend and artist on the story, Jake Lynch, said: “When Harry was born, we knew he was something special and it wasn't just the beer talking. To see our 'chimp-face' accepted into the pages of the Megazine was the fulfilling of an ambition both Stewart and I shared. The spin Arthur Wyatt has put on it is perfect and SO in keeping for where Harry came from. I also shared all the artwork I produced for the strip with Stewart and he gave it all the thumbs up. It saddens me to know that he won't ever see it in print but am happy to know the mighty “WR Logan” approved.”
Matt Smith, the editor of 2000 AD and Judge Dredd Megazine, said: “Harry’s a great character to add to the world of Judge Dredd and it’s a fitting tribute to one of Judge Dredd’s biggest fans. It’s a shame Stewart never got to see Harry in print, but I’m sure he’d approve.”
One of the best known fans in the British comics scene, Stewart’s encyclopaedic knowledge of Judge Dredd history led to him advising the character’s co-creator, John Wagner; this led to stories such as 2006’s Judge Dredd: Origins, which laid out the character’s origin story for the first time. In return, Wagner used Stewart’s online pseudonym of “W.R. Logan” when he created the unlucky “Judge Logan”, who has starred in several major storylines, including 2016’s Dark Justice.
During the late 1980s and early ‘90s he had served with the Queen's Own Hussars, a cavalry regiment of the British Army, and later he spent many years volunteering with the Army Cadet Force as an adult instructor. He had also previously worked for Rebellion, organising the 2000 AD archives.
Judge Dredd Megazine #376 will go on sale on 21 September from all good newsagents, priced at £5.99, as well as digitally from 2000 AD’s online shop and Apple, Android, and Windows 10 app.
SuBLime, the leading global English-language yaoi manga publisher, returns to North America’s largest dedicated yaoi fan convention – YaoiCon 2016 – taking place September 16th-18th at the Hyatt Regency SFO Hotel in Burlingame, CA. SuBLime will be located in Booth #36 in the Dealer’s Hall. This year SuBLime is honored to welcome the convention’s special guest of honor, Hinako Takanaga, creator of SuBLime’s much-loved series AWKWARD SILENCE.
YaoiCon is a one-of-a-kind 18+ convention for fans of all things yaoi. The annual convention delights attendees with a fun, fan-centric atmosphere and unique programming, which includes the Guest of Honor panel and autograph session, industry and fan panels, and the iconic and not-to-be-missed Bishounen Auction. Additional information is available at: www.yaoicon.com.
Saturday, September 17th 1:00 p.m. SuBLime Industry Panel (Regency A)
Join us for the SuBLime Industry Panel! We’ll have games and prizes as well as updates on new and ongoing series.
During YaoiCon 2016, SuBLime’s booth (#36 in the Dealer’s Hall) will offer a wide array of fan-loved yaoi manga for sale at discounted rates, including volume 5 of Shungiku Nakamura’s THE WORLD’S GREATEST FIRST LOVE, available one month before it’s official release date at YaoiCon only. The just-released series debut of TEN COUNT, and all currently released editions of Guest of Honor Hinako Takanaga’s AWKWARD SILENCE will also be available at the booth. Additional yaoi manga favorites such as LOVE STAGE!! andMIDNIGHT STRANGER, along with many more, will be available for purchase with special convention pricing.
TEN COUNT · By Rihito Takarai Show Special Price: $10
Corporate secretary Shirotani suffers from obsessive-compulsive disorder. One day he meets Kurose, a therapist who offers to take him through a ten-step program to cure him of his compulsion. As the two go through each of the ten steps, Shirotani’s attraction to his counselor grows.
AWKWARD SILENCE · By Hinako Takanaga Show Special Price: $9
Satoru is an introvert with a longtime crush on Keigo, a popular boy on the baseball team. But much to his surprise, Keigo comes up to him and asks him out! Satoru is so overcome he can’t respond. Will Satoru be able to get past his shyness, or will he lose his chance with the boy he loves?
LOVE STAGE!! · By Eiki Eiki and Taishi Zaou Show Special Price: $10
Izumi Sena is an average guy born into a family of famous celebrities. A college student and total otaku, he works hard every day with the goal of someday becoming a manga creator.
MIDNIGHT STRANGER · By Bohra Naono Show Special Price: $10
Roi, a black goat spirit, is getting bullied when out of nowhere he’s rescued by the beautiful fire god Xiu. Xiu gives Roi the ability to take human form, and a grateful Roi decides to serve Xiu as his new master.
THE WORLD’S GREATEST FIRST LOVE · By Shungiku Nakamura Show Special Price: $10
When Ritsu Onodera changes jobs, looking for a fresh start, he's not exactly thrilled when his new boss turns out to be his old flame. Ritsu's determined to leave all that in the past—but how can he when his boss is just as determined that they have a future?
Visit SuBLime.com for a complete array of additional yaoi manga titles that are available digitally in a download-to-own format for $5.99 (U.S. / CAN) each and are viewable as a PDF on any enabled eReader device or computer or accessed via the online manga viewer found on the web site.
For up-to-date news and release information, please visit the SuBLime website at www.SuBLimeManga.com, or follow SuBLime on Twitter at @SuBLimeManga, Facebook atfacebook.com/SuBLimeManga, and Tumblr at http://sublimemanga.tumblr.com/