When the Siege event ends, so will the Avengers titles.

This Week in Geek is a weekly blog about new comics written post-comic-shop-visit by WorthPoint comic book Worthologist Matt Baum. Every Wednesday Matt takes a look at the week’s new comics from a collector’s point-of-view and discusses which the comics he’ll be purchasing and why. Make sure to click on the hot links for previews and more information on the comics, characters, story-lines and creators discussed here. Make sure and post your comments below.

Huge news coming out of Marvel earlier this week when it was announced that after the Siege event ends, so will the Avengers titles, as we have come to know them. Of course they will be coming back; there’re already rumors of an Avenger’s Academy title replacing “Avengers: The Initiative.” Now this can’t be much of a surprise for anyone. Surely, no one was thinking that the bad guys would run the Marvel U forever, and when they inevitably get their super-villain-butts handed to them, it’d be hard to continue a Dark Avengers title. Now, Thunderbolts is another question. The April solicits are out and issue #143 is not being called the last issue but, according to the solicitation, “sets the stage for the next big chapter of the most unpredictable book ever!” I’m going to stick with Thunderbolts, mainly because I love writer Jeff Parker, and, if I can’t have a monthly Agents of Atlas comic, it’ll have to do. News like this does come with tough collector questions. Questions like: “why did I invest in 35 issues of Avengers: The Initiative, 16 issues of Dark Avengers and 36 issues of Mighty Avengers?” Perhaps a better question is why should we stick around for four new Avengers series? Is this just the nature of comic collecting in the age of short-attention-span-entertainment-overload? If the comics are good, I’m in. The same will probably be true for most nerds. Regardless I’ll be watching the sales charts to let you guys know.

Below you’ll find my stack of comics for the week of Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2010. Make sure and post your own weekly stack of comics below so I can make fun of what you’re reading and vice-versa. For a full list of comics shipping this week, click here. To find a comic shop near you, click here. Before I get into this week’s stack, here’s a look at some comics that I’ll be reading but not buying:

Avengers vs. Agents of Atlas #1 of 4

Cowboy Ninja Viking #3

Hulk #19

Avengers vs. Agents of Atlas #1 of 4: Jeff Parker writes this one and, yes, I was just gushing over him and his Agents of Atlas title, but I learned my lesson from the last AoA crossover with the X-Men. Nothing happened. The story was good enough, sure, but nothing happened. It’s hard to believe that during the biggest Avengers shake up in years this title is going to have any major ramifications. Not that I only collect comics that have major continuity ramifications. Or do I? Oh my god . . .

Cowboy Ninja Viking #3: The only reason I’m not buying this comic, and it’s a weird one, is the size. I can’t handle strange-sized comics. The first one I remember was Frank Miller’s “The Big Guy and Rusty the Boy Robot.” Then there was Mike Allred’s “Red Rocket 7.” Then “Mouse Guard,” and more recently Image’s “Viking.” All these comics were amazing but drove me nuts because of their weird size. How the hell am I supposed to file these? It drives me nuts. Now, big hardcover collections don’t bother me at all, and I have no good reason why. In fact, the bigger the better. I love DC’s Absolute editions and Marvel’s omnibus.

Hulk #19: Fall of the Hulks is like a car accident that I can’t look away from, even though there’s blood and gore everywhere. Which is not to say that the story is bad. Yet. I’ve just lost all faith in writer Jeph Loeb and am waiting for FotH to jump the shark at any moment. Also, and I know I’m repeating myself here, I hate Doc Samson as a villain. Hate it.

The Stack:

Amazing Spider-Man #618
Blackest Night: The Flash #2 of 3
Captain America #602
Dark Avengers #13
Dark Wolverine #82
Doctor Voodoo: Avenger of the Supernatural #4
Green Lantern Corps #44
Incredible Hercules #140
The Mighty Avengers #33
Nova #33
Realm of Kings: Inhumans #3 of 5
Spider-Woman #5
Starman #81
Thunderbolts #140
Uncanny X-Men #520
Wolverine: Weapon X #9

“Blackest Night: Flash” #2: While I’ve been enjoying “Flash Rebirth” (Writer Geoff Johns story of Barry Allen’s return to the DCU), I’ve got to wonder if it wouldn’t have been more appropriate in this comic. I really like what’s going on here with the Rogues facing their undead predecessors, and Scott Kollins pencils have never been better, but wouldn’t make more sense tell the story of a Flash returning from the grave during a crossover event about the dead rising? I’m sure this is bad editorial timing at its finest here, but really. Did no one discuss this? It’s as weird as having a Batman storyline called “RIP” wherein Batman doesn’t die but instead killing him in one panel of a really confusing crossover event in which Barry Allen returned to life for no other reason than to sell more comics. I guess he did out run a time traveling bullet, or something. I’m still a little foggy on Final Crisis I guess.

“Dark Wolverine” #82: Every issue of Dark Wolverine has been surprisingly great both in storytelling and art. And let me tell you, I had no intention of caring about this one. I’m not a big Daniel Way fan and hated the idea of Wolverine having a son (suspiciously very close to the introduction of Batman’s son). I didn’t care for Way’s Wolvie Origins title and was really disappointed to hear Daken (Wolive’s kid) would be taking over the starring role of his dad’s title. Now, nearing the end of Daken’s run as the star, presumably, I’m really hoping to read more about him. Maybe it’s the co-writing of Marjorie Liu that’s helped me enjoy Daken, but the psychology and depth they brought to the character has made this title a really great read. Penciler Giuseppe Camuncoli’s amazing art was the perfect compliment to Way and Liu’s characterization. His thick lines and usage of black to create depth and sinister moodiness, even in broad daylight, was the perfect compliment to Way and Liu’s characterization. Also, there’s a huge lat page event here that may make this issue a very important one in the evolution of Daken.

Doctor Voodoo” #4

Starman” #81

“Doctor Voodoo” #4: Writer Rick Remender gets my vote for best new Marvel writer for 2009. His work on both the Punisher and Doc Voodoo has been nothing short of stellar. Reminder is a nerd’s nerd and knows what we want to read. I love the Marvel Magic characters, but it’s been quite a while since we’ve had a Marvel Magic title worth reading. Even Mark Waid’s latest “Strange” mini-series isn’t really doing it for me. One of the things that always set the Marvel magicians apart from DC’s sorcerers was the practice and theory behind the Magic. Doctor Strange had a library of ancient tomes that referenced Lovecraftian monsters and Sumerian texts, while Zatanna was speaking in reverse to create a spell. I love the Occult references used by the Marvel magicians and to this day neither understand nor care how Magic works in the DCU. Remender’s Doc Voodoo is rife with the Occult and Voodoo lore and beautifully penciled by Jefte Paolo who almost seems to be painting in some panels. I can’t recommend this title enough.

“Starman” #81: Here’s where the fan-boy gushing starts. James Robinson’s Starman from the late-80s-early-90s remains one of my all time favorite comic book series to this day. Jack Knight, retro-junk dealer who reluctantly inherits the mantle of Starman from his deceased brother, was one of the first heroes I could relate to. I loved Robinson’s dialogue and film references. One that sticks out in my head was a conversation between Jack, Alan Scott (the Golden-Age Green Lantern) and Batman where they discussed their favorite Woody Allen films while tracking a murderer. Batman’s was of course “Crime and Punishment.” When I heard there was going to be a Blackest Night one-shot Starman issue my eyes teared up a little. I adored this series so much that it took me five years to read the final issue. Mainly because I didn’t want it to end. My only regret here is that Starman artist Tony Harris only returned to do the cover and not the interior art. Other than that, I expect to have goose bumps while reading this one.

Nerdy Question of the Week:

When the Avengers titles are re-launched who do you want to see on the roster? Should Spidey stay? Wolverine? Should Tigra be there? So shout out “Avengers assemble” and let’s hear you ideal team.

The first Read Along with Matt wrapped up this past week upon my finishing of the Warren Ellis “No Hero” trade-paper-back and I hope all those who joined me will do so again after reading what was undoubtedly the most violent comic ever published. I really dug it, but WOW, was it gory. Next it looks like I’ll be tackling the Barry Windsor-Smith Conan Archives Volume #1. While I own a number of the original issues, I’ve never had a chance to assemble a complete run and as always, I’ll use any excuse to buy a really sexy hardcover edition. So watch my Twitter feed and post your thoughts if your reading along with me or just loved reading it in the past. Just search #readwmatt on Twitter for updates.

See ya next time true believers.

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This Week in Geek is a weekly blog about new comics written by WorthPoint comic book Worthologist Matt Baum. Every Wednesday, Matt takes a look at the week’s new comics from a collector’s point-of-view and discusses which books may be hard to find in the near future and why. Make sure to click on the hot links for previews and more information on the comics, characters, story-lines and creators discussed here. Also, feel free to post your comments in the new “comments” section below, or you can follow him on Twitter, where he is always screaming about something nerd-related. Want to know what your comics are worth? Join WorthPoint for free and post your comics in the “Ask A Worthologist” section. Remember to post the title, issue number and cover price. And finally a word to the Federal Trade Commission; all the comics discussed here are purchased solely by the writer, who receives no gifts or free merchandise from any publishers even though he would graciously accept them.

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Alien Legion

This Week in Geek is a weekly blog about new comics written by WorthPoint Comic book Worthologist Matt Baum. Every Wednesday Matt takes a look at trends—good and bad—in the world of comic books from a collector’s point-of-view. Make sure to click on the hot links for previews and more information on the comics, characters, story-lines and creators discussed here and he encourages fellow comic nerds to post your comments below.

Years ago, while scanning the quarter bin at a now-defunct comic shop, I found a cover that caught my eye and for once, at the tender age of 15 or 16, I left the comic shop with a book that didn’t star Batman, Captain America, Spidey or Wolverine. That comic was “Alien Legion” volume 2, #2. Upon reading it, I instantly fell in love. Written by Chuck Dixon, who has also written some of my favorite Batman comics, and drawn by the incomparable Larry Stroman, Alien Legion followed a motley-alien-army-force into battle on even more alien worlds. I spent the next few years completing my Alien Legion run and will never part it, ever. I love Alien Legion and was overjoyed to hear about the Dark Horse “Alien Legion Omnibus” #1, which collects 300 pages of the original Carl Potts and the Chuck Dixon series. But lost my mind when I heard that Dixon and Stroman were reuniting for a new Alien Legion mini-series. I can’t tell you how geeked I am for this. I even told my fiancée. Who stared at me blankly and said, “That’s great, sweetie.”

The Stack:

Below you’ll find my stack of comics for the week of Wednesday, Nov. 18. Make sure and post your own weekly stack of comics below so I can make fun of what you’re reading and vice-versa. For a full list of comics shipping this week click here. To find a comic shop near you click here.

Adventure Comics #4
Alien Legion Omnibus Volume 1
Amazing Spider-Man #612
Cowboy Ninja Viking #2 of 4
Dark Avengers #11
Dark Reign: The List: Amazing Spider-Man
The Flash: Rebirth #5 of 6
Incredible Hulk #604
Mighty Avengers #31
Punisher #11
Realm of Kings: Inhumans #1 of 5
Realm of Kings
Spider-Woman #3
Supergirl #47
Thunderbolts #138
Wolverine: Weapon X #7

Thoughts on the stack:

Adventure Comics

Cowboy Ninja Viking

Dark Avengers

“Adventure Comics” by Geoff Johns is one of the best monthly comics I’ve read in quite a while. Johns has succeeded, yet again, in making me care about Conner Kent, Superboy. Unfortunately, Johns is only on the title for two more issues before Paul Levitz takes over. Yes, I’m being pessimistic here, but honestly, the guy hasn’t written comics since 1989. Which isn’t completely true. He wrote some fill-in issues of JSA that were . . . meh . . . at best.

“Cowboy Ninja Viking” is fun in the vein of Matt Fraction’s “Cassanova.” Issue one was violent, spastic, sexy, well-drawn, well-written and all-around-awesome. This is the kind of story you will only see in comic format. Don’t expect to see an AMC original series about a killer with a multiple personality disorder each of which are trained to kill as different historical warriors anytime soon. I highly recommend checking this one out.

“Dark Avengers” #11 wins the best-cover-of-the-week award with a homage to Todd McFarlane’s Spiderman #1. The closer we get to January’s “Siege” event, which looks to be the end of the “Dark Reign” crossover, the more nervous I get about this title ending. “Dark Avengers” is high-quality super-hero, or I guess in this case super-villain, storytelling and I love it. Every month.

Dark Reign: The List: Spiderman

Mighty Avengers

“Dark Reign: The List: Spiderman” is the only title with two—count ’em, two—semicolons, so it has to be good. That, and the fact that we finally get to see Norman Osborne go after Spiderman. Oh, and Dann Slott is writing with Adam Kubert on pencils. So I guess if you’re an uninformed jerk that hates Spiderman and America and your Grandparents and Thanksgiving, you’ll be skipping this one.

“Mighty Avengers” #31. Just when I thought I was done with this title writer Dan Slott pulls me back in by having Eternity name Hank Pym as Earth’s Scientist Supreme. It’s the little things that get me. I’m in Slott and cowriter Christos Gage have got me for at least six more issues. Although it would be nice if the art team could remain static for at least one story-arc.

Realm of Kings

Thunderbolts

“Realm of Kings” and “Realm of Kings: Inhumans” are must-buys. The writing team of Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning have transformed Marvel’s confusing and often boring cosmic cast into a cohesive, compelling and very well-written group of characters. Marvel Sci-Fi has never been this good. The fact that I even care about a Green Lantern knock-off character like Quasar blows my mind.

“Thunderbolts” is on its last chance with me. In fact, the only reason I’m picking this issue up is because of writer, Jeff Parker (“Agents of Atlas”). But honestly, this is Thunderbolts last chance. I don’t hate the book I’m just reading enough titles starring Marvel villains. If I’m going to read one starring Paladin, Nuke and the Headsman (whose real name is Cleavon Twain; terrible right?) it’s going to have to be pretty damn well written.

And now it’s time to mash all these comics together, mix with water, place on a giant spoon and cook them down to see which is the one comic I can’t live without this week in a little section I’m calling:

THERE CAN BE ONLY ONE!

Punisher #11; Marvel Comics

Punisher #11

Solicitation: “Franken-Castle” Part 1. In the belly of New York, skulking and forgotten creatures of the night uncover the remains of a man in a familiar outfit. Frank Castle is dead. What exactly is Frankencastle? Long time collaborators Rick Remender and Tony Moore (Ghost Rider, Fear Agent, The Walking Dead) are reunited for what will be the greatest struggle in the afterlife of the Punisher. Battle not with monsters, lest ye become a monster . . .

32 PGS
$2.99 US
SEP090449
Written by Rick Remender; Pencils and inks by Tony Moore; Cover by Dave Wilkins.

Why this one? Rick Remender’s Punisher has been fantastic so far but is running the risk of wandering into the doldrums of the typical Punisher story where in Frank goes after bad guys, has a little trouble with them and then kills the hell out of ’em. It’s a formula that’s worked for 35 years now, sure. Rick Remender is not your average writer and proved it when he chopped the hero of his story into pieces in the pages of “Dark Reign: The List: Punisher.” That’s right, Frank Castle is dead. Way dead. Pile-of-dismembered-body-parts dead. But now he’s back in a story aptly titled “Frankencastle.” This one’s got everything, Mole Men, the Man Thing and an undead Punisher. If you’re not excited about this one you could be a jerk. And you hate comics.

Nerdy Question of the Week:

Earlier in this blog I was gushing about “Alien Legion.” Everyone has a title like this that almost no body else cared about. What’s yours?

See ya next time, true believers.

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This Week in Geek is a weekly blog about new comics written by WorthPoint comic book Worthologist Matt Baum. Every Wednesday, Matt takes a look at the week’s new comics from a collector’s point-of-view and discusses which books may be hard to find in the near future and why. Make sure to click on the hot links for previews and more information on the comics, characters, story-lines and creators discussed here. Also, feel free to post your comments in the new “comments” section below, or you can follow him on Twitter, where he is always screaming about something nerd-related. Want to know what your comics are worth? Join WorthPoint for free and post your comics in the “Ask A Worthologist” section. Remember to post the title, issue number and cover price. And finally a word to the Federal Trade Commission; all the comics discussed here are purchased solely by the writer, who receives no gifts or free merchandise from any publishers even though he would graciously accept them.

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The list of the top 300 comics in sales for March came out this week and with it, I can breathe a little easier. After months of biting my fingernails and worrying about the future of comics like Guardians of the Galaxy (58th) and Nova (62nd), I was happy to see both titles moved up in sales, possibly fueled by sales of War of Kings #1, which checked in at the 14th spot on the chart—much higher than I expected. Other titles that saw big jumps were Deadpool #8 (26th) and Thunderbolts #130 (30th), which are currently in the midst of a crossover. The top two comics were once again Avengers titles—Dark Avengers #3 and New Avengers #51—and in the number-three spot was Batman: Battle for the Cowl #1. I was shocked to see Ultimate Wolverine Vs Hulk in the number-nine spot, with it being more than three years late. It just goes to show, as much as we complain about late comics and grossly missed shipping dates, we comic fans love the abuse. Besides, Marvel wouldn’t beat us if they didn’t love us, right? For the complete list, click here.

Speaking of Wolvie, as you know, the new “Wolverine Origins” movie premiers next week and Marvel has released a barrage of titles staring the Old Canuklehead in conjunction with the film. One of my favorite Wolverine stories has been reprinted and is hitting stores this week. Wolverine: Not Dead Yet, by Warren Ellis and Lenil Francis Yu, has been collected and is being released in a Premiere Hardcover format. The story deals with a mercenary from Wolvie’s past named the White Ghost who has seemingly returned from the dead. It’s a wonderful tale of espionage and superheroes as only Warren Ellis can tell. Not Dead Yet reprints Wolverine #119-#122 and retails for $19.99.

Lots of great new comics this week to talk about so let’s get to it. Below you’ll find the list of titles I’ll be picking up this Wednesday, April 22. For a complete list of this week’s new comics click here. To find a comic shop near you click here.

Astonishing X-Men #29
Avengers: The Initiative #23
Batman and the Outsiders #17
Daredevil #118
Dark Reign: Elektra #2 of 5
Detective Comics #853
Guardians Of The Galaxy #13
Hulk #11
Immortal Iron Fist #25
Incredible Hercules #128
Mighty Avengers #24
New Avengers #52
Supergirl #40
Thor #601
X-Force #14

There’re a few titles on my list this week that are on “last chance” status before they are dropped. Avengers Initiative isn’t bad, but since the end of Secret Invasion, has felt a little directionless. Also on the list is Hulk. I’m starting to wonder why I read this title. It’s not bad and a fun read usually, but is far from the Incredible Hulk title written by Greg Pak that it was spun-off from. We, the readers, still have no idea who the Red Hulk is, and after 11 issues, I’m not sure I even care anymore. Rounding out the list is Dan Slott’s Mighty Avengers. I want to love this title, I really do. I’m just not sure we, the readers (again), need this title. Presently, the New Avengers title is telling the story of the Avengers proper, while Dark Avengers is showing us the bad guys masquerading as Avengers while the Mighty Avengers has a cast of B-listers. Yes; as much as I love him, Hercules is a B-lister on some type of magic adventure on the trail of the Scarlet Witch. I just don’t know if I care, but, like I said, I’m giving each of these titles one more shot.

For those of you chasing the Wolverine Art Appreciation Variant covers, make sure you look out for the variants of Amazing Spidey #592, Hulk #11 and Daredevil #118.

Now, here’s my Speculator Picks for the Week. These are comics that, for one reason or another, I’m predicting will sell out very quickly only to resurface on the web for ridiculous prices.

New Avengers #52 Bachalo Variant: Marvel Comics

Solicitation: Who is the new Sorcerer Supreme? The entire Marvel Universe hangs in the balance as the Avengers race to help the fallen Doctor Strange battle the forces of the Dark Dimension as they make their earthly power play.

• 32 PGS
• $3.99 US
• FEB092493
Written by Brian Michael Bendis; Pencils by Billy Tan and Chris Bachalo; Cover by Billy Tan; 1:15 Variant cover by Chris Bachalo.

Why it’ll go fast: It’s simple math: If you look at last months sales numbers on New Avengers—95,340—and divide that number by 15, you end up with 6,356 variant covers. That’s a pretty rare comic. The trick is getting the variant for the right price. If you can grab a 1:15 variant cover of a comic like New Avengers for under $8, I would recommend doing so. If you can get it for cover price I want to know where you shop. These variants are already rare, there’s no question of that. The real question is will they hold their value? In the sense that a 1:15 variant will be worth thousands of dollars some day? Probably not. Will they be worth more than $8? Without a doubt.

Dark Reign: Elektra #2 of 5: Marvel Comics

Solicitation: Even for a lethal ninja assassin who’s been to the far side of death and back, Elektra faces the fight of her life! Freed from her torment at the hands of mad Skrull scientists, and delivered straight into the grabby hands of Norman Osborn and H.A.M.M.E.R., Elektra’s been imprisoned, tortured, vivisected, and even replaced with a genetic double. But the deadliest woman in the world still managed to free herself, and now, hobbling and wounded, she struggles to clear her name for her impostor’s crimes even as she fights to stay alive!

• 32 PGS
• $3.99 US
• FEB092501

Why it’ll go fast: I picked up issue one on a whim and was pleasantly surprised. Issue #1 checked in at the 41st spot on the sales chart for last month. Most retailers tend to order higher on issue #1 of a mini-series than of #2, for obvious reasons. It’s always easier to sell a first issue. Look for issue #2 of this Elektra mini to sell out pretty quickly, especially with the buzz going around on how good the first issue was.

Azrael: Death’s Dark Knight #2 of 3: DC

Solicitation: The Suit of Sorrows worn by Azrael grants the power of wrathful vengeance. It magnifies the wearer’s sins of imperfection. It is a death sentence waiting to be exacted. So then why do so many people want it? And why does Azrael, the new soldier for the Order of Purity, refuse to give it up even when he knows it will eventually kill him? With Gotham City torn apart by BATTLE FOR THE COWL, the new Azrael seeks to fill the void left by Batman’s absence and redeem his tainted legacy, but the League of Assassins wants the suit for Talia and her own heir to The Dark Knight’s mantle. And through it all, someone watches, waiting to snatch the prize from the winner…

• 32 PGS
• $2.99 US
• FEB090160
Written by Fabian Nicieza; Pencils by Frazer Irving; Cover by Guillem March.

Why it’ll go fast: Mark another hash in the “pleasant surprise” category for Azreal. Issue one was a great read and left me wanting more. Azrael #1 checked in at #36 on last month’s sales chart, but like Elektra, I would expect most retailers to decrease their order on #2. Keep in mind that when retailers are ordering their monthly comics, they do so two months ahead of time. It’s not uncommon for a title like Azraeal, which sold well with issue #1 and was well received by fans to sell even better with issue #2, but be even harder to find due to unforeseen demand. Don’t be surprised to have trouble finding issue #2 if you don’t get to your local comic shop early.

Indy Comic of the Week:

The Beats a Graphic History: Hill and Wang

Solicitation: From Publishers Weekly: “Well researched and earnest, this book might work best as a superficial Cliffs Notes on the beats, but in no way does it inspire or open the mind as the works of the authors covered do. Much of this volume feels like leftovers from coauthor Pekar’s American Splendor, and one wonders if that magazine’s ‘drab and normal’ style of illustration is appropriate for the more adventurous/experimental/flamboyant beats. Nor does it help that the art used on the best-known authors (Kerouac, Ginsberg and Burroughs) feels rushed, with little detail and little variation. Because Joyce Brabner’s script about ‘Beatnik Chicks’ takes a genuinely critical eye to an aspect of the beats others prefer to ignore—their rampant sexism— it’s probably the best and most passionate writing in the collection, with Jerome Neukirch’s art for the bio of proto-beat Slim Brundage being the artistic standout illustrations. Lance Tooks, Peter Kuper and Nick Thorkelson also make strong contributions, while Jeffrey Lewis’s story on poet/musician Tuli Kupferberg is a wonderful puzzle piece to work through; it’s the most ambitious entry and may be the truest to the artistic vision of the beats themselves.

Why you should care: If you haven’t read Kerouac’s On the Road, now is your chance to see why so many clove-cigarette-smoking hipsters are crazy about him and the other Beat writers. I went through a phase shortly after high school where I had to read every poem, essay and dirty limerick written by these guys. Not for the faint of heart but the Beats will certainly be an interesting read.

Nerdy Question of the Week:

Last week the rumor that Geoff Johns and Jim Lee would be taking over JLA spread like wild fire. The rumor got me to thinking. When was the last time JLA was great? Even though the title sells in the top 10 every month it’s hasn’t been great for a while. What was the last JLA story you loved or do you love the current storyline? Discuss.

Thanks again for your continued input and keep the answers to the nerdy questions coming. If you have any questions about these books or anything else in the comic book world feel free to contact me or post your question below in the “Leave a Reply” section below. Want to know what your comics are worth? Join WorthPoint for free and post your comics in the “Ask a Question” section. Remember to post the title, issue number and cover price.

Matt Baum is a Worthologist who specializes in comic books.

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One format note before we get started: You’ll notice I reworked the picks of the week section to include the diamond order code for the comics discussed here. This is so you can order titles mentioned here easily by copying these codes and emailing them to your local shop. As suggested via email by Rob_P. Thanks Rob, and keep the suggestions coming.

Even though there was a holiday this week, for some of us anyway, comics will still be arriving this Wednesday. Post-President’s day-blues got you down? Click here to read Marvel’s digital President’s Day special starring Spider-man, Captain America and Abe Lincoln. It’s truly a team-up we’ve all been waiting for and the perfect remedy for your hard-partying President’s Day hang-over.

Here’s a look at my pile of comics for this Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2009. For a complete list of this week’s comics click here. To find a comic shop near you click here.

Batman and the Outsiders #15
Conan The Cimmerian #8
Dark Avengers #2
Guardians Of The Galaxy #10
Robin #183
Supergirl #38
Uncanny X-Men #506
X-Factor #40
X-Men: Kingbreaker #3 of 4

I know what you’re thinking: “seems like a pretty light week for WorthPoint’s head comic nerd.” Well, you’re right. To supplement my reading this week I’ll be adding Ed Brubaker’s last three Criminal mini-series to my long box of unread back issues. I read and loved the Criminal mini, “Coward,” but for some reason missed out on the other three. Shameful, I know. If you haven’t read Brubaker’s Criminal and you’re a fan of Pulp-criminal-fiction you’re missing out. Good luck finding the back-issues. My quest may send me on a nationwide hunt. “But Matt, why don’t you just buy the collected editions?” you may ask. To which I’d reply, “because I collect comics, not reprinted trade-paperbacks, suka!” Naturally, in a Mr. T voice.

And now, on to the Speculator Picks of the Week. These are books that, for one reason or another, may sell out quickly and become instant collectibles. If you don’t pay attention and get to your local comic shop in a timely fashion, you could be paying way to much for these comics very soon.

Batman and the Outsiders #15: DC Comics

Solicitation: Featuring an “Origins and Omens” backup story! Continuing where the epic BATMAN AND THE OUTSIDERS SPECIAL #1 left off, the mystery of who and what “The Insiders” are opens into a labyrinth of dread and deceit as The Outsiders, in their newest incarnation, follow Batman’s final directives into a heart of darkness. If you’ve waited to pick up this title, jump on now for this exciting new era!

Written by: Peter J. Tomasi; Pencils by: Lee Garbett; Inked by: Trevor Scott. 32 PGS; $2.99 US; DEC080115

Why it’ll go fast: Last week’s Bats and the Outsiders special set the stage for the new direction of the book and fans loved it. Peter Tomasi is one of the hottest an up-and-coming writers in the DCU and both fans and retailers are now beginning to take notice. I would expect this book to sell on the level of Green Lantern Corps, in the lower 50′s on the monthly top 300 selling comics list, which will make these early Outsiders issues hard to find in the coming months. For a peek into the future of this title watch what happens to prices on the recent Green Lantern Corps back-issues as the “Blackest Night” event approaches. Pick up this comic now! You’ve been warned.

Dark Avengers #2, Marvel Comics

Solicitation: The Dark Avengers have made themselves known to the world and as the world takes them in, Morgana le Fey comes looking for blood! Once you learn who the Dark Avengers are you’ll see why this is the buzz book of the year! The Dark Reign is here!

Written by: Brian Michael Bendis; Pencils by: Mike Deodato; Inked by: Mike Deodato; Cover by: Rainier Beredo; 1:18 Variant Cover by Mike Choi. 32 PGS; $3.99 US; DEC082313

Why it’ll go fast: Issue #1 sold out instantly and has already been slated for multiple printings. Marvel’s “Dark Reign” event is fueling huge sales on all the Avengers comics, much like last years “Secret Invasion”, creating higher prices on all the Avengers titles online. Whether the prices continue to increase remains to be seen. For now, back issues and variant covers of Dark Avengers (NYCC variant edition on eBay) are hot. Normally, I don’t espouse the value of variant covers, however, with the regular cover comics selling at the high levels they are, in the long term the variant covers may be the high priced collectibles.

Johnny Monster #1, Image Comics

Solicitation: Johnny Monster is the world’s foremost super-star monster hunter, but what the world doesn’t know is that he was raised by the same monsters he’s “hunting!” Now, in order to save his adoptive family… he must fight them! From the acclaimed writer of DEAR DRACULA and Necessary Evil, Johnny Monster mixes Tom Strong with Godzilla movies by way of Tarzan and the Phantom to create a compelling and different monster mash!

Written by: Joshua Williamson Pencils; cover by: J.C. Grande: 32 PGS:$3.50 US
DEC082275

Why it’ll go fast: Like all great Image titles, Johnny Monster has a great plot paired with a great writer and great art. Like the other great Image titles before it (Walking Dead, Invincible) I’m predicting Johnny Monster to be under-ordered, fun to read and to sell out as word gets around resulting in spectacular back issue prices when the plans for a movie/TV adaptation is announced. Check this one out now or you’ll be sorry later.

Indy Comic of the Week:

Johnny Boo Volume 2: Twinkle Power: Top Shelf Comics

Solicitation: Johnny Boo has boo power and his pet ghost Squiggle has squiggle power. But which is better? And might there be a power that is greater than them both? Wiggle power? Giggle power?! Squiggle goes on a quest to learn the secret of twinkle power from the twinkling stars, but doesn’t have much luck. Instead, a strange and hilarious secret is discovered about Johnny Boo’s hair. This book will have the kids howling with laughter!

Written by: James Kochalka. $9.95: OCT084391

Why you should care: If you’re heart doesn’t melt when you read a James Kolchaka comic chances are you’re a sociopathic-monster on the order of Christian Bale circa American Psycho or Dick Cheney everyday of the week. Kolchaka is one of the best working Indy-comic-artists today. Kolchaka also has a successful recording career as James Kolchaka Superstar although his music is definitely for more matur audiences with a good sense of humor. I dare you not to love his stuff.

Nerdy Question of the Week:

Apparently, in the pages of Final Crisis #7, the original Aquaman returned to the DCU. I know, I barely noticed myself. The question is, do you care or has this character been so mishandled for so long rendering him nothing more than a bad joke?

No “yes” or “no’s” here I want detailed answers. Let’s discuss the future of Aquaman.

Thanks again for your continued input and keep the answers to the nerdy questions coming. If you have any questions about these books or anything else in the comic book world feel free to contact me or post your question in the Comic Book community forum. Want to know what your comics are worth? Join WorthPoint for free and post your titles in the “Ask A Question” section. Remember to post the title, issue number and cover price.

Matt Baum is a Worthologist who specializes in comic books.

WorthPoint—Discover Your Hidden Wealth

This Week in Geek is a weekly blog about new comics written by WorthPoint comic book Worthologist Matt Baum. Every Wednesday, Matt takes a look at the week’s new comics from a collector’s point of view and discusses which books may be hard to find in the near future and why. Make sure to click on the hot links for previews and more information on the comics, characters, story-lines and creators discussed here.

First, a public service announcement: For those of you who, like myself, saw the Punisher: War Zone movie trailer and got excited to see a Punisher movie done right, I say to you, save your eight dollars. Sadly, the latest Punisher film from Lionsgate pictures is utterly terrible. I hated it more than Daredevil, Elektra and both Fantastic Four movies combined. To be quite honest, I felt both the Dolph Lundgren and Thomas Jane Punisher films were far superior to War Zone by far. Do yourself a favor and skip this one. Don’t get me wrong, Ray Stevenson looked great as Frank Castle, and when he was killing criminals the film was at its best. Unfortunately, there was a terrible story and some of the worst acting in recent memory that spelled War Zone’s ultimate demise, and the probable and unfortunate demise of any future Punisher films. All I can say is, why Lionsgate? Why would you hold on to the rights to The Punisher only to put out this steaming pile when Marvel studios probably could have given us the Punisher film that fans have been waiting for? Was it spite? Was it worth the $35 million you spent to make War Zone, which debuted at number 6 this weekend, pulling in an estimated $4 million? Perhaps a better question is, did you learn your lesson? Please leave all further Marvel Comics films in the capable hands of Marvel Studios.

Sincerely;

Comics fans everywhere.

Christmas is a mere two weeks away and I can’t think of a better gift than the Black Canary 13-inch Deluxe Collector Figure. That is, if you are a DC-nerd who has been collecting all the 13-inch DC Deluxe Collector Figures. I’m still kicking myself for not buying the Martian Manhunter figure. All of the figures in this collection have been amazing, and the latest Black Canary figure will make a perfect addition to the previous Green Arrow 13-inch figure. They’re married after all.

Here’s my pile if comics for the week of Wednesday, Dec. 10. As always, I welcome your criticism, praise or threats of bodily harm based on what I am or am not reading/collecting. For a complete list of this week’s new comics click here. To find a comic shop near you click here.

Action Comics #872
Astonishing X-Men: Ghost Boxes #2 of 2
B.P.R.D.: War On Frogs #2 of 4
Buffy the Vampire Slayer #20
Captain Britain and MI: 13 #8
Detective Comics #851
DMZ #37
Final Crisis #5 of 7
Green Lantern Corps #31
House of Mystery #8
Justice League Of America #27
Nightwing #151
Punisher: War Zone #1 of 6
Secret Invasion: Dark Reign
Secret Six #4
X-Men/Spider-Man #2 of 4

Now let’s talk speculation. As you may or may not know, the purpose of this part of This Week in Geek is to arm the comic nerd with the information he or she needs to make an informed and quality new comic purchase every week. While they might not be worth piles of money, these issues may be pretty hard to find in the near future.

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz #1 of 8; Marvel Comics; Written by Eric Shanower; Art and Cover by Skott Young; $3.99.

Why it’s hot: It seems impossible, but somehow until today there has been no complete comic book adaptation of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. J.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit, Stephen King’s The Dark Tower and even Homer’s Odyssey were all adapted to comics, but for some reason the beloved L. Frank Baum story of Dorothy and her little dog Toto’s adventures never made the cut. There was a one-shot from Marvel in 1975 based on the movie, drawn by comic’s legend John Buscema, and even a loosely-based-dark-gritty series, titled Oz from Caliber comics in 1995, but no true adaptation of Baum’s book to date. Until today.

Why it’ll go fast: I’m guessing retailers are going to order this issue the same way they order other family friendly comics, very lightly. Kids don’t read comics anymore. Ask any comic shop owner and they’ll tell you their demographic is 18- to 35-year-old males. So why order heavy on the Wizard of Oz? The story is timeless and every comic reader with kids is going to pick up this first issue hoping their kids will love this story as much as they did when they were young. Hell, I don’t even have kids and I’m going to pick up the first issue. I’ll read it to my pugs after my fiancée has fallen asleep. It’s pathetic, I know, but they’re as close as I want to get to having real children.

Secret Invasion: Dark Reign; Marvel Comics; Written by Brian Michael Bendis; Art and cover by Alex Maleev; $3.99

Why it’s hot: If you’ve just finished reading Secret Invasion #8 then you know exactly why the “Dark Reign” storyline is going to be hot. Click here for the official “Dark Reign” trailer. Marvel is positioning Norman Osborne as their very own Lex Luthor and the fans, me included, love it. Osborne, who had been running the Thunderbolts, a team of villains working for the U.S. govt., is being celebrated as the hero after repelling the Skrull invasion, and Tony Stark (Iron Man) is the fall guy. After all it was his own Stark-Tech that failed and his Avengers that not only killed Captain America, but led to the heroes fighting amongst themselves while the Skrulls silently infiltrated their ranks.

Why it’ll go fast: Secret Invasion was a huge hit with each issue as the number #1 selling title for the month it was released. The exact sales numbers for #8 aren’t available yet, but I think it’s safe to say it will outsell Final Crisis #5, due out this Wednesday. The end of Secret Invasion #8 leads directly into the “Dark Reign” storyline and the solicits for the new Marvel Avengers comics look so good that I’m guessing no self respecting Marvel comics fan will pass on this one-shot. Retailers, who may have not known how Secret Invasion would end and whether or not fans would be exhausted by the storyline at this point, may have ordered lower numbers on the Dark Reign one-shot. As a Marvel fan I couldn’t be more excited for the “Dark Reign” storyline and can’t wait to read what Bendis has in store for us.

Detective Comics #851; DC; Written by Dennis O’Neil; Art by Guillem March; Covers by Guillem March, Tony Daniel and Ian Hannin; $2.99.

Why it’s hot: “Batman RIP” was a wild ride that arguably didn’t have a very satisfying ending. Fans are still arguing as to whether or not the main villain, Doctor Hurt, was the devil or not. Regardless of whether you think Batman was tormented by the devil or hooked up to a machine and imagining the RIP storyline it’s safe to say we all want to know what happens to Gotham City in the absence of its Dark Knight.

Why it’ll go fast: Legendary Bat-writer Dennis O’Neil returns to Detective Comics after a 28-years. He’s written some other Bat titles during that time, but not Detective. Regardless of fan backlash over what exactly was happening in the Bat-books, sales remained very strong on both Batman and Detective Comics. Now that Batman appears to be dead, fans are frothing at the mouth as to what happens next. Especially fans of the first Robin-turned-Nightwing, Dick Grayson who looks to play a large part in O’Neil’s two-part story.

It has been brought to my attention that for the life of this blog I have tended to only espouse the value, both collectible and entertainment-based, of comics produced by the largest comic companies. Marvel, DC, Image, Dark Horse; Corporate Comics. While sadly, the fact is that the most purchased and talked about titles will inevitably be those that have the most collectible value in the future, that does not mean that their shouldn’t be room in your collection for smaller press independent comics. In response to an email I received from an angry-indy-comic-nerd (not an insult) I am adding a new section to this blog called “The Indy Comic of the Week.” This section will be a quick look at a great independent or underground comic hitting the stands each week that you, they loyal and curious reader, might otherwise overlook.

Indy Comic of the Week

Time Management for Anarchists; IDW; Written by Jim Munroe; Art and cover by Marc Ngui; $3.99

When you hate being a boss and you hate being an employee, you have to quit your job before it kills you. The modern reincarnations of Emma Goldman and Mikhail Bakunin begin their journey of self-motivation in a steampunk-tinted world, uncovering productivity tips for creative malcontents. Written by ‘pop culture provocateur’ (Austin Chronicle) and ‘independent press icon’ (Time Out Chicago) Jim Munroe (Therefore Repent!) and drawn by underground comix talent Marc Ngui (Enter Avariz). From the Diamond solicitation.

Sound’s great right? The idea for the comic was borne from a presentation Munroe has been giving on how to be a productive anarchist. You can check out a short flash presentation here.

Well that’s all for this week true believers. I truly hope this blog has inspired you to pick up at least one comic book you may have passed on otherwise. If not, email me and tell me what I’m doing wrong. I love criticism, both creative and purely insulting. Also, the end of the year is almost upon us and I want to know your favorite comic of 2008. It can be a single issue, new series, or one shot. Email me and let me know. Until next week, keep the questions coming. Also, check out my other blog The Comic Speculator, where I discuss classic yet still affordable back-issue comics. If you have any questions about these books or anything else in the comic book world feel free to contact me or post your question in the Comic Book community forum. Want to know what your comics are worth? Join WorthPoint for free and post your titles in the “Ask A Question” section. Remember to post the title, issue number and cover price.