This week, however, I was faced with a treat and a dilemma as all three arrived on the same day. So here are the titles and why you should head to a comic book store to get your copies, then face my dilemma. Which do I read first?
Incredible Hercules No. 115
This title debuted in the wake of the World War Hulk storyline. The book follows the adventures of Hercules and kid genius Amadeus Cho as they make their way across the country while avoiding the supreme law-enforcement agency in the world, S.H.I.E.L.D.
In this month's issue, Cho takes on S.H.I.E.L.D. and Hercules dukes it out with his half-brother, Aries, the god of war. The truth is that the fight ends in a way that lets you know it's not over, but the blow-by-blow is great.
My only complaint is that it was a very quick read. This isn't much of a complaint, though. The good storytellers are those that leave you wanting for more.
Thor No. 7
I had pretty high expectations for "Thor" when it was announced that J. Micheal Straczynski would handle the writing duties for the comic - and I've not been disappointed. In the former title, Thor was presented as a superhero with ties to a magical world, but Straczynski presents him as a god and force of nature, all while keeping the character grounded - no small feat.
This month's offering isn't the best of Straczynski work, but it's evident that a buildup is on the horizon. I think this series is really about to face a major turn.
Captain America No. 36
When Captain America was killed, I wasn't sure how I'd feel about a replacement. But in the third issue since James "Bucky" Barnes, Cap's former sidekick, slipped on the star-spangled togs, I have to say the book is really hitting its stride. Bucky's complaints about not measuring up are quick enough that they're not overwhelming and his skills are pretty solid. He's becoming a worthy successor.
Eisner Award-winning writer Ed Brubaker continues to impress with his ability to write superheroes in a world that grounded in reality and at the same time fantastic.
