Green Lantern Volume 3 The End Review

With the Guardians of the Universe having unleased their Third Army like a plague across the cosmos, two of the greatest lanterns Hal Jordan and Sinestro have disappeared. Their power ring has gone in search of a new recruit, the wrongly accused Simon Baz. This newcomer has joined the Corps in a time of great turmoil. He seeks to clear his own name and discovers was happened to the ring’s former wielders Hal and Sinestro as the Third Army rages across the galaxy. The third and final volume by Geoff Johns and Doug Mahnke in their 2011 Green Lantern series, collects Green Lantern #0 and 13-20.

The Green Lantern series is hands down one of the best DC comics series in publication, in 2005 writer Geoff Johns launched the series, having resurrected fan favourite and most popular Green Lantern Corps members Hal Jordan, making him once again the greatest Green Lantern and turning the series into the epic space opera it is today.

Rise of the Third Army is crossover event across several Green Lantern related titles. The collection opens with issue #0 “The New Normal” released after Green Lantern Annual #1 in which the epilogue of the story depicts the beginning of the Third Army. Issue #0 tells the origin of latest lantern recruit Simon Baz, growing up he faced much percussion after the events of 9-11 due to this ethnicity. In his adult years he lost his job during the financial crisis and later got involved with street racing and car theft. One night he had stolen a van which he soon discovered was carrying a bomb, he drove to van to an abandoned location to avoid civilian casualties. His heroic deed was short lived as Simon was taken in by the FBI as a terrorist suspect. While most of the other zero issues are serving to reflect on the past of its titular characters, Green Lantern #0 is instead looked to the future. Introducing fans to the mysterious new Green Lantern of earth in a modern socio-political climate. He becomes the latest recruit of the ring, inadvertently escaping imprisonment much to the attention of the Government and Justice League. On the run and wanting to clear his name and find those responsible, it’s a modern political thriller told within within the pages of a comic about a cosmic police force becomes an engrossing thriller. It makes for a great and diverse story arc. The zombie like plague continues without much interference to Simon Baz’s own story,all the while getting a little teases at a time to the fate of missing Sinestro and Hal Jordan, somehow having survived their ordeal since we saw them last. With the conclusion of the first story arc, the Simon Baz story makes for a refreshing and fantastic debut story that’s intense, compelling and at times emotive and funny. 

The second arc of the book and crossover event; Wrath of the First Lantern, with the Guardians misplaying their hand, the mysterious entity has escaped his prison and wishes to rewrite the history of the Universe. While the story to this point has had its newest Green Lantern as the lead, the mystery of Hal Jordan and Sinestro is about to be uncovered since their disappearance at the end of Green Lantern Volume 2 Revenge of Black Hand, they retake the spotlight as the main characters for this final chapter of John’s Green Lantern story. Issue #20 marks the conclusion of the arc and as well as the final issue of the series writer Geoff Johns nine year run on the title. The 64 page special final issue packs a lot for this big story making it a thrilling and epic, a satisfying end to his Green Lantern saga. An instant classic, bringing his whole run full circle with epic moments. The finale of his run is one of the best comics you will ever read, it embodies so much that made John’s run so memorable, acting as a love letter to long-time fans of the series. 

One of the most exciting aspects of this final issue is how it’s presented, the framing device of the Bookkeeper of Oa telling the story to of Hal Jordan a young new recruit. Chronicling Jordan’s time as a member of the Green Lantern Corps before the story returns to the main narrative. This look back reminds us of the stellar nine year run of John’s time on the title. A lot happens in this final issue with the current conflict with some surprises and ends in a fantastic way. When most creative teams pass the torch on a series they set up a tease for the new team to take on, Johns end his differently and in a vastly more satisfying way. Rarely in comic series do we get a definitive ending, but it feels right since this writer has had such immense run on Green Lantern creating many new characters for the mythos. He gives each of main characters an eventual fate and it’s great to see and gives the title that necessary to allow the book to end with a special quality. With all corps of the emotional spectrum on the front line for the final battle, the reader’s emotions are very much at the forefront of this amazing and unforgettable story. The final issue is one part final battle against the First Lantern while the latter gives the series its big finale send off to an epic series. The collection includes a special retrospective on Geoff Johns’ run on Green Lantern, it all gives for a strong sense of closure to Johns’ epic saga.

Sinestro’s complicated backstory is put to good use and there are solid character moments for both he and Hal in the amazing final issue as the story reaches its conclusion. Johns’ run on Green Lantern was as much about Hal Jordan as it is about his arch nemesis, Sinestro. Their relationship became more fascinating in it’s the final chapter. During the events of the story the two understood each other like never before that produces a very poignant moment as a perfect endnote to one of the most complex relationships between the hero and a villain in comics.

Artist Doug Mahnke carries out brilliant art throughout the book. His costume design of Green Lantern Simon Baz has a real standout quality to it. The excellent art carries throughout the story with many excellent moments. Early on I particularly liked the scenes in where Simon Baz’s ring erupts with energy as Sinestro and Hal Jordan’s message tries to free itself form the ring. The imagery of their heads wrapped around heads is amazing. Mahnke does solid work in the book while artists Ardian Syaf and Szymon Kudranski take over for two issues with the latter doing a great segment in the dark of the Dead Zone. His dark monochromatic art style is fantastic and if you’ve read Penguin Pain and Prejudice you’ll know what I mean. Overall the art is excellent with a few guest artists on the special finale issue.

I was initially concerned with that the collection featured two crossover stories that can make for an incomplete story. Thankfully there was only one instance where that was felt and it was minor so it doesn’t affect the enjoyment of the stories. For a book consisting of two crossovers, very little is missed. The final run by John’s is excellent is what long-time fans of his series would be extremely happy with. The introduction of a new Green Lantern whilst tying up and bring a conclusion to many elements of his amazing nine year tenure on this revolutionary series. All great things come to an end and the finale of this series is a great conclusion that could have been hoped for, an epic hit. After nearly a decade, Geoff Johns bids farewell to the character and concept he redefined for a new generation, creating one of the definitive superhero sagas of this era. 

The End is an apt title for the collection, providing a conclusion to nine years’ worth of storytelling and redefining Green Lantern for this decade. Johns’ final chapter created the newest human recruit and while giving a satisfying end to all of the major characters that existed in his Green Lantern universe. The series still continues with a new creative team, although what Johns gave us seemed like a series finale of the series that he redefined for years to come. Johns ends his Green Lantern masterpiece with a stellar blockbuster. Amazing, after a nine year run, comprising over one hundred issues, he had taken a somewhat cheesy character and turned it into one of the most consistently thrilling, compelling and outright enjoyable heroes in comics. He made Hal Jordan one of the greatest heroes in comics and along the way writer Geoff Johns became a hero to all Green Lantern and comic book fans.

Green Lantern Volume 2 The Revenge of Black Hand Review

The second volume of Geoff John’s New 52 Green Lantern series picks up exactly where the first volume left off. Sinestro has arrived on Hal Jordan’s doorstep after learning of a prophecy that will mean the end for the Green Lantern Corps and it will be the doing of their makers, the Guardians of the Universe. The former adversaries turned allies Hal Jordan and Sinestro discover that Black Hand, the villain behind the Blackest Night is found and is part of the Indigo Tribe, adding more mystery to that of many of the Indigo Tribe. Collects Green Lantern #7 – 12 and Green Lantern Annual #1 with art by Douge Mahnke, Ethan Van Sciver and others.

Picking up where the last one ended Sinestro envisions a prophecy of the Green Lanterns at the hands of the Guardians and its connection to the Indigo Tribe. Sinestro interrupts a reluctant Hal Jordan and during their confrontation the wielders of the indigo light appears, abducting the two and forcibly induct Sinestro into a member of their tribe.

This was one exciting read, the story features the villain Black Hand, the herald of Nekron during the events of 2009 event; the Blackest Night. In the epic , Black Hand resurrects an army of the dead as Black Lanterns. The story also marked one of the first major appearance of the Indigo Tribe and their leader known as Indigo-1. The story concluded with their disappearance along with Black Hand, taken prisoner on their home world. He seems to have been rehabilitated under the influence of the Indigo ring.

The collection covers two story arcs; the Secret of the Indigo Tribe and Revenge of Black Hand, this story arc about his return home and mission to resurrect the as many as the dead as he can with the underlying subplot throughout the book is of the Guardians preparing for their newest plan to replace their Green Lantern Corps, setting the stage for another amazing Green Lantern story, Rise of the Third Army. It’s a very thrilling read concerning two great characters once again on the same side; Green Lanterns Hal Jordan and Sinestro. It’s a great story with some fantastic visuals, with his power ring having limited functionality Hal Jordan must create other ways to get around as he can’t fly. This gives artist Doug Mahnke to be very creative for transport for Hal around the jungle of the home world of the Indigo Tribe giving way for few great moments. The story acknowledges the past Green Lantern stories, the formation and mission of the Indigo Tribe is very much tied to Abin Sur, the predecessor to Hal Jordan, the end fight between Hal, Sinertro and Black Hand is very reminiscent of the first time the trio first crossed paths in a graveyard in the revised back story Green Lantern Secret Origin. As you settle down to read prepare to read the final issue Green Lantern Annual #1 the dripping blood style Green Lantern logo, similar to the style of the Death of Superman story, lets you know that this 48 page special was going to be something else and it was. Ethan Van Sciver returns to Green Lantern, the hero he helped relaunch with Geoff Johns in their Rebirth miniseries that saw the return of Hal Jordan and launched a new Green Lantern series in 2005. It's fitting to have the artist back in the brilliant annual issue that sets the stage for the next big event in the Green Lantern universe.

The second volume of the amazing Green Lantern series is on track to setting up one big event and cross over, where the eradication of the Green Lantern Corps is at hand, but unlike other threats of before their extermination will be undertaken by their makers, the Guardians of the Universe, setting the stage for a soon to be epic; Rise of the Third Army. Longtime readers are rewarded with the origins of the Indigo Tribe, the ever-mysterious Corps were the only group not to have a back story since the Blackest Night, and it’s a creepy and eerie story.The tale makes use of prophecy scenes on page that Johns is famous for, creating a level of excitement for fans for what’s to come.

Green Lantern Volume 2 The Revenge of Black Hand is brilliant and better than the first, not to say the Sinestro Volume 1 arc was bad it was just a smaller scale story after the events of the War of the Green Lanterns arc that preceded it. The previous story had the reader guessing what Sinestro was up to or if we could fully trust him. That trail of thought leaves the reader in this story, the Sinestro arc was a more personal story as he attempts to free his home world from his own evil Sinestro Corps. This story sheds a little more light on his past and becomes more of anti-hero. Hal Jordan fans will be happier that the hero has more of active role in this epic that the earlier volume. After eight years and over 80 issues of Green Lantern Geoff Johns still provides fantastic stories in the series that shows no signs of dipping in quality or substance. Johns building to another fantastic story, revealing the origins and shedding more light on the formation of the mysterious Indigo Tribe while bringing the villain Black Hand back for another story before building to a shocking and eventful conclusion that builds the level of anticipation for the third volume in the series; Green Lantern Volume 3 The End.

My Collection: DC Universe Classics Wave 20 Green Lantern All Star Action Figure Review.

When I first saw this figure a few years ago I thought it was really cool. At the time I wasn’t a big Green Lantern but in the last two years I become more and more a Hal Jordan fan. It was Justice League books that I had gotten me more and more interested in Hal Jordan as a Green Lantern, especially the New 52 Justice League series. Hal Jordan is one to the most important characters in the DC Universe. Possibly like most people I was introduced to the Green Lanterns thorough the Justice League animated series. In the series John Stewart was earth’s Green Lantern. The stern straight laced militaristic Stewart did not instantly appeal to me. It wasn’t until I was first discovered Hal Jordan in the DC Animated Original Movie - Green Lantern: First Flight and later animated movies where I became more liking of the character. I really enjoyed the 2011 live action movie which I thought was great fun and gave another great introduction of the character and his universe. I hugely enjoyed the complex and the complex and dynamic relationship with Thaal Sinestro and along with the animated series which was great also, I felt like I got to know enough about the character and his surroundings to get into the books. 

Hal Jordan as Green Lantern became a growing favorite and his characterization in Geoff John's New 52 Justice League series really won me over and I began getting into the best of the pre-New 52 Green Lantern graphic novels from the 2005 series also by Johns. His departure from the team in the Villain’s Journey story arc and the how big a role the character played in Justice graphic novel by Jim Kruger and Alex Ross really influenced me to start getting into his books. Starting with Green Lantern:Secret Origin, the updated origin story which covered familiar ground and later got into John’s big Green Lantern trilogy; Rebirth, The Sinestro Corps War and Blackest Night miniseries. I'm currently reading and enjoying the continuation of Geoff John's run on Green Lantern of as part of the New 52.

Hal Jordan made his comic book debut in Showcase #22 October 1959. This new Silver Age Green Lantern was created by John Broome and Gil Kane in a revamp of characters away from the magic and supernatural based stories of the Golden Age and replaced them with the science fiction based superhero stories.The Green Lantern of the Golden Age whose powers were derived from magic was named Alan Scott. Hal Jordan was the first human inducted into the Green Lantern Corps, an intergalactic police force. This new Green Lantern along with along with re-imagining of other DC heroes such as the Atom, the Flash and Hawkman marked the beginning of the Silver Age of DC Comics.

While training in a flight simulator, test pilot Hal Jordan was suddenly transported to the crash site of an alien spacecraft. The injured pilot named Abin Sur - Green Lantern of Sector 2814 passed on to Jordan his green power ring. Hal Jordan was chosen by the ring to become a member of the Green Lantern Corps, an intergalactic police force. The ring allowed him to make real anything that he could imagine, one of the most powerful weapons in the Universe. Hal Jordan is the most well-known Green Lantern and was the first earth man ever inducted into the Green Lantern Corps and has been heralded as possibly the greatest Green Lantern of all time. He fights evil across the Universe with a ring that grants him a variety of extraordinary powers. Hal is also a founding member of the Justice League of America. Hal’s been through some pretty dark times. He’s responsible for nearly decimating the entire Green Lantern Corps while possessed by Parallax, the evil yellow entity of fear. But since that event - and the subsequent redemption attempt during Final Night story line where he died trying to save Earth. Hal was later revived in the stellar 2005 miniseries Green Lantern: Rebirth by Geoff Johns making him a Green Lantern once more, representing the model Green Lantern and one of the greatest heroes in the DC Universe.

Green Lantern Hal Jordan has been released several times in Mattel's DC Universe Classics. As the most popular Green Lantern Hal Jordan first appeared in Wave 3 of the line several times since with various differences all with the stand 21 points of articulation. This final release comes in standard package design for the series since Wave 16. This All Star figure was included as part of Wave 20 of the action figure line. All Star are a series of figure of DC’s most popular characters re-released sometimes with new paint deco for the purchasing by newer collectors. All Star figures does not include collect and connect piece. The Green Lantern is the final Green Lantern by Mattel's DC Universe Classics.


To me this is the best DC Universe Classics Green Lantern figure available, and there has been quite a few. The new shiny metallic Green Lantern figure is great, the paint job speaks for itself. It’s a modern rendition of the same Wave 3 sculpt that was released in 2007 that featured his classic and best know look but now this 2012 release feature an improved figure featuring the modern look of Hal Jordan as Green Lantern. The new look is ditches the small over shorts look thus begins the iteration of the modern Green Lantern look, the green parts of the costume stops pointed above the waist, the look that Hal Jordan has wore since his return in the Rebirth story arc and is still retained this look since the New 52 reboot whereas most of the characters has their costumes had changed and updated. The change is style to his costume and the metallic paint application helps the costume looks more modernized. As well as making the costume appear like it is energy based uniform that would be part on an intergalactic police force. It is the only Green Lantern action figure to be given the metallic paint brings a new shade of green, The first and only of DC Universe Classics Green Lantern figures to get this metallic paint job. Green Lantern is such a big part of the DC Universe that it has its own sub line of figures as part of DC Universe Classics.


Hal Jordan has been released many times in Mattel's series of figures, having more repaints and re-releases than Batman. The character appeared several times as a Green Lantern as well as Yellow, Black and White Lantern action figures. This marks sixth figure release of Hal Jordan as Green Lantern. The initial five releases were the original Wave 3 release the classic look, first appearance with black shoulders that featured a two pack with his predecessor Abin Sur, 90’s Hal Jordan with grey sideburns that appeared in the Green Lantern’s Light 5 pack. Then came the metallic paint variations of the figure. First was the classic look with the metallic green, old fashioned logo and added pupils released in the Hal Jordan VS Sinestro two pack.

The first modern rendition of the figure was released in the Toys R Us exclusive 75 years of Super Powers All Stars release. The figure had the same look but had the metallic green paint only, the rest of the figure had the standard matt black and white along with a pale reddish brown hair colour which didn’t look right. This Wave 20 All-Stars version fixes that snafu and restores the darkness to Hal’s hair, making this figure complete and totally recognizable as the Hal Jordan. This new figure features all over new paint deco, the metallic green and the new glossy black and white that gives the gloves a peralised appearance. The one thing that the previous that figure release did have going for it was that included a lantern accessory. 


In my opinion the best Green lantern figure, this latest release is the best of the lot. The main selling-point of this Green Lantern figure is its shiny metallic paint job and luckily, the paint job turns out to be pretty spectacular. The green used is a nice reflective deep green metallic paint that makes Hal really shines as a cosmic action figure. Exceptionally neatly painted and the logo is clean and crisp on the figure. Photos don’t do the figure justice, it’s a real standout figure. The body is the basic figure mold that has been used on countless figures since but the detailing and focus is that paint job, it adds the necessary layer of depth to what would be otherwise a plain figure. It is what we’ve seen before but better, it looks stunning and is unlike any of the other DC Universe Classics collectors action figures I own.

It's a fitting end for the last of Mattel figure I will more than likely add to my collection. It's an excellent figure and representation of Hal Jordan who is on to the most important characters in the DC Universe. I never thought I would have wanted a Green Lantern figure until I seen this one a over a year ago. Initially I wasn’t a Green Lantern fan at the time but I really appreciated how distinctive this figure was. The more I got into DC comics graphic novels and became more of a fan of Hal Jordan and the Green Lantern Corps. All of the books I’ve read have been by one of the best and modern writers in comics Geoff Johns this brilliant writer who's always able to convey the best qualities in superhero comics and his highly acclaimed nine year run that was one of the main reasons I was such a big fan of Green Lantern Hal Jordan. 

I got this last Mattel DC Universe Classics figure at a great price when I was becoming a bigger fan of Hal Jordan. The final Green Lantern before Mattel DC Universe Classics called in a day in 2014. When I first got into comics, heroes like Batman and Daredevil appealed to me most, the gritty and realistic stories I was interested in. Green Lantern stories is the antithesis of those kind of heroes. Space, aliens, an intergalactic police force and a ring as the most powerful weapons in the universe. All these science fiction elements are of imagination and creativity is the reason superhero comics exist, taking inspiration from the one that stared it all, Superman in 1938.

All in all there is not as much detailing in this figure as other in the DC Universe Classics line and doesn't come with any accessories. The new paint job speaks for itself. Not a lot else to say, it’s the same figure that has came out before but different in one big way that makes up for it. Its modernized look fits in great with my other modern versions of DC heroes; Green Arrow, Superman and Batman. Signalling the time when I became a Green Lantern fan.

In brightest day, in blackest night, no evil shall escape my sight. Let those who worship evil's might, beware my power... Green Lantern's light!

Green Lantern Volume 1 Sinestro Review

Sinestro, once one of the greatest of the Green Lanterns that were ever was. And in the wake of War of the Green Lanterns he has become a Green Lantern once more. One of the greatest villains in the DC Universe seeks the assistance of long-time adversary and Hal Jordan who is struggling with his own life that he was stripped of his power ring and is no longer a Green Lantern that is until Sinestro makes him an offer to once again become a Green Lantern and rescue the inhabitants of Korugar, the renegade Green Lanterns home world from the his own Sinestro CorpsCollects Green Lantern #1 – 6 by Geoff Johns with artist Douge Mahnke as part of DC Comics the New 52.

When I started getting into comics it just shortly before the DC Comics initiative the New 52, in which DC relaunched all its titles with new #1’s acting as a fresh start to all its titles. On first impression it appeared the Green Lantern title went back to when SInestro was a Green Lantern. The misconception here is that Green Lantern is one of the only titles of DC’s relaunch that remained unchanged by The New 52. The villain becoming a Green Lantern is just the next exciting chapter in long time writer Geoff John’s amazing Green Lantern saga with artist Douge Mahnke.

With conclusion of the previous story arc Hal Jordan is no longer a Green Lantern due to the belief that the Guardians of the Universe deem him to be too dangerous, they discharge him for the Corps taking his ring and sending him back to earth. As Hal tries to pick up the pieces of his life, struggling to live a normal life and mend his relationship with Carol Ferris, Sinestro is on Oa being reluctantly being re-inducted back into the Green Lantern Corps. As he is now reinstated as a Green Lantern the former villain sets out to protect his sector including his home world of Korugar which is under the control of his own Sinestro Corps. He requires help and gives Hal Jordan a chance to be a Green Lantern once more in exchange for his help to free his people. The two have a long history, and this story becomes more of a character driven story with complex rivalry between Hal and Sinestro. Even though the Green Lantern series follows Hal Jordan as its main character, in this story Sinestro becomes more of a main role in the tale. It’s a smaller scale story that follows the event of the massive War of the Green Lanterns story building towards another big Green Lantern epic by Geoff Johns. The best thing about the story is these two characters in a “buddy cop” style, emulating the relationship of the former friends back to their roles in Green Lantern Secret Origin, the origin story for Hal Jordan as Green Lantern and his first meeting of the pair. This story revisits the original relationship between the two characters while not forgetting their long complex history, it reinstates the teacher and student relationship with Sinestro in charge and Hal in the student role with limited power ring. 

It's a smaller scale story that's a bit more intricate than most, the pair have a long history with different methods and views paired together back in a story that makes for a great story with great art with imaginative work by artist Mahnke. The story has an interesting intriguing hook, that turns out to be a great character drama as they seek to rescue mission without being fully trusting of the rouge Green Lantern. The story produces some interesting character work, and after the previous arc of the War of the Green Lanterns, it stays away from galactic sized threats allowing time to build up a new larger scale story. It’s a nice change of pace while foreshadowing bigger threats to come. It’s a joy to read before what’s to come. It’s a more personal story focusing more on the entertaining rivalry of Hal Jordan and Sinestro.

The Flash Volume 5 History Lessons Review

The Flash Volume 5 History Lessons is the final volume in the series by one of the original writer/artists of The New 52 Flash series Brian Buccellato before an all new creative team took over the series with The Flash #30. The main part of the collection is the three part mystery story History Lessons, in which The Flash uncovers a serial killer that was active during the year that his mother was murdered. He investigates if both cases are connected and if he can find his mother’s killer that his father was convicted of. Also collected is standalone stories as the Flash tries to stop a thrill seeking thief and a story that is the first meeting of the Flash and friend Hal Jordan/Green Lantern. Collects The Flash #26 – 29 and The Flash Annual #2 with several guest writers and artists.

The Flash series so far has consisted of multi arc stories. Volume 5 History Lessons is made up of a variety of stories that take the Flash, to an alien planet with Green Lantern, to the skies to stop a thrill seeking sky pirate and investing a murder mystery with a supernatural element. The collection opens with “The Quick and the Green”, bucks the growing trend toward gritty realistic stories, it’s fun and light. It’s a reminder what superhero comics used to be all about. The Flash #26 is a standalone issue where the Flash has to chase down a group of thieves but, their method of transport leaves the Flash figuring out to stop group that travel by the sky. It’s a good straightforward simple story seeing the Flash in action and being tested in a way he hasn’t been before.

History Lessons is the final part of the book and the main story that connects more to the current series although, it’s pretty standalone in ways too. In this excellent mystery story the Flash/Barry Allen uncovers a mass grave that leads him to believe a serial killer had additional unknown victims. Barry believes that this could potentially include his mother Nora. Barry seeks to investigate if the there is a connection between the two cases. His investigation leads to the supernatural with the addition of a well-known guest star to help. I thought the premise of this was excellent and how it connects to Barry’s past and changes what we know. The interesting C.S.I. approach is brings it back to great elements of the series for a supernatural story. History Lessons offers an intriguing change to story of who killed Nora. The Flash T.V. series took it influences for the Flashpoint story and this newest take changes what went on before. Barry’s father had been convicted for the crime years ago and Barry always believed that he was innocent. This case is one he can’t leave alone, one that adds to his family drama. It’s a real good story.

Although thematically the Flash Volume 4: Reverse was more fitting conclusion to the original creators of this 2011 series. Brian Bucellato’s final few issues are good, offering variety to this volume before new creators take over the series. It gives you different elements and types of stories for the Flash while venturing back a bit more into his history and his mother’s death that make for the most compelling and intriguing reading by completing the final collection of issues by one of the original creators that made the New 52 Flash so great. A neat little collection of stories for fans of The Flash.

Green Lantern: Revenge of The Green Lanterns Graphic Novel review.

Green Lantern Revenge of the Green Lanterns is the second collection of Geoff Johns relaunched 2005 Green Lantern series putting Hal Jordan once again back on the forefront of the Green Lantern title. In the this volume Hal teams up with old pal Oliver Queen/Green Arrowand later Batman before the main story of the book, the One Year Later event where Hal discovers the fellow Corps members he left for dead are alive. Collects Green Lantern #7 - 13 with art by Carlos Pacheco, Ethan Van Sciver, Ivan Reis. 

Following Hal from the events of his resurrection and in the Green Lantern mini series Rebirth and the first volume of the series No Fear where Hal re-establishes his life in Coast City and as pilot while facing off with enhanced versions of the Manhunter Androids, Shark and Hector Hammond.

While Volume One: No Fear takes time to establishes Hal Jordan as Green Lantern once again on earth, this follow up dives straight into the action with three different stories. Classic team up of Green Lantern and Green Arrow open the collection for the two part story "A Perfect Life". Crossing over with the events of Infinite Crisis, Hal and Oliver take on the son of world conquer Mongul, here to finish his father's quest of conquering earth and subjects the duo the effects of the Black Mercy, a parasitic vine attaching itself to its victim giving them their vision of a perfect life while slowly killing them. It was a joy to see this concept that was first created for Alan Moore's Superman story, For The Man Who Has Everything in Superman Annual #1 in 1985.

"Branded", the second story is another team up with none other than the Dark Knight himself as the pair track down the hit man with the ability to make his tattoos come to life. Batman calls Hal for assistance while using the opportunity to test him and reconcile their differences. It was a good short story one that was crafted well to bring these two very different heroes together for a villain that they were well matched for while the two mend their relationship.

After those two fun team up stories we get to the real draw of the book, Revenge of the Green Lanterns. With issue #10 as part of DC Comics One Year Later event all titles jumped ahead one year after the events of Infinite Crisis. The story is interesting as Hal must face the consequences of leaving his fellow Lantern's for dead during the events of Emerald Twilight, the mid nineties story arc that led up to Hal's death. In that story Coast City had been destroyed by Cyborg Superman and Mongul. Hal tries to use his powers to rebuild his hometown but the Guardians of the Universe, the leaders and founders of the Green Lantern Corps who reside on the planet Oa forbid the act. Enraged Hal travels to Oa to and is confronted with several fellow Green Lanterns whom he stole the rings from and left for dead in space. Hal later went on to kill other members of the Corps and becoming a villain.

On the discovery that one of the Lanterns he left for dead is survived Hal and Green Lantern Guy Gardner led an a rescue mission to find these Lost Lanterns. Hal deals with the outcome from fellow corps members who hate him for all that he has done, once destroying the Green Lanterns Corps. Hal has a lot to overcome since being reinstated as a member and to make up for past actions he seeks to led the rescue mission to help redeem himself and save those he thought he had killed. Hal has to come face to face with those he's left for dead in the past and no wants to rescue. There's tension in this final story arc of the collection is action packed and exciting with great art by Ivan Reis. At this early stage in the series writer Geoff Johns is building towards the second of what's known as his Green Lantern Trilogy; The Sinestro Corps War. I've read several trades of his run on the series and this volume makes me want to get into more of Green Lantern run.

Revenge of Green Lanterns is an exciting and thrilling follow up to the previous collection No Fear. This includes a better series of stories, but then Green Lantern Volume 1 followed Rebirth which had a lot to live up to. This second volume consists of a central theme of more personal stories as Hal dreams of his perfect life that can never happen and reaching out to Batman on an emotional level. But Hal's biggest challenge is to confront the consequences of his actions of the past, rescuing those he left for dead who can never forgive him, it's hard hitting. I've been really getting more into Green Lantern recently and this book was a great read. I feel that's a great Green Lantern book in-between the massive epics of the John's Green Lantern series. This was great and well worth checking out. It was a book I was very interested and intrigued by about a year ago and it was definitely worth it.

Green Arrow Quiver Review.

Green Arrow Quiver was the phenomenal first story arc by acclaimed filmmaker Kevin Smith that re-launched the series after its cancellation. Oliver Queen was brought back from the dead and made Green Arrow once again. This collection features the first ten issues of best selling series by Smith with art by Phil Hester and Inker Ande Parks. This new edition was released after the Deluxe Edition of Smith's 15 issue run which was due for release last year was cancelled. Both story arcs have been re-released in trade paperback format with Sounds of Violence next on my reading list. Quiver is regarded as one of the best Green Arrow stories, a classic and thankfully now back in print since April.

Way back in Green Arrow #101 of October 1995,

Oliver Queen had died saving Metropolis from a terrorist attack and his son and Connor Hawke had taken over the mantle and remained so until the series was cancelled in 1998. Then in 2001, Oliver Queen was revived and was Green Arrow once more, but it wasn't all as it appeared. Oliver was back, taking down bad guys and protecting Star City but the mystery surrounding his return and apparent demise is what garners most attention from his Justice League colleagues and intrigue for the story.

The opening issue is a prelude of events to come and predominantly features the loved ones of Green Arrow, remembering what Oliver meant to his ex-sidekick and adopted son Roy Harper/Arsenal, ex-girlfriend Dinah Lance/Black Canary and his son Connor Hawke. All reminisce about him and what they meant to them, this exposition fills the reader in on some of history and interactions with each of them, recounting moments from their past that informs the reader about the character without him being present on the page. Green Arrow Oliver Queen makes his triumphant return as Star City's protector taking down corrupt city officials and drug dealers and his on the hunt for the Star City Slayer, a child killer and later he goes further down to path to discovery of what happened to him. It's a interesting and great read, Oliver has no recollection of the past decade, his last memory is the infamous road trip he and Hal Jordan/Green Lantern had undertaken. The interesting premise of his memory lapse adds more depth and weight as Oliver has no recollection of what good and harm he's caused in his past to his loved ones and who is gonna break it to him that his best friend Hal is dead. It even restores his personality to that of the old fashioned view of the character had decades ago. His Justice League colleagues are in shock and amazement of his return, Batman is less sentimental, taking a direct role into the mystery of Oliver's return. The serial killer subplot runs in the background without Oliver's influence as he goes further down to road to discovering what's going on with him, but ultimately both elements tie together near the end story. Both the main story and subplot do feature elements of the supernatural, its a both nice addition and surprise to story, due to the theme of resurrection of a character in a series starring non super powered and realistic hero. Mia Dearden is a new character to the series and DC Universe, this marks here first appearance and is introduced as a teenage prostitute who Green Arrow saves on his earliest ventures actions into resuming his role as protector of Star City. She's a character that's notable in the Green Arrow mythos of this age. 

The story does acknowledge several events in the DC Universe but the important ones are explained in this book, as they are part of the story. The opening of the book features two key moments that start off the story a discussion between Superman and Batman on the rooftop of the Daily Planet during the events of Final Night, where earth's sun was extinguished by the Sun Eater, an extraterrestrial being and the event of Zero Hour in which Hal Jordan /Green Lantern had gone insane and possessed vowing to destroying the Universe in which the Emerald Archer played a key role. The art that I enjoyed so much when I first read Green Arrow Vol. 3 The Archer's Quest is still great here. Hester and Parks work is a light cartoon style that balances the dark story. Its a humorous and enjoyable story, Smith does a good job to get a few laughs. There is some great action panels in between the dialogue heavy story that's both complex and interesting, a character piece just as much as its a comic book action adventure story about second chances.

The ten issue story arc sold over a million copies back in 2001 - 2002 and became a number one selling tittle, a testament to how great the story is, Smith's tale paid homage to other Green Arrow creators of the past. It revived the old fashioned approach to Green Arrow, his amnesia reverted his personality back to a more classic iteration along with his classic trick arrows. Smiths writing is humorous and in the right moments somewhat self aware of the absurdity of some scenes.The book that I wanted since I got into the character but had been out of print and almost released last year only to be cancelled. Green Arrow Quiver lives up to the hype and reputation, a fresh spin on the character on that's been revived in a great story for a new series. Batman has a supporting role in the story and almost steals the show at some points, Smith writes the Dark Knight so well and went on to do later in career writing two limited series. I knew I'd enjoy the story to some degree been such a huge fan of Smith's previous comic book tenure Daredevil: Guardian Devil, but Quiver is a great comic book story that does what all great resurrection stories do reviving the character while touching on their long history.

Quiver rightfully held in high regard in a great story with some fantastic characterization and great dialogue makes it all a highly enjoyable read. Its arguably one of the best written stories in DC Comics history and managed to propel Green Arrow to the number one selling title for the company at the time. It goes beyond the standard revival story of and old hero, it tells a well thought out and plotted story without a retcon to continuity returning Oliver Queen back to the DC Universe.

Green Lantern/Green Arrow Collection Graphic Novel Review

Hey readers,

Here is my next review. So after I read the epic Ra's al Ghul origin story by Dennis O' Neil in my previous review I got into the series that the writer is best known for with regular collaborator artist Neal Adams.

Green Lantern/Green Arrow by Dennis O’ Neil and Neal Adams is the famous and highly acclaimed 70’s era stories of Hal Jordan and Oliver Queen as the “Hard Travelling Heroes”. Green Lantern and Green Arrow travel across America encountering and tackling issues thus bringing real relevance to comics for the first time. The mismatched pair dealt with social issues like racism, bigotry, cults, drugs and pollution all combined with the superhero elements of comic book storytelling of the 70’s. Most famous of these was the story of drug addiction, the two part story revealed Green Arrow’s teenage sidekick to be one of the drug addicts in the high point of this series. This new 2012 edition collects the complete run of O’ Neil and Adam landmark run of their trailblazing series. This volume collects Green Lantern #76-87 & 89 and stories from The Flash #217-219 & 226.

Green Lantern and Green Arrow are two of my newly favourited heroes, its great to have both in a single collection of their classic interpretations after I've read the modern renditions of both. Now that I’m up to date on the best graphic novels of Green Lantern and Green Arrow its interesting to get into classic interpretations of the heroes in the series that first set standards in comics excellence.From the first tale, Green Lantern #76 “No Evil Shall Escape My Sight” you realise that this comic book run is unlike anything else from that time whilst still remaining relevant today. In the first story Hal Jordan stops an unruly teen harassing a well dressed business man. The Green Lantern sends the boy off to jail while helping the man and he feels that he has done the right thing. Green Arrow however decrees his handling of the situation pointing out that the business man is a fat cat landlord who owns the apartment building where the teenager lives with and cares for his elderly grandmother. The landlord plans to tear it down to make way and to make more money with a car parking complex. Both heroes take different approaches in trying to convince the the man not to go through with his plans, Green Lantern tries to work within the system while Green Arrow seeks to address the problem head on. O’Neil and Adams re-imagined the archer nearly thirty years after he was created and though Green Lantern is one of the most sci-fi heavy characters in the DC Universe, O'Neil created a way to ground him and tell stories that were socially relevant and held a powerful message. Hal Jordan who often quotes his Green Lantern oath that has new meaning for him as “evil shall escape my sight” now has an altered meaning for him in his ten year comic’s career. No longer black and white but shades of gray. Hal has always worked within the justice system but now learns that sometimes that it is harder and more difficult than before as the law isn't always the best solution to the problems faced, he becomes more socially conscious. This first issue speaks volumes to what kind of tales are expected with this series.

Writer Dennis O'Neil helped usher in a new era of social relevance for mainstream comics in the '70's, an era with far-reaching effects. It was during this period that one of the best known O'Neil and Adams stories appeared, in Green Lantern #85-86, when it was discovered that Green Arrow's ward Speedy was addicted to heroin. This remarkable two part story “Snowbirds Don’t Fly" & "They Say It’ll Kill Me ......But They Don’t Say When”  is a hard hitting realistic interpretation of a serious a issue. There is so much praise for this story that truly lives up the hype and is unlike anything I have ever read. The subject of drugs abuse, addiction and pushers are all covered here, as well as conveying an understanding of the addiction. It is serious storytelling and one that everyone should read, I cannot praise it enough, its the absolute highlight for the entire collection while being a very serious problem that is still relevant today, almost 30 years later. It was the first comic book story line to feature such a hard hitting topic that propelled comics to be taken more seriously and it is clear to see why it was award winning story. Recently I had watched a Green Arrow documentary online where artist Neil Adams discussed how the impact of this story had on how a drug user helped ditch the habit. The drug abuse problem was dramatized in an unusual and unprecedented way by showing Green Arrow's heretofore clean-cut boy companion Speedy turning into the heroin addict. Thus marking a major turning point in comics history while both being a terrific tales in their own right.

The collection is a fair mix of tales, although famous for social relevance and tackling issues some stories are less serious and are typical of the period that Green Lantern and Green Arrow come up against. Stories featuring our duo helping overthrow a tyrant with a army of robots under his control restoring the peaceful aliens to their rightful place, a young girl with physic powers and an attack of mythical creatures. Black Canary/Dinah Lance is featured prominently throughout the series. Another noteworthy and unmentioned aspect of this collection is the introduction of John Stewart as a Green Lantern, DC’s first black superhero. The cocky, stubborn and politically aware Stewart went on not only to break new ground for black superheroes, but who also became an integral part of the DC Universe in his own right and being the first Green Lantern many fans encountered in the Justice League animated series.

Great artwork provided by artist supreme Neal Adams, one of the best in the comic book industry. Showcasing my favorite classic art style his artwork was realistic, making these stories more three dimensional. The artwork, deftly handled by the great Neal Adams is the perfect marriage of theme and form within a graphic story. His realistic, measured and anatomically accurate style highlights the seriousness and rugged reality facing the characters.

Unfortunately the series didn't last as long as it deserved, it was ahead of its time and poor sales possibly down to it not being you typical superhero team up like readers would expect form a comic book title in those days. The series was cancelled but not before the creators gave us a powerful and befitting finale in issue #89, about a man and his ultimate desire to save himself and the world from pollution. Four months after the series was cancelled O'Neill and Adams's team up continued  with Green Lantern and Green Arrow appearing in back up stories of The Flash comics #217-219 and #226, also included here in this collection. A three part story revolving around Oliver dealing with a difficult time and the final of these mini stories is a fun read that brought a welcome smile to my face after the serious, mostly thought provoking and deep series.

This award winning series by Dennis O’ Neil and Neal Adams helped elevate the comic book medium to be taken more seriously. It is sad really that some of the issues from the 70’s which sounds like so long ago still exist today. O’Neil and Adams were commended by mainstream publications for advancing the comic book medium, foreshadowing the massive revolution that was to come in the 80's.

These superheroes went on to tackle issues of real world concerns, yes there is a few fun moments in stories that are a little more out there but the majority is solid reading. The collection begins and ends with powerful stories. Each reader will find some more powerful that others down to their own views. The series is unlike anything found in comics before or really since ,it doesn't get too heavy-handed though and it remains just as relevant today as it did three daces ago. Its the legacy that lives on as a fundamental building block of the modern DC Universe and comics in general. Whichever your preference this is a must for any Hal Jordan or Oliver Queen fan. In a time when many comics were insubstantial, Green Lantern and Green Arrow examined some tough issues in a combination of 70’s politics and finely tuned superhero storytelling.

Thanks for reading. I highly recommend checking out this stellar series. Next I'll be reviewing Flash: Rebirth. Now that its October TV shows of Green Arrow and The Flash aren't far away and I'm really looking forward to that. 

Bye for now

K

New Graphic Novel reviews, Green Arrow: Road to Jericho, Batman: Zero Year-Secret City Volume 4 and Blackest Night

Hello all,

Few new book reviews, Green Arrow: Road to Jericho, Batman: Zero Year-Secret City Volume 4 and Blackest Night.

Batman Volume 4 Zero Year - Secret City

Batman Zero Year is a new take of the Batman origin. Since the New 52 relaunch DC Comics has changed, it has altered and modernized many of its heroes and villains in the DC Universe. Batman Volume 4 collects issues #21- 24, the first half of the Zero Year story arc.

Initially conceptualized as a Batman story line, that was announced in November 2013 and several titles would tie in directly to the "Zero Year" story arc. Writers of various titles in The New 52 were given the opportunity of writing a tie-in that would include their connections to Gotham City and first encounter with Batman. The Flash, Green Arrow, The Green Lantern Corps and Superman along with others in the Batman line, Batgirl, Batwing, Batwoman, Birds of Prey, Catwoman, Detective Comics, Nightwing, and Red Hood and the Outlaws all feature a tie in.

The Batman origin story has been told many times; most notably in 1987 by Frank Miller's and Dave Mazzucelli's Batman: Year One. This tale is hugely influential and that's still evident here in this modern retelling of the Batman origin story, along with the Batman Begins film of 2005 and more recently in comics the alternate origin story within Batman Earth One. Some would say the notion of redoing an origin over Miller's classic was untouchable. When I first learned that the next story arc in the New 52 Batman comics was going to re-tell the origin story, I felt unfavorable to the concept, the previous three aforementioned stories had been so well established in my mind. I loved the movie which was the reason that got me into comics and the Batman Earth One and Year One stories are two of my favorite Batman graphic novels and the latter my first graphic novel, if I didn't enjoy it I wasn't sure comics would have been for me, but I loved it hugely and continued getting into Batman books. Batman Earth One was an alternate origin told by one of my favorite and the best modern comic book writers Geoff Johns.

After Scott Snyder's and Greg Capullo's hugely successful and critically acclaimed run on Batman, the Owls saga; Court of the Owls and City of the Owls were a completely new facet and antagonist for the Batman. The idea of the city being as big a character part of the story also exists here. Then later their take on the return of Batman's arch nemesis the Joker was a brilliant story and one of the best Joker stories ever. I loved it, how could they follow it up after telling the best Joker Batman story of recent times? I became interested to see their take of the origin story of Batman. 

Starting off with Bruce Wayne as costumed Batman, taking place six months earlier in a four page prologue in a unrecognizable savage Gotham City, our story then skips back to five months earlier which see’s Bruce in a disguise in the middle of an encounter with the Red Hood gang. With a bag full of gadgets and Alfred in his earpiece providing him with information, Bruce dangerously but successfully saves the hostages from the Red Hood gang. The gang consists of wealthy Gothamites blackmailed into joining the gang by it's leader Red Hood One. You later see the frustration as Bruce's initial attempts at being a vigilante are failing, he has the skills, the methods and the gadgets, but some element is missing. Its not working. Where as Miller's Year One was a decidedly low tech Batman, Snyder’s is quite the opposite, Bruce is determined to take on the gang that is the biggest threat to Gotham. As the story progress you see that Bruce coming up short and needs to become the Batman. There are many familiar elements here that are consistent with the best known origin; young Bruce falling into the cave and the iconic moment of an injured Bruce seeing the omen of the bat and declaring "Yes Father I will become the Bat" straight from the pages of Miller's Batman Year One.

A Batman origin story is best when he takes on a non-super powered antagonist, like Carmine Falcone's and the mob in Year One. A great twist here in this tale is with the ever increasing gang of red hoods that can be anyone, anywhere. It's interesting to read throughout the story and notice the mannerisms and language of the leader of the gang, Red Hood One, it’s intriguing to see is this Red Hood, is he the man to destined to become the Joker? Is this his origin and beginning of his crime career? Before the Joker was never a factor in Batman's origin so this was a nice addition. This along with the backup stories at the end of the book showing up where Bruce got various types of training are nice bonus. Uncle Philip Kane is a new addition to history of Batman and his desire to have Bruce return to claim his place in the company, but yet his association with a certain somebody make his a suspicious individual. Jim Gordon plays less of a prominent role here as he did in previous origin stories; Year One, Earth One and Batman Begins. This first installment ends on an cliffhanger, it's likely that Batman Zero Year Dark City will feature the building of that partnership. Snyder’s earlier pre New 52 Batman: The Black Mirror was extremely reminiscent of Year One, getting to know Gordon and the bond between he and Batman. The Black Mirror is a one of the best modern Batman graphic novels and I would highly recommend you check it our, you won't be disappointed.

It doesn't go over all the same moments, a key component that is omitted is the is the shooting of the Wayne's in Crime Alley. Again, it's likely that in later issues in the next part of the arc will cover some of these important story elements. Its an intriguing to see a story that we've all been told before but in new and refreshing way. Scott Snyder and Greg Capullo's have already done exciting work on their Batman series. Although Batman’s Origin story is already so well known and legendary both in comic book form and live action, it is thrilling to see what these new creators would do with the already famous story. Although it may not have the same impact it’s a useful exercise in getting a new origin for a new generation. Exciting to see how these two creators would tell the origin story with their new twists and way of storytelling. Zero Year is especially praised for its unique spin on Batman’s origins, while also honoring the character’s history and spirit. 

How could you follow up the amazing Death of the Family story, that would be pretty hard to top, so taking it all back and tell a Batman story from the beginning was a stellar idea. If there is going to be a new origin for Batman it needs to be both retain familiar classic elements and well as new ones to make to stand out from the previous tales, and Batman Zero Year Dark City does just that and Snyder and Capullo were the right guys for the task. It is not a retelling of such origin stories like Batman:Year One but is a fresh take on the background of the Dark Knight.

Green Arrow Road to Jericho 

Road to Jericho is the 9th and final volume in this Green Arrow series collecting issues #66 -75 before Oliver featured in a new series with Dinah Lance titled Green Arrow/Black Canary.

What happened to Oliver Queen during the time before he became Mayor of Starling? Batman, Red Hood, Brick, Merlyn, Constatine Drakon, Deathstroke and the return of Black Canary all take place in this collection and finale. Road to Jerhico is a follow up that relies very heavily on the events of Green Arrow Crawling Through The Wreckage. The first three issues cover the events that took place preceding the events of the last volume. Oliver is again on an not so isolated island but this time he is here to improve on his training, this will only seem repetitive to the reader if they have recently read a origin story like Green Arrow Year One. The later story picks up from the last collection as Green Arrow teams up with Batman, as he comes to Starling City to track down the Red Hood.

The story opens on a wounded Oliver Queen and takes us back to fill in the blanks of the One Year Later event. Oliver, Mia and Conner are all on an island, Oliver feels the necessity to retrain himself and his partners to contend with the escalating threats they face. He has hired an assassin named Natas, the man who trained Deathstroke. These first three issues fill in the events of the year that Green Arrow was absent from Star City, as mentioned in the previous arc; Crawling Through The Wreckage. The rest of the story picks up where the last book left off. Oliver continues to deal with the crime in the Glades and as his role as Mayor. Things gets very interesting when Bruce Wayne shows up in StarCity and as Batman is on the trail of his former sidekick turned self styled vigilante the Red Hood. Writer Judd Winnick first created this character during his time writing Batman. I loved that aspect of this story, Batman Under the Red Hood is one of my favorite and one of the best animated Batman movies. The film is based on Judd Winick's Batman "Under the Hood" story arc and here you get to back to the character from Winnick's creation.The final arc follows Deathstroke and Drakon's escape from Alcatraz prison while continuing their feud with Green Arrow and these assassins are causing political difficulties for Mayor Queen.

A lot happens in this volume, from Oliver's time on the island to teaming up with Batman against the Red Hood, threats to his role as Mayor and the return of the two assassins seeking revenge against Green Arrow. The book and series ends on a high note. I liked the book the Red Hood arc was the most interesting to me and the great return of Deathstroke. Fascinating story and a great send off for this series. The book is very good full of great moments and the flashback to one year later missing events are just there to fill in the gap it serves a purpose within the story. The idea of a non powered superhero needing to retrain to be able to compete with the ever increasing threat of criminals was a worthy and thoughtful addition to the arc. I was extremely curious to what happened to Oliver during his time away along with to how is so skilled with a katana sword. Although the main draw of this volume presents itself later, the events the one year on the island was not a filler or wasted storytelling. Oliver and Dinah Lance/Black Canary are reunited and have a very personal reunion . A big part of Green Arrow is his true love Dinah Lance, and they share an intimate discussion about their love for each other, it's a pleasant change of pace for an action packed story. It is a worthy sequel to the events of Crawling Through The Wreckage so make sure and check that out first.

All in a all great book and one I was very much looking forward to with the inclusion of Batman and Red Hood featured in the for a segment of the story. Thrilling to get another face off between Green Arrow and worlds greatest assassin Deathstroke so shortly after their recent clash. It does feel like a grand finale of the series, all the stops are pulled out for this heroic showdown that has been building up to. My favorite moment of the end of the series the return of one very fan favorite arrow. The plot building in the background of recent issues of the series come into play in a grand finale. After the One Year Later events are revealed The Red Hood/Jason Todd, has come to Star City and Batman isn't far behind. The situation becomes one that will take the team of DC Comic's most recognizable vigilantes to handle. But with the likes of Brick, Merlyn, Drakon, and Deathstroke joining the fray in the aftermath, Green Arrow may have his work cut out for him. But all this action aside, the most important thing in this story is Ollie's relationships, most notably the one with long time lover, Dinah Lance/Black Canary. Great book with plenty to keep fans interested, action packed with quieter moments. Great end to a great series.

Blackest Night 

In the Blackest Night, the dead rise, the story that has been building for two years. Black Hand, a character that has been present in Green Lantern comics for some time and since Geoff Johns run has been preparing for his masters arrival for the Blackest Night. Across the Universe the dead have risen and are recruited into the Black Lantern Corps. Heroes and villains have risen for one purpose to extinguish life across the universe.This limited series collects the main story; Blackest Night issues # 0 - 8. It focuses on the events on earth and features various heroes of the Justice League while other aspects of the story being collected in Green Lantern and Green Lantern Corps books. Other tie ins of the story are available, collected in other editions of the story.

The prophecy has arrived. Black rings descend and reanimate the dead, the prophecy that Hal Jordan’s predecessor Abin Sur had feared. The book gives a text introduction to what have happened before. The story begins with the main characters; Green Lantern Hal Jordan and Barry Allen/The Flash at the unmarked grave of Bruce Wayne/Batman. Barry, who has recently returned to life, is our point of view character at various points of the story including here where Hal fills him in how Batman died and what other heroes have passed away during Barry’s absence. Hal shows Barry all the heroes that have died in a double page spread using the power of his ring. So it helps the reader follow on what has transpired before this story.

Death is always something that was a big part of the DC Universe and now in the form of Nekron, the embodiment of death and leader of the Black Lantern’s poses the greatest threat to the Universe and all life. Many heroes like Superman, Green Arrow and the Flash have died and returned while others such as Arthur Curry/Aquaman and J’onn J’onzz/Martian Manhunter have been dead for some time. Earth’s heroes fend off the threat together. The dead just don’t return as mindless zombified versions but have a emotional response to those friends and colleagues they have targeted. As Barry Allen points out “Only the dead with emotional ties to people like us are rising. The rest are staying in their graves”.

Like Brad Meltzer’s Identity Crisis the story focuses on other heroes getting an opportunity to shine including Barry Allen/The Flash along with Aquaman’s wife Queen Mera, Ray Palmer/The Atom and the new Firestorm/Jason Rusch and Gehenna Hewitt. Although Hal is one the main characters in this book he is absent for a short time in the middle of the story as he must depart to fulfill his mission in order to help stop this threat on earth. His task is covered in collected edition of Green Lantern: Blackest Night. In the beginning of Part One, Hawkman and the Atom still dealing with the fallout events from the epic of Identity Crisis, this exemplifies how important of a story it is and some are referenced a few times. It is refreshing for a big event story like this where other heroes feature more prominently than the DC Trinity of Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman take a back seat in this story. But unlike Identity Crisis their presence isn't felt. There is a reference to how important these heroes are and at one point The Flash informs The Atom and Queen Mera that they must stand in for Superman and Wonder Woman in the event of this current threat.

Great that the story focus on Hal and Barry, the two most recently resurrected heroes in the DC Universe, both their “Rebirth’s” were written by Geoff Johns. Hal and Barry have both recently returned from the dead and with their former team mates so far being denied the same privilege. Aquaman, J’ohn J’onzz and others possibly harboring some resentment towards the duo.The Blackest Night has been two years in waiting, sometime big event comics don’t live up to the hype, lose their grasp or going off-road with story quality declining halfway. This does not, each chapter gets better and better while the quality of storytelling remains consistent and has the threat ever increasing going from bad to worse for our heroes. It’s a thrilling story full of amazing, shocking and one particularly very sad moment.The art is stunning, Ivan Reis who has previously worked on Green Lantern comics does some gruesome artwork and great double page spreads and some great crowd scenes. I'm now a new fan of his since his work on New 52 Justice League. I appreciated how the dead see the emotional spectrum aura of their victims and how it changes depending on their emotional state.

The story is filled with some great fanboy moments including one that was so big that was spoiled by DC Universe Classics Wave 17 action figures here. There are some revelations to change that mythos and what we thought we knew according to one of the Guardians of Universe. As within the Sinestro Corps War it was revealed that Oa was not the center of the universe, instead earth is and this story shines some light on to the reason why. As a Green Lantern, Hal Jordan has faced his two biggest challenges, The Sinestro Corps War and The Blackest Night, fear and death, both things Hal has overcome before and now with the Blackest Night he must face and defeat death once more. This is a big story that is open to analysis and interpretations. It is one of the biggest event stories in comics, it also feels like it would make a great movie, it action packed on a large scale. It was a momentous and epic story.The miniseries event from DC Comics does double-duty both as a line-wide DC crossover and another chapter in writer Geoff Johns's ongoing Green Lantern series that has both engaging with emotional depth.

That is it for now. Check back for more soon, including Flash: Rebirth, Batman: Birth of the Demon and Green Lantern/ Green Arrow collection.

K

Graphic Novel Book Reviews, Daredevil, Justice League, Green Lantern, Green Arrow.

Hello readers,

I'm catching up on some of my recent Graphic Novels reviews. Daredevil Vol. 1 was the last one I read that I received at Christmas and the rest that have followed from then up until last night. Hope you enjoy them and you find these useful.

Marvel Masterworks Daredevil Vol.1

Marvel Masterworks is a series of graphic novels collecting issues of the original series of Marvels most loved characters. These books reprint the issues in full colour. Marvel Essential series collect more issues in a single volume but all issues are in black and white. So in my opinion Marvel Masterworks are the best choice when wanting to experience the original incarnations of Marvels most popular heroes. This Daredevil collection features the first 11 issues of Stan Lee’s Man without fear, Daredevil. Issue one depicts his origin and the rest of the book follows his early adventures and foes. All was as introducing readers to Foggy and Karen Page. 

I thought this was a fantastic book full of crazy and really out there moments that would have been the norm in the 70’s when these comics were first published. There fun and gives readers a real taste of how these characters in their first incarnation.Daredevil meets many foes and a love triangle develops between Karen, Foggy and Matt. These earliest stories were the inspiration for Tim Sales and Jeph Loeb’s much loved mini series Daredevil: Yellow.

Justice

The Justice League are not the only ones who can come together working towards a common goal. Enter the Legion of Doom.The Justice Leagues fall at the hands of their villains as they all strike them at once, how will the heroes come back and how will they stop the evil plans of all their enemies combined. This Graphic Novel collects all 12 issues of this mini series by Jim Kruger and the amazing Alex Ross.This is a brilliant book, I got such a kick out of it and I couldn't recommend it enough. It was a great story from Alex Ross and Jim Krueger. This 12 issue series is one of the best books I've read in recent months.

Although superhero stories can be very complex and have over the decades grew past the traditional good guy vs. the bad guys kind of stories. This story is both the traditional aspect of a group of Superheroes and Super-villains facing each other while still being an extremely clever and sophisticated blockbuster of a tale. It feels epic.

When a group of villains all experience a shared dream of earth’s demise and The World’s Greatest Super-Heroes, the Justice League unable to stop it they form an alliance to prevent the destruction of the planet. Every character gets their moment in this story with each hero narrates their own chapter that their the lead in, giving great variety to the narrative as villains take down heroes, one by one in a coordinated attack, while the characters like Poison Ivy and Captain Cold are doing good deeds to benefit mankind as the Legion of Doom turn the populace against earth's heroes. The story is full of great surprises and turns that I don't want to give away. Its one of the best Justice League stories out there and  I cannot praise this book enough, it’s exceptional, a good old fashioned tale of good guys vs. the bad in this awesome story.

Justice League Vol.4 The Grid

Throne of Atlantis was the high point of the series and in my opinion, the best stories of Justice League New 52. This story carries on for the events from Throne of Atlantis where the League wants to expand it ranks and give full time membership to many of it's reserves. Two story-lines exist in this book, the second is that of the Justice League series has been building to since its beginning; The Trinity War, where three different Leagues to war over a mysterious object. The Trinity War was the first big crossover event and this volume collects the first and the concluding chapter of the epic story-line with chapters of the story found in other books of to complete the Trinity War story arc. I wasn't really a fan of this story, it was good but it to too hard to top the three previous volumes that have come before it; Origin, The Villain’s Journey and the crowning glory Throne of Atlantis. These tales by Geoff Johns and various artists just got better and better and will be difficult to top. I enjoyed this book but I don’t feel the need to go and seek out the missing parts to complete the story, it wasn't for me. On a positive note I was extremely satisfied with the final issue and conclusion of the Trinity War story as it paved the way for a bigger and more interesting plot to unfold in Volume 5 with the arrival of the Crime Syndicate of Earth-3. 

Green Lantern: Secret Origin
Geoff Johns retells comics most popular Green Lantern, Hal Jordan’s origin story. This story was released mid way through Johns 2005-2011 series in issues of Green Lantern #29 - #35. The story was re-imagined to include several new aspects of the Green Lantern mythos; The Blackest Night prophecy and the introduction of Atrocitus , the soon be leader of the Red Lanterns. This story line served as the main inspiration for the Green Lantern 2010 live action movie in which Geoff Johns was involved with. You get to discover a lot of similarities between the book and the movie, even some direct quotes and scenes. The also focuses on some of Hal’s moments of his youth. The book is great and it tells the pretty standard origin story and it does a great job of wetting your appetite and wanting more of a Green Lantern story. This book is a great introduction into Hal Jordan, Green Lantern of Sector 2814. 

Identity Crisis

Such an brilliant book and suspenseful a murder mystery story. The 7 issue miniseries by Brad Meltzer, a well known and acclaimed thriller novelist creates a truly suspenseful and dark tale. Sue Dinby, wife of the Elongated Man is preparing her husbands Birthday surprise when an unknown intruder attacks and resulting in Sue’s murder. This tale takes a more human look at our heroes, every hero is out searching for the killer while still in fear that their own loved ones could be next.

This was a hugely successful story. I think it is exceptional when writers incorporated a classic genre story into the world of Super-heroes. Green Arrow has a prominent role in the story and long buried secrets come to light. There is a division in the Justice League, a team within a team. It is a great aspect of this story. It will keep you hooked from start to finish and with ramifications for years to come.

Green Lantern: Rebirth 

Geoff Johns 6 issue mini-series that resurrected the greatest Green Lantern of them all, Hal Jordan.

Hal made the ultimate sacrifice and had taken his final bow. A new Green Lantern of earth had taken his place. Kyle Rayner had been earth's primary Green Lantern for many years since Hal’s death and he is vital in his resurrection. Hal’s body was dead but his soul was seeking redemption and became the host for the Spectre; the Spirit of Vengeance. During the Identity Crisis story I was introduced to this aspect of Jordan’s new existence and during a conversation with his best friend Oliver Queen/Green Arrow, Hal teased that he was working on something when Oliver asked him about making a return to the land of the living.

This was easily one of the greatest Green Lantern epics that will ever be told. At a previous Comic Con DC Comics had a video of various creators and had a montage of them all specifying it was one of the best stories and also this was the place for new fans to begin with Green Lantern. Mid way through the story Kyle summarizes the events that had transpired to fully catch the reader up to what had happened. It was a great part in  the story and if you had been a long time reader of Green Lantern you would know the story but it was delivered here is such a great fashion and integral to the story.

It is another one of those epic stories that features the entire Justice League and other heroes including the other earth bound Green Lanterns. It is easily one of the most important Green Lantern stories of in existence and better again Green Lantern’s Brightest Day.

Green Arrow: Year One

I've had this book for quite a while and it was worth the wait. I'd been saving it along with other Green Arrow books for after the fantastic second season of the ARROW TV series had come to its conclusion. I was waiting to enjoy these books when I was missing the greatest TV show I had ever watched.

Green Arrow is a great character to get into, he's one of my favorites and it's great getting into the characters roots. These comics are the TV series inspiration as well as potential future story lines. Green Arrow graphic novels new and old are growing in popularity due to the success of the show and Green Arrow: Year One is the best place to start. First of all I love the cover, when I ordered the book online it had a different cover image. This one is just exceptional looking and so reminiscent on the ARROW TV series. Green Arrow Year One as the title suggests is the origin story of how Star City's Emerald Archer came to be. This 2007 mini series written by Andy Diggle with great art by Jock who modernizes and retells the events the led to the arrival of Green Arrow.

Oliver Queen; frivolous playboy and reckless thrill-seeker, who also seeks more out of life, and after a rather embarrassing public display Oliver decides to join his friend and bodyguard, Hackett on a sea voyage. Oliver later finds himself betrayed and left for dead, marooned on a not so deserted island. He struggles to survive the harsh environment and later stumbles upon drug running cartel that has enslaved some the islands inhabitants for their drug manufacturing operation all ran by a woman Oliver has named China White. He has always been seeking a more meaningful life and has now found one thing he does care about, justice. Oliver takes the stand to stop them and free the people, and all while figuring out what he wants to do with his life and who he wants to be. The story plays out like a survivor action story in this grounded superhero origin tale. All the adventure takes place on the island while giving birth to a new hero for justice.

This series served as an inspiration for the creation of the ARROW TV series. Writer Andy Diggle even has two characters named after him, one of the main characters John Diggle who has a brother named Andy. The character of China White, whose first and only appearance is in this limited series, appears in the television series, - Season 3 has her introduced as a main villain in the flashbacks- direct homage, it seems, to her role in Year One.

This book is a great start for fans looking to begin an interest in the Emerald Archers stories. Green Arrow Year One manages to tell a thrilling re-imagining of Oliver Queen's beginnings as Green Arrow that keeps the essence of the original origin but updates it in a very formidable approach to Green Arrow's definitive origin story.

Green Lantern: No Fear 

The greatest Green Lantern of them all is back. I really enjoyed Green Lantern: Rebirth, Hal’s resurrection and redemption was complete, now it time for him to get on with his life as Hal Jordan and a Green Lantern. No Fear was the follow up and the re-launch of a new Green Lantern series penned by Geoff Johns. The book collects the first six issues. I wanted to get this because I like origin stories and stories early in a hero’s career. I was interested too because it is an earth bound Green Lantern story. It featured two antagonists that I as a reader haven’t encountered before. The opening segment is beautifully illustrated by Darwyn Cooke. His work is a joy to behold but in my collection of graphic novels it is scarce. The opening of the book is Hal flying with Kyle Rayner, without him Hal would not have gotten a second chance and Hal is very grateful of that. The story could never be as good as its predecessor but is still good. It is a new start and introduction to the series and Hal’s life on his home. I enjoy his new relationship with General Stone, calling on Green Lantern when matters arise. There is some great action scene’s in this story, especially those involving The Shark, a gruesome villain that I've never encountered before. The book is great and I really enjoyed the earth bound element of it all. I liked the “What Has Gone Before” cosmic recap of events. The book was great but for now I’ll skip the next two books and go straight into the next big event;The Sinestro Corps War is coming soon.

Bye for now

K