Marvel Adventures The Avengers #24
“Don’t Be Hatin'”
Writer: Jeff Parker
Pencils: Ig Guara; Inks: Jay Leisten

Honestly, I may have to stop reviewing this series because it is so childish, so patronizingly childish. But Wolverine appears, so what am I going to do?

Granted this issue did have a few amusing moments, but for the most part, it’s pointless, painful and not something that will ever promote the younger audience to read Marvel comics.

So how about I ramble on a little more about my idea from last month that got such positive feedback last time.

To refresh your memories… I suggested Marvel consider a ‘Young Logan’ series that chronicles Logan’s training to become a ninja under Ogun back in the 1930s.

Imagine something in the vein of ‘Naruto’ or ‘Runaways’ that deals with the tension over his training from an evil immortal, interactions and jealousies with other ‘forgotten’ pupils, fights with other ninja ‘schools’, Logan’s destiny as a ‘failed’ samurai…

And if you really want to appeal to today’s youth, consider a weekly black & white comic.

So how about it, Marvel? Want to give me a shot at writing this awesome new series?

Marvel?

Hello?

Is this thing on?

From Marvel (preview): “Giant-Girl hates Spider-Man. Spider-Man hates Ant-Man. Ant-Man hates Iron Man. Iron Man hates…everyone. Where is all this hate coming from? Some kind of… MONGER, perhaps? ” On sale May 21, 2008.

Mighty Avengers #14
Writer: Brian Bendis
Artist: Khoi Pham

Two very minor Wolverine cameos, but for the most part, this issue revolves around the Sentry. And considering its contents (and artist) don’t match Marvel’s description in the least, one has to wonder if this was an emergency filler issue.

And perhaps the most perplexing aspect of the whole issue is when we learn that the super-secret Skrull clones used to have super-secret meetings in super-secret bad neighborhoods.

Without changing form.

Unbelievable.

From Marvel (preview): “Where has Nick Fury been and who are the new Howling Commandos? It’s the debut of all-new characters and some surprising revelations about some classic ones as Nick starts to put his plan to stop the Invasion together. But will it be enough?” On sale May 21, 2008.

Ultimate X-Men #94
‘Absolute Power, Part 1’
Writer: Aron E. Coleite
Penciler: Mark Brooks
Inker: Jaime Mendoza & Troy Hubbs

While Aron Coleite’s first issue is already better than most of Robert Kirkman’s ‘Ultimate X-Men’ run, I am reserving judgment on the ‘Heroes’ writer for at least another issue or two.

Unfair or not, I can’t forget ‘Lost’ writer Damon Lindelhof and the fiasco that was ‘Ultimate Wolverine vs. Hulk’…

On the one hand, Coleite has deftly introduced the Ultimate Alpha Fight with a very neat twist. It is obvious that he either read the X-Men in the early days or did a lot of serious research.

On the other hand, this whole ethical question about the use of Banshee rings a little hollow and is introduced into the plot too quickly for me to care.

But on the whole, this is a significant upgrade over the past few years and I am intrigued to see where it’s going to go.

And to be honest, that is the point of comics. Getting your reader to buy the next issue.

From Marvel (preview): “New scribe Aron Coleite jumps aboard, fresh from his stint as one of the top writers on the hit NBC show Heroes! Regrouping after the devastating battle against Apocalypse, the X-Men encounter a new adversary which seems unstoppable. To fight it, the young mutants must ask themselves: how far are they willing to go and what are they willing to take to raise their game? The answer will test the bonds and shake the team to its very core.” On sale May 21, 2008.

Wolverine: Origins #25
“The Deep End, Conclusion”
Writer: Daniel Way
Artist: Steve Dillon

Wow. Good issue. Really good issue.

Sure I have some gripes about a few things — when do I not? But all in all, this is what a final chapter to a storyline should be.

Fulfilling. Surprising. Enjoyable.

My hat is off to you both, Daniel Way and Steve Dillon.

From Marvel (Preview): “The trap has sprung. Wolverine is Deadpool’s prisoner. But Deadpool isn’t getting paid to deliver a prisoner—he’s getting paid to take Logan out, once and for all. Is that even possible? Deadpool has found a way, but just as he’s about to pull the trigger (so to speak)…the other trap springs! Be here for the completely twisted conclusion!” On sale May 21, 2008.

Wolverine: The Amazing Immortal Man & Other Bloody Tales #1
“The Amazing Immortal Man”
Writer: David Lapham
Artist: Johnny Timmons

“The Animal Man”
Writer: David Lapham;
Artists: David Lapham, Stefano Gaudiano

“Coney Island Baby”
Writer: David Lapham;
Pencils: Kelly Goodine; Inks: Paul Neary

David Lapham (of ‘Stray Bullets’ fame) presents three 11-page Wolverine short stories, but before we get to those, let’s acknowledge the awesome cover.

The first story is an enjoyable tale of Logan’s past during the 1930s. He may be aiding and abetting crooks, but at least he has his honor this time around. Thumbs up.

The second story is more offbeat. Not especially good, I must admit, but I appreciate the attempt.

The final tale is less satisfying. It begins as a standard superhero fare and attempts a twist that doesn’t quite work.

All in all, a worthwhile read if, like me, you enjoy glimpses into Wolverine’s earliest escapades.

From Marvel (preview): “Step right up, one and all! But be forewarned, the grisly specimens on display are not intended for the faint of heart or weak of constitution! Steel yourselves for the most astonishing, most awe-inspiring and most revolting of Mother Nature’s rare mistakes! Three — count them, ladies and gentlemen, THREE — stomach-turning tales to terrify and delight are packed into this freak-show menagerie, starring that most tenacious survivor of genetic adversity, that hardy bottom-feeder at the fringes of our civil society…the hirsute, unkillable half-animal…WOOOOLVERINE!” On sale May 14, 2008.

GeNext #1
Cover: Doug Gregory Alexander

Chris Claremont continues the storyline he began in the ‘X-Men: The End’ trilogy, chronicling the next generation of X-Men.

Luckily it’s not as verbose as one might expect coming from Claremont.

And while Wolverine only barely cameos on the cover, it is a safe bet he will make an appearance later in the run.

From Marvel (preview): “You asked for it, X-Fans, and now, you got it! Marvel.com asked you what Chris Claremont’s next project should be. You, the fans, said you wanted to know what today’s new generation of X-Men would be like if the Marvel Universe aged in real-time! Who are the children of the X-Men? And what happened to the original team, Professor X, and Magneto after over 30 years of conflict, victories, and tragedies? Now, at last, the answers arrive as beloved X-Men scribe Chris Claremont reveals an all-new generation of mutant teens!”
On sale May 14, 2008.

Wolverine #65
‘Get Mystique! Conclusion’
Writer: Jason Aaron
Artist: Ron Garney

I was genuinely looking forward to this issue.

Unfortunately, it is quite a disappointing finale to a promising start by Jason Aaron.

Once again, we are presented with Logan at his moral worst. How refreshing it would be to see Logan’s early life presented is such a way where he is neither an utter dirtbag nor a weak-kneed coward.

And the abject rejection on so many levels of ‘Wolverine Dies’ (the previous ‘Wolverine’ story) is truly shocking and appalling. I know I’ve gone off on this rant before, but this issue completely and utterly rejects its premise on every level.

That said, it’s a helluva a fight between Wolverine and Mystique even if the final two pages are a bit of a letdown.

From Marvel (preview): “‘Get Mystique’ comes to its bloody conclusion in the deserts of Iraq. The quest for Mystique is over, and now the no-holds-barred face-off between her and Logan begins. Only one will walk away, but both will pay a price.” On sale May 14, 2008.

Dear DiG,

Somewhat in my dotage and evidently having lived under a rock all these years, I have discovered the tremendously intriguing character of Logan/Wolverine. In search of more information about this character and his various depictions and stories over roughly a 35-year period, I came upon your incredibly detailed, literate (not all Wolverine-related sites out in the www are, I’m sure you know) informed as well as informative, website. It would be very difficult to find anyone more knowledgeable on Wolverine than you, and I am in awe of the amount of work and depth of detail you have poured into creating and maintaining this important reference.

With that said, I throw my dilemma like a gauntlet at your feet and ask your advice. As I mentioned, I have discovered this terrific character far too late to ever hope to read even a fraction of his stories… even if I could, I’d never be able to locate them all, nor could I afford the expense of trying to collect them. A search through Amazon.com reveals a confusing array of Wolverine compilations, some with good reviews, some not so good, but what to trust? What to ignore, and what truly is Wolverine ‘gold’? I have so far only purchased two compilations – the jaw-droppingly riveting Barry Windsor Smith Weapon X, both story and artwork just amazing; and Greg Rucka’s The Brotherhood, although I liked the story (not great, but OK), the cartoony artwork makes Logan look like a Neanderthal – didn’t care for the artwork, and wasn’t interested in the follow-ups Coyote Crossing or Return of the Native. This may sound a bit strange considering, Wolverine IS a comic book superhero, after all, but I really prefer the man to the spandex. I’m not crazy about the weird-colored tights, but prefer him in ‘civvies.’

In your well-considered opinion, what would be, say, your top five or six Wolverine compilations combining the best story arcs and the best artwork? I sincerely look forward to hearing your recommendations.

BTW, my husband has been a big fan of Warren Zevon for years, and I have forwarded your site to him (see https://www.typingmonkeys.com/zevon_cd.html). Zevon’s lyrics are absolute poetry, and what an incredible musician he was!

Thank you for the labor of love that is your website!

Sincerely, Pamela D. Arceneaux

Wow.

Well, thank you very much for you kind and considered words. This site is most definitely a labor of love (and many times a labor of frustration). But it is always encouraging to hear from folks who have visited. And I have a hunch that I share your ‘dotage.’

You bring up a terrific question and let me see if I can help. At first blush, I would recommend the following stories (in order):

-Essential X-Men #1 (amazon.com): Black and white compilation covers Wolverine joining the X-Men in Giant-Size X-Men #1 through the ‘golden years’ of Chris Claremont and John Byrne and X-Men #119. Wolverine is a terrific supporting character throughout and it is during this run that he become my favorite character.

-Essential X-Men #2 (amazon.com): Continues the ‘golden age’ of Chris Claremont and John Byrne from X-Men #120 through Uncanny X-Men #144. Some of the best X-Men/Wolverine tales ever told.

-Essential X-Men #3 (amazon.com): Uncanny X-Men #145-161 and several annuals. Not quite the ‘golden age’ anymore, but critical stories to the development of Wolverine’s character.

-Essential X-Men #4 (amazon.com): Uncanny X-Men #162-179, several more annuals and God Loves, Man Kills, the brilliant graphic novel by Chris Claremont. Wolverine leaves the X-Men in issue 168 for perhaps the best Wolverine story to date (see next item) and returns in #172. Really the last essential Essential.

-Wolverine (amazon.com): This miniseries by Chris Claremont and Frank Miller (and believe me Frank Miller does more than just draw) is what keeps me reading Wolverine to this day. Not to be missed.

-Weapon X (amazon.com): Barry Windsor-Smith stunned the comic book work with this mind-blowing saga of Wolverine’s early days.

-The Best of Wolverine, Vol. 1 (amazon.com): This collection includes the Claremont-Miller miniseries and Weapon X saga from above and a few other strong appearances. A great collection and a good value.

Now I may be ruffling some feathers, but I simply cannot recommend any of the other X-Men or Wolverine collections (at least of the ones that immediately come to mind). To be blunt, they are caricatures of Wolverine with the occasional strong issue, but nothing of sustaining significance. The much ballyhooed Wolverine: Origin is overly dramatic tripe, and the current runs of Wolverine and Wolverine: Origins are deeply cynical, broad caricatures or all-too-infrequent one-hit wonders.

That said, I would strongly recommend one series that wraps up quite soon…

-Astonishing X-Men, Vol. 1 – 4 (amazon.com vol. 1 | vol. 2 | vol. 3 | vol. 4 ): Joss Whedon and John Cassaday capture Wolverine at his best. This may be the best Wolverine written, period.

OK, I’ve had my say.

Anyone else out there want to recommend the very best Wolverine collections of all time?

I have been remiss in providing up-to-the-minute Wolverine news, but now that I have caught up with reviews (finally!), it is high time I catch up on the news. So below, find Wolverine news from the past week with interesting tidbits from the last month sprinkled in.

From Marvel: “The first, official trailer for Marvel’s upcoming animated series, Wolverine and the X-Men, is here! Packed with more mutants than you can shake a stick at, check out what’s in store for a world in which Professor X has been taken out and Wolverine must lead the X-Men into a very uncertain and dangerous future!

“Wolverine and the X-Men begins as an explosive event shatters the lives of the X-Men and takes away their mentor, Professor X. The beaten heroes, including Beast, Storm, Cyclops and Nightcrawler, walk away from it all but then they are given a rare glimpse into the future, where they see a world in utter ruin…ruled by giant destructive robots. They discover the world has spiraled out of control because the X-Men have given up. So now the most legendary of all X-Men, Wolverine, must take the lead on the ultimate mission—to prevent the world’s destruction—while fending off enemies Magneto and The Brotherhood.

“Check it out the debut trailer at Marvel.com’s Videos section. Better yet? Watch the Wolverine and the X-Men animated series trailer in hi-res!”

More Wolverine news…
-Comicbookresources.com: X-Force Special: Ain’t No Dog Preview
-Comicbookresources.com: Ultimate X-Men #97 Cover by Gabriele Dell’Otto
-Marvel.com: Wolverine #65 Preview
-Marvel.com: Wolverine: The Amazing Immortal Man & Other Bloody Tales #1 Preview
-Marvel.com: Wolverine #66 Wrap-Around Cover
-Newsarama.com: Marvel, Del Ray Announce Wolverine Manga Creators
-Newsarama.com: Mark Millar on ‘Old Man Logan’ (from January)

Avengers/Invaders #1
Cover: Alex Ross

Awesome cover by Alex Ross (see larger version here) featuring Wolverine as part of the New Avengers.

Unfortunately, no Wolverine on the inside.

All in all, a very auspicious start to what promises to be an interesting series.

From Marvel: “The original Invaders (Captain America , Bucky , Human Torch , Toro , and the Sub-Mariner) return in a twelve issue maxi-series by the award winning team behind EARTH X, Justice and Project Superpowers .The greatest super-team of World War II finds themselves transported from the battlefields of the Second World War to a future they never imagined! Now, the Invaders find themselves confronted by two teams of Avengers who want desperately to believe these heroes are who they say they are, while Tony Stark faces his greatest challenge since the Civil War as he must deal with the ‘return’ of Steve Rogers. Confronted by a world they barely recognize, the Invaders will have to show two teams of the Earth’s Mightiest Heroes just what kind of power, courage and sheer determination it took to defeat the forces of unrelenting evil in the Twentieth century. In fact… they may just have to do it again in the Twenty-First. ” On sale May 7, 2008.