SETH’S PICK :: BLACK SCIENCE TP VOL. 1: There are several reasons to pick up this first volume of the acclaimed series Black Science. Firstly, it’s an energetic sci-fi tour de force from Rick Remender and Matteo Scalera. There’s a reason these single issues sold out quickly, and if you missed any of them, here’s the perfect opportunity to see what we’ve all been talking about. Secondly, and of equal importance, this collection is only $9.99! Image Comics has been using this price point for the first volumes of their new series’ trade paperback collections, and it’s a smart publishing initiative. In fact, you could pick up this volume and the first collections of Manifest Destiny and Pretty Deadly for just over $30 plus tax. That’s a lot of good comics for not a lot of money. 

Bonus Pick: Southern Bastards #2: This is yet another sold out Image series, and my favorite new title of the year. Jason Aaron and Jason Latour’s southern crime story employs finely tuned writing and meticulous art to brilliant effect. Their cinematic use of tension and release remind us of how comics can still be used to tell unique stories in unique ways.

Bonus Pick #2: Devil Dinosaur by Jack Kirby TP: This is not the King’s greatest comic work, no, not by a long shot. But it is a series where he draws all kinds of dinosaurs and monsters, and that’s enough for me. Plus, this is the first time the whole series is available in a single trade paperback.

SETH’S PICK :: MANIFEST DESTINY #2: It recently dawned on me that Image Comics is currently producing the monthly comics I’m most excited about.  Between East of West, Pretty Deadly and Black Science, there are plenty of interesting new titles from the company.  Add to that list Chris Dingess and Matthew Roberts‘ Manifest Destiny.  This is one of those seemingly obvious concepts that writers everywhere are kicking themselves for not thinking of first.  It’s a new take on Lewis and Clark exploring the vast acreage obtained in the Louisiana Purchase.  While rooted in history, this series diverges from it by pitting the legendary explorers against an array of monsters and beasts that defy imagination (think buffalo centaurs).  In case you missed the sold out first issue, there’s also a second printing available this week.  In other words, here’s a perfect opportunity to get in on the ground floor of a very promising new series.