It’s the day after Small Press Expo 2011 and we’re back to work early to let you know about some of the great books we picked up for our Heroes customers.

We’ll start with Paying For It.  Yes, the latest book from Chester Brown has already been in stock at Heroes for a few months, but we just had to get another one.  What makes this one different though, is that Mr. Brown was nice enough to sign and sketch in the book for us.  If you’d like this signed/sketched copy of Paying For It, it’s yours for cover price.  There’s only one of these, so we’ll have it for the first person who comes to the store, mentions that they read it on our blog, and asks to purchase it.  We should note, if you comment on the blog and ask us to hold it for you, or if you call us and ask us to hold it for you via phone, we won’t honor that as a request.  We want you to come to the store and ask in person.

Though not officially released yet, we managed to snag a copy of Blue Collar/White Collar by Sterling Hundley.  This new offering from Adhouse features a variety of works from Hundley, an artist you might not be familiar with, but should seek out.  He primarily illustrates for magazines, but also exhibits in galleries, and covers a wide range of topics and themes in his explorations of diverse art styles.  If you’re an art lover, do yourself a favor and check out this book.  Hundley could end up having a James Jean type career that crosses over the worlds of fine art and comics.

We also picked up Stargazing Dog, an acclaimed manga from Takashi Murakami that will soon be released by NBM.  This one was being well received by fans of manga and literary comics, and its story of a frustrated man and his loyal dog should appeal to a variety of readers.

Old-Timey Hockey Tales is a new book from respected indie creators Robert Ullman and Jeffrey Brown.  Though the subject matter is hockey, the real draw of this book is the chance to see two very talented, and very stylistically different creators explore the history of the sport in their own unique ways.  In addition to this one we also picked up two volumes of Ullman’s Traffic and Weather strips.

Since we’re on the subject of mini comics, I’ll go ahead and mention some of the others we picked up.  Dan Zettwoch and Kevin Huizenga had a nice selection of minis, and we picked up three of their collaborative books, The Factoids of Life, Fact Parader, and Factual Healing, all three feature the two creators alternating stories.  Both of these guys are really talented cartoonists, and it’s something to see their distinctive individual works take place in a collaborative setting.

Also new to our mini comics sections are new arrivals Monster Isle, from Mermin creator Joey Weiser, March by Bill Burg, and 3 volumes of Messed Up Fairy Tales, featuring art from attendee Joe Foo, whose art caught our eyes.

The Venice Chronicles is described as “a travelogue in pencil, watercolor and varying shades of silliness.”  Written and illustrated by Pixar director/head of story Enrico Casarosa, this one reminds me a little of Lewis Trondheim and Scott Morse, but stands on its own for the sheer quality of the author’s original voice.

We also ran into Alec Longstreth and his magnificent beard and Tugboat Press publisher Greg Means. We picked up Yes, Let’s, a comic written by Alec’s sister Galen Goodwin Longstreth and illustrated by Maris Wicks.  This book’s fun use of rhyming couples nicely with Wicks’ fine line work.  This is one of the best all ages offerings we picked up this year, so be sure to check it out.

Heaven All Day is a wordless comic from John Martz.  He has a style that evokes Canadian cartooning great Seth, among other cartoonists, and this simple, well-paced story of a the comings and goings of a scientist/machinesmith and a robot stood out to both myself and Rico in our SPX wanderings.

Finally we have A Graphic Cosmogony.  This is an anthology I picked up for myself at Fluke in Athens a while back, and was glad to pick up a copy for our store this weekend.  This is a fine example of Adhouse’s Adistro program, where publisher Chris Pitzer has started to distribute comics from around the world that he wants readers to become more familiar with.  This book comes from England’s Nobrow Press, and features 24 artists each taking 7 pages to tell a story of creation.  There’s a lot of variety and quality within these pages, and chances are if you pick this one up you’ll be introduced to the work of a few cartoonists you’ll want to continue to enjoy.

We had a blast at SPX and are happy we were able to pick up some really interesting books for all of you to enjoy.  Stop by the store and give them a look for yourselves!

SPX photos by Heather McKinney

This Saturday and Sunday Heroes’ own Rico Renzi and Seth Peagler will be in Bethesda, Maryland for this year’s Small Press Expo.  We’ll be there promoting HeroesCon’s 30th Anniversary, and will have plenty of fliers and info about the show.  If you’re interested in talking with us about reserving a small press table of your own, we’ll also be happy to assist you with that.  So if you happen to be at SPX, make sure to find us and say ‘hi.’  This year’s lineup includes talent like Jim Woodring, Johnny Ryan, Jim Rugg, Chester Brown, and Craig Thompson will be on hand to debut his long awaited followup to Blankets called Habibi.  Also on hand will be our friends from AdHouse Books, Heroes alumi/cartoonist Dustin Harbin, and more.  We’re glad to be attending, and hope to see some of you there!

Dig that Jim Rugg program cover!

While last week marked the release of DC’s flagship relaunch title Justice League, there are lots of rebooted titles hitting the stands this week.  While I’d like to list them all, there’s limited space here so I’d remind you to refer to our new releases page here for our complete listing.

1) Action Comics #1

Grant Morrison and Rags Morales are the creators who will be bringing us stories of a young Superman.  With an emphasis on the character’s blue collar roots, the book has potential to offer some interesting twists on the Superman mythos.  If you read All Star Superman you know Morrison has a deep respect and understanding of the Man of Steel.  If DC made the decision to relaunch Action Comics, whether you agree with that or not, at least we can take solace knowing they got Morrison to start it over.

2) Casanova: Avaritia#1

Brand new Casanova stories start this week from Matt Fraction, Gabriel Ba, Cris Peter and Heroes alum Dustin Harbin.  Fans have been waiting for new Casanova stories for a while, and Fraction and Co. are delivering 32 pages of story in the new issues.  This is one of those multi-layered books that seems to tie together several disparate elements and tie them together in one cohesive and entertaining way.  This is Fraction at his best and most inventive, and you should read this book if you haven’t yet.

3) Animal Man #1

As I mentioned earlier there are plenty of new DC #1 issues this week. So why talk about Animal Man?  Something tells me that 6 months from now when we look back at the relaunch, this might be one of the standout books.  Jeff Lemire is writing this book, and while his previous superhero writing efforts have been popular, I don’t think he’s really found a property he didn’t create that showcases his writing talent.  Teaming up with Travel Foreman on this project might offer him that opportunity.  The interesting thing about this book is that it seems to be a superhero story, a story about a family, and a horror story all rolled into one.  This is definitely one to consider regardless of how little or much you know about Animal Man.

4) Swamp Thing #1

From what I’ve read, Swamp Thing has long been a dream project of writer Scott Snyder.  With critically acclaimed work on American Vampire and Detective Comics, Snyder has shown he can write a wide range of subject matter.  If his take on Batman was so well done, what might he do with a character like Swamp Thing?  Yanick Paquette is illustrating, and while I was a bit skeptical about his involvement in this project, he too apparently has been a longtime fan of this character.  So you have two creators who have a great love for the history of a character coming together to work on the next chapter of that character.  That leads me to believe this will be a solid book.

5) Men of War #1

The new Sgt. Rock title offers one of the more interesting premises of any of the new DC books.  Focusing on the grandson of the original, this series will not only attempt to tell stories of modern warfare, but the fact that these soldiers operate in the same DC universe where costumed heroes and villians reside offers some interesting new potential.  Ivan Brandon and Tom Derenick helm this story, and many people really believe that this is the book Brandon has been waiting to write for a long time.  This one should be worth a read.

> Bonus Picks of the Week: Batgirl #1, Detective Comics #1, Mega Man TP vol. 1, New Avengers Annual #1, Big Questions TP, Static Shock #1, and Jacques Tardi’s Like a Sniper Lining Up His Shot HC.

1) Justice League #1

DC kicks off their company wide relaunch/reboot today with this little book from Geoff Johns and Jim Lee.  If you’re a reader who has any interest in how DC will manage this new direction, here’s the book to start you on your way.  Both Johns and Lee have strong reputations for bringing readers to a new title. I’m curious to see how they’ll work together, how long of a run they’re planning on producing together, and how they’ll make their mark on DC’s acclaimed team.  But before you read this issue, you should probably check out. . .

2) Flashpoint #5

Geoff Johns and Andy Kubert wrap up their DC-altering miniseries with this final issue.  In addition to including the war between Aquaman and the Atlantians  and Diana and the Amazons, events in this issue lead directly into DC’s new relaunch.  So if you want to find out what happens to restart these characters, here’s the place you should probablystop before picking up Justice League or any of next month’s new titles.

3) Rocketeer Adventures #4

For fans who enjoy older, pulp fueled stories, you’ll want a reminder that this book is out today.  As with the previous three issues, this one includes an all star lineup of creators paying homage to the late, great Dave Stevens.  Included in this issue are contributions from the likes of Dave Gibbons, Scott Hampton, Tony Harris, John Arcudi, Brendan McCarthy, and two pinups from Ashley Wood.  If you’re just looking for a simple, fun, continuity-free book to enjoy this week, this is the one for you.

4) Ultimate Comics Hawkeye #1

Last week saw Marvel kick off their newly updated Ultimate line with the Jonathan Hickman helmed Ultimates #1.  Hickman returns this week alongside Rafa Sandoval to tell a solo tale of SHIELD’s marksman extraordinaire.  With Hawkeye being a part of next year’s Avengers film and the character playing a more predominant role in the regular Marvel Universe in the coming months, this issue is a great place to start reading stories about the Avenging Archer.

> Bonus Picks of the Week: Bone one volume color ed HC, Angel and Faith #1, Ghost World Special Edition HC, Gambit From the Marvel Vault #1, Secret Avengers #16, and Batman: Mad Love and other Stories TP.

If you’re a regular visitor to Heroes Aren’t Hard to Find, HeroesCon, or the Charlotte MiniCon, you’re probably familiar with the work of local creator Jason Latour.  In recent years he has worked on high profile books for Marvel and DC, and most recently, saw his co-created book Loose Ends see print from 12 Gauge Comics.  His work as both a writer and artist has received acclaim from comics fans, retailers, critics, and professionals alike.  This week I got a chance to talk with this longtime friend of Heroes about the development of his comics career, and how he worked to add writing to his extensive resume.

1) Loose Ends #2

Issue one of this locally produced southern crime comic sold out across the country, and was received well by comics fans, journalists, and professionals alike.  Creators Jason Latour, Chris Brunner, and Rico Renzi have clearly put lots of work into crafting this series, and it continues to show in this week’s issue #2.  Loose Ends operates with a fine understanding of the workings of crime fiction, but is equally conscious of the cinematic qualities of crime films.  Most importantly, the creators take this knowledge and execute their narrative with an awareness of how to tell solid comics stories.  Stay tuned to the Heroes blog later in the week, where I’ll have an in depth interview with writer Jason Latour.

2) Ultimate Comics Ultimates #1

The next chapter in the story of the Ultimate universe Avengers comes to us courtesy of Jonathan Hickman and Esad Ribic.  Marvel is kicking off the new direction of their Ultimate titles with this book, and these creators will bring a level of depth and craftsmanship to these characters that should make them appealing to those who like their comics entertaining and intelligent.

3) Wolverine #14

I’m spotlighting this last issue of the Red Right Hand storyline because it’s a great issue for those  who are curious to see how writer Jason Aaron aims to direct his upcoming Wolverine and the X-men book.  Aaron continues to dig into Wolverine’s psyche and emotions, and continues to pit him against villains who can really hurt him in varying ways.  This is solid, dependable, entertaining comics writing.

4) Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #1

Whether you loved the Turtles comics in the ’80’s or the entertainment juggernaut they became in the ’90’s, you’ll probably enjoy this new Turtles series from IDW.  Several of the series’ classic elements are still present, and co-creator Kevin Eastman is also on hand working on both story and layouts.  The art from Dan Duncan looks to me like a nice new take on the characters that still manages to retain some of the original’s energy.

> Bonus Picks of the Week: the jumbo sized Dark Horse Presents #3, Kick Ass 2 #3, Action Comics #904, Comics Journal #301, Captain America and Bucky #621, Graveyard of Empires #2, and Brigthest Day Aftermath: Search for Swamp Thing #3.

1) X-men: Schism #3

Those wary of the upcoming X-men relaunches need only read this mini series to be convinced that Marvel is getting the X-men back on track.  Writer Jason Aaron continues his streak of crafting characters with deep personalities and motivations, as he unfurls this story of the widening rift between the mutants.  This issue also features art from Daniel Acuna, who has been turning in some interesting work for Marvel in recent years.

2) Little Nothings vol. 4: My Shadow in the Distance

If you’re unfamiliar with these autobiographical strips from French cartoonist Lewis Trondheim, you should consider checking this book out.  Aside from their inherent humor, Trondheim’s use of watercolor is always impressive.  These are comics elevated above simple narratives of the self, and Trondheim always manages to relate to everyday people with his poignant observations of the mundane.

3) Daredevil #2

It’s a good sign when in the midst of Marvel and DC’s numerous relaunches and reboots, a book like this comes along and takes everyone by surprise.  Mark Waid and Paolo Rivera have removed Daredevil from a few decades of grim and gritty stories and returned him to some of his more swashbuckling roots.  Along for the ride this issue are Captain America and Klaw, whose sound-based abilities should prove to be an  unique challenge for the blind superhero.

4) Sergio Aragones Funnies #2

In theory, this book should sell itself quite easily. Featuring all new stories and art from Sergio, these are humorous and accessible comics at their best.  This issue features a take on King Kong, along with the story of Sergio’s first paid art gig.  Don’t forget, they’re all ages friendly, so pick one up for the kids!

> Bonus Picks of the Week: Fear Itself: the Home Front #5, featuring an American Eagle story from local creator Jason Latour, Zatanna #16, Justice League of America #60, Ultimate Comics Fallout #6, and Captain America #2.

1) Hellboy: The Fury #3

In recent weeks creator Mike Mignola has talked about ending Hellboy as we know it.  The character will continue in some form or another with Mignola returning to his role as the character’s writer/artist, and with standalone flashback stories and graphic novels.  While characters in the  Marvel and DC universes regularly die and come back relatively quickly, Mignola is well known for killing characters and keeping them dead.  This issue from Mignola and Duncan Fegredo wraps up several years worth of stories, and will undoubtedly be the end of and era for the book.

2) Fear Itself #5

Fans of big comics action will be interested in picking up this latest issue from Marvel’s big summer event.  Matt Fraction and Stuart Immonen promise a big throwdown between Thor, and the Worthy versions of Thing and Hulk.  Plus there are some dramatic changes for some of Marvel’s other big characters, all leading up to this book’s final issues.

3) Baltimore: The Curse Bells #1

Mike Mignola kicks off the second miniseries featuring his scarred vampire hunter.  Alongside first series’ collaborators Christopher Golden and Ben Stenbeck, Mignola continues his tale of Lord Baltimore on his quest for vengeance.  This is a dark, moody, horror tale that’s much closer to Bram Stoker’s original Dracula story than almost anything else you’ll find these days.

4) War of the Green Lanterns: Aftermath #2

This epilogue to the popular War of the Green Lanterns story sets up the next year’s worth of GL tales.  Not only have we been introduced to Earth’s new Green Lantern, but this series gives us an idea to how the GL Corps will start reacting to the new GL’s shocking identity.  Also be sure to pick up this week’s issue and support local comics artist Andy Smith, who contributes art to both this book and this week’s Flashpoint: Frankenstein and the Creatures of the Unknown #3.

> Bonus Picks of the Week: Amazing Spider-man #667, Blankets HC (new edition), Terry Moore’s Echo Complete Edition SC, Ultimate Fallout #5, and DC Retroactive: The ’80’s: Green Lantern, Justice League America, and Superman.

     Don’t forget that this Saturday, August 13 we’ll be hosting our first discussion group since HeroesCon, and are kicking things off with a doozy!  Be at the store at 1 p.m. this Saturday as our fearless Discussion Group leader Andy Mansell leads us through Alan Moore and David Lloyd’s V for Vendetta.  This book was highly influential on comics readers when it debuted in the ’80’s, and remains a relevant work in the post 9/11 world.  Just why does this Thatcher era comic still matter to us today?  Is it only a political comic, or is this just another classic example of Moore’s use of analogy?  If this book is meant to symbolize something beyond the political and cultural landscape of the era in which it was produced, what might it be?  Join Andy for an enlightening examination of a true comics classic.  See you on Saturday!

1) Snarked! #0

With all the big new releases from the big two, don’t forget that Roger Langridge is also debuting the first issue of his new book from Kaboom this week.  Based on Lewis Carroll’s Walrus and Carpenter characters from the Alice in Wonderland mythos, Langridge’s humor will be in full effect with this series.  And while this #0 issue is only $1, you not only get the first Snarked story, but plenty of extras like a sketchbook section, and also puzzles and games.  This is a great pick for kids, art lovers, and anyone who enjoys great comics.

2) Flashpoint #4

DC’s universe-altering storyline gets closer to the end as Geoff Johns and Andy Kubert continue to up the ante. This issue focuses on the impending war between Emporer Aquaman and the Atlantians and Diana and the Amazonians, while the Flash gets stuck in the middle.  With the DC reboot just a few short weeks away, you’ll want to see how this story plays out.

3) Ultimate Fallout #4

If you’re a longtime reader of Marvel’s Ultimate stories, or interested in the upcoming Ultimate Spider-man relaunch, you’ll want to remember to pick up this issue.  In this issue you’ll actually learn the identity of the new Spider-man, and see how Brian Bendis, Jonathan Hickman, Nick Spencer, and Sara Pichelli are setting the stage for all their new Ultimate books.

4) S.H.I.E.L.D. vol. 2 #2

Marvel’s consistently interesting history-twisting book reaches an important issue this week, as Leonardo Da Vinci and Isaac Newton finally clash!  And if the thought of two historical figures duking it out in the Marvel Universe isn’t enough, Jonathan Hickman and Dustin Weaver also give you some background on how Howard Stark helps lay the groundwork for S.H.I.E.L.D.

5) Punisher #1

Punisher gets a relaunch this week courtesy of Greg Rucka and Marco Checchetto.  Rucka has a track record of writing solid crime comics and novels, so the idea of him writing the Punisher seems like a natural fit.  How will Rucka maintain the Punisher’s violent crime roots and still have him operating amongst Marvel’s costumed heroes and villains?  That’s the real draw of this title.

> Bonus Picks of the Week: Batman: Gates of Gotham #4, Robert Kirkman and Rob Liefeld’s Infinite #1, Crossgen/Marvel’s Mystic #1, Petrograd GN, Terry Moore’s Rachel Rising #1, Scott Snyder’s Severed #1, and Red Skull #2.