Top 100 Comics of 2014 - #20-16

Shahrazad 3

It seems the world itself is out for Shahrazad's head, but there is one who finds her life intriguing, if not impossible.  Janus sends Shahrazad to the arena to see if he can create an ending for this woman whose future is impossible to see.

By now if you’ve read prior reviews I’ve done for this series, you know I’m very much a big fan.  On the off chance this is your first insight into the world of Shahrazad, you should know you’ve found a great title to start reading.  So much has already happened in just the first three issues that I’ve seen, and I’m sure there is quite a lot more in store.

Three chapters in, and we see our heroic captain (among other roles it seems) coming face to face with the mysterious figure from the end of issue two.  His presence is one of great power, and is a fantastic counterpart to Shahrazad’s strong role.  He seems to know quite a lot about her past, but oddly, nothing of what her future holds.  That is, assuming she lives past the challenge he forces her to take part in.

We’ve already seen some fantastic art by Krome and Ruffino in our first two issues, and the momentum does not slow down.  Past the wonderfully drawn characters and world as a whole, there are a couple pages that really stood out here for me towards the end.  One specifically was done really well with a contrast of two separate, but very similar events that are mirrored so perfect.

If for some reason this does happen to be your only knowledge of this great series, it’s not too late to get started from issue one.  Things are only just starting to open up, and even so, quite a lot of great content has been packed into three books.  Shahrazad should easily be one of the titles on everybody’s read list, and is proudly on mine.

For more information on Shahrazad, check out Big Dog Ink.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

Shahrazad 2

The Sirens of legend have been held against their will for centuries on end. But will Shahrazad save them or leave them to their fate?

I normally don’t jump to conclusions as to how strongly I feel about a new read or watch.  For the most part I try to give it a few until I decide whether I like it.  Shahrazad was one of those that I couldn’t help but be immediately enthusiastic about from the start.  While still very early in the series, it is still grabbing my attention just as strongly.

The adventure, or possibly adventures as I should properly say, continues with our second issue of our leading lady.  Only a couple pages in, we get to see a little more insight as to just how many past (or future?) journeys she has been on.  We also see a peek at who appears to be an upcoming protagonist for the story, and he looks like someone to not mess with.  Also of note, we still have fighter bats, and this time they’re riding into a very atypical storm that fights back.

As anyone who reads Big Dog books should come to expect, the art is consistently awesome throughout the book.  Mike and Nei are proving to be an excellent team for this title, showing us the amazing world that the story takes place in.  One page in particular I really enjoyed, where they flawlessly melded three different appearances of Shahrazad into one.

There’s no doubt at all that I’m going to read this title for as long as it goes, which hopefully will be a good while.  The story is really intriguing and gives you just enough to thirst for more, while not leaving you unsatisfied.  If you’re not on board already for this book, you most definitely should be.

For more information on Shahrazad, check out Big Dog Ink.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

Shahrazad 1

A new heroine rises from the legends of the ancient world. Shahrazad was known for her amazing stories of 1001 Arabian Nights, but now it is time to tell her story! She lives a life unlike anything you could imagine.  An existence that spans generations as well as genres.  In this new ongoing series, Shahrazad stares into the storms on the horizon with determination, but the forces of nature, and of history, are not to be taken lightly!

It says a lot about how intriguing a comic is when you end up on a wiki page to find out more about the source material.  Granted, it’s not often that you’d run into a book taking its roots from material that you grow curious about.  But then again, Shahrazad is definitely unique in its own wonderful way like that.  This uniqueness and multiple other factors are what make it such a incredible read as you’ll see.

For those who may also be unaware, Shahrazad was the storyteller of One Thousand and One Nights - think Aladdin, Ali Baba and Sinbad.  The twist this time though, is that Shahrazad herself is the one living all of the fantastic adventures.  This initial tale has her on the high seas, with an old school naval feel mixed with modern day technology.  Throw in fighter bats (yes, you read that right), giant squid and mermaids (not Disney friendly mind you), and you have a great foundation for a long series of stories.

Filling this fun book are some of the most gorgeous pages of art you’ll see.  Mike Krome takes charge of the pencil work, which all tells just as superb of a visual story as the writing does.  To top it off, Nei Ruffino once again lays down some of the most stunning colors around to truly make the artwork pop.  Plus, a bonus that I’m personally excited about is J Scott Campbell giving us “B” covers for each issue.

If I had one regret about this book, it’s that I never took the time to jump on it sooner.  The story and artwork both come together to bring us one of the nicest titles I’ve had the pleasure of opening.  Don’t let this one pass you by, and make sure you check this off on your pull list.  I’ll certainly be adding this to my regular reading.

For more information on Shahrazad, check out Big Dog Ink.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual reviewer.

Top 10 Comic Book Series of 2013 - #5 to #1

Submitted by:

Top 10 Comic Book Series from 2013 : Numbers 10-6

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Legends of Oz : The Scarecrow

The first in the collection of planned character studies and standalone vignettes, The Legends of Oz: The Scarecrow is a two issue miniseries devoted to everyone’s favorite mysterious sidekick. Join Big Dog Ink and writer Pat Shand as we delve deeper into the origins of the quirky Scarecrow who’s out to prove that just because she’s a mysterious puppet created by evil magic, it doesn’t mean she can’t be pure good!

It’s not Kansas anymore, although it certainly feels more like it than the classic Oz did.  Regardless of where it really takes place, this Legend of Oz: Scarecrow mini still has the same wonderful mystique of the story we all know so well.  If you haven’t had the pleasure of reading any of BDI’s twist on Oz, this is a great place to start.

With writer Pat Shand at the helm, we get a wonderful little story that is paced just right for the two issues it was set in.  Whether or not you have actually read Wicked West, you’ll get to enjoy some fun insight into the history of our adorable Scarecrow.  Odds are if you haven’t though, this well written pair of books will wet your whistle enough to make you seek out the rest of the series.

Even having provided such good writing, that could only go so far considering our leading lady can’t talk.  It says a lot about how successful the art is when a mute character can speak volumes with just her body language.  By the end of the story, you’ll be pleased with the job Carlos Rena did in portraying everything the Scarecrow “said” to people.

Although this mini-series can easily stand on its own, you’re not going to want to stop with just these two books.  Taking a classic like Oz and doing it right is risky, but the folks at BDI pull if off oh so well.  Do yourself a big favor and grab The Scarecrow and then check out the rest!

For more information on The Scarecrow or other Big Dog Ink titles, check out Big Dog Ink.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are 100% those of the individual reviewer.

Wizard World Philadelphia 2013

When one thinks of Philadelphia, usually the first things that come to mind are cheesesteaks, the Liberty Bell, and the Phillies.  However, when I think of “The City of Brotherly Love”, only one thing comes to mind, Wizard World Philadelphia.  Now mind you, this would be my first year travelling down to Philly for this con.  In fact I’ve been heading south since 2008 (except last year when I lived on the other side of the country), so needless to say, I’m no stranger to Philly’s Wizard World show.  However this is my first time reporting on it, so we’re going to see how this goes.

After emerging from the subway station out on to the sweltering streets of Philadelphia, I couldn’t help but feel a slight twinge of excitement, just knowing what lay ahead of me within the Pennsylvania Convention Center.  As I walked through the doors and the mercifully cool air hit me, I knew that this was where I belonged.  I could finally be amongst my brethren and not feel like such an outcast.  This show has always been a bit special to me.  A lot of firsts happened here.  This was my very first con, this was where I was first fully introduced to the wonders of Zenescope, where I first started making “donations” to the art community and where I met some of my good friends.  So, as you can see, this is an important convention to me, which I try to get to every year.  With that in mind, I hope to do the show justice and bring in more people to attend this wonderful convention.

So, right off the bat, I gotta say how much I enjoyed the ease of access this show had.  What I mean by that is just how easy it was to maneuver around the place.  You didn’t get that claustrophobic feeling every time you tried to pass between the different booths.  I liked how open and free the convention felt and it was just the right size for me too.  I’m not a huge fan of large crowds (although I don’t think most people are), so for a show this size to come around is just plain awesome for me.  It was small enough where you didn’t get the massive crowds like in New York or San Diego, but large enough that it draws in some pretty amazing talent and celebs. 

Which leads me to my next point: the overall content of the show.  I found that there was quite a bit to see and do.  I could honestly spend a whole day just perusing through all of the different vendors.  Comic book re-sellers were everywhere, which is a colletor’s dream.  Being a collector myself I love going through and finding that one book necessary to either further or complete my collection and a lot of the books are fairly cheap compared to someplace like eBay.  However, the comics are just the tip of the iceberg.  There were action figures, t-shirts, leather-working, old video games and so much more.  The variety was just plain fantastic and that’s not even including the exhibitors.  Two of my favorite independent comic book companies were in attendance: Zenescope, who are practically right down the street from the convention and Big Dog Ink.  In my opinion, both of these companies are doing something fresh and innovative with their stories and I’m always apt to support, not really up-and-comers, but not really as big of companies as DC or Marvel.  The best part is, everyone at both booths seemed very laid back and easy to talk to.  Hands down one of my favorite things to do at conventions is to interact with the creators of some of these series that I read.  May it be to get a little insight as to the creation of a character, or just to shoot the breeze.  Either way, it’s great to be able to meet the people behind the pages. 

Now, I could easily and I mean easily, spend a month’s paycheck in Artist Alley.  Here’s where I love the ease of access again because I could freely browse through all of the different artists without having to vie for position.  Wizard World Philly managed to procure artists of all different media, but all with the nerd culture in mind.  You don’t understand how much I enjoyed seeing all of the different ways Batman or Spider-Man were depicted, not to mention all of the female characters.  Artist Alley is probably one of my absolute favorite sections to wander through because not only do you get to pick up some more great art, but you can also meet and converse with all of these new writers and artists.  And now we go over to the Special Guest section, where all of the celebrities hold signings and photo ops.  Now we’re not talking about B movie actors and actresses, although some people prefer them over the big names, Wizard World Philly brings in big names from shows and movies that the attendees know and love.  This year alone, I was able to meet the captain himself, William Shatner and the legend Stan Lee, not to mention Adam Baldwin, Gina Torres, Summer Glau and Jewel Staite, who, I’ve gotta say are some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet.  Now that’s some star power right there.  I really want to say thank you to people running this show for giving me the opportunity to meet these people whom I’ve marveled on screen for so long.  It truly was an honor.  The only thing I didn’t get to experience were the panels (and they all sounded pretty cool too), but that’s only because I got lost amongst all of the great stuff happening on the show floor.  Perhaps next year I’ll actually make it to some.

So, the show was absolutely amazing, except for one incident that occurred Saturday morning.  Essentially what happened was, I had previously purchased tickets online for autographs from a select few celebs.  When you finally get the ticket, it gives you the option to either print it out or send it to this app on an iPhone called Spotpass.  I figured I would save some trees and give myself three less things to carry around with me and downloaded the tickets to my phone.  Fast forward to the Saturday of the convention and I’m standing in line, waiting to meet Stan Lee.  Now, I’ve been in line for a good half an hour to an hour at this point.  So, I finally make it up to the front of the line, I’ve got my ticket queued up on my phone and I’m told I need a paper ticket.  Believe me, I was not happy at the point, so I furiously ran around the show floor, hoping to see some signage saying where to redeem these tickets.  I finally ended up at the information booth, only to be told that I would have to go downstairs to Kinko’s in order to print out the tickets, which increased my anger even more.  Then it was suggested I go out to the Guest Relations/Press Registration booth to see what they can do about the ticket.  After I had to forward my e-mail receipts to the coordinator at the booth, I got them printed out, but was told that the tickets had said that a physical ticket would be required to meet these people.  At that I had missed the autograph time slot for the morning and would have to wait until the afternoon to try again.  Now, maybe the tickets did say that, I know I didn’t see it, but if that’s the case, why would they even give you the option to download the tickets if a physical one is required?  It just doesn’t make sense.  One thing that could have been done would have been to have a sign out in front of the Special Guest area, saying that a physical ticket was required for pre-purchased autographs or photo ops and even then have a station set up so you could then print off the tickets if you needed to.  I mean something like that could have prevented an unnecessary headache, for me and possibly for others as well.  I was definitely cheesed off for a good portion of the day, but it didn’t ruin the convention for me.  This is just something that should be considered for future shows.

Overall the convention was a great experience, despite a miscommunication.  As I headed out of the hall for the last time this year, I left with a newfound perspective on a lot of things as well as a greater appreciation of all of the friends I’ve made at this show.  Sure there will be other shows and new people to meet, but Wizard World Philadelphia will always be my show of firsts.  So thank you to everyone who helped make this show possible and for making it such a wonderful experience.  I would most definitely recommend this convention to anyone looking for a relaxing and enjoyable time and to the populace in general.  Wizard World Philly 2013 was one hell of a show.

Sin, Religion & the Apocalypse…in Vegas Penny for Your Soul returns with Death

This summer, the comic book series that launched a company returns.  Three years ago Big Dog Ink creator/writer/editor Tom Hutchison printed a few thousand copies of the #1 issue of an unknown comic book…and then promptly printed thousands more when the first edition sold out in comic book stores around the country.  Penny for Your Soul: War was a smash hit, and helped launch not only Tom’s career, but a comic book publishing company.  This summer, hot on the heels of best-selling Joan of Arc: From the Ashes, Penny for Your Soul returns with the third installment of this smash-hit series, Penny for Your Soul: Death!

Tom Hutchison returns to delve even further into the story of Danica, the granddaughter of the Devil, as she continues to claim her place in the age old battle of good vs. evil, and carve out her roll in the end of days battle between Heaven and Hell!  Which side will she choose?  Why her own of course, but she won’t be doing it by herself.  Longtime friends will return, along with new companions, and the sarcastic, snappy, sexy but always smart, story that fans have come to expect from Big Dog Ink’s guilty pleasure in a comic book!

Big Dog Ink believes in bringing fans consistent quality, which is why the art team of JB Neto on pencils and Oren Kramek on colors for interiors and “A” covers also return when Penny for Your Soul marches one seal closer to the final battle and the next horseman of the apocalypse appears!  A new addition to the team, superstar up and coming artist Jen Broomall is bringing the sexy back as she lends her pencils to the “B” covers.  Issue #1 will also feature an amazing 1/10 retailer variant with a painted cover by total package artist Natali Sanders!

Available for pre-order in the June Diamond Previews catalog and releasing this August, Penny for Your Soul: Death will follow in the tradition of its predecessors as a 7-issue mini-series event.  This hot and provocative comic will ship monthly and retails for $3.50.  For more information or


About Big Dog Ink
Founded in 2009, Big Dog Ink is an independent publisher of diverse comic book properties such as PENNY FOR YOUR SOUL, URSA MINOR, CRITTER, KNIGHTINGAIL and REX: ZOMBIE KILLER.  Since its inception, Big Dog Ink has quickly become a top publisher in the industry with its hit series, THE LEGEND OF OZ: THE WICKED WEST, which has consistently charted in the "Diamond Top 300" list.  BDI has gained a loyal fan following due to our high quality art, stories and dedication to elevating the art of small press and creator owned publishing.

Kickstarter/Indiegogo Spotlight: Knightingail: Shadow Divisions

For more information or to support this Kickstarter, head on over to the official Knightingail: Shadow Divisions page.

Big Dog Ink Slithers into All Ages Comics with Serusis

 This summer, comic book publisher Big Dog Ink brings you throwback goodness with our 80’s cartoon inspired all-ages comic book mini-series, Serusis!  Can the Serusian’s convince a set of humans to help save their planet from the domineering Relitons?  Will evil leader, Snoggard’s mighty army squash the Serusians once and for all?  Can you love Big Dog Ink comics even more than you already do?  Find out the answer to these nail-biting questions, and many more, starting June 2013!

Out to prove that all-ages does not have to equal low quality or less entertaining, Big Dog Ink is bringing out the big guns to rock this comic book series.  Powerhouse writer Tom Hutchison puts this homage to all things retro and FUN into fancy dialog and otherworldly scenes.  As if the writer of Critter & Legend of Oz: The Wicked West wasn’t enough talent, Avengelyne artist Owen Gieni also joins the Big Dog Ink family with his gorgeous pencils and bright & beautiful colors.  Issue #1 features three gorgeous covers by Owen that make a beautiful set to collect as well as a perfect introduction to the world of Serusis!

While this series is great for the younger comic book readers in your life, it’s also got a story that will be appealing to fans of any and all persuasions.  Issue #1 begins when the Serusian’s abduct a quartet of unwitting humans, and with Big Dog Ink as the publisher, who knows where it will end!  Talking otherworldly snakes, mysterious magical devices, a prophecy waiting to be fulfilled and so much more.  Don’t miss out on the newest story from the publisher that’s taking the comic book world by storm!   

Serusis #1 (of 6) is currently available for pre-order in the April Diamond Previews catalog for June 2013 Release with a retail price of $3.50. 

The In Crowd Saving the Summer the Only Way they Know How

This summer, prepare for super heroes as you’ve never seen them before.  They’ve got great hair, great bodies and great power.  But great responsibility?  Yeah, not so much!  From the pages of Critter and the Slipstream one-shot comes this fun, fast paced four issue limited series from Big Dog Ink.  Wing-Boy, Lasso Lass, Tiffany and Slipstream team up with brand new character Barnacle to fight crime and help save the world from “High Tide” but will looking good for their reality TV series get in the way of doing good?

 In the tradition of the bestselling Big Dog Ink throwback series, Critter, writer Eric Esquivel (Electric Youth) and artist C.B. Zane (Cricket) bring readers a look at a superhero team that is truly not ready for prime time!  With Corey Knaebel contributing on the “B” covers, the art team on the series couldn’t be more vibrant!

Read along with Critter and the High-Tide event, or as a standalone introduction to our new and fun modern heroes, the In Crowd continues Big Dog Ink’s tradition of providing entertaining stories in a variety of genres to satisfy even the most discerning comic book appetite. 

In Crowd is currently available for pre-order in the April Diamond Previews catalog for June 2013 Release with a retail price of $3.50.  For more information or for promotional materials or opportunities please email Kim@bigdogink.com.

About Big Dog Ink

Founded in 2009, Big Dog Ink is an independent publisher of diverse comic book properties such as PENNY FOR YOUR SOUL, URSA MINOR, CRITTER, KNIGHTINGAIL and REX: ZOMBIE KILLER.  Since its inception, Big Dog Ink has quickly become a top publisher in the industry with its hit series, THE LEGEND OF OZ: THE WICKED WEST, which has consistently charted in the "Diamond Top 300" list.  BDI has gained a loyal fan following due to our high quality art, stories and dedication to elevating the art of small press and creator owned publishing.

Big Dog Ink Teams Up With Wayne Gardiner to Bring Fans More Knightingail

Big Dog Ink and Knightingail comic creator/writer/producer Wayne Gardiner are overjoyed to announce that the Knightingail saga will be returning to Big Dog Ink this Summer! The all-ages, fantasy-adventure comic book Knightingail: Shadow Divisions will be available in comic book stores nationwide beginning July 2013 and will continue as a 6-issue monthly mini-series.

Suitable for fans young and old, Knightingail: Shadow Divisions continues to follow the adventures of Knightingail where the first mini-series volume, Knightingail: The Legend Begins, left off. In this breathtaking new series, Knightingail and her four Centurion companions must somehow find a way to unite and use their combined powers to destroy Luceus and a band of assassin warriors known as the Showdow Ravens.

Knightingail: Shadow Divisions will include the same phenomenal, full-color artwork featured in volume one.  New series penciler/inker Mel Joy San Juan brings amazing details and expressive facial emotions to Knightingail and friends.  Colorist Katrina Mae Hao returns from the first volume to add her breath-taking color artwork to the world of Knightingail.

Knightingail: Shadow Divisions will also feature amazing cover artwork. Keeping with Big Dog Ink tradition, two covers will be released nationally in stores. The Cover “A” artwork will be provided by interior artists Mel Joy San Juan and Katrina Mae Hao. Cover “B” artwork will be illustrated by the amazing team of Nathan Seals and Kate Finnegan who provide a unique Disney-
Manga like full-painted art style.  A talented line-up of artists will also be contributing cover art to the series including Dawn McTeigue, Jen Broomall, Mike DeBalfo, and Nei Ruffino with colors being provided by Ula Mos and Nei Ruffino.

 If you enjoyed Knightingail: The Legend Begins, creator Wayne Gardiner promises an even more thrilling and dynamic story in Shadow Divisions. Knightingail: Shadow Division fiercely launches into the challenges, perils, and anguish that result from war. Shadow Divisions features larger, epic battles only hinted at in the first volume while retaining the emotionally charged and sometimes hilarious dialogue that passes between Knightingail and her friends. Great for new readers and longtime fans of Knightingail, Wayne Gardiner weaves a narration monologue by Knightingail throughout the first issue introducing new and continuing readers to everything they need to know to appreciate this exciting new series.

About Big Dog Ink
Founded in 2009, Big Dog Ink is an independent publisher of diverse comic book properties such as PENNY FOR YOUR SOUL, URSA MINOR, CRITTER, KNIGHTINGAIL and REX: ZOMBIE KILLER.  Since its inception, Big Dog Ink has quickly become a top publisher in the industry with its hit series, THE LEGEND OF OZ: THE WICKED WEST, which has consistently charted in the "Diamond Top 300" list.  BDI has gained a loyal fan following due to our high quality art, stories and dedication to elevating the art of small press and creator owned publishing.

Big Dog Ink June 2013 Solicitations

 The Legend of Oz: The Wicked West #9

Writer: Tom Hutchison

Artist: Alisson Borges

Cover A: Alisson Borges

Cover B: Nei Ruffino 

A & B covers ship 50/50

Hop on board as we delve deeper into the mystery behind the Emerald City mines.  The excavation at the Emerald City has picked up steam, but Dr. Pipt isn't sure he can be part of it any longer.

$3.50

Critter #13

Writer/Creator: Tom Hutchison

Artist: Fico Ossio

Cover A: Fico Ossio

Cover B: Romano Molenaar

A & B Covers ship 50/50

Big Dog Ink’s first event series “High Tide” continues as the world's heroes struggle to find a way to defeat Tidepool. But help is on the way.

$3.50 

 

The In Crowd #1

Writer: Eric Esquivel

Artist: C.B. Zane

Cover A: C.B. Zane

Cover B: Corey Knaebel

A & B Covers ship 50/50

As Tidepool begins his epic destruction of the United States, a group of young heroes takes the scene by storm -- with their cameramen in place to get their good sides on film! From the pages of Critter, The In Crowd mixes the fun of superheroes with the ridiculousness of the reality TV craze. They've got great hair, great bodies, and great power. But great responsibility? Not so much!

$3.50 

 

Serusis #1

Writer/Creator: Tom Hutchison

Artist: Owen Gieni

Cover A, B, C: Owen Gieni

A, B &C Covers ship in equal quantities

Welcome to Serusis. A planet merely thousands of years old, and one that has just been taken over by a hostile force. Relitons swarm the planet's cities and their leader, General Snogard, will not stop until he controls the planet and the name of Asta is once again feared by the Serusian inhabitants. Big Dog Ink's first all ages book brings the excitement and adventure of a science fiction story and mixes it with fantasy and art reminiscent of some of the best animated cartoons of the 80's. There is something for everyone in this comic as four humans are abducted and called to action to help the Serusians take back their planet!

$3.50

 

Ursa Minor Trade Paperback Vol. 1

Writer/Creator: Tom Hutchison

Art & Cover: Ian Snyder

2022. Werewolves are an endangered species. Vampires are mankind's saviors and one girl with a power she can barely control is determined to return the supernatural balance that nature had intended. Tom Hutchison, creator of Penny for Your Soul and Legend of Oz takes the concepts of lycanthropy and vampires, as well as the dark sides of human beings to new levels. And don't forget the werebear!  This trade paperback collects the SOLD-OUT 6 issue mini-series.

$17.99

About Big Dog Ink

Founded in 2009, Big Dog Ink is an independent publisher of diverse comic book properties such as PENNY FOR YOUR SOUL, URSA MINOR, CRITTER, KNIGHTINGAIL and REX: ZOMBIE KILLER.  Since its inception, Big Dog Ink has quickly become a top publisher in the industry with its hit series, THE LEGEND OF OZ: THE WICKED WEST, which has consistently charted in the "Diamond Top 300" list.  BDI has gained a loyal fan following due to our high quality art, stories and dedication to elevating the art of small press and creator owned publishing.

Big Dog Ink Gets Even More Wicked with Legends of Oz

In 2010, Big Dog Ink thrilled the independent comic book market with the release of The Legend of Oz: The Wicked West.  This Wild West retelling of the beloved story of Dorothy Gale and her journey to find the wizard was a hit with fans of the classic tales of Oz and comic book readers alike.  In 2012 Big Dog Ink launched a much anticipated ongoing monthly comic book as a follow up to the critically acclaimed mini-series.  Where the original six issues brought fans familiar characters with a western twist, the ongoing comic delves deeper into the rich mythos of the Land of Oz with new characters pulled straight from the beloved series of children’s books, with a Big Dog Ink style twist of course.

On the heels of this increasingly popular series comes Big Dog Ink’s latest journey into the world of Toto the horse and the Tin Man sheriff.  In Legends of Oz, Big Dog Ink takes advantage of the limited series format to bring you in depth looks at the origins of some of your favorite characters.  The first in the collection of planned character studies and standalone vignettes, The Legends of Oz: The Scarecrow will be a two issue miniseries devoted to everyone’ favorite mysterious sidekick.  Join Big Dog Ink and writer Pat Shand as we delve deeper into the origins of the quirky Scarecrow who’s out to prove that just because she’s a mysterious puppet created by evil magic, it doesn’t mean she can’t be pure good!

Featuring interior art and an “A” cover by the talented Big Dog Ink newcomer Carlos Reno and with colors and “B” covers respectively by regular Legend of Oz: The Wicked West artists Kate Finnegan and Nei Ruffino, these new Legends limited series are a perfect complement to the existing gritty western universe created in the monthly ongoing comic book.  Fans can read The Legends of Oz: The Scarecrow side by side with the monthly title to broaden their Oz universe, or on its own as a standalone story.  The Legends of Oz: The Scarecrow is also the perfect addition to comic book stores shelves to lure new fans into checking out the goodness that is the Wicked West!

The Legends of Oz: The Scarecrow #1 releases in April 2013 and is currently available for pre-order in the February Diamond previews catalog with a retail price of $3.50.

About Big Dog Ink
Founded in 2009, Big Dog Ink is an independent publisher of diverse comic book properties such as PENNY FOR YOUR SOUL, URSA MINOR, CRITTER, KNIGHTINGAIL and REX: ZOMBIE KILLER.  Since its inception, Big Dog Ink has quickly become a top publisher in the industry with its hit series, THE LEGEND OF OZ: THE WICKED WEST, which has consistently charted in the "Diamond Top 300" list.  BDI has gained a loyal fan following due to our high quality art, stories and dedication to elevating the art of small press and creator owned publishing.

May Solicitations: Big Dog Ink

The Legend of Oz: The Wicked West #8

Writer: Eric Esquivel
Artist: Carlos Reno

Cover A: Carlos Reno
Cover B: Nei Ruffino
A & B covers ship 50/50

The epic western themed adventure in the land of Oz continues as Jack Pumpkinhead squares off against an old friend who was believed dead…and maybe he would have been better off if he stayed that way!




The Legends of Oz: The Scarecrow #2 (of 2)

Writer: Pat Shand
Artist: Carlos Reno

Cover A: Carlos Reno
Cover B: Nei Ruffino
A&B covers ship 50/50

The epic finale of our first Legends of Oz spin-off.  The Scarecrow must not only face off against the evil Serulion, but also the Denslow townsfolk who have no reason to trust another scarecrow with their lives.



Critter #12

Writer/Creator: Tom Hutchison
Artist: Fico Ossio

Cover A: Fico Ossio
Cover B: Romano Molenaar
A & B Covers ship 50/50

Part 2 of Big Dog Ink’s very first event.  High Tide continues across the United States as Critter and School Girl concentrate on how to defeat Tidepool…with the help of some unforeseen friends.




The Legend of Oz: The Wicked West – Trade Paperback Volume 2

(cover image coming soon)

Writer/Creator: Tom Hutchison
Art & Cover: Alisson Borges

Dorothy Gale and the Wicked Witch of the West have disappeared.  Months have passed since their face to face meeting and no one in Oz knows the outcome. Now it is up to Gale’s friends, The Scarecrow, Tin Man and Lion, to find out just what happened.  Collecting issues 1-5 of the hit ongoing series. It’s Oz as you have never seen it before!

$17.99




About Big Dog Ink
Founded in 2009, Big Dog Ink is an independent publisher of diverse comic book properties such as PENNY FOR YOUR SOUL, URSA MINOR, CRITTER, KNIGHTINGAIL and REX: ZOMBIE KILLER.  Since its inception, Big Dog Ink has quickly become a top publisher in the industry with its hit series, THE LEGEND OF OZ: THE WICKED WEST, which has consistently charted in the "Diamond Top 300" list.  BDI has gained a loyal fan following due to our high quality art, stories and dedication to elevating the art of small press and creator owned publishing.

Phoenix Comicon Brings the Comics!

Phoenix Comicon is proud to announce Colleen Doran, Katie Cook, Annie Nocenti, Kevin Maquire, Mark Morales, Mark Greenawalt, Natali Sanders, Jolene Houser, Jenevieve Broomall, Michael Macropoulos, Scott Godlewski, Jim Hanna, and Marat Mychaels will be joining us for 2013.

“Our line up just gets more and more awesome. I can't believe all the amazing talent from across the industry we have coming this year.” Marketing Director Jillian Squires

Colleen Doran is an illustrator who has worked for Lucas film, The Walt Disney Company, Marvel Comics, Image Comics, DC Comics, and many more. Her graphic novel series A Distant Soil,  was listed among the 101 best graphic novels of all time, and has tens of thousands of readers as a webcomic. A Distant Soil has recently returned to Image Comics, with a final chapter run, and new, digitally restored editions of the trade paperback collections.

Annie Nocenti is a former editor for Marvel Comics. In the late 80's Nocenti took over Daredevil  as the writer from 1987 to 1991. She went on to write for many other Marvel titles and the Miniseries Kid Eternity.  Nocenti left the industry in the late 90's to pursue journalism but returned last year and took over as writer for Green Arrow.

Kevin Maquire is an artist known for his working on the Justice League, Defenders, Batman Cofidential, X-men, and many many more.

Mark Morales is a Inker who worked on Marvel Comics such as Secrect Invasion, Siege and Thor.

Mark Greenawalt is best known for his live bodypainting exhibitions at galleries, conventions, and even the prestigious Playboy Mansion. He has lectured on the art of bodypainting in Europe, Asia, and throughout North America and he currently lives  in Phoenix.

Natali Sanders entered the comic world after attending last year’s Phoenix Comic Con. Her first cover was with BDI (Big Dog Ink) and since then she has drawn covers for Penny for Your Soul, The Legend of Oz the Wicked West, and the new series Ursa Minor.

Jolene Houser got her start in Comics industry with Dusk Comics in 2008. Drawing a few short stories in their flagship book "Dusk". She has  been working in the industry doing conventions and local events since then. She is a contributor in the first volume of IDW's Womanthology.

Jenevieve Broomall is a cover illustrator and character designer whose work has appeared in Critter and Joan of Arc From the ashes.

Cartoonist, artist and illustrator Michael Macropoulos is the creator of Spookgirl.

Scott Godlewski is co-creator of the action anthology Mysterious Adventure Magazine and a freelance illustrator, having most recently been published in Dracula: The Company of Monstersfor BOOM! Studios.

Jim Hanna is an Artist/Writer based in Mesa, Arizona. He has provided art for Arcana Studio, Upper Deck, Red 5 Comics, Cryptozoic Entertainment and Marvel/The Hero Initiative. Jim’s newest project is the creator-owned title, Jack Rabbit, part of Contraband Comics’ initial wave of titles.

Marat Mychaels has worked at Marvel Comics on titles such as X-Force:Shatterstar and Deadpool Corp, and a number of DC 52 titles including Hawk and Dove and Grifter. He currently resides in Brea, CA where he freelances as a graphic designer and comicbook illustrator. Marat is currently working on his creator owned projects Blindside and Notti & Nyce published by Contraband Comics.

Phoenix Comicon is the signature pop culture experience of the southwest. Comicon is presenting guests and programming for hobbyists by attracting the top segments of the comics, anime, sci-fi, film, tv, and gaming industries. Entering its eleventh year, Phoenix Comicon is expected to draw over 40,000 attendees to its May 23-26, 2013 convention held at the Phoenix Convention Center and Hyatt Regency in Downtown Phoenix.

For more information, please go to http://www.phoenixcomicon.com.

Announcing Big Dog Ink Cosplay Edition Variant Covers

Big Dog Ink is proud to announce a new feature for convention appearances: Cosplay Edition Variant Covers.  Limited edition, collectible variant covers have become a mainstay of the convention scene.  When the family goes to a theme park you buy a collectible key chain or shot glass.  When you go to a comic book convention, the variant cover is your must-have take home commemorative item.  Cosplayers are also a huge part of the convention scene.  Very little beats the thrill of seeing someone so in love with comics that they are inspired to dress up in a costume and wrap themselves in the personae of their favorite character

So what’s a Cosplay Edition Variant you may ask?  In short, it’s Big Dog Ink’s way of saying we love our devoted, committed, fanatical, amazing fans who come to conventions dressed up as Big Dog Ink characters and we want to support and reward their time, effort and general bad-assery.  Starting with our first 2013 convention appearance at Amazing Arizona Comic Con at the Phoenix Convention Center Jan 25-27^th, any fan that shows up at the Big Dog Ink booth dressed as one of our characters will take home one of a series of special super limited Cosplay Edition Variant Covers, completely FREE!

To start the series off with a bang, the first Cosplay cover will be a variant for Critter #8 featuring a gorgeous Mike DeBalfo cover with colors by coloring master Nei Ruffino.  So come out and visit Big Dog Ink at a convention appearance near you, get dressed in your best Naomi, Danica, Lucifer, Critter, Tin Man (or any BDI character that tickles your fancy) and pick up your very own FREE Limited Edition Cosplay Edition Variant Cover as a token of our appreciation for helping us prove that Big Dog Ink has the best and most committed fans in all of comicdom!

 About Big Dog Ink

Founded in 2009, Big Dog Ink is an independent publisher of diverse comic book properties such as PENNY FOR YOUR SOUL, URSA MINOR, CRITTER, KNIGHTINGAIL and REX: ZOMBIE KILLER.  Since its inception, Big Dog Ink has quickly become a top publisher in the industry with its hit series, THE LEGEND OF OZ: THE WICKED WEST, which has consistently charted in the "Diamond Top 300" list.  BDI has gained a loyal fan following due to our high quality art, stories and dedication to elevating the art of small press and creator owned publishing.

Editor's Note: Wow, wow and wow again! BDI is pulling out all the stops! I've never cosplayed but I've wanted to. This might be just the incentive I need!

Wizard World Austin Wrap Up: Gangnam Style

A while back you may have seen us posting that Wizard World was looking for some awesome folk to participate in a brand new music video that they would be shooting in Austin.  Well, it's done and I have to say that NyQ did a fantastic job putting this together. I was lucky enough to meet a lot of the cosplayers and folks who participated so this one is extra fun for me! Stop what you're doing, watch the video..especially watch for Austin Zangief and the Big Dog Ink Crew..they had a lot of fun! Now for us to have some fun and enjoy!

South Korean pop star PSY released a bombshell in the form of his single “Gangnam Style,” and even the ranks of fanboys and fangirls have been affected by the infectious rhythm and video which is been viewed over 700 million times on YouTube. At Wizard World Austin, our fans, celebrities, artists, and vendors joined in the action, bringing “Gangnam Style” to a Wizard World Comic Con!

Check out the video above, and join in on the action next time at Wizard World New Orleans on November 30, and December 1 and 2. You never know what will be going on, who will be there, or where the cameras might be, but we want you to be a part of it all. Share our “Geeknam Style” video above with your friends, and we’ll see you soon.

A very special Wizard World thank you to NyQ Bonaventura, aka The StarShip, for putting this fantastic video together, and more props to Seth Edwards, Tony Robledo, Cesar Riojas, and the students at the Art Institute of Austin who all helped with videography.

Cricket, Agent of U.N.I.C.O.R.N

"Cricket jumps out of the pages of Critter as she takes on a Russian terrorist cell as well as tackling her own internal conflicts. Cricket has choices to make like any other super powered person, but has her life of crime and her desire to see the heroes of the world punished for her father's death been worth the struggle?

Villain or hero is a decision she has to make on her own - or with some careful nudging from Paradox."

Sometimes, in life, you just drop the ball. That's what I did with this review. I was handed this book by its author back at the end of September and I read it the very same night, while sitting in a hotel room. I was so excited about it that I told people about it and somehow, my brain turned that into I wrote about it. It wasn't until this past weekend when I realized that I hadn't. My sincere apologies to Keith Thomas on that one. I goofed. Now, on with the review...

The Good:
If you're familiar with the Critter universe, you might recognize this little gal. In this book, we find out a little more about the girl who becomes Cricket. The story is fast paced and keeps you turning pages as fast as your eyes can take in the art and your mind can absorb the story. Big Dog Ink has a history of good artists and this book is no exception. When you combine it with the writing skills of someone like Keith Thomas, this book is sure to please not only fans of Critter, but fans of superheroes (and villains).

The Bad:
If I have one complaint it would be a continuity issue that occurs late in the book. Cricket is recognized on one page and then when she is "revealed" on the next, we're supposed to believe that everyone is surprised. I'm not quite sure how that happened, but it doesn't take away from the story. It just made me pause for a moment.

The Summary : Fans of Critter and even those who aren't familiar with this book will want to go out and pick it up. If your local store doesn't have it, tell them to order it. It will be worth the wait. Unfortunately, this book is a one shot. It's honestly my opinion that this little girl could carry her own title and it's one that I would add to my pull list. The combination of Keith Thomas and Corey Zayatz is a winner and Big Dog Ink would be smart to keep this pairing and keep this story going.

For more information on this title, check out Big Dog Ink on Facebook and on their website.

Geek-o-Rama received a copy of this book in exchange for this review. All thoughts, comments and opinions are those of the individual authors.