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THE GREAT CYCLOPIAN #5 is VICTORIOUS
Our campaign maxed out at $1,191.00! Thank you backers! We are so excited to be sending you issue number five, and can’t wait to present you with issue number six!
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THE GREAT CYCLOPIAN #5 – FULLY FUNDED AND AWARDING STRETCH GOALS!
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The Great Cyclopian #5 Is Coming
The Canadian Shield Issues 1 & 2
Blending Christianity and comic books seems an unlikely match, but Rick Piper at Cross Comics has done just that with his comic book series “The Canadian Shield.” Although there is a Jesus vibe to his stories, it’s not preachy. Rather, he uses various elements and plot structures to introduce an angel messenger from God who sends Canadian Shield off on missions of moral pursuit. But I am getting ahead of myself…
In his first issue of Canadian Shield, the reader is introduced to his protagonist, Man Like Cougar, the name reflects the character Indigenous heritage. Man Like Cougar, begins his journey with Jesus, but it’s not that simple. Add time travel and a suit that allows the wearer to become an enhanced version of himself with super powers then pepper in heroic adventures blessed by God, makes this comic book an interesting read!
Canadian Shield #2 uses the same protagonist, Man Like Cougar. In this issue he continues to receive heavenly orders and meets the antagonist, Toxico. This character is on a mission to destroy a nuclear power plant, possibly killing millions. Man Like Cougar aka the Canadian Shield is sent to stop Toxico. Throughout the narrative, Piper touches upon Christian theology, but again he does a good job of not shoving it down one’s throat, so to speak. Once again Canadian Shield, a superhero for God, takes down Toxico one punch at a time!
The Positives.
Rick Piper’s desire to combine his love for superheroes and his love for Jesus is appreciated. I enjoyed the quirkiness of his character’s and his creativity in the overall story arcs. The basic superhero plot structure is duly noted in both issues. The pacing in both issues was reasonable and it had enough dialogue/action to keep the reader engaged. I preferred the coloring, panel layout and dialogue boxes in issue 2, however, issue 1 idiosyncratic’s coloring, panel layout and lettering at times diverted my attention from the story.
Areas that need work.
The most notable area in issue 1 that should be addressed is the different styles of fonts used as well as the many typographical and grammatical errors. An editor would have been able to help in this area. Issue 2 on the other hand did not have those errors. I enjoyed the addition of Piper Pulpit, but the overall tone and word usage could use some tightening up. To take these stories to the next level and reach a wider audience, a solid comic book editor could really help.
Overall both issues were an interesting read and since I know the creator, I know how much of his heart and soul he puts into his work. I look forward to reading his next issue of Canadian Shield!
The Berge Sisters Tour The Neitherswarth – Book Review
Author JL DuRona’s love for mythical, macabre and peculiar does not disappoint in his fantastical tale entitled, “The Berge Sisters Tour The Neitherswarth.” He received his BA in Children’s Literature from Castleton University in 2007 and earned his MFA from the Center for Cartoon Studies in 2011.
If you are a fan of books like Goosebumps, by R.L.Stine and The Night Gardener, by Jonathan Auxier, then you are in for a wonderful journey into the wondrous world of the The Berge Sisters!
Stepsister’s Cal and Lacey have a tumultuous beginning but as they embark on a crazy journey into a world unknown located in the depths of her great uncle’s mysterious mansion their relationship grows into love and respect. Monster’s, spiritual forces and relatable themes are all found in this well-written, thoroughly engaging chapter book for the young adult population. Although, as an adult, I enjoyed the complexities of the characters and the interesting twists and turns that held my attention throughout.
JL DuRona birthed a wonderfully paced young adult story that will keep even adults turning the pages. His characters were well crafted, likable as well as relatable. The plot was suspenseful and engaging. He used contemporary themes such as step families, sibling rivalry and death of a parent and was able to write them in a way young adults can relate. His use of prose was brilliant! All in all, I give his first book five stars and I look forward to his next book!
A Fun Time For All!
In it’s second year, the Rail City Fan Fest did not disappoint. Held in the beautiful Saint Albans, Vermont on June 24-25, 2023, Luke Hungerford the owner and promoter of this new event did an amazing job welcoming the vendors and artist’s alike.
The Fan Fest was held at the Collins Perley Sports Center, Luke provided bottled water, donuts, coffee, finger sandwiches as welll as pizza for all of the vendors and artists. The two-day event featured a varity of pop-culture vendors, comic book creators and the typical comic con bling. There was a video game tournament, cosplay contest , trivia contest for both children and adults, as well as entertainment by NYE Mechworks Fighting robots.
Hero Shack’s personal highlight was the introduction T-Mach, the all in one creator and producer of the current Hero Shack collection of amazing comic books.
Overall, it was a well run and friendly event. One in which we plan to attend next year!
Show News: Athol Comic Book Fest October 2022
Hosted by the Athol Public Library and Hero Shack Press. The fall event was held on Saturday, October 1st at the Athol Town Hall. There was a steady flow of guests who came to see the many amazing independent creators as well as enjoy the kid friendly super hero themed activities.
Held from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, there was a creator panel and writer workshop in which you could interact with our guest artists. We also featured a hero training course, create your own hero gear, villian bowling and many more hands on activities for the young and old alike. Cosplayers and a cosplay parade were also featured along with a free raffle. Participants were given a raffle ticket upon entry to the comic book fest. Additional raffle tickets were awarded each time they visited a vendors booth. In turn, the guests were directed to put their raffle tickets into the selected can for amazing prizes.
Along with creator tables, super hero balloons and a photo booth were available to help everyone get in the comic con spirit! The Athol Library offered their used books sale located at the library. Our volunteers ranged from high schoolers to literacy volunteers from both Athol and Orange, Valuing our Children was there to help out as well.
It was a wonderful community event and with the terrific turn out we had, we hope to bring it back next year!
Show News: Beals Comic Con, Winchendon, MA
Saturday, June 4th arrived with the warm sun sitting against a baby blue sky, a slight breeze keeping the bugs at bay, it was a perfect day for an outdoor event. This was our first time particpating in this event and we were not sure what to expect. Our expectations were exceeded tenfold by the amazing people we met as well as the other independent comic book artists and creators who were there.
Offering a cosplay contest, games, special guests as well as hands on activities for young and old alike, Winchendon’s small town vibe turned out a big event! The family friendly environment and the fun loving attitude of all the volunteers made the day a worthwhile endeaver. All the money dontated is slated to the all new children’s room addition that is scheduled to begin in the fall of 2022.
Overall, Hero Shack Press was ecstatic to be a part of it and plan to participate the next time this event is offered.
Book Review: The Revenant and the Tomb
One of my favorite past-times is to read independent books, either comics, novella’s or novels. Recently, I had the pleasure of reading a very cool novella by one of our frequent visitors to our weekly youtube stream. I did a short review of his work and wanted to share it with you. The book, entitled, “The Revenant and the Tomb”, by Herman P. Hunter can be found at Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
A Fantasy, Lord of the Ring Vibe!
Venture into the fantastical world in which magic, demons and a mysterious strange young man named Halsedric embark on an adventure led by a weathered old guide who just wants to get paid. The story begins in a squalid tavern as Halsedric convinces Drahm to take him to the Horn of Torgiv, a mystical mountain that Durham has led others before, only to find their demise. The old guide assumes that Halsedric is after the riches supposedly hidden in the depths of the cold, dark tomb. However, Halsedric is not who he seems to be and is after much more than prosperity. The agreement is made. The time is set. The journey begins. Other notable characters that join the two unlikely compadres is Tulvgir, a Wodeman whose muscular build and toughness makes him seemingly invincible. They are also joined by a young woman, Herodiani, an Elanni, she is an expert hunt and other mystical arts.. The four begin their expedition toward the dark and diabolical tomb.
The character interaction along with supernatural events kept my attention throughout this well written novella. Hunter uses a distinct eye dialect especially with Drahm and Tulvgir which helps to give the story a “Lord of the Rings”vibe. The story’s plot, pacing and overall tone demonstrates Hunter’s keen ability not only as a writer but a significant story teller. You will not be disappointed!