Artwork: Moana by Jen Bartel
Friday, March 31, 2017
Fashion Meets Comics: Two Selina Kyle (Gotham) Outfits
It was fun putting together this Fashion Meets Comics post because if you watch Gotham, fashion is not a top priority for Selina Kyle. Most of the time it looks like she just threw something on and it just happens to look great. Her main focus is staying safe while also trying to score an ultimate find.
Selina may not be ready to don her future alter ego's signature catsuit but she does have a signature style. Her wardrobe is filled with edgy clothes in black and gray and from time to time is sprinkled with rare pops of color. It doesn't matter if she's hanging in the shadows or scaling over rooftops, her wardrobe must do it's job of keeping her from being seen.
I took that into consideration when creating these two outfits for the notorious thief, the first is a take on her signature look with everything in black. I incorporated a lot of layering into this look with a jacket, hoodie and t-shirt over a pair of skinny jeans and a great pair of boots.
While the second outfit of a high performance top, jogging pants and gym shoes is more of a lounging around look yet still functional in case she needs to make a quick getaway.
Thursday, March 30, 2017
Book Review: Flaneuse
Book: Flaneuse: Women Walk the City in Paris, New York, Tokyo, Venice and London by Lauren Elkin
Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review
Publication: Available now
Description:
The flâneur is the quintessentially masculine figure of privilege and leisure who strides the capitals of the world with abandon. But it is the flâneuse who captures the imagination of the cultural critic Lauren Elkin. In her wonderfully gender-bending new book, the flâneuse is a “determined, resourceful individual keenly attuned to the creative potential of the city and the liberating possibilities of a good walk.” Virginia Woolf called it “street haunting”; Holly Golightly epitomized it in Breakfast at Tiffany’s; and Patti Smith did it in her own inimitable style in 1970s New York.
Part cultural meander, part memoir, Flâneuse takes us on a distinctly cosmopolitan jaunt that begins in New York, where Elkin grew up, and transports us to Paris via Venice, Tokyo, and London, all cities in which she’s lived. We are shown the paths beaten by such flâneuses as the cross-dressing nineteenth-century novelist George Sand, the Parisian artist Sophie Calle, the wartime correspondent Martha Gellhorn, and the writer Jean Rhys. With tenacity and insight, Elkin creates a mosaic of what urban settings have meant to women, charting through literature, art, history, and film the sometimes exhilarating, sometimes fraught relationship that women have with the metropolis.
Called “deliciously spiky and seditious” by The Guardian, Flâneuse will inspire you to light out for the great cities yourself.
Rating: 1 star (Did Not Finish)
Review:
I wanted to read this book because I enjoy walking, being out in nature and observing the world around me. But this turned out to be a disappointing read, the description makes it seem as if the author was going to write about women and the inspiration they drew from living in the city and walking. As well as bring up how at one point only male writers and men of leisure wrote about walking. Due to social norms women didn't have the privilege to experience the freedom of being able to aimlessly wander or simply walk down the street unless they were accompanied by a chaperone of some sort. Because to do so otherwise would be seen in a negative way or give off a negative impression.
The author does get into that at the beginning of the book but from there the book turns into a boring yet well-written and sometimes pretentious look at history, women writers and their characters and a brief look at how walking has been incorporated into their works. The author also wrote about her life and travels and what she experienced living or visiting various city from New York to Tokyo but the writing never truly resonated with me because this book is so boring and uninspiring. I found myself having to reread passages I just read because I had a difficult time focusing on the material. I was so bored that I couldn't finish reading it.
I did not finish reading this because I found the book to be way too boring and it seemed to lose focus on what the book was supposed to be about. The author spent a lot of time going over history and books and less about women who enjoy walking throughout cities.
It's not completely boring there are some interesting historical tidbits but that doesn't make up for fact that this book doesn't even come close to what the description stated nor the subtitle.
Wednesday, March 29, 2017
Book Review: Superboy vol #3 (New 52)
Book: Superboy volume #3: Lost (issues #13-19 and Annual #1) by Tom DeFalco (#13-18 and Annual #1), Scott Lobdell (#18-19) and dialogue by Tony Lee (#18)
Cover art by Ardian Syaf and Jaime Mendoza with Blond
Illustrations by R.B. Silva (#13-14 and #17-19), Roger Robinson (#15), Iban Coello (#15-16, Annual #1 and #18), Amilcar Pinna (#15-16), Yvel Guichet (Annual #1), Tom Derenick (Annual #1), Julius Gopez (Annual #1) and Diogenes Neves (#19)
Ink by Rob Lean (#13-14, #16, Annual #1, #17-19), Amilcar Pinna (#16), Jonas Trindade (Annual #1), Denis Frietas (#18) Vicente Cifuentes (#19)
Color by Richard and Tanya Horie (#13-19 and Annual #1), Jeromy Cox (#15), Java Tartaglia (Annual #1), David Curiel (Annual #1) and Nathan Eyring (Annual #1)
Letters by Travis Lanham (#13-19)
Edition: Single Print Issues
Description:
As Superman attempts to help Superboy understand and control his powers, they are set upon by another Kryptonian refugee by the name of H'el. H'el is determined to resurrect his home planet by any means necessary and that includes the destruction of Earth.
Art of the Day: A Team Avatar Photo Shoot (The Legend of Korra)
Artwork: Team Avatar Photo Shoot by Siquia
Comic Book Wednesday: March 29th Picks
Happy Comic Book Wednesday!
Half of the books on my list are a new one-shot special, two are from Archie while the other four are from DC Comics. One of the specials is a Jughead werewolf story, it's funny a couple of days ago I read a similar story in one of the Archie Digest books. However, I doubt this new story will be a lighthearted comedy.
DC Comics have some specials that pair up popular TV characters with comic book characters that I couldn't resist putting on my list. There is no way I was going to pass up reading a Booster Gold and The Flintstones special.
As for my regular books, apparently the last book for The Backstagers is out today. I really do hope it will at some point turn into an ongoing series.
Archie Comics
Book: Jughead: The Hunger (one-shot)
Description:
BRAND NEW ONE-SHOT SPECIAL!
Jughead Jones has always had an insatiable appetite... but what if his hunger came from a sinister place? When a murderous menace is on the prowl, taking the lives of some of the most well-known and esteemed inhabitants of Riverdale, Jughead and his family's dark legacy comes to light. Join writer Frank Tieri and artist Michael Walsh for this horrifying story.
Half of the books on my list are a new one-shot special, two are from Archie while the other four are from DC Comics. One of the specials is a Jughead werewolf story, it's funny a couple of days ago I read a similar story in one of the Archie Digest books. However, I doubt this new story will be a lighthearted comedy.
DC Comics have some specials that pair up popular TV characters with comic book characters that I couldn't resist putting on my list. There is no way I was going to pass up reading a Booster Gold and The Flintstones special.
As for my regular books, apparently the last book for The Backstagers is out today. I really do hope it will at some point turn into an ongoing series.
Archie Comics
Book: Jughead: The Hunger (one-shot)
Description:
BRAND NEW ONE-SHOT SPECIAL!
Jughead Jones has always had an insatiable appetite... but what if his hunger came from a sinister place? When a murderous menace is on the prowl, taking the lives of some of the most well-known and esteemed inhabitants of Riverdale, Jughead and his family's dark legacy comes to light. Join writer Frank Tieri and artist Michael Walsh for this horrifying story.
Tuesday, March 28, 2017
Tim Drake Tuesday: Art of the Day: Red Robin (New 52)
Artwork: Red Robin by Navy Enjoys Drawing
Even though I not a fan of the New 52 version of Tim Drake, I really like this picture. There are so many marvelous details the artist put in it as it shows a rare moment when Tim is actually relaxed. In the comics, when the New 52 Tim wasn't being a totally jerk, he was so uptight and defensive. Which was the complete opposite personality of the pre-New 52 Tim.
Tim characterization wasn't the only thing that was ruined, it was also the friendship between Tim and Conner which is why I like all the Superboy related details in the picture.
Books of Interest: Two X-Files Origins Novels
I love that these origin stories for Dana Scully and Fox Mulder have been created. First with The X-Files: Origins comic book miniseries (which is published by IDW Publishing) and now there are these two novels.
It's easy to see how Mulder became fascinated by all the unexplained things after his sister went missing but not so much into what may have sparked the ever skeptic Scully into the world of the unexplained. Both books seem very interesting, I will have to add them to my wishlist.
Book: The X-Files Origins: Agent of Chaos by Kami Garcia
Description:
How did Fox Mulder become a believer?
Read this dark thriller to find out why millions of people became obsessed with The X-Files.
In the spring of 1979, seventeen-year-old Fox Mulder has bigger problems than applying for college. Five years ago, his younger sister disappeared from their home and was never heard from again. Mulder blames himself, and his mother blames his father, who has retreated into his top-secret work for the State Department. In Fox’s senior year, his dad has moved him to Washington, DC―away from his friends on Martha’s Vineyard.
While Mulder doesn’t mind the fresh start and not being known as “that kid with the missing sister,” he’s still obsessed with finding Samantha. So when a local boy turns up dead and another child is abducted, Mulder can’t stop himself from getting involved. Could there be a link to his sister’s case? As he uncovers the truth, Mulder and his friends find themselves on the trail of a serial killer.
Sucked into a world where conspiracies, the occult, and madness overlap, Fox Mulder starts to believe.
Book: The X-Files Origins: Devil's Advocate by Jonathan Maberry
Description:
How did Dana Scully become a skeptic?
Read this dark thriller to find out why millions of people became obsessed with The X-Files.
In the spring of 1979, fifteen-year-old Dana Scully has bigger problems than being the new girl in school. Dana has always had dreams. Sometimes they’ve even come true. Until now, she tried to write this off as coincidence. But ever since her father’s military career moved the family across the country to Craiger, Maryland, the dreams have been more like visions. Vivid, disturbing, and haunted by a shadowy figure who may be an angel . . . or the devil.
When a classmate who recently died in a car accident appears before Dana, her wounds look anything but accidental. Compelled by a force she can’t name, Dana uncovers even more suspicious deaths―and must face the dangerous knowledge that evil is real.
But when a betrayal of faith makes her question everything, she begins to put her faith in being a skeptic.
It's easy to see how Mulder became fascinated by all the unexplained things after his sister went missing but not so much into what may have sparked the ever skeptic Scully into the world of the unexplained. Both books seem very interesting, I will have to add them to my wishlist.
Book: The X-Files Origins: Agent of Chaos by Kami Garcia
Description:
How did Fox Mulder become a believer?
Read this dark thriller to find out why millions of people became obsessed with The X-Files.
In the spring of 1979, seventeen-year-old Fox Mulder has bigger problems than applying for college. Five years ago, his younger sister disappeared from their home and was never heard from again. Mulder blames himself, and his mother blames his father, who has retreated into his top-secret work for the State Department. In Fox’s senior year, his dad has moved him to Washington, DC―away from his friends on Martha’s Vineyard.
While Mulder doesn’t mind the fresh start and not being known as “that kid with the missing sister,” he’s still obsessed with finding Samantha. So when a local boy turns up dead and another child is abducted, Mulder can’t stop himself from getting involved. Could there be a link to his sister’s case? As he uncovers the truth, Mulder and his friends find themselves on the trail of a serial killer.
Sucked into a world where conspiracies, the occult, and madness overlap, Fox Mulder starts to believe.
Book: The X-Files Origins: Devil's Advocate by Jonathan Maberry
Description:
How did Dana Scully become a skeptic?
Read this dark thriller to find out why millions of people became obsessed with The X-Files.
In the spring of 1979, fifteen-year-old Dana Scully has bigger problems than being the new girl in school. Dana has always had dreams. Sometimes they’ve even come true. Until now, she tried to write this off as coincidence. But ever since her father’s military career moved the family across the country to Craiger, Maryland, the dreams have been more like visions. Vivid, disturbing, and haunted by a shadowy figure who may be an angel . . . or the devil.
When a classmate who recently died in a car accident appears before Dana, her wounds look anything but accidental. Compelled by a force she can’t name, Dana uncovers even more suspicious deaths―and must face the dangerous knowledge that evil is real.
But when a betrayal of faith makes her question everything, she begins to put her faith in being a skeptic.
Picture: Viola Davis
I love this picture of Viola Davis from the January 2016 issue of InStyle magazine. Everything about this picture symbolizes intelligence, confidence, strength and beauty. This is a woman who knows who she is and just look at that power pose.
(Photo Credit: InStyle magazine)
DVD Tuesday: Static Shock: First Season and Fantastic Beast
I can't believe it's taken DC Comics years to release the first season of Static Shock on DVD. It makes me wonder how long it will take them to put out the rest of the series? I pre-ordered it yesterday and it should show up in a few days. Static Shock was a great series, after Virgil Hawkins gained super powers he became the hero Static to protect Dakota City. There were all types of villains from the everyday variety to those with powers but what I found most interesting was the show tackled many social issues. Out of the DC Animated Universe, Static Shock and Batman were the only series that really focused on them.
I also want to buy Fantastic Beast and Where to Find Them, I'm going to try to pick it up sometime this week. I love the world of Harry Potter and all the magic but I didn't see it when it was in the theatre because at the time I was still on the fence about seeing it. But now I really want to see it.
Static Shock: The Complete First Season
General Description:
Accidental exposure to an experimental mutagen leaves geeky high school student Virgil Hawkins with super powers. Able to control electromagnetic forces, he channels his newfound powers to fight evil.
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them
Description:
Explore a new era of the Wizarding World before Harry Potter. Something mysterious is leaving a path of destruction in the streets of 1926 New York, threatening to expose the wizarding community. Newt Scamander arrives in the city nearing the end of a global excursion to research and rescue magical creatures. When unsuspecting No-Maj Jacob Kowalski inadvertently lets some of Newt’s beasts loose, a band of unlikely heroes must recover the missing beasts before they come to harm, but their mission puts them on a collision course with Dark forces.
I also want to buy Fantastic Beast and Where to Find Them, I'm going to try to pick it up sometime this week. I love the world of Harry Potter and all the magic but I didn't see it when it was in the theatre because at the time I was still on the fence about seeing it. But now I really want to see it.
Static Shock: The Complete First Season
General Description:
Accidental exposure to an experimental mutagen leaves geeky high school student Virgil Hawkins with super powers. Able to control electromagnetic forces, he channels his newfound powers to fight evil.
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them
Description:
Explore a new era of the Wizarding World before Harry Potter. Something mysterious is leaving a path of destruction in the streets of 1926 New York, threatening to expose the wizarding community. Newt Scamander arrives in the city nearing the end of a global excursion to research and rescue magical creatures. When unsuspecting No-Maj Jacob Kowalski inadvertently lets some of Newt’s beasts loose, a band of unlikely heroes must recover the missing beasts before they come to harm, but their mission puts them on a collision course with Dark forces.
Monday, March 27, 2017
Comic Book News #15: A New Clueless Comic and a Steve Trevor One-Shot
- This summer Boom! Studios will be publishing a Clueless comic book series. It will be a follow up to the hit movie that will be co-written by Amber Benson and Sarah Kuhn with illustrations by Siobhan Keenan. I love Clueless, it's one of my favorite movies, Cher Horowitz was such an adorable ditz who was also very wise and compassionate. I can not wait until the first issue is released. Here's the synopsis for the series:
It’s senior year at Bronson Alcott High School, and Cher, Dionne, and Tai find themselves in a bit of an existential crisis: Where are they meant to go, and what are they meant to DO after high school? Luckily they have all year—and each other’s help—to figure it out!
- DC Comics will be publishing a Steve Trevor one-shot titled Wonder Woman: Steve Trevor #1 on Wednesday, June 7th which is surprisingly a few days after the release of the Wonder Woman movie. It will be written by Tim Seeley with illustrations by Christian Duce and cover art by Paul Renaud.
It would be nice if this one-shot turned into an ongoing series for Steve, he's a great character that tends to be pushed to the wayside depending on the writer.
Book: Wonder Woman: Steve Trevor #1
Description:
They have been friends and lovers, but more importantly they have been there for each other over the decades. From Steve’s first moments on Paradise Island to the day that Diana left her home to join Man’s World, they have worked together and fought to protect humanity. But now, Steve Trevor will be forced to face an ancient foe, and he’ll have to do it alone. Where is Wonder Woman? And what will become of Steve Trevor? Find out in this thrilling, action-packed story.
Sunday, March 26, 2017
Book of Interest: Green Lanterns vol #1 (Rebirth)
I'm really behind with the Green Lanterns, I did even finish reading the New 52 series but that's not going to stop me from wanting to read the new Rebirth series. I believe these Lanterns, Simon Baz and Jessica Cruz were introduced during the New 52 and they must have been popular with the fans for DC Comics to give them their own series.
Since I know nothing about these characters, I'm hoping that this first volume and series is written in way for new (and old) readers to understand.
Book: Green Lanterns volume #1: Rage Planet (Green Lanterns: Rebirth #1 and issues #1-6) by Sam Humphries with illustrations by Robson Rocha
Description:
Two new members of the galaxy's greatest peacekeeping force are here in GREEN LANTERNS VOL. 1: RAGE PLANET, as a part of the critically acclaimed, best-selling, all-new line of volume one graphic novels, DC Universe Rebirth!
One is all impulse. The other, all anxiety. Together, they put the “green” in Green Lantern.
Simon Baz and Jessica Cruz are the latest recruits to the Green Lantern Corps. They’ve proven themselves capable of overcoming great fear alongside the Corps and the Justice League alike. Now Hal Jordan himself has assigned them the task of protecting the planet. But they’re still new to the job, with very little experience and a whole lot to prove.
That makes them the perfect targets.
One of the Green Lanterns’ greatest enemies has returned, and he has the Earth in his sights. He is Atrocitus, the tyrannical leader of the Red Lanterns, and he means to infect the entire planet with his murderous red rage.
Can Jessica and Simon overcome their differences and wield the Green Lantern’s light like true partners? Or will these rookies’ rage help the Red Lanterns extinguish that light for good?
Since I know nothing about these characters, I'm hoping that this first volume and series is written in way for new (and old) readers to understand.
Description:
Two new members of the galaxy's greatest peacekeeping force are here in GREEN LANTERNS VOL. 1: RAGE PLANET, as a part of the critically acclaimed, best-selling, all-new line of volume one graphic novels, DC Universe Rebirth!
One is all impulse. The other, all anxiety. Together, they put the “green” in Green Lantern.
Simon Baz and Jessica Cruz are the latest recruits to the Green Lantern Corps. They’ve proven themselves capable of overcoming great fear alongside the Corps and the Justice League alike. Now Hal Jordan himself has assigned them the task of protecting the planet. But they’re still new to the job, with very little experience and a whole lot to prove.
That makes them the perfect targets.
One of the Green Lanterns’ greatest enemies has returned, and he has the Earth in his sights. He is Atrocitus, the tyrannical leader of the Red Lanterns, and he means to infect the entire planet with his murderous red rage.
Can Jessica and Simon overcome their differences and wield the Green Lantern’s light like true partners? Or will these rookies’ rage help the Red Lanterns extinguish that light for good?
Saturday, March 25, 2017
Weekend Films: Power Rangers
Despite being a huge Mighty Morphin Power Rangers fan, I don't have a strong enough interest in going to the theatre to see the Power Rangers movie. I'll simply wait until it's out on DVD/Blu-ray but I posted the trailer for anyone who might be interested.
Release Date: March 24, 2017
Description:
SABAN’S POWER RANGERS follows five ordinary teens who must become something extraordinary when they learn that their small town of Angel Grove — and the world — is on the verge of being obliterated by an alien threat. Chosen by destiny, our heroes quickly discover they are the only ones who can save the planet. But to do so, they will have to overcome their real-life issues and before it’s too late, band together as the Power Rangers.
Power Rangers
Release Date: March 24, 2017
Description:
SABAN’S POWER RANGERS follows five ordinary teens who must become something extraordinary when they learn that their small town of Angel Grove — and the world — is on the verge of being obliterated by an alien threat. Chosen by destiny, our heroes quickly discover they are the only ones who can save the planet. But to do so, they will have to overcome their real-life issues and before it’s too late, band together as the Power Rangers.
Friday, March 24, 2017
Book Review: Riverdale (one-shot)
Book: Riverdale (one-shot) stories by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and cover by Adam Gorham
Edition: Single Print Issue
Description:
A must-have one-shot! The perfect primer for the CW Riverdale series! Learn the secrets and hidden tales from the summer before the eternal love-triangle begins in this special issue, which features four short stories focusing on the major players and events in the Riverdale series: Spend some time at Archie's summer construction job and learn how it leads him to a fateful encounter with the alluring music teacher, Ms. Grundy.
Discover the truth about Betty's Los Angeles romance. Find out more about Veronica's mysterious life in New York, before the shocking event that would send her family scrambling. And meanwhile, there's Jughead, on the fringes of Riverdale, a witness to the terrible event that sets everything in motion: A tragedy that befalls Jason Blossom.
You dare not miss this special commemorative issue in advance of the upcoming ongoing Riverdale series, written by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and the writers of the CW Riverdale series with stunning art by Alitha Martinez!
Thursday, March 23, 2017
Wednesday, March 22, 2017
Book Review: Batman: Streets of Gotham vol #2: Leviathan
Book: Batman: Streets of Gotham volume #2: Leviathan (issues #5-11) by Chris Yost (issues #5-6), Paul Dini (issues #7, 10-11) and Mike Benson (issues #8-9)
Illustrations by Dustin Nguyen, ink by Derek Fridolfs, color by John Kalisz and letters by Sal Cipriano (issues #5 and #8), Steve Wands (issues #6, #9-11) and John J. Hill (issue #7)
Edition: Trade Paperback
Description:
GOTHAM CITY CAN BE A BEAST.
Batman's home town is a monster, and its veins flow with crime -- including a rampaging Man-Bat, the murderous Mr. Zsasz and a twisted "Santa Claus", among many others.
But the world's most dangerous city is not without hope, thanks to the Dark Knight Detective and his network of operatives -- Robin, Huntress, Oracle and Abuse, the new vigilante with a startling secret identity -- whose tireless work keeps the population safe.
But when Robin and Abuse get caught up in the web of Mr. Zsaz's attack on Gotham's children, will Batman be able to save them -- or will they end up being swallowed whole by the concrete and steel monster he has sworn to protect?
Comic Book Wednesday: March 22nd Picks
Well, it appears Ghostbusters 101 is out this week instead of last and it's only new book on my list. I can't believe the last issue of The Backstagers is out today, I'm still hoping it will turn into an ongoing series. If not it's still a fun little miniseries.
Here's the rest of my list:
Boom! Studios
Book: The Backstagers #8 (of 8)
Description:
Final issue! The crew has spent so much time in the backstage world that they haven't gotten around to preparing anything for the show!
Here's the rest of my list:
Boom! Studios
Book: The Backstagers #8 (of 8)
Description:
Final issue! The crew has spent so much time in the backstage world that they haven't gotten around to preparing anything for the show!
Tuesday, March 21, 2017
Book of Interest: Murder House
I don't know how James Patterson keeps coming up with so many stories and Murder House seems interesting. There are so many books that I want to read and my wish list is so full with all the books I keep adding to it. That's one thing we bookaholics have in common our never ending wish list.
Book: Murder House by James Patterson and David Ellis
Description:
It has an ocean-front view, a private beach--and a deadly secret that won't stay buried.
No. 7 Ocean Drive is a gorgeous, multi-million-dollar beachfront estate in the Hamptons, where money and privilege know no bounds. But its beautiful gothic exterior hides a horrific past: it was the scene of a series of depraved killings that have never been solved. Neglected, empty, and rumored to be cursed, it's known as the Murder House, and locals keep their distance.
Detective Jenna Murphy used to consider herself a local, but she hasn't been back since she was a girl. Trying to escape her troubled past and rehabilitate a career on the rocks, the former New York City cop hardly expects her lush and wealthy surroundings to be a hotbed of grisly depravity. But when a Hollywood power broker and his mistress are found dead in the abandoned Murder House, the gruesome crime scene rivals anything Jenna experienced in Manhattan. And what at first seems like an open and shut case turns out to have as many shocking secrets as the Murder House itself, as Jenna quickly realizes that the mansion's history is much darker than even the town's most salacious gossips could have imagined. As more bodies surface, and the secret that Jenna has tried desperately to escape closes in on her, she must risk her own life to expose the truth--before the Murder House claims another victim.
Book: Murder House by James Patterson and David Ellis
Description:
It has an ocean-front view, a private beach--and a deadly secret that won't stay buried.
No. 7 Ocean Drive is a gorgeous, multi-million-dollar beachfront estate in the Hamptons, where money and privilege know no bounds. But its beautiful gothic exterior hides a horrific past: it was the scene of a series of depraved killings that have never been solved. Neglected, empty, and rumored to be cursed, it's known as the Murder House, and locals keep their distance.
Detective Jenna Murphy used to consider herself a local, but she hasn't been back since she was a girl. Trying to escape her troubled past and rehabilitate a career on the rocks, the former New York City cop hardly expects her lush and wealthy surroundings to be a hotbed of grisly depravity. But when a Hollywood power broker and his mistress are found dead in the abandoned Murder House, the gruesome crime scene rivals anything Jenna experienced in Manhattan. And what at first seems like an open and shut case turns out to have as many shocking secrets as the Murder House itself, as Jenna quickly realizes that the mansion's history is much darker than even the town's most salacious gossips could have imagined. As more bodies surface, and the secret that Jenna has tried desperately to escape closes in on her, she must risk her own life to expose the truth--before the Murder House claims another victim.
Art of the Day: Trini Kwan and Billy Cranston (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers)
Artwork: Trini and Billy by ice-cream-skies
Trini and Billy were the science buddies. I thought it was funny that Trini was the only one who could decipher Billy's science speak to the others.
Book Review: Good Morning, Superman
Book: Good Morning, Superman by Michael Dahl with illustrations by Omar Lozano
Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review
Publication: Available now
Description:
Look, up in the sky! It’s a bird. It’s a plane. It’s the . . . SUN! When morning comes, a young boy must prepare for his day, faster than a speeding bullet. Follow along as he leaps tall buildings (jumps out of bed) in a single bound, dons his heroic uniform (his clothes), and faces his greatest weakness (Kryptonite-colored toothpaste). Then it’s up, up, and away to daycare!
The perfect companion to the bestselling author Michael Dahl's BEDTIME FOR BATMAN, this official DC Comics picture book will have Superman fans young and old delighting in their morning routines. Includes a morning routine checklist.
Monday, March 20, 2017
Fashion Meets Comics: Dooney & Bourke Avengers Handbag
I love a good satchel and I love this even more because it has the S.H.I.E.L.D. symbol and some of the Avengers symbols (Black Widow, Captain America, Hawkeye, Hulk and Thor) in bright colors all over it. But I'm really surprised that Iron Man's symbol is not on it.
This is such a cute bag, however, it would go in my category of "if I had the money I'd buy it" because it's $198.00. This is probably not the bag for anyone who likes large handbags, I was looking at the measurement and they are 7'' H x 8'' W x 3 1/2'' D putting it on the small size.
What do you think is it cute enough to splurge for or it's a wait until it's on sale for purchase? It's so cute.
Marvel's Avengers Nylon Bitsy Bag by Dooney & Bourke $198.00 Disney Store (disneystore.com)
- Nylon shell with genuine leather trim
- Double zip top closure with leather pulls
- Zip interior pocket with leather pull
- Two open interior pockets
- Interior leather key strap with toggle clasp
- Fully lined
- Two leather carry handles
- Removable, adjustable leather carry strap with toggle clasp
- Metal feet
- Golden and silvertone finish hardware
- ''Dooney & Bourke Since 1975'' embossed leather label inside
- ''Dooney & Bourke'' embossed metal label on front
This is such a cute bag, however, it would go in my category of "if I had the money I'd buy it" because it's $198.00. This is probably not the bag for anyone who likes large handbags, I was looking at the measurement and they are 7'' H x 8'' W x 3 1/2'' D putting it on the small size.
What do you think is it cute enough to splurge for or it's a wait until it's on sale for purchase? It's so cute.
- Nylon shell with genuine leather trim
- Double zip top closure with leather pulls
- Zip interior pocket with leather pull
- Two open interior pockets
- Interior leather key strap with toggle clasp
- Fully lined
- Two leather carry handles
- Removable, adjustable leather carry strap with toggle clasp
- Metal feet
- Golden and silvertone finish hardware
- ''Dooney & Bourke Since 1975'' embossed leather label inside
- ''Dooney & Bourke'' embossed metal label on front
Art of the Day: Krypto the Superdog, Ace the Bat Hound and Robin the Puppy
Artwork: Super Pets by MayhWolf
Book Review: Star Scouts
Book: Star Scouts written and illustrated by Mike Lawrence
Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review
Publication: March 21, 2017
Description:
Avani is the new kid in town, and she’s not happy about it. Everyone in school thinks she’s weird, especially the girls in her Flower Scouts troop. Is it so weird to think scouting should be about fun and adventure, not about makeovers and boys, boys, boys?
But everything changes when Avani is “accidentally” abducted by a spunky alien named Mabel. Mabel is a scout too―a Star Scout. Collecting alien specimens (like Avani) goes with the territory, along with teleportation and jetpack racing. Avani might be weird, but in the Star Scouts she fits right in. If she can just survive Camp Andromeda, and keep her dad from discovering that she’s left planet Earth, she’s in for the adventure of a lifetime.
Sunday, March 19, 2017
Illustration of the Day: Damian Wayne and Alfred Pennyworth
Illustration: Batgirl issue #17
Poor Alfred, Damian must be rather tiring at times. Hanging upside down from the ceiling is not a good way to greet someone in the morning, Alfred nearly dropped the tray of food from fright.
Saturday, March 18, 2017
Weekend Films: Beauty and the Beast
I knew I should have pre-ordered tickets for Beauty and the Beast for this weekend because the theatre that I always go to is completely sold out. Even though I'm happy that people are going out to see it, I really wish I was one of them. I guess I will have to wait and see it another time.
Release Date: March 17, 2017
Starring: Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, Luke Evans, Josh Gad, Ian McKellen, Emma Thompson, Audra McDonald and more
Description:
Belle (Emma Watson), a bright, beautiful and independent young woman, is taken prisoner by a beast (Dan Stevens) in its castle. Despite her fears, she befriends the castle's enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the beast's hideous exterior, allowing her to recognize the kind heart and soul of the true prince that hides on the inside.
Beauty and the Beast
Release Date: March 17, 2017
Starring: Emma Watson, Dan Stevens, Luke Evans, Josh Gad, Ian McKellen, Emma Thompson, Audra McDonald and more
Description:
Belle (Emma Watson), a bright, beautiful and independent young woman, is taken prisoner by a beast (Dan Stevens) in its castle. Despite her fears, she befriends the castle's enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the beast's hideous exterior, allowing her to recognize the kind heart and soul of the true prince that hides on the inside.
The Special Olympics World Games Opening Ceremony is On
I did not know the opening ceremony for the Special Olympics World Games was on. It started at 2:00 pm EST on ABC but I just started watching it around 3:20 pm. I missed the parade of the athletes but I'm watching the flag being brought in. The opening ceremony doesn't go off until 5pm and there's still more to see.
I love watching the Special Olympics, these athletes are amazing and so inspiring. I wish them all the best and Go USA!
(Photo Credit: Special Olympics USA)
My Frustration with Storm Being So Underused
I continue to be astonished by Marvel, 20th Century Fox and director Bryan Singer's terrible treatment and misuse of Storm (Ororo Munroe). She's treated like a secondary or supporting character instead of as the top tiered character she is. I always wonder why she isn't marketed more? Why isn't there more official merchandise for her? I've found a lot of really cool yet unofficial stuff out there but surprisingly not a lot of licensed official products. You can't tell me there is no interest nor an audience for her because if you search online fans are asking for more Storm.
With Marvel going out of their way to give more female characters solo ongoing comic book series it makes me wonder why Storm didn't get a book? She had a series a few years ago written by Greg Pak but it stands to reason why not give her another one. Storm is a popular character but she needs more marketing. With a new book, she would get more exposure and be seen away from the X-Men because there is more to her than that.
I also wonder why there isn't a solo movie being announced for her? Storm should have had a movie by now but she continues to be featured in X-Men movies where her powers are diminished and she barely has a presence with the exception of X-Men: The Last Stand, which was directed by Brett Ratner. Storm thankfully received more screen time and along with Logan were the leads (on the X-Men side) in that one.
Storm has an interesting backstory and a solo movie would be a great way to delve more into her character while also showing how truly powerful she is. What I love about Ororo is not only is she smart, she doesn't need to use her powers to stop a villain, she's well skilled in hand-to-hand combat. I think her experience of being an orphan, living on the streets and a mutant increased her desire to care. She's always looking out for others and not to mention her willingness to help. The movie could also focus a bit on how her god like abilities caused her to be worshiped as a goddess. Can you image people thinking you're a god because you can control the weather, that's interesting. I can also image the beautiful visuals of Africa that could be shown (although I'm sure the upcoming Black Panther movie will probably have amazing visuals too).
I'm not entirely confident Fox can make a good Storm movie. However from what I hear Logan, which was directed by James Mangold, is a very good movie. And I've been hearing this first hand from fans that have seen it. I think that's good because it shows that it can be done. And to make sure a Storm movie would be good is to first have a well-written script and second for Bryan Singer to have absolutely nothing to do with it. I feel like he has no idea what to do with her (nor any of the other X-Men characters) and it shows in each X-Men movie he has directed. When Ororo is not being underutilized she's simply there as a filler and that's not what Storm fans want.
I would love for Storm to break out of the secondary status that Marvel seems to have her stuck in but who am I kidding Marvel is the company that continues to bring us Hydra Captain America. Instead of returning Cap to being a hero they decide to further his immersion into the world of Hydra. They are also the company that has not given Black Widow a movie yet. Until Marvel sees fit to give Storm her due I will continue to promote her as much as possible.
With Marvel going out of their way to give more female characters solo ongoing comic book series it makes me wonder why Storm didn't get a book? She had a series a few years ago written by Greg Pak but it stands to reason why not give her another one. Storm is a popular character but she needs more marketing. With a new book, she would get more exposure and be seen away from the X-Men because there is more to her than that.
I also wonder why there isn't a solo movie being announced for her? Storm should have had a movie by now but she continues to be featured in X-Men movies where her powers are diminished and she barely has a presence with the exception of X-Men: The Last Stand, which was directed by Brett Ratner. Storm thankfully received more screen time and along with Logan were the leads (on the X-Men side) in that one.
Storm has an interesting backstory and a solo movie would be a great way to delve more into her character while also showing how truly powerful she is. What I love about Ororo is not only is she smart, she doesn't need to use her powers to stop a villain, she's well skilled in hand-to-hand combat. I think her experience of being an orphan, living on the streets and a mutant increased her desire to care. She's always looking out for others and not to mention her willingness to help. The movie could also focus a bit on how her god like abilities caused her to be worshiped as a goddess. Can you image people thinking you're a god because you can control the weather, that's interesting. I can also image the beautiful visuals of Africa that could be shown (although I'm sure the upcoming Black Panther movie will probably have amazing visuals too).
I'm not entirely confident Fox can make a good Storm movie. However from what I hear Logan, which was directed by James Mangold, is a very good movie. And I've been hearing this first hand from fans that have seen it. I think that's good because it shows that it can be done. And to make sure a Storm movie would be good is to first have a well-written script and second for Bryan Singer to have absolutely nothing to do with it. I feel like he has no idea what to do with her (nor any of the other X-Men characters) and it shows in each X-Men movie he has directed. When Ororo is not being underutilized she's simply there as a filler and that's not what Storm fans want.
I would love for Storm to break out of the secondary status that Marvel seems to have her stuck in but who am I kidding Marvel is the company that continues to bring us Hydra Captain America. Instead of returning Cap to being a hero they decide to further his immersion into the world of Hydra. They are also the company that has not given Black Widow a movie yet. Until Marvel sees fit to give Storm her due I will continue to promote her as much as possible.
Friday, March 17, 2017
Art of the Day: The Riddler
Artwork: The Riddler by Otis Frampton
I couldn't help thinking this funny little corny riddle below is something The Riddler might say:
Riddle me this, how can you tell if leprechauns are having a good time? They are Dublin over with laughter!
Book Review: Armed and Glamorous
Book: Armed and Glamorous (Crime of Fashion book #6) by Ellen Byerrum
Edition: Paperback
Rating: 3 stars
Review:
Armed and Glamorous follows Lacey Smithsonian, a fashion reporter for the Washington, D.C. newspaper The Eye. She was taking a P.I. class in Falls Church, Virginia in hopes that having a P.I. license will help in her quest to do more than write the fashion column for the paper. She's a reporter and wants to tackle more hard hitting news. Although, she does have a strange knack for unfortunately finding dead bodies and getting involved in intriguing mysteries, that has not helped her crossover to writing non-fashion news.
Taking the class should have been an interesting experience but she wasn't in class a full day before the body of Washington, D.C. socialite Cecily Ashton was found in a car in the parking lot. Why had Cecily even been there to begin with? Did it have anything to do with Lacey's upcoming story about her? Was it possible that one of the students or even the teacher could have killed her? Could it be someone else altogether such as Cecily's ex-husband Philip Clark Ashton or jewel recovery expert Nigel Griffin?
Lacey's unofficial investigation turned up a lot of clues and a lot of suspects. Unfortunately, for the reader it's way too easy to figure out who the killer is and the motivation behind everything feels so stale and predictable.
I enjoyed reading this until it neared the end where I was disappointed with the way the reveal unfolded. It was so farfetched and downright ridiculous, I would love to say more about it but I don't want to spoil it for anyone who would like to read it. I was also disappointed that as a fashion mystery book there wasn't as much fashion in the book as you would think.
Although this is the sixth book in the series, this is the first book I have read from it. I do like that it's written in a way that makes it easy to follow along while giving you all the information you need about the characters, in case you're reading the books at random.
Despite my disappointment with how easy it was to figure out and the predictability in some parts of it, I am still interested enough to read more books in the series.
Happy St. Patrick's Day! (+ a Green Acres Marathon)
Happy St. Patrick's Day!
I wish everyone a fun, safe and happy St. Patrick's Day. For anyone looking for something fun to watch for the holiday, there's a Green Acres marathon on the Antenna TV channel.
I love this show it's so wacky and ridiculous with Oliver Wendell Douglas tired of the rat race of New York City decides to buy a farm in Hooterville. Too bad his wife Lisa who enjoys all the glamor of living in the city doesn't share his love of wanting to live on a farm. As a lawyer I don't understand how Mr. Douglas got suckered by that crook Mr. Haney into buying that dilapidated farm.
And that farm is nothing but trouble and couple that with all the zany residents of Hooterville there is always something going wrong. I forgot that Lisa can't cook she's always making something out of that infamous hotscakes batter such as those hotskebabs or in that Christmas episode she made a hideous fruitcake. They make me cringe just thinking about them.
I really don't know why I love watching wacky TV shows but I do and there is nothing more wackier than Green Acres.
Thursday, March 16, 2017
Throwback Thursday: Steve Rogers' Avengers Deleted Scenes
See, this is why I tend to buy the Blu-ray version of movies because I like watching the deleted scenes. I still can't believe that these scenes were cut from The Avengers movie, they show how lonely Steve was and not to mention trying to adjust to being in a different era.
Book Review: Animal Crackers: Circus Mayhem
Book: Animal Crackers: Circus Mayhem by Scott Christian Sava with illustrations by Mike Holmes
Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review
Publication: March 21, 2017
Description:
How does Uncle Bob do it? Owen couldn't figure it out.
Buffalo Bob's Rootin' Tootin' Animal Circus is famous for its jump-roping giraffe, tangoing lion, and knife-throwing elephant. But they have to be fakes, right? Owen is determined to get to the bottom of this mystery. When he visits the circus he discovers that his uncle and, coincidentally, all of the animals, are missing. It can only be the work of Buffalo Bob’s sideshow rival: Contorto.
Owen stumbles upon the one thing that can save the day: Buffalo Bob’s box of animal crackers. But these aren’t any ordinary cookies: one bite and you’re transformed into a circus animal! The audience is wowed by Owen’s animal antics, but it will take more than a few carnival tricks to defeat Contorto and his pack of goons.
Rating: 4 stars
Review:
Animal Crackers: Circus Mayhem is a crazy fun adventures as it follows a disappointed young boy named Owen who will be staying at his Uncle Bob's circus the Buffalo Bob's Rootin' Tootin' Animal Circus.
From the moment Owen's parents dropped him off at the circus it was nonstop action and adventure once Chesterfield the clown showed up to take him to his uncle. However, there seemed to be a problem because none of the circus employees could find Bob including his wife Talia. And with customers angry that the show has yet to start they needed to find Bob as soon as possible.
Owen also noticed something else that was missing, the animals at the circus. But that had him thinking that maybe there were no animals to begin with. Turns out there is an interesting twists in regards to the animals but as for Uncle Bob he was kidnapped by his evil rival Contorto. Assisting the villain is his sideshow crew El Gato Grande and Crooga, they were hired to capture Bob (which they did) and the animals and so far they were having a difficult time finding them.
Owen uncovered the secret of the animals when he found a box of animal crackers in his uncle's office. After eating one of the cookies, he was surprised to find he had turned into an animal. But this new discovery was just what he needs to help the others stop Contorto and his villainous group and find his uncle.
I think kids would love this book, it's fun and fast paced with an interesting story. It's a wacky story but ultimately you have this loveable group of circus employees who band together to not only save Bob but their circus as well. And Owen who thought he would have a boring time at the circus wound up experiencing something unbelievable including being able to turn into animals. This was a fun read.
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