Book Review: It's Superman!

Book: It's Superman! by Tom De Haven

Cover Design by Phil Balsman
Cover Art by H. J. Ward

Edition: Paperback

Description:

Coming of age in rural 1930s America with X-ray vision, the power to stop bullets, and the ability to fly isn't exactly every boy's story. So just how did Clark Kent, a shy farmer's son, grow up to be the Man of Steel?

Follow young Clark's whirlwind journey from Kansas to New York City's Daily Planet. This ace reporter is not the only person leading a double life in a teeming metropolis, just the only one able to leap tall buildings in a single bound — a skill that comes in handy when battling powerful criminal masterminds like scheming Lex Luthor and fascist robots. But can Clark's midwestern charm save the day and win the heart of stunning, seen-it-all newspaperwoman Lois Lane? Or is that a job for Superman?

Book Review for Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thon: Batman: Fear Itself

Book: Batman: Fear Itself (Batman book #3) by Michael Reaves and Steven-Elliot Altman

Edition: Paperback

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

I have really been missing out on a good read by letting this sit on the shelf for so long. Batman: Fear Itself was a very well-written interesting mystery that follows Batman trying to unravel a plot that has fear toxin at the for front.

It all began with a subway train speeding out of control with Batman going in to stop it. After completing this task he found the engineer, a woman in a daze babbling incoherently about creatures in the tunnels. Before leaving the scene he met Maggie Tollyer, a young woman who claimed to be a journalist. While still in the subway tunnel, he watched from afar the police securing the scene. He also noticed Maggie taking a book from the engineer's bag which left him curious as to why she had removed it.

From his research, he found out that the book Fear Itself was a horror story written by the popular author Grey Brewald. He also found out that Maggie was telling the truth in sorts, she was a former newspaper journalist who was now running a news blog.

The condition of the engineer had all the clear cut signs of being gassed by the Scarecrow. However with Jonathan Crane a.k.a. the Scarecrow locked up in Arkham Asylum who could be behind this latest crime. And with more fear incidents popping up, Batman stumbled onto a connection with Grey Brewald's Fear Itself books as being the catalyst for the crime. Was it possible that the author had something to do with his own books containing the toxin or was someone simply targeting his books for their desired effect? Could Maggie be involved in some way or as a reporter did she stumble upon the ultimate story?

There was no shortage of action scenes in this but the focus is on the mystery and seeing it unfold. I like that the book did not focus only on Bruce Wayne/Batman's point of view but included several such as Grey Brewald, Maggie Tollyer etc.. My favorite was Alfred Pennyworth, whose signature sarcasm and wit were perfectly shown. This was an engaging story that had me as interested in the characters as well as the mystery itself.

Book Review: Marvel's Captain America: Sub Rosa

Book: Marvel's Captain America: Sub Rosa by David McDonald

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Description:

Frozen in a state of suspended animation since the end of the Second World War, Captain America is a man out of time. But now freed from his frozen slumber, he’s back in the nick of time―and ready to face threats that couldn’t even have been imagined when the world had last seen him. Joe Books brings Marvel fans an all-new adventure featuring a classic superhero.



Rating: 1 star

Review:

I can't stand when this happens, the story started out so good then quickly faltered. This really should have been a Did Not Finish but I kept reading hoping it would get better but it didn't. It was both poorly written and poorly plotted.

This opens with Captain America stopping a drug operation in Columbia, he then returns home to find Maria Hill in need of his help. You would think a soldier of Captain America's caliber would be needed for something warranted of his skills and abilities. But no she needed him to protect her niece Katherine. The young woman works for S.H.I.E.L.D. and created a computer program that had the ability to put hidden information out on the internet. Things started to become dangerous for Katherine with different groups and organizations wanting to get the program.

I was disappointed with this story because although there were a few action scenes it doesn't help a poorly plotted story. And most of the time there was not a lot happening in this story and when it was, it was unbelievably boring. It really seemed like such a waste to make Captain America nothing more than a bodyguard/babysitter in this story. I found Katherine to be very annoying, she's ill-tempered but that doesn't stop her from being written as darn near perfect. Not only is she super smart (she's a computer genius) but she's also an amazing fighter.

I didn't like how Steve Rogers and Maria Hill were written in this. Yes, Steve is still trying to catch up with how the world works in modern times but that doesn't make him an idiot. Steve is a simple man but he's not simple minded, he doesn't just go along with anything without giving it some thought. Unlike in this story, the way he's written in this, most of the time he's nothing more than a big dumb soldier who follows orders. The Maria Hill in this story doesn't have any qualms what so ever about how she goes about doing things. Her job is the only thing that she really cares about and a majority of her actions justify that.

Captain America: Sub Rosa felt like it was written by someone who was unfamiliar with Captain America. Steve was very weakened in this and he was not really able to hold his own in various fights. I also wonder why none of his supporting characters were used. Although it's probably a good thing because I hate to see how they would have been written. I really don't think it would have made any difference adding those characters in because nothing short of rewriting the story could have improved this.

In the end this was a poorly written generic action story masquerading as a Captain America story. And I'm awarding it the Beast Boy Boredom Award. This is such a slow moving boring book and it truly deserved this award. This is the second book to receive this honor, the first went to Codename Baboushka vol #1.

Out of the three Marvel comic novels I've read so far: Marvel's Thor: Dueling with Giants (Tales of Asgard Trilogy book #1) by Keith R.A. DeCandido and Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy: Castaways by David McDonald, this Captain America book which is also written by McDonald is by far the worst.

Book Review: Marvel's Thor: Dueling with Giants

Book: Marvel's Thor: Dueling with Giants (Tales of Asgard Trilogy book #1) by Keith R.A. DeCandido

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Description:

One of the greatest heroes from Marvel―and myth―returns as Thor battles the mightiest of the giants in a fight to the death. The first book of an action-packed trilogy from Joe Books, Dueling with Giants is a story of epic combat from start to finish, sure to entertain fans of Marvel comics and adventure novels alike.

During just another day for the God of Thunder, Thor is defending Asgard against invading trolls when the unthinkable happens―his hammer Mjolnir loses its enchantment. Thor is still more than a match for his enemies, and after vanquishing them he learns the secret to his sudden weakness. Mjolnir was switched without him knowing, and only one being would be cunning enough to carry out such a trick: Loki.

Book Review: Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy: Castaways

Book: Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy: Castaways by David McDonald

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available Now in the digital edition    Print Edition: will be available on August 30, 2016

Description:

Guardians of the Galaxy: Castaways is the thrilling new adventure featuring Marvel's swashbuckling heroes Rocket Raccoon, Groot, Drax the Destroyer, Gamora, and the ever-charming Star-Lord himself, Peter Quill.

After a series of missions -- some successful, others less so, and most nearly getting everyone killed -- the Guardians of the Galaxy are at a breaking point when they crash-land on a strange planet. With no way to repair their ship, the frustrated Guardians go their separate ways, quickly discovering that the planet's inhabitants have never progressed past a medieval stage of development. Quill finds himself a favored member of a powerful duke's court (as well as a favorite of the duke's daughter), and life seems just fine under the circumstances . . . until the duchy comes under attack. When Quill reckons that their foe may be what's keeping the planet's civilization from advancing, he realizes that defeating it-with the Guardians' help-may be their only hope for getting off of that world. . . . . . . If he can find his friends in time.

Book Review: Batman: The Joker's Dozen

Book: Batman: The Joker's Dozen by Laurie S. Sutton with illustrations by Ethan Beavers

Source: Borrowed from NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: February 1, 2015

Description:

The Joker transforms dozens of Gotham City citizens into laughing (and robbing) fools! Is the Dark Knight outnumbered, or can he even the odds? Should he use a Batarang or another high-tech weapon? Can the Caped Crusader save the city, or will the Clown Prince have the last laugh? In this interactive story, YOU CHOOSE the path Batman should take. With your help, he will take down The Joker's Dozen!


Rating: 4 stars

Review:

I think this book is great for younger children who would love to read superhero comics but with so many comics not geared towards them, this book is an excellent choice.

This is a chose your own adventure story that has Batman trying to stop the Joker's latest devious plan and it is up to the reader to decide how that will happen.

Even though I'm not the target market, this book kept my attention and had me interested to try different choices to see how the story would end. I thought this was pretty exciting and should give kids plenty of fun and interesting ways for how they want the story to go and there is also colorful artwork shown throughout the story.

Book Review: It Falls To Us

Book: It Falls To Us (A Defiant Story book #1) by Tim Nolen

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Description:

After the world's greatest superhero team has been defeated, it falls to a ragtag band of second string heroes and minor league villains to stop the evil genius Blackheart from ruling the world.



Rating: 1 star (Did Not Finish)

Review:

It Falls To Us reads like a parody of a comic book. The story follows four minor heroes: Jake Smith (Defiant), Albert Doubletree, Veronica and Mike (Search) who step up to stop the villain Blackheart who has plans to take over the world. He has already sidelined the four top superheroes by getting them out of the way so he can go through with his plans. The first step to his plan is to encase the Sunset City within an orange force field or bubble.

This may have been fast paced but it was not exciting or interesting and it would have been nice if there was more diversity among the characters. The only diversity I spotted was in chapter 8 which came across as very racist. Three guys who speak in broken English and were constantly referred to as thugs tried to attack Veronica who although had powers of her own needed to be rescued by Defiant.

The writing was not only very simplistic but also bad. I found some of the fight scenes lasted too long that they started to become boring.

I read up to chapter 16 of this 47 chapter book (the chapters are very short) before I couldn't read any more. I just give up trying to read this, life's too short to read bad books.

Book Review: Catwoman's Halloween Heist

Book: Batman: Catwoman's Halloween Heist by Eric Fein with illustration by Erik Doescher, Mike DeCarlo and Lee Loughridge

Rating: 1 star

Review:

Out of all of the DC Superhero books that I've read, this is the only one I didn't really like. The characterizations for Barbara Gordon (Batgirl), Tim Drake (Robin) and Catwoman (Selina Kyle) seemed off and the story was not very well written. I really couldn't stand how those three were shown in this book. Batman also appeared in this but he was pretty much in character.

The story follows Barbara Gordon who while out shopping was invited by Jason Graves one of her classmates to an ultra exclusive Halloween party at his house. However, she's supposed to go on patrol with Robin that night but she really didn't want to miss the party. After convincing Batman to let her and Tim attend the party they were set to go.

While Barbara and Tim showed up at the party in their Batgirl and Robin uniforms, Batman was heading to Arkham Asylum because he had been contacted because there seemed to be a problem with a patient/inmate at the asylum.

With the party underway, Jason's father, a successful writer was showing off a unique yet pricey cat statue. But while he was doing that the power went out and someone stole it.

There is a connection between Batman being at Arkham and the Halloween party.

This wasn't good and it was a disappointing read. Although the other DC Superhero books were geared towards kids they were exciting and well written. Compared to the other books, it seemed dumbed down and poorly written.

Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thon book 5 Review: Wonder Woman: Dr. Psycho's Circus of Crime

Book: Wonder Woman: Dr. Psycho's Circus of Crime by Paul Kupperberg with illustrations by Dan Schoening

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

After spending an evening at the circus with her friend Etta Candy, Diana found herself in the middle of a mystery. Several robberies were popping up throughout Washington, D.C. and she was contacted by the police to see if she could help.

Her investigation lead her back to the circus there was more going on than just entertaining the crowd.

This was a good story that was filled with action. Diana showed that she's not just a hero but also a good detective. I really like that the story not only included one of Wonder Woman's villains but also her friend.

Although these books are geared towards children, I think they are good read for anyone. This five chapter book includes bright and colorful artwork throughout and discussion questions at the end.

Book Review: Wonder Woman: Rumble in the Rainforest

Book: Wonder Woman: Rumble in the Rainforest by Sarah Hines Stephen with illustrations by Dan Schoening

Rating: 4 stars

Review:

In this story, Wonder Woman joined forces with Gorilla Grodd and Poison Ivy to stop the destruction to a part of the rainforest by a evil businessman.

While Diana was attending the Global Environmental Conference she got a bad feeling about businessman Rupert Javlar's latest charitable venture. He was given land in the rainforest to use for improving the environment but Diana didn't think the once greedy and evil man was now all about doing good for others or the environment.

She decided to go do a little investigating and to see what Mr. Javlar was really up to. When she got to the land she found trees being cut down by robots and other machinery. And while she was continuing to look around, her investigation was interrupted by Gorilla Grodd and Poison Ivy fighting. After realizing that Wonder Woman was there, the two villains decided to fight her instead.

Once, Diana got them away from the forest she was able to persuade Grodd and Ivy (with help from her magic lasso) who the real cause of the problem was. Afterwards, the unlikely trio decided to check out Javlar's warehouse for evidence when they inadvertently ran into the man who was now inside of one of his indestructible robots ready for a fight.

I thought this was a fun and interesting story and since this is geared towards children the story isn't overly complicated or difficult but there may be a few big words that some children may need a little help reading. Something I also like is that there's a glossary, discussion questions and a profile on Gorilla Grodd at the end of the book.

I also really love the artwork, it's bright and colorful and in the Bruce Timm animated universe style. I have said this before but these are good books for parents to buy if their children are interested in superheroes because not only are the stories exciting, fast paced and easy to follow but it shows the heroes at their best which is being heroes.

Book Review: The Man of Steel: Superman vs. The Doomsday Army

I forgot to include that NetGalley lent me this book to review.

Book: The Man of Steel: Superman vs. The Doomsday Army written by Laurie Sutton with illustrations by Luciano Vecchio and cover art by Tim Levins

Rating: 4 stars

Review:

This story should have no problem holding a child's attention because it's non-stop action and adventure. This is a fast paced five chapter book that's full of excitement and shows Superman at his heroic best.

Superman goes up against a squad of Doomsday clones that were sent by Queen Bloorga to attack Superman and the Earth. She issued her army of clones to invade so she can take Earth's resources. Superman had to not only fight the clones in space but in Metropolis as well. By the time he reached the city, he got a little assistance from Air Force jets that were being commanded by General Sam Lane (the father of Lois Lane).

From his fight with the clones, Superman was able to figure out their weaknesses and instructed the General on how to destroy them. The intrepid reporter, Lois Lane also appeared in the same scene trying to get to the bottom of the story and possibly get a quote from the Man of Steel as well. After that Superman took to the air to confront the aliens.

Once aboard the alien's space ship he tried to convince the aliens to abandon their attempts to invade Earth. That didn't work, so Superman decided to try a different approach with trying to stop the cloning process instead. That brought about two discoveries for him.

I thought the artwork throughout the story was really well done and it was in the style of Superman: The Animated Series and Justice League/Justice League Unlimited Animated Series.

I said this before that these are a great way to introduce children to superheroes because these fast paced stories are simple yet interesting. There's nothing too inappropriate for children that parents have to worry about with these types of books.

On a side note, why does the Superman in this children's book feel more like Superman than the one in the new 52? Anyway this is a good book for kids or anyone who loves superhero books.

Bout of Books, Day 7 Review: Wonder Woman: Sword of the Dragon

Book: Wonder Woman: Sword of the Dragon written by Laurie Sutton with artwork by Dan Schoening

Rating: 4 stars

Review:

I think these books are a great way to introduce superheroes to children because you get a fast paced, exciting and easy to follow story with colorful artwork.

In this story, Wonder Woman had no choice but to retrieve the magical star sword of Merlin for the evil Morgaine Le Fey who was holding tourist for hostage. Wonder Woman found herself going from one adventure to the next as she tried to find the sword.

This was a thrilling little short five chapter story that was quite fun to read even though I'm not a little kid.

Book Review: Batman: Dead White

Book: Batman: Dead White (Batman book #1) by John Shirley

Description:

Who better than Batman to protect the dangerous city of Gotham, where even the cops are crooks? But the latest imminent terror might be too much for the burgeoning Caped Crusader, who is still carving out a place for himself in the minds of Gotham’s criminals.

There’s a host of deadly new weapons in Batman’s glittering, sinister city–in the hands of a psychotic mastermind called White Eyes. With his radical murder machine, the fiendish leader of Gotham’s racist Bavarian Brotherhood can move beyond dealing drugs and hot guns to pursue his real passion: the white supremacist takeover of America.

The homegrown terrorists’ first strike–at the heart of our nation’s capitol–is only weeks away. But first they’ll test out their killer toys on Batman, who is hot on the trail of White Eyes and his brutal militia. Ounce for ounce, muscle for muscle, Batman’s no match for the cunning villain and his wicked new firepower. At least, that’s how White Eyes sees it.

Batman has other ideas . . .



Rating: 4 1/2 stars

My Review:

This was one intense book but it was very good. However, I wouldn't recommend it for young Batman fans due to the language, violence and story. I thought this was a very interesting book, full of action but also very well written. The characters whether good or bad were fleshed out to be more than two dimensional.

Since this book takes place with a younger - still getting used to being a hero - Batman. I thought I would be reading about a boring and incompetent Nolan version but instead this Batman was smart, resourceful and full of life, like you would expect from Gotham's superhero. Alfred was also used rather well in the story.

There was also a very interesting secondary story with Gotham Detective Cormac Sullivan and his son Gary and I was very happy their story had a happy ending. Also, another character Beth who had been through so much in this story that it was nice that she also had a happy ending.

This is Batman at his best. I'm glad I read this.