While I work on a few reviews of stuff (Local! Seven Soldiers! Y!), some thoughts on the Publishers Weekly list of best comics of 2005:
Epileptic: I’d like to read this. I probably will some day. I’m just not in much of a rush.
Ex-Machina: The First Hundred Days: I read this in monthly format, so don’t need the collection. The first issue was absolutely fantastic, but the next four were cliched and predictable.
The Rabbi’s Cat: Again, something I’d like to read but isn’t at the top of my list. Higher priority than Epileptic, though.
Scott Pilgrim vs. The World: One of my favourites. Not as good as the first volume, but still a great mix of pop culture references and genuine character moments.
Ghost in the Shell 2: Man-Machine Interface: Saw the first movie. Never read either manga. Probably will, some day.
WE3: Yep, it’s just that good. Surprisingly straightforward story from Morrison, beautifully emotional writing, and mind-blowing art from Frank Quitely.
Black Hole: I’ve ordered this from Amazon. I’ll have thoughts in a few weeks.
King: Doesn’t really grab me. I’m not sure why.
MBQ vol. 1 and The Genshiken vol. 1: Okay, I’m still working on reading more manga. I’ll probably check these two out at some point.
Gemma Bovery: This looks good. I’ll have to read it.
Why Are You Doing This: Again, something I want to pick up.
Yotsuba&!: I’ve heard many recommendations for this from people with good taste, so this is a reasonably imminent purchase.
Walt and Skeezix : Book One: No interest at all.
Salamander Dream: I read most of this when Hope Larson was serializing it online. Beautiful art, simple story.
Tricked: Big book. Will read some day.
Night Fisher: Interesting.
Dramacon: Meh.
Astonishing X-Men Volume 1: Gifted: As much as I love Whedon, this reads like another riff on classic Claremont stories. I gave up after three issues. Cassaday’s fantastic, but I’d rather see him on Planetary or I am Legion.
Street Angel: Another favourite. It’s goofy and absurd, but perfectly executed. I seem to be the only person who preferred the fourth issue, but that’s okay.
It seems I have a lot of books to read. Bah. Anyone who wants to send me books or money is welcome to do so.