Here’s a quick bit about the comics I’ve read in the last couple of weeks.

1) Ultimate Spider-Man Hardcover Volume 9 – Finishing off Mark Bagley’s unprecedented run on Ultimate Spider-man was quite enjoyable. It’s one of those books that just keeps you entertained. The Clone Saga in the Ultimate Universe was far, far better than in the 616 universe. Bendis’ handling of the Kingpin and Doc Ock are always interesting.

2) Secret Invasion #1 – I’ve been out of the Marvel 616 Universe since I closed the doors at my comic book store in 2004. It’s been a while. I haven’t read House of M or Civil War or Annihilation or anything like that. But this seems to be a great jumping off point for anyone who’s been out of the Marvel Universe for a while. The characters are cool and the ending is great, well worth the read.

3) Kick-Ass #2 – I wrote a review of the first issue here. Seriously, the more I read this book, the more pissed off I am that I didn’t come up with this idea. It’s so well executed, beautifully drawn and colored and the writing is first rate. Mark Millar has done it again. If you’re not reading this book, you’re pretty much a loser.

4) Green Arrow: Quiver – I reread my graphic novel of Kevin Smith’s revival of the Green Arrow character and I must say that it ages really, really well. Kevin Smith’s version of Batman is probably one of the best to ever take his place in the DC Universe. Phil Hester’s art really keeps the visual storytelling end of the bargain up as well. My recommendation is that you dust this book off the shelf and give it another read. It won’t disappoint.