Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2000

DC FOR FEBRUARY

Following are DC Comics' solicitations for February, with information provided by the company.

BATMAN TITLES

BATMAN #588

Written by Brian K. Vaughan; art by Scott McDaniel and Karl Story; cover by McDaniel.

Guest writer Brian K. Vaughan begins a startling 2-part story, "Close Before Striking." Things get weird when Batman comes face to face withâ¤|Matches Malone? But isn't Matches just an alias of Batman? Questions abound, and one of Batman's all-time nastiest villains - Scarface - returns to unleash mayhem in Gotham.

32 pages, $2.25, ships on Feb. 7.

BATMAN: LEGENDS OF THE DARK KNIGHT #140

Written by Doug Moench; art and cover by Paul Gulacy and Jimmy Palmiotti.

Part 4 of the 5-part "Terror." With Hugo Strange dead (again!), the Scarecrow initiates phase two of his plan to destroy Batman: the conversion of an abandoned mansion into a "Horror House" designed to kill anyone who steps over its deadly threshold. It's a series of deathtraps the likes of which Batman has never before faced.

32 pages, $2.25, ships on Feb. 14.

DETECTIVE COMICS #755

Written by Greg Rucka and Jordan B. Gorfinkel; art by Shawn Martinbrough, Jeff Johnson, Steve Mitchell, and Dan Panosian; cover by Dave Johnson,

Following the events of "Officer Down," a party is held as cops and Gotham's elite - including Two-Face - turn out to say farewell to one of Gotham's finest. But how can Bruce Wayne slip away and become Batman in order to stop Two-Face, when he can't seem to ditch his ever-present bodyguard, Sasha Bordeaux? Plus, Chapter 10 of "The Jacobian."

40 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 21.

BATMAN: GOTHAM KNIGHTS #14

Written by Devin Grayson and Paul Dini; art by Roger Robinson, Ronnie Del Carmen and John Floyd; cover by Brian Bolland

The deadly twins known as Double Dare have stolen some jewels from the Penguin, and just about everyone is looking to retrieve the property, along with the heads of the thieves on a platter. It takes both Nightwing and Azrael to slow these girls down. Also, Dick writes a letter to Bruce inquiring about the files that he and Tim found on the computer in the Batcave, and what effect they've had on the rest of the Bat-family. Plus, a black & white backup feature, "The Bet," written by Paul Dini and illustrated by Ronnie Del Carmen.

40 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 28.

AZRAEL: AGENT OF THE BAT #75

Written by Dennis O'Neil; art by Sergio Cariello and James Pascoe; cover by Tony Harris and Ray Snyder,

An extra-sized issue guest-starring Batman introduces a new costume - and a new mission - for Azrael. Facing two pretenders to the role that must be his alone, will Jean Paul's new costume trigger the abilities he needs in time to avert a tragedy?

48 pages, $3.95, ships on Feb. 14.

BATGIRL #13

Written by Kelley Puckett; art and cover by Damion Scott and Robert Campanella.

Batgirl comes to the aid of a sniper who was about to be setup as the fall guy, and finds herself facing some very shady government types - trained killers who now have Batgirl in their sights. What can our heroine do to stop the black operations run by our own government?

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 7.

BATGIRL: SILENT RUNNING TRADE PAPERBACK

Written by Kelley Puckett and Scott Peterson; art by Damion Scott and Robert Campanella.

The first six issues of the ongoing Batgirl series are collected in this trade paperback that features the most popular new hero to rise from the ashes of "No Man's Land."

144 pages, $12.95, ships on Feb. 21.

BATMAN BEYOND #18

Written by Hilary Bader; art by Craig Rousseau and Rob Leigh; cover by Brian Stelfreeze.

The Stalker comes to Gotham with a surprise for Batman: the return of Blight. Derek Powers, the man responsible for the death of Terry's father has been lured back to Gotham by the Stalker, and has one thing on his mind: revenge. Can Batman survive the double-team of the Stalker and Blight?

32 pages, $1.99, ships on Feb. 28.

BATMAN: GOTHAM ADVENTURES #35

Written by Scott Peterson; art by Tim Levins and Terry Beatty; cover by Bob Smith and Beatty.

Bruce Wayne finds himself on the jury of a man he helped capture, and worse yet, the perpetrator is about to go free! What can Bruce possibly do that Batman can't?

32 pages, $1.99, ships on Feb. 7.

BATMAN: HOLLYWOOD KNIGHT #1

Written by Bob Layton; art and cover by Dick Giordano.

In the Golden Age of Hollywood, at the height of production of the great serial movie adventures, the most successful serial of all features a man in a Bat-suit, fighting crime and striking fear into the hearts of evildoers. But this "fiction" soon becomes a reality in this three-issue Elseworlds mini-series. Byron Wyatt is a successful actor/director/producer, whose independent film company, Gotham Pictures, creates the Batman serials based on the popular comic-book character. But Wyatt (who stars as the Batman) and his success threaten to undermine the big studio Arkham Pictures, run by mogul Jack "the Joker" Napier. After several threats from Napier fail to sway Wyatt from stopping production of the serials, Napier uses his mob connections for a more permanent solution to his problem. After the mob kills off the production crew and sets fire to the sets, they find Wyatt in costume and shoot him in the head. Only Wyatt doesn't die. When the actor regains consciousness from his near-fatal head wound, he has no memory of his true identity. Instead, he only remembers his life asâ¤|the Batman, and is consumed with a thirst for vengeance for the murder of his "friend," Byron Wyatt. Will his memory fully return before the ultimate confrontation with Napier? And if so, will he still have the fearlessness of the Batman to bring Napier down for good?

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 21.

BIRDS OF PREY #28

Written by Chuck Dixon; art and cover by Butch Guice.

Part 1 of the 3-Part "History Lesson!" So whatever happened to the mercenary group the Ravens, who were lost way back in the past in issue #5? The mystery begins when a trio of Vikings burst forth from a S.T.A.R. Laboratory, and deepens when an ancient relic is uncovered with an inexplicable connection to Black Canary. Oracle sends Canary on the trail, but the doorway to the past goes in both directions. As Canary begins her perilous journey, will she find herself ending up in the history books?

CATWOMAN #91

Written by Bronwyn Carlton; art by Peter Doherty and Wayne Faucher; cover by Staz Johnson and Faucher.

A second Catwoman is running around wearing the old purple costume, determined to exact revenge on the G.C.P.D. But Selina Kyle won't rest until she uncovers the mystery of who this copy-cat Catwoman is. Meanwhile, with Gotham's finest out to uncover the mystery of Selina's "death" and the mayor's corrupt cops looking for payback, you know chaos is going to ensue.

32 pages, $2.25, ships on Feb. 28.

HARLEY QUINN #5

Written by Karl Kesel; art and cover by Terry Dodson and Rachel Dodson.

Bo and Surley, the bounty hunters who've been on Harley's trail since issue #3, are joined by a new partner - a former FBI profiler who's about to uncover something verrrrry interesting about Harley's past. Meanwhile, Harley and the Quinntettes get a new member, and embark on a theft of gargantuan proportions.

32 pages, $2.25, ships on Feb. 14.

NIGHTWING #54

Written by Chuck Dixon; art and cover by Greg Land and Drew Geraci.

Officer Dick Grayson sometimes finds his hands tied when it comes to getting lowlifes off the street. Fortunately, Dick has a night job that allows him to pick up where his police cases end. But on this night, as he tries to stop a brutal spousal abuser as Nightwing, someone very close to him has a horrible accident - one that may take a life.

32 pages, $2.25, ships on Feb. 14.

ROBIN #87

Written by Chuck Dixon; art and cover by Pete Woods and Andrew Pepoy.

In the aftermath of "Officer Down," Robin finds himself at the end of his rope and out of contact with Batman. As Tim's personal life begins to unravel, Batman enlists the aid of Spoiler to track his wayward sidekick down - with ramifications that will be felt for many months to come. This issue marks a significant and destructive turning point in the relationship of Batman and Robin.

32 pages, $2.25, ships on Feb. 21.

SUPERMAN TITLES

SUPERMAN #167

Written by Jeph Loeb; art by Ed McGuinness and Cam Smith; cover by Paul Rivoche.

Part 1 of "Return to Krypton," the storyline running through all the Superman books in February. Taking Lois with him, Superman returns to the land of his birth - but now it's seen in a way it hasn't looked in almost twenty years. Can Superman save this Silver Age Krypton from its destruction?

32 pages, $2.25, ships on Feb. 7.

ADVENTURES OF SUPERMAN #589

Written by Joe Casey; art by Duncan Rouleau, Jaime Mendoza and Marlo Alquiza; cover by Paul Rivoche.

Part 2 of "Return to Krypton!" Superman's visit and reunion with his father Jor-El may be cut short as his father's enemy, General Zod, unleashes the Eradicators against them.

32 pages, $2.25, ships on Feb. 14.

SUPERMAN: THE MAN OF STEEL #111

Written by Mark Schultz; art by Doug Mahnke and Tom Nguyen; cover by Paul Rivoche.

Return to Krypton" Part 3. Fugitives of Krypton, Clark and Lois adopt the identity of Kryptonian heroes Nightwing and Flamebird to survive. But in whatever guise, the now powerless Kal-El may not survive the confrontation with General Zod's personal assassins, Kru-El and Faora.

32 pages, $2.25, ships on Feb. 21.

ACTION COMICS #776

Written by Joe Kelly; art by Kano and Marlo Alquiza; cover by Paul Rivoche.

The conclusion of "Return to Krypton!" It looks like there's no way home for Superman and Lois. General Zod will bring about the planet's destruction rather than let anyone escape - meaning that Jor-El must make a fateful decision.

32 pages, $2.25, ships on Feb. 28.

SUPERBOY #85

Written by Joe Kelly; art and cover by Pascual Ferry and Keith Champagne.

Guest-starring Batgirl and Batman. Superboy heads to Gotham City to hang out with Robin. But when the Boy Wonder is unavailable, the Kid instead meets up with Batgirl. One problem: The Dark Knight himself isn't too thrilled with that idea, so he puts Superboy through a series of tests to make sure he's on the up-and-up. Can the Kid make the grade?

32 pages, $2.25, ships on Feb. 21.

SUPERBOY'S LEGION #1

Written by Mark Farmer; art and cover by Alan Davis and Farmer. A rocketship blasts away from an exploding planet just in time. Inside the ship, the last survivor of an entire civilization sleeps. His destination: 20th-century Earth. Only the Kryptonian ship veers off-course, enduring a thousand-year journey into the 30th century, where it ends up being discovered by billionaire industrialist R.J. Brande.The story of the Last Son of Krypton takes a different, yet somehow familiar twist in this two-issue Elseworlds mini-series. Brande's now adopted son, "Kal," grows up an impetuous teenager with powers and abilities far beyond those of mortal men. Alone and without purpose, Kal is regarded by many as a childish boy who dreams about the super-heroes who protected Earth a millennium ago. But certain events prompt young Kal to turn those dreams into reality, as he decides to find other unique teens like himself and form a Legion of Super-Heroes. Unfortunately, their first mission may turn into a nightmare for the young group of heroes, as unseen forces enter the equation and look to strengthen their grip on a universe they already control.

48 pages, $5.95, ships on Feb. 21.

SUPERGIRL #55

Written by Peter David; art by Derec Aucoin; cover by Leonard Kirk and Robin Riggs.

It's bad enough that as Supergirl, Linda Danvers has only a portion of the powers she once had. Now she finds herself in the unenviable position of having to play bodyguard to President Lex Luthor, who's become the target of a man dealing with some serious issues of his own.

32 pages, $2.25, ships on Feb. 28.

SUPERMAN ADVENTURES #54

Written by Dean Motter; art by Aluir Amancio and Terry Austin; cover by Mike Manley and Austin.

Lex Luthor's experiment with an outer space mineral has rendered all of Earth's Kryptonite utterly harmless to Superman. But why would Luthor make things better for the Man of Steel? Or is there something more sinister behind all of this?

32 pages, $1.99, ships on Feb. 21.

SUPERMAN: PRESIDENT LUTHOR SECRET FILES #1

Written by Greg Rucka, Peter David, Jeph Loeb, Phil Jimenez, and various; art by Dale Eaglesham, Matthew Clark, Stuart Immonen, Yvel Guichet, Mike Wieringo, Lee Bermejo, Butch Guice, Louis Small Jr., and various; cover by Tony Harris and Ray Snyder.

No one thought it could really happen. The super-hero community, most especially Superman, has witnessed a truly landmark event in DC Universe history and seen their worst nightmare come true: Lex Luthor has been elected President of the United States. By now, the Luthor campaign has saturated the media with its official spin on who the new Chief Executive is. But in Superman: President Luthor Secret Files, a 48-page special with a cover by Tony Harris and Ray Snyder, some of the behind-the-scenes events that voters never got to see are brought to light. In the lead story (written by Greg Rucka), we learn how Lex decided to run for President (illustrated by Matthew Clark) and how he decided to pick Talia to run LexCorp (illustrated by Dale Eaglesham). Also, sit in on a debate with Luthor and his mysterious opponent (written by Peter David with art by Stuart Immonen)! Then enjoy "The Last Temptation of Lex" (written by Phil Jimenez with art by Yvel Guichet), as Wonder Woman nemesis and former Injustice Gang member Circe visits Lex in the White House, with a tempting offer to become his First Lady. Plus, two more short stories (by Jeph Loeb and Mike Wieringo and Karl Kesel and Paul Pelletier), as well as in-depth profiles of President Luthor, LexCorp CEO Talia, Vice President Pete Ross and Luthor's surprising Cabinet by such talented artists as Lee Bermejo, Butch Guice and Louis Small, Jr.

48 pages, $4.95, ships on Jan. 17 (retro-solicited).

DC UNIVERSE TITLES

THE FLASH #171

Written by Geoff Johns; art by Scott Kolins and Doug Hazlewood; cover by Brian Bolland.

In "Blood Will Run," a creepy cult has formed around the Flash, its members vowing to slay anyone the Flash has ever rescued. But before Wally can get a handle on the situation, a startling new villain makes his diabolical debut.

32 pages, $2.25, ships on Feb. 28.

GREEN ARROW #1

Written by Kevin Smith; art by Phil Hester and Ande Parks; cover by Matt Wagner.

When readers last saw Oliver Queen, he was seconds away from meeting his doom as he clutched a ticking bomb aboard a plummeting airplane. Until now, only Superman knew what really happened on that fateful day. But in the new Green Arrow series, readers finally get a chance to uncover the truth for themselves. Many characters populating the DC Universe are asking questions and demanding answers, including Queen's ex-lover Black Canary, his ex-partner Arsenal, and the son he hardly knew, Connor Hawke, who followed in his father's footsteps and temporarily became Green Arrow after Queen's "death." A certain Dark Knight from Gotham City has some questions of his ownâ¤|and he may not like the answers.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 28.

GREEN LANTERN #135

Written by Judd Winick; art and cover by Darryl Banks and Rich Faber.

Guest-starring the JLA. In Part 4 of the 5-part "While Rome Burned," Nero goes berserk in New York, and Kyle can't stop him alone. Fortunately for Kyle, he's getting some help from the JLA. But even the World's Greatest Heroes may not be able to stop the madman with the yellow power ring.

32 pages, $2.25, ships on Feb. 7.

HITMAN #60

Written by Garth Ennis; art by John McCrea and Garry Leach; cover by McCrea.

Final issue. The conclusion of "Closing Time!" The extra-sized finale has Tommy and Natt facing off against Truman and his men. Bullets fly, people die, and the world of Hitman will never be the sameâ¤|

48 pages, $3.95, ships on Feb. 28.

HOURMAN #25

Written by Tom Peyer; art by Rags Morales and David Meikis; cover by Morales.

Final issue. The Man of the Hour's time has run out as Hourman's roadtrip through time brings him and his friends to the end of his adventures! Join Snapper and the gang in bidding Tyler a tearful farewell, and discover what Tyler's surprising new mission will be.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 14.

IMPULSE #71

Written by Todd Dezago; art by Carlo Barberi and Juan Vlasco; cover by Ethan Van Sciver and Wayne Faucher.

Lucius Keller - one of Max Mercury's oldest foes - has returned. Meanwhile, Impulse and Carol discover some strong feelings for each other - but this revelation comes far too lateâ¤|because they may be separated for good.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 14.

JLA #51

Written by Mark Waid; art by Mike S. Miller and Armando Durruthy; cover by Bryan Hitch and Paul Neary.

The latest JLA adventure, "Man and Superman," begins, Clark Kent and Superman standing side by side? Bruce Wayne staying at home while Batman patrols Gotham? The Justice Leaguers find themselves in a strange predicament when they somehow become separated from their own secret identities! What mysterious power could have caused this? Chaos sweeps the globe as the heroes and their ordinary human alter-egos search esperately for an answer.

32 pages, $2.25, ships on Feb. 28.

JSA #21

Written by David S. Goyer and Geoff Johns; art by Buzz; cover by Alan Davis and Mark Farmer.

A prologue to the upcoming return of Hawkman. After the mind-blowing aftermath of "Injustice Be Done," the legendary super-team takes a well-earned breather. Black Canary and Dr. Mid-Nite resume their "date." Sentinel and Jade have a father/daughter talk. And some startling revelations are exposed regarding Hawkgirl. Guest-starring the JLA's resident angel, Zauriel.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 21.

JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA ARCHIVES VOL. 7 HC

Written by Gardner Fox; art by Mike Sekowsky and Sid Greene; cover by John Workman.

The latest Archive Edition spanning the JLA's Silver Age adventures reprints Justice League of America #51-57, 59 and 60, featuring the return of super-villain threats such as the Royal Flush Gang and the Queen Bee! Plus the fourth JLA/JSA crossover and guest-stars Elongated Man, Hawkgirl and Zatanna.

228 pages, $49.95, ships on Feb. 14.

LEGENDS OF THE DC UNIVERSE #39

Written by Danny Fingeroth; art by Randy Green and Wayne Faucher; painted cover by Kevin Nowlan.

Superman stars in the one-issue story "Sole Survivor of Earth," where an eccentric billionaire is convinced that the Earth is doomed and will soon explode! When he sends his only son rocketing into outer space, Superman takes a special interest for a very personal reason.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 28.

LEGION LOST #12

Written by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning; art and cover by Olivier Coipel and Lanning.

It's the final issue of the Legion's greatest adventure, The Progenitor has discovered a dimensional doorway that will lead the Progeny forces to the Lost Legionnaires' universe. If the Legion can't find a way to close up the doorway, then both galaxies are surely lost. Unfortunately, the solution may very well result in the Legionnaires not being able to go home...unless someone prepares to make the ultimate sacrifice.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 14.

MARTIAN MANHUNTER #29

Written by John Ostrander; art and cover by Tom Mandrake.

Everyone has secrets... But who can keep secrets from a telepath? Especially one that has no compunction against looking into your deepest hidden self? A side of the Martian Manhunter is revealed that even he has never seen before.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 7.

ORION #11

Written and art by Walter Simonson; cover by Simonson.

It's full-length action from Walter Simonson as Orion takes over New Genesis and adds its might to his, thanks to the Anti-Life Equation! But what sinister, shadowy forces are plotting to destroy Orion before it's too late? It may already be too late for Desaad - Orion kills him this issue.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 21.

ORION: THE GATES OF APOKOLIPS TRADE PAPERBACK

Written by Walter Simonson; art by Simonson, Frank Miller, Dave Gibbons, Klaus Janson, Jon Bogdanove, and Bill Reinhold; cover by Simonson.

The epic battle between Orion and Darkseid highlights this trade paperback collecting Orion #1-5, and other short Fourth World stories.

144 pages, $12.95, ships on Feb. 7.

THE SPECTRE #2

Written by J.M. DeMatteis; art and cover by Ryan Sook.

The new series starring Hal Jordan continues with "Redeeming the Demon" Part 1 of 3. Having cast off the Wrath - the vengeful, destructive spirit that has always been at the heart of the Spectre - new Spectre Hal Jordan tries to carry on with his holy mission, but is now plagued with doubts. Meanwhile, the goddess-like being known as Mystos has imprisoned the Wrath, and she uses it as bait to lure the Spectre into a trap. Will Mystos get the better of Hal by pitting him against the Wrath itself?

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 7.

STARMAN #76

Written by James Robinson; art by Peter Snejbjerg; painted cover by Andrew Robinson.

"Talking With David: 2001." Jack and his brother meet for what could be the final time. The secret of how the annual meetings happen is revealed, as David and Jack discuss the history and lineage of Starman. Featuring several unexpected guest stars who have touched David's life in the hereafter.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 7.

THE TITANS #26

Written by Jay Faerber; art by Paul Pelletier and Bud LaRosa; cover by J.H. Williams III and Mick Gray.

The Titans stop Shockwave's second assassination attempt on newly elected Mayor James Hall, only to discover the murder attempt is one small part of a bizarre conspiracy to gain possession of the Titans' Island. Plus, a glimpse of a new group of characters destined to forever change the future of the Titans.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 21.

WONDER WOMAN #167

Written by Phil Jimenez and J.M. DeMatteis; art by Jimenez and Andy Lanning; cover by Adam Hughes.

Part 4 of the 4-part "Gods of Gotham!" The conclusion to co-writer/artist Phil Jimenez's first story arc arrives as Wonder Woman and Batman struggle to defeat the Children of Ares. As if Deimos, Phoebos and Eris weren't dangerous enough in the bodies of the Joker, Scarecrow and Poison Ivy, now the situation turns critical as Phoebos piks a new host-body. And the God of Fear's new pawn is the most fearsome imaginable.

32 pages, $2.25, ships on Feb. 28.

YOUNG JUSTICE #30

Written by Peter David; art and cover by Todd Nauck and Lary Stucker.

Secret vs. Spoiler? When Secret believes that Spoiler is trying to take Robin away from her, smoke and sparks fly. So what's Robin got to say about all of this? Nothing for now - he's just trying to survive this fatal attraction.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 7.

BEYOND THE DC UNIVERSE TITLES

STATIC SHOCK!: REBIRTH OF THE COOL #4

Written by Dwayne McDuffie; art and cover by John Paul Leon.

After the stunning ending to issue #3, Static stands alone risking everything in an epic battle against Power Junkie, the super-hero turned drug lord who now possesses the super-powers of over one hundred Bang Babies. Will this be Static's final adventure?

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 14.

CARTOON CARTOONS #2

Written by Paul Kupperberg, Scott Cunningham and Michael Kraiger; art by Neal Sternecky, Mike Kazaleh, Jeff Albrecht, Vincent Deporter, and Angus Bungay; cover by Tim Harkins.

All-new stories featuring all the stars of Cartoon Network's hit original shows. Johnny Bravo turns invisible in "See No Johnny;" Cow and Chicken buy some big trouble with magic beans in "Chicken and the Beanstalk;" and Ed Edd n' Eddy bake themselves a calamity cookie in "Half Bak-Ed!"

32 pages, $1.99, ships on Feb. 21.

DEXTER'S LABORATORY #20

Written by John Rozum, Jennifer Moore and Sean Carolan; art by John Delaney and Matt Jenkins; cover by Bill Wray.

When Mandark shrinks himself to literally find the way to his true love's heart, Dexter gets sucked into the actionâ¤|and into Dee-Dee. Plus, Dexter bids big money on a Tyrannosaurus Rex in "Auction Action!"

32 pages, $1.99, ships on Feb. 28.

LOONEY TUNES #75

Written by Dan Slott; art and cover by David Alvarez and Mike DeCarlo

A landmark 75th issue finds Bugs Bunnyâ¤|dead? Yes, it's true - the wascally wabbit has bought the farm, and every creature who's ever been tricked, blasted, double-crossed, out-maneuvered and generally bugged by Bugs is under suspicion. Daffy sets out to find the culprit, because it's a terrible, awful, horrible, no good, very bad thing and, wellâ¤|because he's the prime suspect. This special issue is jam-packed with all the mugs, goons and ninnies from all the years of classic Warner Bros. cartoons. Will Daffy be able to pick the right one out of the lineup?

32 pages, $1.99, ships on Feb. 7.

THE POWERPUFF GIRLS #12

Written by Abby Denson; art by Ricardo Garcia Fuentes; cover by Phil Moy.

A blizzard closes Pokey Oaks Kindergarten, and the Girls get a day off - but they're too snowed under with crimefighting to have fun. It'll take an Abominable Snowman to chill them out.

32 pages, $1.99, ships on Feb. 21.

SCOOBY-DOO #45

Written by John Rozum and Bob Fingerman; art by Joe Staton, Karen Machette and Stephen DeStefano; cover by Staton and Dave Hunt.

Mystery Inc. gets dazzled by a glittering ghost in New York City; also, when the gang's too busy to chase a pizza-stealing beast, Shaggy and Scooby set out to solve it themselves.

32 pages, $1.99, ships on Feb. 14.

WILDSTORM PRODUCTIONS TITLES

THE AUTHORITY #23

Written by Mark Millar; art and cover by Frank Quitely and Trevor Scott.

Part 2 of the 4-part "Brave New World." The Authority has been scattered to the winds and the secret masters of the world have regained control. The status quo reigns supreme, and the team even comes up with a force that can match any of the big threats the Authority has confronted. However, it's all about to go horribly, horribly wrong.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 7.

BATTLE CHASERS #8

Written by Joe Madureira and Munier Sharrieff; art and cover by Madureira.

The intrepid heroes are battling for their lives against the awesome power of the Harvester. In the aftermath, Gully comes face to face with the mysterious man who's been pursuing her since the very first issue.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 21.

CRIMSON #24

Written by Brian Augustyn; art and cover by Humberto Ramos and Sandra Hope.

Final issue. Crimson wraps up with a bang as Lisseth and Alex, along with Ekimus, face their ultimate destinies. This extra-sized conclusion of Alex Elder's story is as epic in scope as it is poignant in spirit.

40 pages, $3.50, ships on Feb. 28.

CRIMSON: EARTH ANGEL TRADE PAPERBACK

Written by Brian Augustyn; art by Humberto Ramos, Sandra Hope and various; cover by Ramos and Hope.

Reprinting Crimson #13-18, this trade paperback introduces Zophiel, an angel fallen from the grace of God. Also included is a special Christmas story in which Alex learns that sometimes, one cannot avoid their destiny.

144 pages, $14.95, ships on Feb. 14.

GEN13 #62

Written by Adam Warren; art by Ed Benes and Vince Russell; cover by Warren.

It's just another day for our Gen-Active teens: a terrifying view into Grunge's oversexed daydreams, a shallow discussion of protectionist vs. egalitarian feminism, a startling episode of binge eating, and a sudden and shocking explosion of violence and mayhem, with potentially serious results! Did we mention this all takes place entirely in scenes from the drive-through lane of a fast-food joint?

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 14.

JEZEBELLE #2

Written by Ben Raab; art and cover by Steve Ellis and Mark Irwin

The mini-series starring WildStorm's new "battlemage" continues. They're hip! They're happenin'! They're also dead! Johnny B. Dark & The Shades are blowin' into town, and all Hell is about to break loose. Fifty years ago, they sold their souls for the ultimate hotrod. Now, they want their lives back and they don't care whose souls they gotta' steal to get 'em. Can Jezebelle save Salem from these ghostly greasers before it's too late?

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 14.

THE MONARCHY #1

Written by Doselle Young; art by John McCrea and Garry Leach; cover by McCrea.

Spinning out of events in The Authority #21, Jackson King, Christine Trelane and their new group, the Monarchy, go after the Young Authoritans - a group of youths who are taking the lessons of The Authority to extreme levels by going into poor neighborhoods and killing people they don't like. The world has fallen ill again, and it's time for the Monarchy to perform the emergency surgery required.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 14.

PLANETARY: ALL OVER THE WORLD AND OTHER STORIES HC

Written by Warren Ellis; art and cover by John Cassaday

The popular collection is now available in hardcover, containing the sold-out Planetary #1-6 as well as the little-seen Planetary Preview Story.

160 pages, $24.95, ships on Feb. 21.

STAR TREK: ENTER THE WOLVES

Written by A.C. Crispin and Howard Weinstein; art and cover by Carlos Mota and Keith Aiken.

A bitter and public disagreement between Spock and his father Sarek causes a rift between them. But when Sarek's new wife is kidnapped, can the two work together to rescue her?

48 pages, $5.96, ships on Feb. 14.

STAR TREK: VOYAGER - PLANET KILLER #2

Written by Kristine Kathryn Rusch and Dean Wesley Smith; art and cover by Robert Teranishi and Claude St. Aubin.

While the Doomsday Machine continues to destroy planet after planet, Janeway and the Voyager crew look on in horror as they try to find a way to defeat the device. With the minutes ticking away until the Planet Killer reaches an actual inhabited world, things are looking increasingly desperate.

32 pages, $2.95, ships on Feb. 28.

STEAMPUNK #7

Written by Joe Kelly; art and cover by Chris Bachalo and Richard Friend.

In part two of "Mechanica Sundown," Cole learns the origins of the manimatronics that keep him alive, and gains another piece of the puzzle which is his memory. Laslo, Vicki and Cole undergo their own personal moments of crisis. Meanwhile, Faust goes on a tear through the countryside, and we meet a fringe group of freedom fighters known as the Sundowns.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 7.

WILDCATS VOLUME 2 #20

Written by Joe Casey; art and cover by Steve Dillon

Guest artist Steve Dillon illustrates this two-part adventure as Grifter and Maul go head-to-head with the FBI in an old-fashioned Miami grudge match. Who is Agent Orange and how will he affect the future of the Wildcats?

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 7.

AMERICA'S BEST COMICS TITLES

PROMETHEA #13

Written by Alan Moore; art by J.H. Williams III and Mick Gray; cover by Williams III and Jose Villarrubia.

Promethea and Sophie set out on a quest to find a different sort of magic. Meanwhile, they leave a brand-new-acting Promethea in their place! Who knows what kinds of mayhem this will lead to?

32 pages, $2.95, ships on Feb. 21.

TOMORROW STORIES #10

Written by Alan Moore; art by art by Kevin Nowlan, Rick Veitch, Dame Darcy and Jim Baikie; cover by Nowlan.

The triumphant return of Jack B. Quick highlights this over-the-top issue. Jack is in the middle of a slew of Alien invaders. The First American runs for president. Greyshirt becomes entangled with a new femme fatale foe, Lapis Lazuli. And Cobwebâ¤|ABC is keeping that one to themselves right now.

32 pages, $2.95, ships on Feb. 14.

TOP TEN #11

Written by Alan Moore; art and cover by Gene Ha and Zander Cannon.

A sad aftermath to the apocalyptic events of the previous issue unfolds with devastating results. A new cop joins the force to replace the precinct's fallen brother officer. The mood is tense, the atmosphere uneasy - and the "nature" of the newbie makes it all the more troubling.

32 pages, $2.95, ships on Feb. 28.

HOMAGE COMICS

ZERO GIRL #3

Written and illustrated by Sam Kieth; painted cover by Kieth.

Things heat up as Amy Smootster and her counselor, Tim, are on the run from Vice Principal Hooly. When the runaway pair gets a little too close during a quiet moment together, Tim freaks - leaving Amy all alone in an alley which is quickly filling up with thugs. Meanwhile one of the bullies at school seems to be making a connection to Amy and her powersâ¤|

32 pages, $2.95, ships on Feb. 7.

VERTIGO TITLES

100 BULLETS #21

Written by Brian Azzarello; art by Eduardo Risso; painted cover by Dave Johnson.

"Sell Fish and Out to Sea" Part 1 of 2. Up until now, Agent Graves' choice of "clients" has made sense. Well, not anymore. Junkie Jack Dau has got some problems: He's penniless, he's homeless, and he's aimless. On top of all that, he's managed to alienate everyone he's ever cared about, or who's cared about him. When Agent Graves enters this broken man's life with the offer of revenge, Jack's already upside-down life gets body-slammed as he's forced to confront the person responsible for his fate.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 7.

THE CRUSADES: URBAN DECREE

Written by Steven T. Seagle; art and cover by Kelley Jones and Jason Moore.

An 11th-century Crusader comes to render a terrible judgment on the citizens of 21st-century San Francisco, setting off a firestorm of moral consequence in the hearts and minds of the people. This special low-priced Prestige Format one-shot of horror leads directly into the ongoing series beginning in March.

48 pages, $3.95, ships on Feb. 7.

DEADENDERS #14

Written by Ed Brubaker; art by Warren Pleece and Cameron Stewart; cover by Philip Bond.

"Behind the Wheel" Part 1 of 2. Beezer takes Anna back home to Sector 5 to locate the final element that links their mysterious heritage to the cataclysm. But things go horribly wrong - and at the center of this homecoming apocalypse is the horror that has become Lieutenant Larry Younger.

32 pages, $2.59, ships on Feb. 21.

THE DREAMING #59

Written by Caitlín R. Kiernan; art by Christian Hojgaard and Ron Randall; painted cover by Dave McKean.

Part 3 of the 4-part "Rise," the final story arc of The Dreaming. Echo continues her bloody assault on The Dreaming, leading an army of Nightmares to the gates of Lord Shaper's Palace. In the wake of the murder of his latest Raven, and with his kingdom in chaos, Daniel must make a fateful decision that will forever change the landscape of the Dreaming. Also guest-starring Cain, Abel, Brute, and Glob.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 21.

EL DIABLO #2

Written by Brian Azzarello; art by Danijel Zezelj; painted cover by Tim Sale.

The mini-series that burns a decidedly Vertigo brand on a classic DC Western character continues. Out on the range, Sheriff Moses Stone and his posse swap stories about their prey, the outlaw El Diablo. Is he dead or alive? The Great Spirit given flesh? Man, myth, or the devil himself? The answers lie just beyond the light of the campfire. But then, that's where El Diablo himself waits for them.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 28.

HEAVY LIQUID TRADE PAPERBACK

Written and illustrated by Paul Pope; cover by Pope.

Paul Pope's hypnotically compelling, Eisner-nominated miniseries, with art that features eclectic designs and striking 2-color separations, is collected in a stylish trade paperback. Set in an unforgettable sci-fi Manhattan, this post-modern mystery centers on "S," a man addicted to "heavy liquid," a substance that is both a drug and an artform.

240 pages, $29.95, ships on Feb. 28.

HELLBLAZER #159

Written by Brian Azzarello; art by Marcelo Frusin; painted cover by Tim Bradstreet.

Part 2 of the 4-part "Freezes Over." As the snow falls, anxiety rises in a tiny roadside cafe caught in the midst of a devastating blizzard. Tensions naturally run high in such situations, but when you add John Constantine to the mix, you're throwing gasoline on a fire. Sure, John's just playing with the stranded travelers, having a laugh at their expense, but with the discovery of a horribly mutilated body, the tables turn. Obviously, there's a brutally sick killer among them. Guess who's the smart-mouthed prime suspect?

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 28.

LUCIFER #11

Written by Mike Carey; art by Peter Gross and Ryan Kelly; cover by Duncan Fegredo.

Part two of the four-part "Children & Monsters." When a mysterious stranger tracks down British school-girl Elaine Belloc and claims to be her father, a nasty secret unravels that begins to claim lives. Meanwhile, the infinite legions of the Heavenly Host prepare for an epic battle with Lucifer who is still in the midst of organizing a ruthless army of his own.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 7.

THE NAMES OF MAGIC #3

Written by Dylan Horrocks; art by Richard Case; painted cover by John Bolton.

Tim and the Walker take shelter with Nick Bear Claw, a New Age enthusiast who may be more hindrance than help. Desperate to find clues to his true name, Tim begs Walker to take him on a dangerous Spirit Journey. While many things may become clearer on the astral plane, unfortunately it will also make them more vulnerable to the Lotus and Mr. Lily.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 28.

OUTLAW NATION #6

Written by Jamie Delano; art by Goran Sudzuka and Sebastijan Camagajevac; painted cover by Glenn Fabry.

A little sibling rivalry, a lot of narcotics, a fast car on wet blacktopâ¤|and Story is spinning out of control and into a Texas jail, leaving Jenny and Martin MIA. In New Mexico, Ruth has her own trouble staying on the road and calls on old flame Carlos for help. While deep in the Colorado mountains, Sonny is missing Rosa and discovering that, when you are a Johnson, danger and weirdness come with the territory.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 21.

SWAMP THING #12

Written by Brian K. Vaughan; art by Giuseppe Camuncoli and Rick Magyar; painted cover by Glenn Fabry.

Part 2 of the 6-Part "Red Harvest." More people than ever want to stop Tefé after she kidnaps Heather Strand, daughter of a powerful politician. But Tefé may finally have met her match. Is the young elemental controlling Heather, or is Heather the one calling the shots?

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 14.

TRANSMETROPOLITAN #43

Written by Warren Ellis; art by Darick Robertson and Rodney Ramos; cover by John Cassaday.

"Out Loud" Part 1 of 3. The Smiler is operating on the American Constitution. Civic Center is remaking the City in the image of his New Politics. Some anonymous freak is turning a Print District street into Sniper Alley. And Spider Jerusalem is having black-outs and episodes of mental confusion that are not related to his usual diet of narcotics and whiskey. Things are going very wrong. And they're going to get worse before they get betterâ¤|if they get better.

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 14.

USER #2

Written by Devin Grayson; painted art by John Bolton and Sean Phillips; painted cover by Bolton

Which is better: the virtual world or the mundane world? And who is the real Meg Chancellor? As Meg gets deeper and deeper into her online persona as young knight Guilliame de la Coeur, her relationships in the real world get worse and worse.

48 pages, $5.95, ships on Feb. 28.

WEIRD WESTERN TALES #1

Written by Dave Gibbons, Paul Pope and Greg Rucka; art by Gibbons, Pope and Rick Burchett; cover by Darwyn Cooke.

A new Vertigo four-issue mini-series begins updating the popular anthology of the '70s, offering weird and unique twists to a familiar genre. The first issue features "Serial Hero," a prose tale written and spot-illustrated by Dave Gibbons, that tells the story of a drunken TV cowboy who gets a second chance to be a real-life hero. In "Tall Tale," Paul Pope writes and illustrates a twist on the dime novels that gave rise to the legends of the Old West, where truth was definitely stranger than fiction. And in "Gun for Hire," Greg Rucka writes and Rick Burchett illustrates an action-filled romp that follows a very special six-gun that is literally "for hire."

32 pages, $2.50, ships on Feb. 14.