Tuesday, July 17, 2001

DC COMICS FOR OCTOBER

Following are DC Comics' solicitations for October, with information coming from the company.

JOKER: LAST LAUGH TITLES

JOKER: LAST LAUGH SECRET FILES #1

Written by Chuck Dixon, Scott Beatty, Dan Curtis Johnson, Jerry Ordway, and Jai Nitz; art by Pete Woods, J.H. Williams III, Peter Krause, Amanda Conner, Damion Scott, Todd Nauck, Mick Gray, and various; cover by Walter Simonson.

As the Joker plans his greatest escape to date, a shocking discovery makes him speed up his timetable (in a story written by Chuck Dixon & Scott Beatty, with art by Pete Woods). Plus, DEO Agent Chase interviews some of the Joker's past victims in a haunting tale written by Dan Curtis Johnson and J.H. Williams III with art by Williams & Mick Gray. Also: learn how one of the pivotal Last Laugh characters wound up in the Slab in a Power of Shazam! "Lost Pages" installment (written by Jerry Ordway with art by Peter Krause) and discover the secrets of the Joker's lethal gas (written by Jai Nitz with art by Amanda Conner and Jimmy Palmiotti). Rounding out the issue are profile pages showcasing some of the event's key players, illustrated by Damion Scott, Todd Nauck, and more.

64 pages, $5.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 3.

THE JOKER: LAST LAUGH #1

Written by Chuck Dixon and Scott Beatty; art by Pete Woods and Andrew Pepoy; cover by Brian Bolland

While in the Slab, the Joker discovers his clock is ticking. Shilo Norman, the former Mister Miracle and now head of Slab security, knows this is a recipe for disaster, so why won't anyone believe him? The Joker shares the venom that transformed him into the pasty faced sociopath that he is with countless other super-villains — ensuring his legacy lives on. Meanwhile Oracle, the first line of defense, is unavailable, leaving only Black Canary to try and stop a riot of the DCU's most deadly and unpredictable villains.

40 pages, $2.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 3.

AZRAEL: AGENT OF THE BAT #83

Written by Dennis O'Neil; art by Sergio Cariello and James Pascoe; cover by Walter Simonson.

Will Azrael be able to stop a "Jokerized" Sister Lilhy before she commits a gruesome crime? And why has Lilhy decided to don her own version of the Azrael costume? Is this some kind of joke?

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 3.

ORION #19

Written by Walter Simonson; art by Simonson, Eddie Campbell and Pete Mullins; cover by Simonsonn

The Joker's influence seems to have no bounds, as it spreads even to the deadly designs of the Deep Six! Now Orion has his hands full contending with the Joker-crazed Deep Six member Slig! Plus, a backup feature with a story of Intergang, illustrated by Eddie Campbell and Pete Mullins.

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 3.

YOUNG JUSTICE #38

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

A "Jokerized" Match sticks it to the team. Unfortunately, the gang really isn't all here, as the aftereffects of this summer's "Our Worlds at War" crossover are felt. With two members leaving, how will the team survive?

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 3.

THE JOKER: LAST LAUGH #2

Written by Chuck Dixon and Scott Beatty; art by Marcos Martin and Mark Farmer; cover by Scott McDaniel and Klaus Janson.

A riot in the Slab has led to total chaos. The Joker has taken control of the joint, and Black Canary's the lone hero trapped within its impregnable walls. Batman and Nightwing enter the fray, but the Joker's ready for them. It's the end of The Slab as you know it — it's only a question of who will go down with the ship.

40 pages, $2.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 10.

BATMAN: GOTHAM KNIGHTS #22

Written by Devin Grayson and Michael Golden; art by Roger Robinson, Jason Pearson, John Floyd, and Terry Austin; cover by Ed McGuinness and Jason Martin.

With the Joker's crazed super-villains terrorizing the DCU, Batman and Spoiler are left to defend Gotham City from a truly twisted new threat, as the Joker's brand of chemical warfare has transformed the creatures of Gotham. Plus, a Batman Black & White backup "The Bottom Line," written by Michael Golden and illustrated by Jason Pearson.

40 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 10.

BIRDS OF PREY #36

Written by Chuck Dixon; art by James Fry and Andrew Pepoy; cover by Ed McGuinness and Jason Martin

Black Canary is trapped in the Slab, outgunned and in way over her head, as she tries to stop a riot started by the Joker. With the Joker's hordes ready to beat the stuffing out of her, what chance does she have to survive, let alone escape? Oh, and did we mention the bomb ticking away in the basement?

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 10.

IMPULSE #79

Written by Todd Dezago; art by Aluir Amancio and Walden Wong; cover by Ed McGuinness and Jason Martin.

A villain who has plagued Max Mercury all throughout his long career returns for a rematch — this time made stronger and crazier due to the Joker's handiwork. Plus, Bart's given up on being Impulse...but has he made the right choice?

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 10.

NIGHTWING #62

Written by Chuck Dixon; art by Staz Johnson and John Lowe; cover by Ed McGuinness and Jason Martin.

Nightwing busts into the Slab to stop the Joker and his army of Jokerized pals. But Dick realizes he may have gotten in over his head when he has to fight his way through everyone from Frag to Dr. Sivana to Meathead to Leather to Rancor to Riot.

32 pages, $2.25, arrives in stores on Oct. 10.

SUPERMAN #175

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

Extra-sized issue. Exactly one hundred issues ago, the impossible happened: Superman died. Now his killer has returned, deadlier than ever. Make way for the all-new Doomsday Rex.

48 pages, $3.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 10.

THE JOKER: LAST LAUGH #3

Written by Chuck Dixon and Scott Beatty; art by Walter McDaniel; cover by Scott McDaniel and Klaus Janson.

The Joker's army of superpowered villains has escaped to spread their insanity across the globe. Enter the JLA — but can even the World's Greatest Heroes really hope to contain, let alone stop, the mayhem? Meanwhile, the Joker decides that there's more to life than body counts, and starts planning a legacy that will change the world forever.

40 pages, $2.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 17.

ADVENTURES OF SUPERMAN #597

Written by Joe Casey; art by Derec Aucoin.; cover by Tim Sale.

What's worse than having a crook in the Oval Office? How about a "Jokerized" crook? As President Lex Luthor blazes a trail of insanity across America, can Superman stop all the bombs and start loving the Baldie?

32 pages, $2.25, arrives in stores on Oct. 17.

BATGIRL #21

Written by Chuck Dixon; art by Damion Scott and Robert Campanella; cover by Tim Sale.

Batgirl teams up with Spoiler to sweep Gotham City for escapees from the Slab. But will Cassandra be able to adhere to Batman's standing order not to engage costumed villains, when Oracle's clocktower is overtaken by the Shadow Thief?

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 17.

DETECTIVE COMICS #763

Written by Greg Rucka and Judd Winick; art by Shawn Martinbrough, Cliff Chiang and Jesse Delperdang; cover by Tim Sale.

With Batman out mopping up "Jokerized" pests, Sasha decides to go on solo patrol. But the danger is double for her as she meets up with the knife-wielding new villain Cucilla and...the Huntress! Plus, an all-new 8-part backup serial begins this issue: Josie Mac, written by Judd Winick and illustrated by Cliff Chiang.

40 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 17.

HARLEY QUINN #13

Written by Karl Kesel; art Pete Woods and Mark Lipka; cover by Tim Sale.

With the world becoming "Jokerized," will this mean Harley is reunited with her one true love? Think again! Instead, the Joker sends two of the strangest villains we've ever seen — Moonrock and Luna — after Harley to bring his wayward honey home. After all, Harley knows the secret of the Joker venom which has been causing havoc all throughout the DCU — and that makes her a threat. With only Poison Ivy around to help, it's time to run.

32 pages, $2.25, arrives in stores on Oct. 17.

JSA #29

Written by Geoff Johns; art by Peter Snejbjerg; cover by Tim Sale.

The JSA has disappeared, leaving only the junior team to hold down the fort. It seems easy enough — after all, it's Halloween, and it looks like Jakeem and Star will be spending the night placating kids with candy. Little do they know that Solomon Grundy is Jokerized and is itching for action.

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 17.

THE SPECTRE #10

Written by J.M. DeMatteis; art by Craig Hamilton and Ray Snyder; cover by Tim Sale.

Hal Jordan thinks that in order to save the world he must tackle the insanity of the Joker. Little does he know that the madness is infectious. In an attempt to enable the Joker's redemption, Hal enters the twisted mind of the villain. To Hal's dismay, the touch of the Joker's skewed consciousness releases the darkest part of Hal's soul -- Parallax! Can Hal defeat his past evil self?

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 17.

SUPERBOY #93

Written by Joe Kelly and Eddie Berganza; art by Pascual Ferry and Keith Champagne; cover by Tim Sale.

Beware, Superboy...the Creeper strikes! And being infected with the Joker toxin has rendered the Creeper unable to laugh! A possible antidote may be to make the Creeper bust a gut, but with all the problems Superboy's endured lately, cracking the Creeper up won't be easy — and getting that "Last Laugh" may prove fatal.

32 pages, $2.25, arrives in stores on Oct. 17.

THE JOKER: LAST LAUGH #4

Written by Chuck Dixon and Scott Beatty; art by Andy Kuhn; cover by Scott McDaniel and Klaus Janson.

The fate of the Slab, Shilo Norman, and the rest of the staff is revealed. Far from dead, they're in a very special kind of hell — and their only allies are a bunch of villains. It's a field trip with Mr. Mind! Back on Earth, President Luthor's decided that he's had enough clowning around, and sends out the armed forces to take care of the Joker and his allies...permanently.

40 pages, $2.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 24.

THE FLASH #179

Written by Geoff Johns; art by Scott Kolins and Doug Hazlewood; cover by Jim Lee.

Every time he thinks he's out, they pull him back in — the Pied Piper, that is. As if Piper weren't in enough trouble already, the Joker's venomous plans strike Keystone City, transforming one of the Flash's greatest allies into a lethal, laughing Rogue. Plus, Iron Heights is under siege and a "Jokerized" Deadshot sets his sights on Captain Boomerang.

32 pages, $2.25, arrives in stores on Oct. 24.

GREEN LANTERN #143

Written by Judd Winick; art by Dale Eaglesham and Rodney Ramos; cover by Jim Lee.

One of Green Lantern's original villains returns. Only Grayven, the son of Darkseid, has been "Jokerized" and has decided to become the ruler of New York City. Green Lantern has his hands full chasing down an insane and powerful threat, especially since Grayven's brought some decidedly unfunny toys with him from Apokolips.

32 pages, $2.25, arrives in stores on Oct. 24.

SUPERGIRL #63

Written by Peter David; art by Leonard Kirk and Robin Riggs; cover by Jim Lee.

Looks like a transformed Buzz and Two-Face may have the "Last Laugh" on Supergirl, especially when their bizarre experiment appears to be wiping the floor with her. Fortunately, help is on the way in the form of Batgirl.

32 pages, $2.25, arrives in stores on Oct. 24.

SUPERMAN: THE MAN OF STEEL #119

Written by Mark Schultz; art by Yvel Guichet and Dexter Vines; cover by Jim Lee

When the Eradicator gets "Jokerized," this Kryptonian dogcatcher's gonna take Superman's pooch to the puppy pound in the sky. But not if Superman has anything to say about it.

32 pages, $2.25, arrives in stores on Oct. 24.

WONDER WOMAN #175

Written by Phil Jimenez; art by Jimenez, Brandon Badeaux and Andy Lanning; cover by Jim Lee

Extra-sized issue. "The Witch & the Warrior: Girl Frenzy," Part 2 of 3. A magically transformed Superman attacks Wonder Woman, causing an epic battle in the heart of NYC's Time Square! Meanwhile, Wonder Girl confronts a "Jokerized" Giganta, while Circe forces the super-heroines to fight the super-villainesses. Plus, Luthor plots with the Joker, and the new Cheetah and Silver Swan return.

48 pages, $3.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 24.

THE JOKER: LAST LAUGH #5

Written by Chuck Dixon and Scott Beatty; art by Ron Randall; cover by Scott McDaniel and Klaus Janson In stores October 31. The heroes of the DCU fend off the Joker's happy li'l troopers, while a cure for the Joker's serum is desperately sought. And you know things have got to be bad when Harley Quinn is brought in as the last hope! The Joker starts making his final moves against Batman by going after those closest to him. Will Robin and Nightwing be able to survive against odds that have the whole world reeling?

40 pages, $2.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 31.

ACTION COMICS #784

Written by Joe Kelly; art by Duncan Rouleau and Marlo Alquiza; cover by Bill Sienkiewicz.

Superman begins to think Emperor Joker's reign of terror is returning, as Green Lantern falls victim to the Clown Prince's rain.

32 pages, $2.25, arrives in stores on Oct. 31.

BATMAN #596

Written by Ed Brubaker; art by Scott McDaniel and Aaron Sowd; cover by Bill Sienkiewicz.

As Last Laugh continues to roll out "Jokerized" mayhem across the country, Batman must contend with Zeiss, the Russian Mob and a new villain who knows if you've been bad or good — Santa Klaus.

32 pages, $2.25, arrives in stores on Oct. 31.

JLA #59

Written by Chuck Dixon and Scott Beatty; art by Darryl Banks and Wayne Faucher; cover by Bill Sienkiewicz.

The world is rocked as "Jokerized" villains are running rampant. As the worst of these are being rounded up, the Justice League has to contend with one of the most threatening attacks yet. Dr. Polaris, under the influence of the Joker, has taken control of the Earth's magnetic axis. With complete madness consuming him, will the already unstable meta-human tip the Earth over just to teach the heroes a lesson?

32 pages, $2.25, arrives in stores on Oct. 31.

ROBIN #95

Written by Chuck Dixon; art by Jeff Parker; cover by Bill Sienkiewicz

The horrific events of Last Laugh #5 tie-in as Robin defies orders and heads into Arkham Asylum to try and prevent the Joker from adding to his legion of villains. But the villains know he's coming, and the odds are overwhelming. No problem, right? Uh, right? Is this thing on?

32 pages, $2.25, arrives in stores on Oct. 31.

THE TITANS #34

Written by Jay Faerber; art by Mike Collins and Bud LaRosa; cover by Bill Sienkiewicz.

"The Cheshire Smile." Just when we thought we'd seen the last of Cheshire, she's back for a final bow — contaminated by the Joker's deadly gas and returning to Titans' headquarters to retrieve her daughter — and give Lian a dose of the Joker's unique brand of "happiness!"

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 31.

THE JOKER: LAST LAUGH #6

Written by Chuck Dixon and Scott Beatty; art by Rick Burchett and Mark Lipka; cover by Brian Bolland.

It all ends here. The Joker's staked out scenic Gotham Cathedral as the spot to make his final stand against Batman's allies, and he's made sure no other heroes will interfere with his final revenge. Nightwing's decided that the Joker's actions finally need to be stopped — but will he go too far? And what is the fate of Tim Drake? Will he become the second Robin to die at the hands of the Joker?

40 pages, $2.95, arrives in stores on Nov. 7.

BATMAN TITLES

BATGIRL: A KNIGHT ALONE TP

Written by Kelley Puckett; art by Damion Scott, Coy Turnbull, Robert Campanella, Dan Davis, and John Lowe; cover by Scott and Campanella.

The second collection of Batgirl reprints issues #7-11, 13, and 14. Batgirl was once able to sense when attacks were coming, making her the ultimate fighting machine. But now she seems to have lost her special talents. And with Lady Shiva in Gotham looking for a worthy opponent to fight, the timing couldn't have been worse.

160 pages, $12.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 3.

BATMAN: GOTHAM ADVENTURES #43

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

Who's out to get Harley Quinn? Batman has to take her on as a sidekick to find out. The answer awaits deep in Harley's history...that is, if she and the Dark Knight survive the traps set for them all over Gotham.

32 pages, $1.99, arrives in stores on Oct.24.

BATMAN: LEGENDS OF THE DARK KNIGHT #148

Written by Doug Moench; art and cover by Barry Kitson.

The conclusion to the 3-part "Bad," featuring artwork by Barry Kitson. Batman discovers the true nature of Jordy's "Bad" — the demonic personality lurking within the soul of the gentle, simple-minded giant. But how can Batman exorcise a demon — when the demon itself is capable of acting gentle.

32 pages, $2.25, arrives in stores on Oct. 3.

BATMAN: ORPHEUS RISING #3

Written by Alex Simmons; art by Dwayne Turner and Danny Miki; cover by Turner.

As civil unrest escalates, Orpheus tries to piece together the mystery of who's behind Gotham's recent police shootings. But first, the face-off he tried desperately to avoid -- with Batman.

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 17.

SUPERMAN TITLES

SUPERGIRL ARCHIVES VOL. 1 HC

Written by Jerry Siegel and Otto Binder; art by Jim Mooney and Al Plastino; cover by Frank Miller.

The Girl of Steel stars in her first-ever Archive collection, reprinting the Supergirl stories from Action Comics #252-268. Also included is the "first Supergirl" story from Superman #123 — a prototype version of Supergirl that the Man of Steel encountered eight months prior to the introduction of Kara Zora-El.

224 pages, $49.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 17.

SUPERGIRL: WINGS

Written by J.M. DeMatteis; art and painted cover by Jamie Tolagson.

Matrix, an angel, has lost her way in her mission of caring for human souls. Wanting to disassociate from humanity, she is taken down a road of self-discovery that ultimately brings her closer to one soul than any other — that of Linda Danvers. Along the way, Matrix finds aid (and obstacles) from several other members of the DC Universe, including Zauriel, the Phantom Stranger, Aquaman, Clark Kent and the Spectre.

48 pages, $5.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 10.

SUPERMAN & BATMAN: GENERATIONS II #3

Written and illustrated by John Byrne; cover by Byrne.

Elseworlds. The World's Greatest Super-Heroes are pushed to their limits as the Prestige miniseries nears its conclusion! In 1986, the Justice League of America must confront the truth that Batman has been driven over the edge. How can Green Lantern Alan Scott and a new Flash and Wonder Woman stop a Dark Knight who has gone completely out of control? Then, in 1997, a new hero stalks the streets of Gotham...but who is Knightwing? And how can Superman come to the new hero's aid while still exiled to the Phantom Zone?

48 pages, $5.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 24.

SUPERMAN ADVENTURES #62

Written by Michael Reaves; art by Neil Vokes and Terry Austin; cover by Mike Manley and Austin.

In "Heart of Stone," Superman faces Metallo — one of his arch-enemies who has the potential to be the deadliest, due to his Kryptonite heart! Will Metallo's team-up with Lex Luthor lead to the Man of Steel's demise...or a dramatic doublecross?

32 pages, $1.99, arrives in stores on Oct. 3.

DC UNIVERSE TITLES

DOOM PATROL #1

Written by John Arcudi; art and cover by Tan Eng Huat

Comics' strangest super-team is back. Multi-billionaire Thayer Jost is looking to buy his very own superteam, paying Cliff Steele, formerly known as Robotman, for his services and leadership skills, as well as the Doom Patrol name. With four new members rounding out the team — Ava, Fever, Kid Slick, and Ted Bruder — will the latest incarnation of the Doom Patrol even survive their first mission?

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 3.

GREEN ARROW #9

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

All the answers are revealed in the penultimate chapter of "Quiver!" This one has it all, and guest-stars all the key players in Green Arrow's life. If you think you've figured out the mystery to Oliver Queen's reappearance, think again.

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 24.

JLA: GATEKEEPER #1

Written and illustrated by Tim Truman; painted cover by Truman

The JLA ventures into the depths of a Babylonian hellworld in order to rescue the North African hero named Sala, who is actually an incarnation of the Babylonian deity Istar. But the World's Greatest Heroes soon learn that the hardest part of their journey is staying alive, as they battle a host of monstrous creatures and new adversaries.

48 pages, $4.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 17.

JLA: INCARNATIONS #6

Written by John Ostrander; art by Val Semeiks, Eric Battle, Prentis Rollins, and Keith Champagne; cover by Semeiks and Rollins.

Two great tales of the world's greatest superheroes! In the first story, set during the bizarre days of Justice League International, the League infiltrates the criminal country of Bialya! Booster Gold and Blue Beetle are held captive by Bialyan leader Rumaan Harjavti, leaving the rest of the JLI wondering if they should even bother rescuing them. In the second story, Extreme Justice and the Justice League Task Force return to Bialya to combat their old nemesis, the Queen Bee. But this time, the Queen Bee has brought in reinforcements — the Extremists, some the deadliest foes the League has ever faced.

48 pages, $3.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 3.

JSA: DARKNESS FALLS TP

Written by David S. Goyer and Geoff Johns; art by Steve Sadowski, Michael Bair, Buzz, Marcos Martin, and Keith Champagne; cover by Sadowski and Mark Farmer.

The JSA is once again called upon to save the planet from malevolent forces that may threaten the very fiber of the universe! But this time it's personal, as the foe they are fighting is a darkness-consumed Obsidian — son to Alan Scott, Sentinel. If that weren't enough, the original super-team must also confront the return of the Injustice Society, and face the time-shattering threat of Extant. Reprinting JSA #6-15.

232 pages, $19.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 10.

JUST IMAGINE STAN LEE WITH DAVE GIBBONS CREATING GREEN LANTERN

Written by Stan Lee (lead story) with Michael Uslan (backup); art by Dave Gibbons (lead) with José Luis García Lopez (backup); covers by Gibbons and Adam Hughes.

Stan Lee joins with the artist of Watchmen to present their take on the Emerald Warrior. When archaeology professor Len Lewis embarks on an expedition to discover the fabled Tree of Life, he becomes the target of a global conspiracy -- .luckily, he's also transformed into the Earth's greatest champion. Plus, an "On the Street" story written by Michael Uslan (with dialogue by Uslan and Lee), illustrated by Jose Luis Garcia Lopez.

48 pages, $5.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 17.

THE LEGION #1

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

A new era dawns for the 31st Century's greatest heroes. The once-lost members of the Legion of Super-Heroes have returned. But the world has changed in their absence into something that they no longer recognize. As the Legion rebuilds from the ground up, with a new structure, new members and a new purpose, will they survive the evil that awaits them?

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 24.

SUICIDE SQUAD #2

Written by Keith Giffen; art and cover by Paco Medina and Joe Sanchez.

Sgt. Rock, now a general, is back in action to lead the Squad to justice or to death. After the atrocities in the first issue, it's time to build-up some steadies in the group. The question is: How can the new leader come up with enough heavies to take on a biological weapon that's gone out of control? This issue sparks the beginnings of political intrigue and corporate deceptions from LexCorp to the Presidency.

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 10.

BEYOND THE DC UNIVERSE TITLES

DEXTER'S LABORATORY #26

Written by John Rozum and Craig Boldman; art by John Delaney and Jeff Albrecht; cover by Bill Wray.

Nanobots — they're not just for super-heroes anymore. Now any kid genius can use these microscopic machines to fix your Mom's broken vase, or mask the sound of your squeaky shoes to avoid your stoopid sister. Why, their uses are limitless — so what could possibly go wrong?

32 pages, $1.99, arrives in stores on Oct. 31.

LOONEY TUNES #83

Written by Keith Giffen, Barry Liebmann and Brett Koth; art by David Alvarez, Howard Simpson and Mike DeCarlo; cover by Alvarez and DeCarlo

Writer Keith Giffen lends his talents to Bugs Bunny — because great minds think alike. Plus, it's a ruinous romp when Coyote paints a self-portrait for Roadrunner, and a dance of destruction when Taz meets Tweety Bird.

32 pages, $1.99, arrives in stores on Oct. 3.

THE POWERPUFF GIRLS #20

Written by Sean Carolan and Jennifer Moore; art and cover by Phil Moy.

If a tree falls in the forest and nobody sees it, did it fall at all? If you scream in space, can anyone hear you? And if Blossom loses her pretty red bow...is she really the leader of the Powerpuff Girls?

32 pages, $1.99, arrives in stores on Oct. 17.

SCOOBY-DOO #53

Written by Brett Lewis and John Rozum; art by Joe Staton, John Delaney, Jeff Albrecht and Dave Hunt; cover by Staton and Hunt.

Scooby and Shaggy face a glowing ghost hundreds of miles above the earth in "Fight or Flight!" Plus, the gang goes from being guests of honor to guests of horror at their old high school, in the very surprising "Prom Fright!"

32 pages, $1.99, arrives in stores on Oct. 10.

WILDSTORM PRODUCTIONS TITLES

THE AUTHORITY #27

Written by Mark Millar; art and cover by Art Adams and Tim Townsend.

Presenting the long-awaited Part 2 of "New World Order." Finally — the shocking truth about what happened to the Authority. The old, original, real Authority, that is. Where are they and what have they been doing? The answer is here -- and it ain't for the timid.

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 3.

CYBERNARY 2.0 #4.

Written by Joe Harris; art and cover by Eric Canete and Juan Vlasco.

Yumiko is rescued from her prison and meets the original Cybernary. Mecha Max rebels against his clan masters and delivers Yumiko to the CyberNation buried deep below the city of Gamorra. Yumiko encounters a secret race of cyborgs fighting for freedom. Will Yumiko lead this forgotten people into the light or damn them to utter destruction?

32 pages, $2.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 24.

DANGER GIRL: KAMIKAZE! #2

Written and illustrated by Tommy Yune; cover by Yune

The Danger Girls' adventures across Asia comes to an explosive conclusion as they finally meet their new arch-enemy, the cybernetic ShoGunner. After Sydney is lost in a brutal jungle battle in the ruins of the Angkor Empire, Abbey and Val reluctantly accept the support of Mei, a beautiful but mysterious operative from Hong Kong, in their pursuit of a lost World War II weapon known only by its fearsome code name: Kamikaze.

32 pages, $2.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 3.

DANGER GIRL: THE ULTIMATE COLLECTION HC

Written by J. Scott Campbell and Andy Hartnell; art by Campbell, Alex Garner and various; cover by Campbell

All seven issues of the first volume of DANGER GIRL are collected in this hardcover that also features the ultra-rare introductory short story from the New Horizons Voyager Pack (originally polybagged with Gen13 #25), a complete cover gallery, an amazing sketchbook section, and an introduction by noted actor and Danger Girl fan Bruce Campbell.

262 pages, $29.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 31.

THE ESTABLISHMENT #2

Written by Ian Edginton; art and cover by Charlie Adlard.

Old-school gangster Charlie Arrows never imagined that one day he would become one of the good guys. But when a bloodthirsty band of Daemonite and human mercenaries threatens to overrun his home town of Hobb's Bay and butcher its inhabitants, Charlie figures it's time to make a stand. But Hobb's Bay is only a fraction of a far greater whole, and the extent of the role that Charlie has to play is beyond even his comprehension. To discover the truth, the first thing he has to do is die.

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 24.

FARSCAPE: WAR TORN #1

Written by Marv Wolfman; art by Robert Teranishi, Carlos Mota and Keith Aiken; photo cover.

The Sci-Fi Network's TV show is now a WildStorm comic. John Crichton and the crew of the Moya arrive in a system featuring two different civilizations in the midst of a war. The Moya's crew must tread a delicate path to avoid fanning the flames of the war, while attempting to gain access to the information that could lead the travel-weary crew back to their homes.

48 pages, $5.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 24.

GEN13 #70

Written by Adam Warren; art by Rick Mays and Karl Story; cover by Warren.

This issue, readers spend some meteorological quality time with Gen13's weather-control diva Sarah Rainmaker, in a self-contained story. Luckily for dramatic purposes, she's in a foul mood. So expect plenty of ranting and raving as well as demonstrations of the fact that the average thunderstorm contains more potential energy than a thermonuclear warhead.

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 17.

THE MONARCHY #8

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

"Making the Metropolitan," Part 3 of 3. Lost Angel was once a friendly neighborhood super-hero. Now he's just lost, raging and psychotic, twisted into something terrible to suit the plans of Jackson King. He's also the newest member of the Monarchy. The question is: Why? Plus, we visit with an old friend from StormWatch, with whom Condition Red visits to tie up loose ends.

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 17.

NINJA BOY #3

Written by Allen Warner and Alé Garza; art and cover by Garza and Dan Norton.

Quest for Kali! Nakio and Sake must journey into the mysterious Old Forest to find Kali the Devourer, who may hold the answer to defeating the tyrant Mikaboshi. Nakio, with his ninja skills, along with Sake and his magic wine jug, must battle past the Death Mother Inazami to find Kali. Secrets of the Old Forest are revealed as Nakio journeys to avenge his family.

32 pages, $2.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 17.

TALEWEAVER #2

Written by Leonard Banaag; art and cover by Philip S. Tan and Gary Mayoralgo.

After being liberated from the slave lords by General Ashur and his forces, Axel Shadowstorm's journey from slave to savior continues. Unsure what Fate and the imposing General Ashur have in store for him, Axel journeys to the city of Redfern with his battered friends. Meanwhile, Ashur leads his troops to the heavily fortified Citadel of the Rift Valley. Inside, General Pontus contemplates the significance of Ashur's arrival. This issue ships with a variant cover. All orders will be comprised of covers by Philip S. Tan and Gary Mayoralgo (50 percent) and Jay Anacleto (50 percent).

32 pages, $2.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 17.

WILDCATS VOLUME 2 #28

Written by Joe Casey; art and cover by Sean Phillips.

Final issue of Volume 2. Voodoo stands at a crossroads. As she comes to grips with her past, what roles — if any — will Spartan, Jeremy and the rest of the Wildcats cast play in her future? And as this chapter in the Wildcats' saga ends, keep watching this space as the next — most unexpected — chapter begins.

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 3.

AMERICA'S BEST COMICS TITLES

GREYSHIRT: INDIGO SUNSET #1

Written and illustrated by Rick Veitch; cover by Veitch.

From the pages of Tomorrow Stories comes one of America's Best Comics' most intriguing characters: Greyshirt. Who is Greyshirt and how did he come to be? What is the real story behind Indigo City's champion? Where did his career begin? Find out some answers in this 32-page issue with no ads.

32 pages, $3.50, arrives in store on Oct. 24.

PROMETHEA #17

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

Stacia, the stand-in Promethea, finally confronts the forces of Hell that have taken up residence in (and taken control of) the Mayor of New York. Meanwhile, Sophie and Barbara continue their cosmic road trip and enter the golden region that is home to the Sun God: the Sphere of Souls.

32 pages, $2.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 31.

TOM STRONG #15

Written by Alan Moore; art and cover by Chris Sprouse and Al Gordon.

It's the return of the magnificent Val Var Garm, the man of molten lava who so entranced Tesla in issue #8. In this full-length story, Val Var Garm kidnaps Tesla and takes her to his fantastic underground realm. Tom must somehow find a way to rescue her — but does she want to be saved? It's a tale of passion in a story called "Hearts of Fire!"

32 pages, $2.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 3.

TOMORROW STORIES #12

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

America's Best Comics' first crossover story appears this issue. Alan Moore writes and Rick Veitch illustrates a tasty team-up — Greyshirt and Cobweb — in a double-length story. Also running around this issue is kid scientist Jack B. Quick (illustrated by Kevin Nowlan), and, heaven help us, the First American (illustrated by Jim Baikie).

32 pages, $2.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 10.

HOMAGE COMICS TITLES

FOUR WOMEN #1

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

Sam Kieth returns with a brand-new mini-series: Four Women — the story of four friends bound together by a dark secret and a terrifying revelation. Four Women is a story about strength, the will to survive, and the endurance of friendship.

32 pages, $2.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 10.

ZERO GIRL TP

Written and illustrated by Sam Kieth; painted cover by Kieth. Sam Kieth's hit Homage Comics mini-series of last year is collected in this engaging new trade paperback. Amy Smootster isn't like other teenagers. Besides falling in love with her guidance counselor and trying to survive high school, a whole mess of weirdness is about to fall at Amy's (wet) feet.

144 pages, $14.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 24.

VERTIGO TITLES

100 BULLETS #29

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

"Contrabandolero," Part 2 of 3. The wrong woman can drive the right man to do things he normally wouldn't, as ne'er-do-well gas station attendant Wyley Times finds out. Under the sweltering Texas sun, things really start to heat up between Wyley and a certain smoldering femme fatale, whose champagne tastes are way outta' line with Wyley's beer budget. So when her mysterious companion offers Wyley the chance to make a quick buck, how can he say no?

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 3.

ADVENTURES IN THE RIFLE BRIGADE: OPERATION BOLLOCK #3

Written by Garth Ennis; art by Carlos Ezquerra; cover by Glenn Fabry.

The quest for Hitler's missing "family jewel" concludes as the battlin' boys from Blighty, their Nazi nemesis, and the American adventurer known as Maryland Smith all fight it out for the hairy little prize! But what's Darcy to do when the power of the Bollock claims one of his own men?

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 10.

AMERICAN CENTURY #8

Written by Howard Chaykin and David Tischman; art by Marc Laming and John Stokes; painted cover by John Van Fleet.

"The Protector," Part 4 of 4. Harry Kraft shoots it out with Teresa's kidnappers at the Farmer's Market, but the joke's on comedian Joey Leonard, who gets caught holding a drug dealer's bag; and Tim comes clean with an offer the Senator can't refuse. Everybody gets what they deserve - and then some - as Harry's adventure in Hollywood ends with a bang.

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 17.

ANGEL AND THE APE #3

Written by Howard Chaykin and David Tischman; art by Philip Bond; cover by Arthur Adams.

The Vertigo updating of a DC classic continues. After a violent confrontation at NYC's hottest dance club, Angel and Sam finally track down Bambi's killer -- or do they? German shepherds, midgets and dermatology: This issue has it all.

32 pages, $2.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 24.

THE BOOKS OF MAGIC: DEATH AFTER DEATH TP

Written John Ney Rieber; art by Peter Gross, Temujin, Jill Thompson, and Richard Case; cover by Michael Wm. Kaluta.

Young Timothy Hunter has managed to lose just about everything he's cared for since he started messing with magic, and he's finally come to the only sensible conclusion: Give the magic away. But it doesn't work out the way Tim thinks it will - and the lives of his family hang in the balance. Reprinting issues #42-50.

232 pages, $19.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 31.

CODENAME: KNOCKOUT #6

Written by Robert Rodi; art by Amanda Connor and Jimmy Palmiotti; painted cover by Phil Noto.

"Arms (and Legs) for Hostages," Part 2 of 2. When Angela and Go-Go are trapped inside an African dictator's palace, their covers are blown, their mission is aborted, and the presidential guard is hot on their heels. It's cover-to-cover action (well, okay, some cheesecake, too), capped by a spectacular betrayal.

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 24.

THE CRUSADES #8

Written by Steven T. Seagle; art by Kelley Jones and Ron Randall; painted cover by Richard Corben.

Intrepid fact-checker Venus cracks the biggest mystery in San Francisco when she falls into a subterranean cavern that looks like the murdering Knight's lair. But what she finds is even more disturbing than a marauder out of time. Meanwhile, her on-and-off boyfriend, Anton Marx, is trapped in his own hell - a truth and dare strategic salvo pitting sex against secrets that could cost him everything he values.

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 3.

GODDESS TP

Written by Garth Ennis; painted art and cover by Phil Winslade.

The hit miniseries from Garth Ennis and Phil Winslade is finally collected, featuring a foreword by Winslade and a collection of never-before-seen sketches and character designs. When Rosie Nolan suddenly manifests the unlikely ability to perform impossible feats of telekinesis, she becomes hunted by a CIA agent and others on a chase around the globe.

256 pages, $19.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 10.

HELLBLAZER #167

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

"Highwater," Part 4 of 4. John Constantine's most controversial adventure comes to a shocking conclusion, as John's own past rears its ugly head and intertwines with with the extreme beliefs of Major Graves. John's never had a problem with the ghosts that haunt his life, but this time the truth the dead hold may be too much for him to bear.

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 24.

HUNTER: THE AGE OF MAGIC #4

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

Tim and Kalesh leave the White School in an attempt to save her people from the Sardonyx warriors. As they travel across Gemworld, they learn that a mysterious Red Man is behind the death - and his power may be far too much for Tim to overcome.

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 10.

LUCIFER #19

Written by Mike Carey; art by Peter Gross, Dean Ormston and Ryan Kelly; painted cover by Christopher Moeller

"A Dalliance with the Damned," Part 3 of 3. Lucifer's arrival in Effrul coincides with a grand ball and a bloody revolution, but the Morningstar isn't interested in either. He has his own agenda, and he isn't here to dance. Meanwhile, damned soul Christopher Rudd must confront both the hatred of Duke Seviram and the almost equally dangerous love of the Lady Lys.

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 3.

OUTLAW NATION #14

Written by Jamie Delano; art by Goran Parlov and Goran Sudzuka; painted cover by Glenn Fabry

"The Devil Kid" has barely gotten clear of Hell Holes, toting John Law's pistol and a head full of dark confusion, when he comes across sexy young Phoenix artist Lola Todd, with one of her roadkill art installations. Martin is in for a shock: There are worse things to scrape up and bag than gum and fast-food wrappers.

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 10.

THE SANDMAN PRESENTS: THE CORINTHIAN #1

Written by Darko Macan; art by Danijel Zezelj; painted cover by Dave

McKean.

An all-new Sandman Presents miniseries details what happened before the Corinthian was primed to take on the mantle of the Dark Mirror. Set in 1920 against the decadent, elite social circles of the Jazz Age, Death in Venice follows a serial-killer-in-training as he searches for the one person who can teach him how to do what he believes he was created to do best: kill.

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 17.

SWAMP THING #20

Written by Brian K. Vaughan; art by Giuseppe Camuncoli and Cameron Stewart; painted cover by Greg Staples.

Final issue. This chapter in the legend of the Swamp Thing concludes in the search for the tree of life, as Tefé learns the true story of the creation of the world. What will this revelation mean for the future of nature and humanityand can Tefé handle the truth?

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 31.

TRANSMETROPOLITAN #50

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

Spider and his Filthy Assistants begin tearing up the City, hitting place after place and person after person. They're on a mission to rebuild their case and bring down the President. It all culminates in a final conversation with Fred, who, after his brief imprisonment, hates the police enough to even talk to Spider again. And the things he knows might just turn the tide.

32 pages, $2.50, arrives in stores on Oct. 10.

WAR STORY: D-DAY DODGERS

Written by Garth Ennis; art by John Higgins; photo cover.

The second of four double-sized Specials exploring the true horrors of World War II. D-Day Dodgers tells the story of the thousands of war-wearing, largely forgotten, young Allied soldiers fighting in the blood, dust, snow and mud of the Italian country side, while the worlds' attention was riveted by the war in France. This action packed and powerful story stands as moving tribute to the too often mistreated men fighting in the trenches of any war.

64 pages, $4.95, arrives in stores on Oct. 31.

DC DIRECT PRODUCTS

CLASSIC SUPERMAN MINI-BUST

Designed and sculpted by Tim Bruckner.

The Man of Steel leads the way as the first in a new series of mini-busts from DC Direct. The first series of mini-busts will feature DC's classic characters, beginning with this portrayal of a retro-style Superman as a dynamic bust of the Man of Steel, poised in mid-flight. The Classic Superman Mini-Bust is approximately 6.25 inches in length to the tip of his outstretched hand and 5 inches wide, standing on a base that measures 5 inches wide x 4 inches diameter x .25 inches high. Packaged in a 4-color box.

$45, arrives in stores on Jan. 16.

GOLDEN AGE FLASH MINI-STATUE

Sculpted by William Paquet; based on designs by Michael Lark.

Flash, the Fastest Man Alive, speeds into life in the Golden Age Flash Mini-Statue. The original Scarlet Speedster - in his distinctive winged helmet - is shown racing into action atop an Art Deco-style base and stands approximately 5.25 inches tall. This is a miniature version of the earlier Golden Age Flash Statue. Packaged in a 4-color box.

$39.95, arrives in stores on Feb. 6.

GREEN ARROW STATUE

Sculpted by Tim Bruckner; based on designs by Matt Wagner

The Green Arrow Statue features the Emerald Archer with bow in hand, arrow notched, ready to take aim and let fly the shaft that will take down any evildoer. Set on an urban rooftop, the Green Arrow Statue stands approximately 11.25 inches tall x 7 inches wide x 5.6 inches deep. Packaged in a 4-color box.

$195, arrives in stores on Jan. 9.

GREEN LANTERN CORPS: FATALITY ACTION FIGURE

She was one of the deadliest foes ever faced by the Green Lantern Corps. Yrra Cynril swore vengeance on all Green Lanterns when one of their number accidentally destroyed her homeworld. Trained to be the ultimate warrior and assassin, she became Fatality...scourge of Green Lanterns everywhere! Now she's an action figure, with multiple points of articulation, standing approximately 6 1/4" tall and packaged with a fighting staff in a 4-color blister pack.

Price TBA, arrives in stores on Feb. 13.

GREEN LANTERN CORPS: KYLE RAYNER ACTION FIGURE

Kyle Rayner, Earth's current Green Lantern, joins a long line of his distinguished predecessors (including Hal Jordan, John Stewart, and Tomar Re) as an action figure. Featuring multiple points of articulation and standing approximately 6.25 inches tall, the Green Lantern Corps: Kyle Rayner Action Figure features multiple points of articulation and comes packaged with a Power Battery and a one-size-fits-all Power Ring, in a 4-color blister pack.

Price TBA, arrives in stores on Feb. 13.

THE SANDMAN: THE ENDLESS WALL SCROLL

Art by Mike Dringenberg

The Sandman and his siblings of the Endless are featured on this deluxe wall scroll. Featuring art by Mike Dringenberg from a poster that has been out of print for almost a decade, The Endless Wall Scroll shows a gathering of the Endless, including the Sandman Morpheus, Death, Destiny, Desire, Delirium, Despair, and Destruction. The Endless Wall Scroll is printed in full color on nylon.

27 inches by 40 inches, $19.95, arrives in stores on Jan. 16.

SUPERMAN: DEPARTURE FROM KRYPTON STATUE

Designed and sculpted by William Paquet.

With the destruction of Krypton imminent, scientist Jor-El and his wife Lara placed their infant son Kal-El in an experimental rocket to send him to Earth and safety. Now that defining moment for the child who would grow up to become Superman is brought to life in the Superman: Departure From Krypton Statue, a hand-painted cold-cast porcelain statue depicting Jor-El and Lara bidding farewell to their son as he's placed in the rocket. This statue stands approximately 9.125 inches tall x 6.75 inches wide x 5 inches deep. Packaged in a 4-color box.

$175, arrives in stores on Feb. 20.

WONDER WOMAN SNOWGLOBE

Sculpted by Tim Bruckner; based on designs Terry Dodson.

Poised for action, her silver bracelets raised to ward off the bullets of her foes, the Wonder Woman Snowglobe is set upon a Greco-Roman-style base decorated with the Golden Lasso, sword, battleaxe and helmet of the Amazing Amazon's arsenal. The Wonder Woman Snowglobe stands approximately 7.6" high x 3.75" wide x 3.75" deep. Packaged in a 4-color box. $79.95, arrives in stores on Feb. 27.