Tuesday, September 17, 2002

DC COMICS FOR DECEMBER

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

BATMAN TITLES

BATMAN: FAMILY #6: THE TECHNICIAN

Written by John Francis Moore; art and cover by Stefano Gaudiano and Rick Hoberg

The weekly miniseries continues. His name says it all: The Technician creates weapons for Athena's super-villain group, and he's also inserted himself into Gotham's underground, unleashing a panoply of new weaponry to the crime families that tear the city apart. Batman's caught wind of the arms escalation, however, and he wants it stopped, now! But the G.C.P.D. is running its own investigation, and Detectives Montoya and Allen are looking to break the case themselves. Which means goodbye Batman and hello Matches Malone.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 4.

BATMAN: FAMILY #7: MR. FUN

Written by John Francis Moore; art by Steve Leiber and Stefano Gaudiano; cover by Gaudiano and Rick Hoberg.

On the outside, he's all that's wholesome - the all-American man, sadly out of time. In reality, it's his victims who are out of time. Mr. Fun has been assigned a surprising target, and it's up to Batgirl and Nightwing to stop him. Batman, meanwhile, discovers a deadly clue to Athena's past, but he may be too late as Athena and her gang are about to put their master plan into action.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 11.

BATMAN: FAMILY #8: BLACKOUT

Written by John Francis Moore; art and cover by Stefano Gaudiano and Rick Hoberg

Batman: Family concludes in an extra-sized issue! Batman and his "family" launch an all-out assault on Athena and her "family." But even if they win the battle, can they hope to save Gotham from a long and deadly night? All secrets are revealed, all scores settled - and when it's over, Gotham will be shaken to its very core, with the future of Wayne Enterprises determined once and for all.

48 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 18.

DETECTIVE COMICS #777

Written by Ed Brubaker and J.C. Gagne; art by Tommy Castillo, Michel Gagne, and Wade von Grawbadger; cover by Tim Sale.

The new creative team of writer Ed Brubaker, artists Tommy Castillo and Wade von Grawbadger, and cover artist Tim Sale debuts. In "Dead Reckoning," Part 1, someone is picking off Gotham's Rogues - starting with one of Killer Moth's ex-henchmen who's decided to pick up the mantle now that his former boss has become Charaxis. At the scene of the crime, a clue is found, one of Two-Face's marred coins⤆except this time, both sides are marred. Plus, Part 2 of the 5-part backup feature, "Spore," written by J.C. Gagne and illustrated by children's book and indie comics artist Michel Gagne.

40 pages, $2.75, in stores on Dec. 4.

BATMAN: LEGENDS OF THE DARK KNIGHT #162

Written by John Arcudi; art and cover by Roger Langridge.

"Auteurism," Part 1 of 2. Once, he was a star...then he was a drunk. Now, he's poised to get to the top once again. But to do it, he'll need the Joker's help. A truly unusual 2-part Batman story by writer John Arcudi featuring the unique art of Roger Langridge.

32 pages, $2.50, in store on Dec. 11.

BATMAN: GOTHAM KNIGHTS #36

Written by Scott Beatty and Mike Mignola; art by Roger Robinson, Troy Nixey and John Floyd; cover by Brian Bolland.

Guest-starring Robin and Nightwing. Bane has made a startling claim, and this issue we learn the truth about his parentage once and for all. First, he and Batman must stop Gotham's newest villain, Pix, whose quest for vengeance already has spilled blood. And wait until you see the suprising decision Batman makes about Bane's fate. Plus, a Batman Black and White backup, "Gotham Gasworks," written by Mike Mignola and illustrated by Troy Nixey.

40 pages, $2.75, in stores on Dec. 18.

BATMAN #610

Written by Jeph Loeb; art and cover by Jim Lee and Scott Williams.

Jeph Loeb and Jim Lee continue their run on Batman with Part 3 of the 12-part "Hush." Even Arkham can't hold Killer Croc, or at least that's what Batman and Amanda Waller want him to believe. It seems tracking Gotham's most voracious reptile is the only way to find out who stole the 10 million clams. The problem is keeping Croc contained. The streets burn in this City of Shadows as Catwoman turns up the heat.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 26.

AZRAEL: AGENT OF THE BAT #97

Written by Dennis O'Neil; art by Sergio Cariello; cover by Mike Zeck and Jerry Ordway.

The countdown to Azrael's ultimate destiny is ticking away, so the time is right for...a new costume? What strange twist causes the fading angel to don this familiar - yet different - costume? And what strange path is his dementia leading him down now? There's an avalanche of answers this issue.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 11.

BATGIRL #35

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

Batgirl helps Batman hunt for the mysterious killer code-named Alpha. What she finds is a guy with amnesia - wanted by several gun-running goons of Gotham - who has planted a nuclear weapon in Gotham City.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Dec. 11.

BATGIRL: YEAR ONE #1

Written by Chuck Dixon and Scott Beatty; art and cover by Marcos MartÃ-n and Alvaro Lopez.

The creators of Robin: Year One return with a look into the past of another of comics' most popular characters! Barbara Gordon, following her chance meeting with Robin at the end of Robin: Year One, aspires to become a vigilante herself. But between the skepticism of Batman and the watchful eye of her adoptive father James Gordon, she's finding the hero biz to be an uphill battle. And in her first time out of the gate, she must take on Killer Moth.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 18.

BATMAN/ALIENS II #1

Written by Ian Edginton; art and cover by Staz Johnson and James Hodgkins.

A Gotham City construction crew uncovers a sealed vault housing an unspeakable horror. Eighty years ago, an expedition to the South Pole uncovered a crashed spaceship - a spaceship containing the bloodthirsty Aliens. Now, after years in hibernation, a nearly desiccated Alien is unleashed upon the modern world. And it's very, very hungry. Only one man has a chance of stopping this murderous beast - the Dark Knight Detective known as Batman. Co-published with Dark Horse Comics.

48 pages, $5.95, in stores on Dec. 26.

BATMAN: GOTHAM ADVENTURES #57

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

Riddle me this. Bent on proving he's the smartest of all villains, the Riddler goes one-on-one with Robin, preying on the teenager's worst fears.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 26.

BIRDS OF PREY #50

Written by Gilbert Hernandez; art by Casey Jones; cover by Phil Noto.

Critically-acclaimed creator Gilbert Hernandez and artist Casey Jones begin a 6-issue run! Black Canary's had it. After one exhausting adventure after another, she's ready for some downtime. But first she's abducted by an apelike creature in protective body armor - the caveman bodyguard of industrial entrepreneur Simon Stagg. Meanwhile, Barbara is "bothered" by an old acquaintance.

32 pages, $2.50 in stores on Dec. 18.

CATWOMAN #14

Written by Ed Brubaker; art by Cameron Stewart; cover by J.G. Jones.

Catwoman's world is falling apart. As her good works in Gotham crumble, readers learn which close friend of Selina's was behind the recent destruction. And Slam Bradley meets with a most unfortunate fate, knock-knock-knockin' on heaven's door. All of this is pushing Holly to the edge, and time is running out for her sanity.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Dec. 26.

GOTHAM CENTRAL #1

Written by Greg Rucka and Ed Brubaker; art and cover by Michael Lark.

The detectives of Gotham's police force star in their own ongoing series. A tense, driven story begins in rapid fashion with the all-too familiar cry of "officer down" - and the race is on to stop a major Batman villain while solving the crime before the Dark Kinght intervenes. But between the emotion of losing one of their own, and the labyrinth of clues left behind, the chances of success for Montoya, Allen and co. don't look good. Continued in issue #2 in three weeks.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Dec. 4.

GOTHAM CENTRAL #2

Written by Greg Rucka and Ed Brubaker; art and cover by Michael Lark

Picking up where issue #1 left off, the detectives' best lead to solving the murder of one of their own has turned up dead, and time is running out. When they learn the killer's real target, can they even hope to arrive in time? Note: Issue #3 follows two weeks later, and then Gotham Central maintains a monthly schedule thereafter.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Dec. 26.

GOTHAM GIRLS #5

Written by Paul Storrie; art by Jennifer Graves and J. Bone; cover by Shane Glines.

The action-packed miniseries concludes. As the clock runs out on gaining possession of a dangerous chemical, Batgirl finds herself torn between fighting and feeling - for Harley's loneliness, Poison Ivy's protectiveness, and Catwoman's love of danger. But she and Detective Renee Montoya have to come down on the side of the law. Can they do it in time?

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 18.

HARLEY QUINN #27

Written by Andy Lieberman; art and cover by Mike Huddleston and Troy Nixey.

Harley gets down to business in her guise as a psychiatrist, but the parade of troubled folks she encounters make her look sane. Meanwhile, Harley's still wanted for the murder of a police officer, and she's got some very hot stolen goods on her to boot. Plus, don't miss her all-new (sort of) costume, and delight as she gets shot not once, but twice. All the action, all the drama and a few jokes thrown in for good measure.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Dec. 11.

NIGHTWING #76

Written by Devin Grayson; art by Mike Lilly and Andy Owens; cover by Michael Golden.

As the powers that be in the BlÃ1Ž4dhaven P.D. crumble to the ground, the heat intensifies on the clean cop cabal, who are unknowingly relying on Nightwing to vigilantly keep them from getting framed - or killed - by the remaining corrupted forces in the 'haven. Lots of bullets a'flyin'. Featuring the guest-art team of Mike Lilly and Andy Owens.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 11.

ROBIN #109

Written by Jon Lewis; art by Pete Woods and Andrew Pepoy; cover by Kevin Lau.

It's the final showdown with Charaxis, but he's not the only threat waddling around Gotham. Even with guest-stars Nightwing and Oracle, Robin's got his hands more than full with the giant, aforementioned bug, and a very real, very deadly threat that imperils Spoiler. And learn at last what's been troubling her lately.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 18.

SUPERMAN TITLES

SUPERMAN #189

Written by Geoff Johns; art by Pascual Ferry; cover by John Van Fleet.

"Lost Hearts," Part 1 of 4 begins, continuing throughout all the Superman books this month. Lana Lang answers a call for help from the slums of Washington D.C. and mysteriously disappears! Her husband, Vice President Pete Ross, calls Clark Kent to help. But this might not be a job for Superman, as he realizes there are darker forces at work. Featuring guest cameos by Batman and Power Girl.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 4.

ADVENTURES OF SUPERMAN #611

Written by Joe Kelly; art by Dwayne Turner and Danny Miki; cover by John Van Fleet.

"Lost Hearts," Part 2 of 4. While searching for Lana, Superman - who has been forced to go underground in his quest - encounters a mysterious young woman calling herself Girl 13. Does she hold a clue to Lana's disappearance, or will her presence drag Superman further into the underworld?

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 11.

SUPERMAN: THE MAN OF STEEL #133

Written by Geoff Johns; art by Tom Raney and Scott Hanna; cover by John Van Fleet.

"Lost Hearts," Part 3 of 4. Gravely affected by the things he's seen on his search for Lana Lang, Superman has given in to despair. Could the world be losing its greatest hero?

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 18.

ACTION COMICS #798

Written by Joe Kelly; art by Pascual Ferry; cover by John Van Fleet.

The conclusion of the 4-part "Lost Hearts." The search for Lana ends, but not as you'd expect. Will the two lost souls of Lana and Clark rekindle the romance from their childhood in Smallville? And what key does Girl 13 have to saving them?

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 26.

SUPERGIRL #77

Written by Peter David; art by Ed Benes and Alex Lei; cover by Rob Haynes.

Linda Danvers, a.k.a. Supergirl, gets a gig as a substitute art teacher at the local high school, while Kara Zor-El, a.k.a. Supergirl, takes the opportunity to experience life firsthand as a normal Earth teenager. The girls better enjoy the moment, because The Fatalist is coming - and he's out to eliminate Supergirl. Of course, now he has a choice of targets.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Dec. 18.

DC UNIVERSE TITLES

AQUAMAN #1

Written by Rick Veitch; art by Yvel Guichet and Mark Propst; cover by Alex Maleev.

It's Aquaman as you've never seen him before. The aftermath of JLA's "The Obsidian Age" has left Aquaman hated by his former subjects and exiled from the life-giving ocean he once called home. Battered and left to perish on an exposed reef, Aquaman discovers - to his horror - that all the denizens of the deep are instructed to attack him without mercy. But though his beloved ocean is off-limits, a mysterious freshwater lake may give him more than just sanctuary.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Dec. 11.

BIG DADDY DANGER #5

Written by Adam Pollina; art and cover by Pollina and Tyson McAdoo.

With the forces of hell overrunning every corner of the globe, Big Daddy Danger decides to take the battle to their home dimension! Now he must face the demons' champion in pitched combat for no less than the fate of the world. Hell's a poppin' as Big Daddy Danger faces what may be his final bout.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 4.

DOOM PATROL #15

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

It starts with a dream...and ends with a curse, as Robotman's dim memories finally send him over the edge. Unfortunately, he vents his anger and frustration on his fellow Doom Patrol members.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Dec. 4.

THE FLASH #193

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

"Run Riot," Part 2 of 3! The Flash battles to save the lives of everyone in Iron Heights - villains and heroes alike - as he takes on Grodd! Meanwhile, Hunter Zolomon gets the brunt of one of Grodd's horrible attacks. And at the end of it all, Grodd⤆well, that would be telling.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 26.

THE FLASH: THE RETURN OF BARRY ALLEN TP - NEW EDITION

Written by Mark Waid; art by Greg LaRocque and Roy Richardson; cover by Brian Bolland.

The previously sold-out collection of this now-classic story returns in a new printing. Current Flash Wally West faces the return of his uncle and predecessor, Barry Allen - the Silver Age Flash! But what is the incredible secret behind the return of the beloved hero, once presumed dead? Featuring a host of other super-speedsters, including Golden Age Flash Jay Garrick, the reintroduction of Johnny Quick, and the first reappearance of the zen-master of speed, Max Mercury.

192 pages, $12.95, in stores on Dec 4.

FOREVER MAELSTROM #2

Written by Howard Chaykin and David Tischman; art by John Lucas and Eduardo Barreto; cover by Lucas and John Cassaday.

Time is running out -- and in -- and sideways -- as the twisted, millennia-spanning mini-series continues. As timelines fold in on themselves, only Forever and his pals - including a band of strange, teenaged mutants - have any hope of making things right. But first they're going to have to survive a 21st-century Roman Empire, where turbo-charged chariot races are to the death. Romance, road races and really bad puns abound.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 18.

GREEN ARROW #20

Written by Brad Meltzer; art by Phil Hester and Ande Parks; painted cover by Matt Wagner.

"The Archers Quest," Part 5 of 6 - guest-starring the JLA! The Archer's Quest continues as New York Times best-selling author Brad Meltzer take us deeper into the Green Arrow rabbit hole. Green Arrow and Arsenal are still on the hunt. But for what?

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Dec. 26.

GREEN LANTERN #157

Written by Jay Faerber; art by Jamal Igle and Scott Elmer; cover by Ariel Olivetti.

In "Girl Talk," Jade and Troia - longstanding rivals in love for Kyle Rayner - must put aside their differences to hold back a menace of chilling proportions. But when the heroic ladies move to put out a fire, they find a Killer Frost in heat. Featuring the guest-creative team of Jay Faerber, Jamal Igle and Scott Elmer.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 11.

HAWKMAN #10

Written by Geoff Johns; art by Rags Morales and Michael Bair; cover by Morales.

The Hawks journey to Tibet in search of a kidnapped Speed Saunders. Together, Hawkman and Hawkgirl battle their way through a herd of monstrous, giant Yeti to meet their mysterious guide in an all-out attempt to rescue Kendra's grandfather - from an evil force that not only may destroy Speed, but also the Hawks themselves.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Dec. 4.

JLA #76

Written by Joe Kelly; art and cover by Doug Mahnke and Tom Nguyen.

The JLA finally has a moment to catch its breath, as the aftershocks of "The Obsidian Age" slowly begin to fade. But once one of the Leaguers announces that he'll be taking an extended leave of absence, others soon follow, and when the dust settles, the new nine member line-up is confronted with an embarrassing question: "Where's Plastic Man?"

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 26.

JSA #43

Written by David S. Goyer and Geoff Johns; art by Leonard Kirk and Keith Champagne; cover by Rags Morales.

Thrown back into Ancient Egypt, Hawkgirl, Captain Marvel and Mister Terrific team up with the "JSA B.C.": Prince Khufu, Teth-Adam, and the powerful mage, Nabu. Our time-lost heroes must convince these ancient heroes to trust them and prevent a murderous dictator from taking control of Teth-Adam's homeland of Kahndaq.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Dec. 18.

JUSTICE LEAGUE ADVENTURES #14

Written by Matt Manning; art by John Delaney and John K. Snyder III; cover by Butch Lukic.

For months it's been rumored that Aquaman may be joining the animated adventures of the World's Greatest Super-Heroes, so readers will be shocked to find the Sea King fighting for the League's very defeat. It's an Aqua-adventure you won't soon forget.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 4.

THE LEGION #15

Written by Dan Abnett and Andy Lanning; art by Kev Walker and Lanning; cover by Kilian Plunkett.

Welcome to Timber Wolf's first few days in the Legion fold. Relationships both personal and galactic are strained, one Legionnaire contemplates a leave of absence, a long-overdue memorial takes place, and Brin's first official mission goes awry - and not just because he's on the mission with a jealous husband and father in Ultra Boy. He sure could use some super-menaces to fight right about now...

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Dec. 26.

THE POWER COMPANY #11

Written by Kurt Busiek; art and cover by Tom Grummett and Prentis Rollins.

Who is the Power Company's newest member? In the wake of losing Josiah Power, the Company recruits an established DC Universe hero. But is it Firestorm? Superboy? Batgirl? Booster Gold? The Haunted Tank? Find out here, as the Company takes on a reborn terrorist cell! Plus, discover Manhunter's newest scheme to drum up business, and see Witchfire discover something about her powers that will change her forever.

32 pages, $2.75, in stores on Dec. 18.

THE SPECTRE #24

Written by J.M. DeMatteis; art by Lew LaRosa and Dennis Janke; cover by P. Craig Russell.

Guest-starring a host of DCU characters. The Spectre and some old friends reunite to celebrate his niece's birthday. With people like Superman, Wonder Woman, Green Arrow, and Zauriel on the guest list, you can be assured that this won't be an ordinary party. And who's behind the mysterious package left in the corner?

32 pages, $2.75, in stores on Dec. 4.

SUPER FRIENDS!: TRUTH, JUSTICE AND PEACE! TP

Written by E. Nelson Bridwell; art by Ramona Fradon, Bob Smith and Vince Colletta; cover by Alex Toth.

Timed for "Super Friends Month" in April, 2003, this collection features more favorite stories inspired by the Saturday morning animated show. Volume 2 reprints material from Super Friends #10, 12, 13, 25, 28, 31, and 37, featuring appearances by the likes of Supergirl, the Demon, Swamp Thing, the Global Guardians, TNT & Dyna-Mite, Man-Bat, Bizarro, Solomon Grundy, Felix Faust, Black Orchid, Gorilla Grodd, and more.

144 pages, $14.95, in stores on April 2.

THE TITANS #48

Written by Tom Peyer; art by Barry Kitson and James Pascoe; cover by José Luis Garcia-Lopez.

"Murder By Consensus," Part 1 of 3. Starfire makes her dramatic reappearance on the American super-heroic scene⤆by going on a rampage in a vain attempt to destroy every satellite dish in America. The Titans have no choice but to stop her. But what happens to America if they succeed?

32 pages, $2.75, in stores on Dec. 26.

WONDER WOMAN #188

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

It's the end of an era, as writer/artist Phil Jimenez bids a fond farewell to Wonder Woman - in a "Day in the Life" issue that will bring a smile to longtime Wonder Woman fans. And as readers get further insight into the life of Trevor Barnes, will he end up as Wonder Woman's new beau?

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 26.

WONDER WOMAN ANNUAL #1 (1967)

Written by William Moulton Marston and Robert Kanigher; art by H.G. Peter, Ross Andru, and Mike Esposito; cover by Peter.

Rescued from the vault of lost annuals, this 80-page one-shot collects four of the Amazon Princess's classic adventures! First up is a tale that is considered one of her best Golden Age escapades: "Villainy Incorporated," reprinting Wonder Woman (first series) #28. Also included are "Eagle of Space" from issue #105, "Wanted: Wonder Woman" from issue #108 and "Revolt of Wonder Woman!" from issue #144.

80 pages, $4.95, in stores on Dec. 18.

YOUNG JUSTICE #52

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

It's the Real World done Young Justice-style! Will the gang take up an offer of $2 million to allow cameras to broadcast their every move? Meanwhile, Secret learns some startling secrets about her dad.

32 pages, $2.75, in stores on Dec. 4.

BEYOND THE DC UNIVERSE TITLES

THE NAME OF THE GAME SC

Written and illustrated by Will Eisner; cover by Eisner.

One of comics' most influential and groundbreaking storytellers returns with a softcover version of last year's Eisner Award-winning hardcover, telling the tumultuous generational saga of a wealthy Jewish family's assimilation into New York society spanning the first half of the 1900s. It's also the story of the American Dream, and the game of marrying for social advancement.

176 pages, $19.95, in stores on Dec. 26.

DEXTER'S LABORATORY #33

Written by Chuck Kim; art by Mike Manley and Bill Wray; cover by Bill Wray.

Dexter's latest plan to get Dee-Dee out of his laboratory - sending her on a wild-goose chase to the Center of the Earth - works! But when he has to go fetch her for dinner, he discovers a magical all-girl city where his sister is the queen of everything - and boys are executed on sight.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 26.

LOONEY TUNES #97

Written by Earl Kress, Sholly Fisch, Scott Cunningham and Frank Strom; art by David Alvarez, Mike DeCarlo, Walter Carzon, Horacio Ottolini and Neal Sternecky; cover by Alvarez and DeCarlo.

A special holiday issue jam-packed with shenanigans! Adventures starring the Three Bears, Stupor-Duck, Bugs Bunny and Yosemite Sam are topped off with a lot of mayhem and a little tinsel.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 4.

THE POWERPUFF GIRLS #33

Written by Sean Carolan & Jennifer Moore, Sheryl Scarborough and Kayte Kuch; art by Christopher Cook and Mike DeCarlo; cover by Phil Moy.

Special Mojo Jojo spotlight issue. Mojo gets stuck between a rock and a fuzzy place in "Like It or Lumpkins." And then the monkey clones his big-brained self in "Eenie Meanie Mini Mojo."

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 18.

SCOOBY-DOO #67

Written by Frank Strom; art by Joe Staton, Dave Hunt, Anthony Williams and Jeff Albrecht; cover by Staton.

Scary Christmas, one and all! The Mystery Inc. gang investigates the haunting of an unhappy fellow named Ebenezer Scrooge. Plus, it's Scooby-Doo on ice, in a spooky skating story.

32 pages, $2.25, in stores on Dec. 11.

WILDSTORM PRODUCTIONS TITLES

21 DOWN #4

Written by Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray; art by Jesus Saez and Palmiotti; painted cover by Joe Jusko.

In the wake of the terrifying events at Bear Mountain, Preston returns home with more questions than answers regarding Agent Mickey Rinaldi and her Genie initiative. Seeking the advice of his friend Sam, Preston attempts to explain his problem when he receives an urgent call regarding another grisly murder, one that may be tied directly to Herod.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 4.

THE AUTHORITY: SCORCHED EARTH

Written by Robbie Morrison; art by Frazer Irving; painted cover by Ashley Wood.

The Authority returns in an intense new one-shot. The birth of a new being has caused the Sun to rapidly age, causing a potential supernova five billion years early. While an easy solution would be for the Authority to kill the newborn entity, the consequences of such an action could spell doom for the entire solar system. Will the return of a long-forgotten ally be enough? Will our heroes prevail against incredible odds? Is mankind doomed to extinction?

48 pages, $4.95, in stores on Dec. 18.

AUTOMATIC KAFKA #6

Written by Joe Casey; art and painted cover by Ashley Wood.

Now that Automatic Kafka has discovered his drug of choice, it's time to indulge in more carnal pleasures...with a former teammate. Introducing Helen of Troy, holy purveyor of toxic sex-magic. Also, a child's nightmares leads to the arrival of a former $tranger$ adversary.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 18.

BLACK SUN #4

Written by Marc Andreyko; art and cover by Trevor Scott.

Maggie Sun may be in trouble with her father and the Hong Kong police force, but she discovers that when she has only herself to rely on, she can fend for herself just fine! In addition to an amazing revelation about her own abilities, she has to face new knowledge about her family history - knowledge that threatens everything she's ever believed. And those Wrist Dragons prove to be more than just toys -- much more.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 18.

GEN13 #4

Written by Chris Claremont; art by Ale Garza and Sandra Hope; cover by Garza.

Something evil stalks the hallways of one of New York's greatest hospitals. And Ethan, Gwen and Ja'nelle realize its intended victim is none other than Hamza, the comatose fourth Gen-Active teen. Will their newfound abilities be enough to stop this creature? And why do they believe that it may hold the key to the being called Herod?

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 11.

GLOBAL FREQUENCY #3

Written by Warren Ellis; art by Glenn Fabry and Liam Sharpe; cover by Brian Wood.

Two hours ago the world's first truly bionic man woke up and didn't like what he saw in the mirror. Two-hundred-plus bodies later, Miranda Zero and the specially-chosen field experts from Global Frequency are on a collision course with a nuclear-powered cyborg programmed to get his kicks from killing people.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 26.

THE J. SCOTT CAMPBELL DANGER GIRL SKETCHBOOK - NEW PRINTING

Written and illustrated by J. Scott Campbell; cover by Campbell.

A new edition of this previously sold-out collection features rare Danger Girl sketches, filling this 64-page one-shot to the brim! Included are ultra-rare production drawings for the Danger Girl video game, action figures and PVCs. Plus, there are breakdowns for Danger Girl pages, rarely seen covers, and many more treasures to discover.

64 pages, $6.95, in stores on Dec. 26.

OUT THERE #15

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

The entire town of El Dorado City - bricks, boards and human occupants - has been transported to the mystical wasteland of evil Draedalus's domain. While the trauma of this bizarre exile weighs heavily on the townsfolk, somehow they're surviving. But are they being cared for, or kept like laboratory rats? Meanwhile on Earth, Becky struggles with her injuries after Megan's attack and the loss of the four teens. Haunted by her failures, she receives a visit from a very surprising ghost.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 26.

POINT BLANK #5

Written by Ed Brubaker; art by Colin Wilson; painted cover by Simon Bisley.

The finale of the mini-series. You know the old saying: "Whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger?" That's not always true. After months of pursuing leads, Grifter finally finds out what happened to John Lynch - and what his connection to Holden Carver was. The conclusion leads into the newest Eye of the Storm title, Sleeper #1, on sale in January.

32 pages, $2.95, in store on Dec. 11.

RESIDENT EVIL: CODE VERONICA BOOK FOUR TP

Written by Lee Chung Hing; translated by Ted Adams and Kris Oprisko; art and cover by Hui King Sum.

The hot-selling videogame that spawned a hit movie concludes its spine-tingling comic-book saga, as WildStorm Productions adapts the Hong Kong version of the Resident Evil comics into English! Chris Redfield traces his sister Claire to Antarctica where she and Steve have run afoul of the insane Alexia Ashford. Of course, landing in the midst of an Umbrella base and actually rescuing his sister are two different things - even for someone who's tangled with as many of Umbrella's sinister creations as Chris.

144 pages, $14.95, in stores on Dec. 4.

THE RESISTANCE #4

Written by Jimmy Palmiotti and Justin Gray; art by Juan Santacruz and Francis Portela; cover by Christopher Shy.

After discovering that recycled DNA is being used to manufacture humanoid cattle, Resistance fighters Surge, Version Mary and Brian Sturm decide to take down the Helios-Carrier and expose the horror of what the general population is eating. Unfortunately, the 150 GCC agents and Androids onboard have other ideas. Meanwhile, the GCC is preparing to unleash the new nano-drug Lust on the unsuspecting citizens of Manhattan.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 26.

ROBOTECH #0

Written by Tommy Yune and Jay Faerber; art by Jim Lee, Lee Bermejo, Alé Garza, Carlos D'Anda, Adam Warren, Kaare Andrews, Randy Green, Long Vo, Dustin Nguyen, and Keron Grant; cover by Yune.

Robotech lives, in this prelude special containing a 12-page story illustrated in "jam" style by Jim Lee, Lee Bermejo, Ale Garza, and Carlos D'Anda. After a rescue mission, Captain Rick Hunter comes across Roy Fokker's Veritech, set to be dismantled. The sight of Roy's "old bird" takes Rick back to the day Roy left the Pop Hunter's Air Circus to fight in the world war. Plus, a pinup section featuring the artwork of Adam Warren, Kaare Andrews, Randy Green, Long Vo, Dustin Nguyen, and Keron Grant. And Tommy Yune discusses Robotech's past, present, and future.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Dec. 4.

ROBOTECH #1

Written by Tommy Yune and Jay Faerber; art and cover by Long Vo and Udon; variant cover by Steve Skroce. All-new 6-issue mini-series. Ace fighter pilot Roy Fokker has gone to war and is making himself a legend through his tenacity and raw ability. His skills in the air also alienate him from his comrades, as he often outlives his wingmen. His next mission, though, will test even his ability and will bring him into conflict with a face familiar for any Robotech fan, Captain Gloval!. But there's a new challenge on the horizon for both of them -- and it's about to crash onto Macross Island! For more information, see the feature article. Note: This issue will ship with two covers. All orders will be filled with Long Vo and Udon (50 percent) and Steve Skroce (50 percent).

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 18.

STORMWATCH: TEAM ACHILLES #6

Written by Micah Ian Wright; art by Whilce Portacio and Sal Regla; cover by Portacio and Scott Williams

The 3-part saga guest-starring The Authority concludes. StormWatch finds itself between a rock and hard place...and another hard place. The plot within the United Nations to eliminate StormWatch is revealed, while the ground team finds itself squaring off against the Authority, Chechan super-terrorists, and now the Russian Army. Could their day get any worse?

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 11.

THUNDERCATS #5

Written by Ford Lytle Gilmore; art and cover by Ed McGuinness and Jason Martin; variant cover by Rick Mays.

The first Thundercats mini-series concludes. Lion-O has to do battle with Grune the Destroyer, armed by Mumm-Ra with the Sword of Plundarr, when Grune challenges Lion-O for the very throne of Thundera itself. The struggle that ensues when these mighty warriors meet brings WildStorm's first smash-hit Thundercats miniseries to a powerhouse conclusion - and sets the stage for more adventures to come! Note: This issue will ship with two covers. All orders will be filled with covers by Ed McGuinness and Jason Martin (50 percent) and Rick Mays (50 percent).

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 18.

WILDCATS VERSION 3.0 #5

Written by Joe Casey; art by Dustin Nguyen and Richard Friend; cover by Nguyen and Rian Hughes

Could anything possibly get worse for Grifter? A botched mission, his legs shredded in machine gun fire -- and the return of Agent Orange. After nearly getting killed in their first meeting, will our hobbled hero stand a chance? Also, the sinister secret of the family that has been housing Orange.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 26.

AMERICA'S BEST COMICS TITLES

GREYSHIRT: INDIGO SUNSET TP

Written by Rick Veitch; art by Veitch, Frank Cho, David Lloyd, Russ Heath, John Severin, Hilary Barta, Al Williamson; cover by Veitch.

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? This collection of the 6-issue miniseries reveals the savage and startling origin of Greyshirt in a decades-long epic, with each 24-page chapter supplemented by an 8-page installment from the Indigo Sunset newspaper (including such comic strips as "Weeping Gorilla!"). Plus, contributions by some of comics' finest creators, including Russ Heath, David Lloyd, Al Williamson, Dave Gibbons, and Frank Cho.

224 pages, $19.95, in stores on Dec. 11.

THE LEAGUE OF EXTRAORDINARY GENTLEMEN VOL. II #5

Written by Alan Moore; art and cover by Kevin O'Neill. In this issue, a League member dies. As Allan and Mina meet a mysterious doctor and witness his miraculous experiments, the Martian attack of London intensifies. Meanwhile, serious scores are settled once and for all. Plus, an additional almanac feature takes readers to even more fantastic places.

32 pages, $3.50, in stores on Dec. 26.

PROMETHEA #24

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

Everything goes wrong. It sounded good on paper: Sophie is back on Earth and back as Promethea. All is right in the world, all are happy...except, perhaps, for the person who has taken her place. It's a battle of best friends who both happen to be Prometheas. Also, new information is revealed about several Prometheas from the past.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Sept.26.

PROMETHEA BOOK TWO TP

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

The second trade paperback of the multiple award-winning series Promethea collects issues #7-12.

176 pages, $14.95, in stores on Dec. 11.

TOM STRONG #19

Written by Alan Moore and Leah Moore; art by Chris Sprouse, Howard Chaykin, Shawn McManus, Karl Story, and Steve Mitchell; cover by Sprouse and Story.

A trio of tales in this issue, including a look at the final days of Tom Strong's arch-villain, Saveen, illustrated by Shawn McManus. Plus, Tom takes a wild romp through the 1970s courtesy of artist Howard Chaykin. And artist Chris Sprouse brings it all home with a story of Tom in the present.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 11.

HOMAGE COMICS TITLES

MEK #2

Written by Warren Ellis; art by Steve Rolston and Al Gordon; cover by Rolston.

Sarissa Leon has returned to the city that spawned her and the latest, controversial craze sweeping the nation...Mek. She's investigating the murder of her former lover, RJ Coin, in an apparent black-market Mek deal gone sour. But is all as it seems? How far is Sarissa prepared to go to get the answers she seeks?

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 11.

ZERO GIRL: FULL CIRCLE #2

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

Amy Smootster continues to be pursued by Nicky, Tim's stepdaughter, who shows an alarming proclivity for squares. Meanwhile, Nicky's mom is all jacked up, with a big square head and a truck full of microwaves.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 4.

VERTIGO TITLES

100 BULLETS #41

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

"A Crash." This fifth in a series of standalone issues shines the spotlight where it's needed most: directly into the black eyes of Agent Graves. What is it that drives this mysterious man? Is it a quest for justice, or perhaps something deeply personal? And what does he hope to gain? Moving between the corridors of power and the back alleys of the underworld with an unshakeable confidence, Graves appears to be in complete control - to everyone but The Trust. It may be Graves' game, but does he really hold all the cards?

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Dec. 4.

AMERICAN CENTURY #21

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

"Coming Home" Part 5 of 5. Blackmail, theft, arson, destruction of private property, assaulting a police officer, and impersonating a ghost. These are just a few of the crimes committed, as Harry Kraft's return to his hometown of Chicago comes to an explosive - and deadly - conclusion.

32 pages, $2.75, in stores on Dec. 18.

CODENAME: KNOCKOUT #19

Written by Robert Rodi; art by Mark A. Robinson and Andrew Pepoy; painted cover by J.G. Jones

"Fleshback '69: Queen, Castle, Pawn." Finally: the origin of the Kevins. In this "Fleshback" to 1969, the original Kevin teams up with sizzling superspy Godiva Priestly to save the lives of the British Royal Family -- and unknowingly lays the groundwork for his own peculiar brand of immortality. Featuring the pencils of newcomer Mark A. Robinson.

32 pages, $2.75, in stores on Dec. 4.

FABLES #8

Written by Bill Willingham; art by Mark Buckingham and Steve Leialoha; painted cover by James Jean.

"Animal Farm," Part 3 of 5. The Fables at the Farm are now in open revolt, and the always practical, always proper Snow White finds herself at the top of the radicals' hit list. Her adversaries number in the hundreds, while her only ally seems to be the crass and wily Reynard the Fox. Together, to get to the truth, the two fugitives have to make their way to the caves beyond the Valley of the Sleepers. But first they have to survive crossing the tall grass, which inhabits sleeping giants and belongs to the ravenous Shere Khan.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Dec. 18.

FABLES: LEGENDS IN EXILE TP

Written by Bill Willingham; art by Lan Medina, Steve Leialoha and Craig Hamilton; painted cover by James Jean.

Vertigo's hot new series gets its first collection. When a group of fairytale characters are exiled from their respective homelands, they're forced to take up secret residence in modern day New York City. But life in the "real" world among the "mundanes" isn't easy for these displaced refugees - especially after their community is rocked by the apparent murder of Rose Red. It's up to Deputy Mayor Snow White and a reformed Bigby Wolf, Fabletown's one-man police force, to sniff out whodunnit to Snow's estranged party-girl sister.

128 pages, $14.95, in stores on Dec. 11.

FIGHT FOR TOMORROW #4

Written by Brian Wood; art by Denys Cowan and Kent Williams; cover by Nathan Fox.

Cedric Zhang can never escape his past. He and Little Brother's street gang take to the streets to rescue the victims of Sivan's underground fighting ring - only to find out it's far, far worse than they could have imagined. Cedric must face himself and his past before he can take down Sivan. The fight continues...

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Dec. 26.

THE FILTH #7

Written by Grant Morrison; art by Chris Weston and Gary Erskine; cover by Carlos Segura.

The Libertania - an experimental utopian ocean-going community. A mega-liner with a population of 100,000, its own government and its own army. A floating city of tomorrow for people who want to escape the rat race of dry land life. What happens when the Libertania declares war on the world? And what happens when Ned Slade and the officers of The Hand arrive on the scene too late to prevent the President of the USA from being given 34DD breast implants?

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 26.

HELLBLAZER #179

Written by Mike Carey; art by Marcelo Frusin; painted cover by Tim Bradstreet.

"Red Sepulchre," Part 3 of 4. The bond that ties Constantine to the red sepulchre is revealed at last. But John is caught between two evils: a demon imprisoned in dead flesh and the sadistic mage named Josh Wright. To get both himself and his niece Gemma free, he may have to sink a knife into an old friend's back.

32 pages, $2.75, in stores on Dec. 26.

HELLBLAZER SPECIAL: LADY CONSTANTINE #1

Written by Andy Diggle; art by Goran Sudzuka; cover by Phil Noto.

The year is 1785, and Johanna Constantine - ancestor of John Constantine - finds herself embroiled in a desperate battle to locate the world's most coveted and deadly mystical prize. An infernal Box which, if opened, could reveal the secrets of the Universe, or unleash all the savage powers of Hell...or both. After being hired by British Secret Intelligence to hunt down the box, Johanna must enlist the aid of allies both human and otherwise if she is to seize the prize from an ancient and unstoppable foe - as the very fate of the world hangs in the balance.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 18.

HUNTER: THE AGE OF MAGIC #18

Written by Dylan Horrocks; art by Richard Case and Steve Bird; painted cover by Chris Bachalo.

Mr. Lily is a man on a mission. His goal: the restoration of Paradise on Earth. From the trenches of World War I to the Gestapo's torture chambers, from the secret vaults of the Vatican to the sunken halls of Atlantis, Lily's quest has consumed his every waking moment for the better part of a century. Now, with Tim Hunter at his mercy, the prize is at long last within his grasp.

32 pages, $2.75, in stores on Dec. 11.

LUCIFER #33

Written by Mike Carey; art by Dean Ormston; painted cover by Christopher Moeller.

In this standalone issue, the dying owner of a Manhattan convenience store is caught in the crossfire of a robbery. His savior is a beautiful young woman whose hunger for life is matched only by a terrifying need for something only he can give. When he follows this strange woman into a terrifying world of darkness, like Lucifer, he learns that sometimes there is no such thing as having nothing left to lose.

32 pages, $2.50, in stores on Dec. 18.

SWAMP THING: DARK GENESIS TP - NEW EDITION

Written by Len Wein; art and cover by Bernie Wrightson

Back in print by popular demand, this trade paperback volume features the 8-page origin story of Swamp Thing from House of Secrets #92, plus the first 10 issues of Swamp Thing Volume One. Featuring the writing talents of Len Wein, and the incredible art of legendary horror artist Bernie Wrightson, this volume contains the secret of Swamp Thing's "birth," the forbidden passions of Anton Arcane, the measureless sorrow of the Patchwork Man, and much more.

240 pages, $19.95, in stores on Dec. 11.

VERTIGO POP!: LONDON #2

Written by Peter Milligan; art and cover by Philip Bond

The latest Vertigo Pop! mini-series continues. Over-the-hill rock legend Rocky Lamont's plan to recapture his lost youth moves forward, leaving behind a trail of the lowest deceit imaginable. As the hapless would-be rock star Sean is brought into Rocky's glamorous world, his ambition blinds him to the fact that he is being prepared for a fate possibly worse than death. And the apple of Rocky's eye - his lovely daughter, Zoe - reveals a hidden dark side that could spell trouble for her unwitting daddy.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 4.

WAR STORY: J FOR JENNY

Written by Garth Ennis; art by David Lloyd; cover design by Terry Marks.

The second tale in the latest wave of War Story one-shots shows the very human side of war, as the firebombing raids of late 1943 continue with relentless fervor. The Americans bomb by day and the British by night - up to a thousand bombers at a time hitting cities like Hamburg, Bremen and Berlin, razing them all to the ground. But no matter how tough you are as a part of a bombing crew, sooner or later you find yourself wondering who is underneath you when you drop the motherload.

64 pages, $4.95, in stores on Dec. 11.

Y - THE LAST MAN #6

Written by Brian K. Vaughan; art by Pia Guerra and Jose Marzan, Jr.; painted cover by J.G. Jones.

A new story arc begins with Part 1 of the 5-part "Cycles." In this perfect jumping-on point for new readers, Yorick Brown and his companions embark on an important quest. Riding the rails across a radically transformed America, the last man on earth is pursued by several competing factions, including the deadly Daughters of the Amazon. Meanwhile, things get worse for Hero, Yorick's missing sister.

32 pages, $2.95, in stores on Dec. 18.