#techsmoke

Why do I now read comics after going almost 30 years of avoiding them? My first two misconceptions about comics were about the people that liked comics, and the comics themselves. My perception of the comic nerd was of course male, and highly resembled the “comic book guy” from The Simpsons. If you have no clue what I’m referencing, please stop what you are doing and watch some Simpsons, the family that shaped me as a human being. You need more culture in your life.

But seriously, the humblebrag who thrives on you knowing that they know everything there is to know about a book/character/story line/etc. (drink every time i say know - you’re dead). The beer bellied man who struts around the floor of the con marveling in the beauty of the woman who just walked by, but instantly judging her on not being a “real comic nerd”. This attractive woman could very well know everything there is to know about The Swamp Thing and be on her way to see Yanick Paquette, but maybe she doesn’t want to walk around wearing vines and cabbage all day.

Fortunately, for every humblebrag I’ve met, I’ve met at least three very normal people who have lives, families, jobs, other hobbies, but also enjoy reading comics. Anyone who loves to read comics, loves to read. And anyone who loves to read is probably an educated, informed person who has their own opinions and can articulate their thoughts and have great conversations about their interests. And that is the type of person I want to be friends with! And so should you! If you’re anything like me, and forget to bring your phone into the bathroom, you may reach for the nearest soap bottle or cleaning product to read the ingredients!

It’s been a long day. You’ve put those damn hellions to bed and they’ve finally stopped yelling for you because their foot isn’t properly under the blanket and their pillow is hot and needs to be flipped. You’ve said “Screw the dinner dishes. Maybe all those fruit flies I can’t get rid of will finally drown in the greasy stagnant water overnight.” You curl up on the couch next to your husband, whose eyes glaze over while he breaks the Xbox One controller in his hands because he’s down 3-0 and is on a 5 game losing streak. But don’t fret, he’s going to “defend our honor”. Finally, you move away from him because you remembered he just spent an hour on the elliptical, and you get to pull out your Kindle Paperwhite and start book 5 of Harry Potter, or The Husband’s Secret, or Yes Please, and all is right with the world. If this is you, then there is a comic for you. And if you’re reading this, you probably have the right person to point you in the right direction!

Onto the books themselves, my second misconception. Those weird illustrated books that make grown men cry. It’s a thing, I’ve seen it happen. But what is so riveting about some hunky superheroes swinging their big D’s around, and scantily clad women striking unnecessary sexy poses in mid air that professional gymnasts can’t replicate? I just don’t get it. Well, here’s the thing, that is a pretty small percentage in the types of comics that are available! Of course these testosterone filled books exist, and people like them (still trying to figure out why), but even some of these have an OK storyline. And there are still some obvious sexism issues that can be a complete turnoff, but that my friend, is for another day.

There is an absurd plethora of comics and graphic novels that tell compelling stories. There are characters that you can (as a non superhuman) relate to, that will make you laugh out loud, make you tear up a little (not me, I’m an emotionless robot), and some recommendations will be duds.  But that’s kind of the fun of it too. Having just read a completely awful book and laughing about it with your friends. Or, maybe your weirdo friend liked the book that you just described as garbage (haha oops)!

If you like reading, and have a go-to genre of novels that you love, there is an equal comic genre. Drama, comedy, sci-fi, horror, PORN (!what!), you name it, it exists! Here are some of the books I’m reading.

Abelard - an adorable story that will make you “squeeeeeee”. It’s just absolutely adorable.

Strangers In Paradise - If you want to laugh out loud you should try reading Strangers In Paradise, a romantic comedy and a friendship that may bring you back a few years to those days before your hellions, I mean adorable children. I just started volume 5 and I can’t stop reading it.

The Saga of the Swamp Thing - He may be considered a superhero, especially in the New 52, but in Alan Moore’s books, you will get absolutely lost in his writing and will watch the best love story ever written unfold. Ever. I would not consider this a superhero book.

Saga - is a book that is super big right now. It is described as a “sci-fi/fantasy epic for mature readers” but follows a family that faces real life problems that may hit home and stir up some feelings.

God Loves, Man Kills - a SPECTACULAR book if you’re willing to dip your toes into the realm of capes and mutants. This book is a great fast read and I think everyone should read it.

Owly - if you are illiterate, and someone is reading this article to you, guess what, there are still comics for you. And this is one you can share with your adorable children.

Hopefully you find one of these books interesting and can enjoy comics, because they really are for everyone!

I forgot to add this to the list. Consider it an honorable mention, only if it is so frustratingly infrequent. But my frustration comes from the fact that it is so good. One of the guys from Paperkeg, @slim, and his wife (who hilariously has little grasp on technology) discuss current tech news. Short and funny. Run time: ~12 minutes.