Invincible #117 (2003)

I didn't want to do another Invincible review, as all of our regulars in the Loop know that I am crazy about the series, but this issue inspired me to sing its praises. The book has an exhilarating spread of intense and graphic action. Most of the issue sets up the future for Mark Grayson and his family, which is nice, but the part that really brought it home is the beginning: Mark in a comic shop talking with the clerk. Ottley's art adds an array of great references - like a sticky note saying "Call Saul" - but the focus is on the conversation. "I HATE change. That's why I mostly read the corporate comics. Good guys always win... same bad guys always come back..." says the clerk. The rest of the conversation between Mark and the clerk sum up much of the industry and - like the rest of this series - is a relief to fans tired of "The Big Two's" stagnant methods.