Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Classic Comics - Zot! #1

I have to admit that when I first saw this comic, I didn't think much of it. It featured a blond hero, wearing a lightning bolt on his uniform - it just seemed like a typical superhero comic.

But I picked it up anyway.

Thank goodness! Zot! quickly became one of my all-time favorite comics. Created by writer/artist Scott McCloud, the comic follows the adventures of a young man named Zachary P. Paleozogt (Zot for short), who roars into the life of regular teenager Jenny Weaver. His arrival was unique, as he flew through a glowing aperture into another world.

Jenny and her brother Butch follow Zot back into his world, and find themselves in an amazing, futuristic world, where Zot is popular and beloved by all.

And for good reason - he's a very nice guy, smart, giving and dedicated to helping others - and doing his best to stop a strange holy war. He's what we call a hero (they seem to be a rare breed these days).

Funny, fast-paced and imaginative, this comic was like a breath of fresh air. The issues to come would introduce a wild menagerie of villains, amazing art and many thoughtful and touching stories.

It's no surprise that McCloud went on to write several authoritative books about comics (all highly recommended) - his early work showed an amazing mastery of the comics format, and this was only the beginning.

Highly, highly recommended!

Grade: A+

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