For readers who haven’t yet gotten into this new comic revolution, it can be difficult to know what to look for when reading independent comics. The great thing about indie comic book reviews is that they are completely based on the personal opinion of the author and not some predetermined editors or publishers. This means that you will be getting real opinions from people just like you who have given their honest review of the comic book that you are thinking about buying. So what should you look for when checking out a possible indie comic book review?
First, read what others have written about the title you are considering. A common problem is that certain titles are being touted as being a “groundbreaking” comic, and yet when another reader gives it a positive review, the creator goes on a tear about how awful the critics are. Why give away the crown when it is hardly been put to waste? Give it a chance first. If there are real problems with the comic, then they should be discussed within the context of the storyline rather than those created by someone who simply wants to make the sale.
Secondly, consider who you are buying your comic from. The last thing you want is to spend hundreds of dollars on a particular title only to find that no one you know has even heard of it. Do some research on the web to see if there are any independent book clubs that would be interested in what you have written. Check with retailers to see if they would be interested in carrying the comic. You might be surprised at how often independent bookstores have an area dedicated specifically to new independent comic books. Often times they will have a section devoted to indie comic books so that readers will be able to find something different from what is available at the big indie comic reviews.
Thirdly, consider the writer. Is the writer known for creating very unique comic books, or has the talent been tested time again? Is this the first time that he or she has attempted something of this nature? There is little that can compare to the fresh creative minds of today, but there are always people trying to break into the comic book industry. It takes a combination of great characters and a fantastic plot to make an indie comic book a success.
The advantage of going to independent bookstores is that the retailer has a more personal relationship with the comics. They get to know what the reader wants to buy before the comic store employees. While many large comic stores will merely take orders and pass them on to the distributor, smaller shops will give you a call before giving an order to make sure that what you have requested is on the shelf.
This also gives the prospective reader a little more insight into the creator of a story. While most people are used to seeing a comic book, a little bit of research into the background of the writer can tell you a lot about who they are as a person. If you see an indie comic that really piques your interest, you may want to visit the stores in your area to find out more about the creators. You may be able to learn about their background, what it is that gets them started in this field, and perhaps even where they go most of the time.
Many of the independent comic stores have a blog as well. This can be a wonderful way to find out more about the store, what they have to offer, and what events are offered on a regular basis. Many times you will also be able to learn about local book events that will be of interest to you. Not only can you attend these events, but you may also be able to buy some of the books that are on display.
Going to one of the small independent book stores in your neighborhood may seem like a daunting task, but the effort will be well worth it. You will be able to get a taste of what it is that you can expect when you decide to start your own comic book series of your own. The investment will be nothing compared to what it costs to purchase comic panels for every issue of a superhero comic that you purchase at the store. As long as you know what you are looking for in a comic, you will be able to find an indie comic book that fits your tastes perfectly.
