This annual, published between Captain America #212 and #213, contains a self-contained story that, similar to Kirby's last annual, focuses on a strange and mysterious creature, this time not an alien from space but a mutant—which brings in Magneto, whose devious plans are contrasted with Captain America's compassion. Apparently Cap keeps on eye on the... Continue Reading →
This two-part story is starts out with an epilogue of sorts to the saga of the Night People in the last three issues (as that story did with the Madbomb tale that preceded it), but soon transitions into a yarn about a strange being named Agron (no relation to the Glee actress, as far as... Continue Reading →
These five comics are, to put it lightly, a mixed bag. The first two are partially reprinted panels and pages from throughout Avengers history, stretched out over two issues because writer Steve Englehart quit in the middle. Then an old friend returns to the fold, the team takes a trip to New Orleans, and then... Continue Reading →
Released in June 1976, this 84-page Marvel Treasury Special—really more of an early graphic novel than a comic—is a massive tribute to Captain America and America herself from Jack "The King" Kirby on the year of the country's bicentennial. In it, Cap is sent by a strange being named "Mister Buda" on a time travel... Continue Reading →
These three issues continue Jack Kirby's "Madbomb" storyline that he began in issue #193 upon his return to writing and drawing the character he co-created in 1940. Just in case you didn't read the last post on this series—and if so, why not?—Captain America and the Falcon are looking for Madbombs, devices that emit mental... Continue Reading →
These four issues, a crossover between Invaders and the anthology series Marvel Premiere (best known for some amazing Doctor Strange stories by Steve Englehart and Frank Brunner), introduce the Liberty Legion, yet another retconned assemblage of once-forgotten Timely Comics heroes from the 1940s, several of whom would live on in Marvel infamy. Captain America doesn't feature... Continue Reading →
KIRBY IS BACK! As America's bicentennial year opens, we see Captain America co-creator return to his title as writer, penciller, and editor, where he'll remain for almost two years, from issue #193 to #214 in October 1977, plus two annuals and a special "Bicentennial Battles" issue. Kirby injects a science-fiction feel to his run, where... Continue Reading →
These three issues of Avengers fall between Captain America #125 and #126—that is, between the end of the "Secret Empire" storyline, in which he was confronted with how high corruption could go in the American government, and the beginning of the next storyline, in which... well, I won't spoil that for you. As such, the... Continue Reading →
Although the seeds have been planted for several issues, Captain America #169 sees the classic "Secret Empire" storyline begin in earnest, as Cap feels the effects of the public relations campaign against him... and starts to fight back. Plus: the return of the Tumbler, who is definitely not Batroc the Leaper! Interestingly, the issue starts... Continue Reading →
This standalone story takes the Avengers to Rutland, Vermont, already the traditional location for Marvel Halloween stories, as we'll soon see. (Don't let the cover date fool you!) As a bonus, the Collector shows us what happens when there are not quality action figures of his favorite heroes commercially available for purchase. Also, this is... Continue Reading →
THE VIRTUES OF CAPTAIN AMERICA 