Instead, they endear him to the reader, making the series' subtle and sinister setup, made clear by the issue's abrupt ending, all the more shocking. ARCHIE, one of the longest-running titles in comic book history, is rebooted here in this full-color collection that brings together two of the most talented creators in comics, Mark Waid and Fiona Staples. Billy Batson's positivity, innocence, and impressive self-reflection aren't played down or portrayed as weaknesses. 1 collects ARCHIE 1-6 and features bonus content including scripts, sketches and variant covers. There is very little irony in this issue. Even letterer Troy Peteri's captions and bubbles harken back to this era of constant narration and traditional storytelling.

Shazam #1, with its buoyant tone and subtle intermingling of grandiose heroism with subtle human drama and intrigue, exemplifies a growing movement in comics, steering away from the all-encompassing cynicism of the turbulent 2010s and early 2020s into something akin to the comics of the '50s and '60s. Waid has a strong Silver Age sensibility. The debut issue features aliens, dinosaurs, alien dinosaurs, talking tigers, mythical heroes, and grandiose soliloquies on the joys of being human and a hero. Kirby, who thought superheroes were due for a revival after 15 years of being pushed aside by romance, horror, and war comics, saw it as smart business. This works in this issue's favor since the premise alone invokes evokes childhood joy, excitement, and absurdity. 1 by Mark Waid (2016, Trade Paperback) 1 product rating About this product Brand new 9.74 New (other) 6.79 Pre-owned 3.89 Make an offer: Pre-owned Stock photo Brand new: Lowest price 9. Hoping to break out of a sales slump at Marvel in the early 1960s, veteran comic creators Stan Lee and Jack Kirby hit on the idea of doing a super team. Shazam #1 demonstrates a childlike exuberance that's completely on-brand and appropriate for the magical young protagonist.

From Shazam #1, Shazam/the Captain rides–and attempts to slow down–a runaway baby dinosaur in the middle of the jungle.

Archie, Vol. 1 by Mark Waid