Big Problems

A smart, funny dive into the weight-loss industry, from a journalist on a quest to master healthy living

Like many of us, Andy Boyle struggled with his weight all his life. But it wasn't until one fateful pants-splitting incident that he realized he really ought to do something about it. Since then he has lost the weight. And put it back on. And lost it again. As he fumbled through his weight-loss journey, Andy learned the hard way that there's a difference between real, effective methods and the crap that big businesses are trying to sell you.

In Big Problems, Andy explores the reasons why we've gotten fat in the first place as well as real ways to lose those extra pounds. Through interviews with health experts, doctors, runners, bodybuilders and more, he unpacks the truths hidden beneath the hype, including:

Are superfoods really all that super?

Why the heck are you so hungry all the time?

Is it better to go for a run or lift weights?

Does dieting work? (Spoiler alert: No)

While he is by no means an expert, Andy Boyle's hands-on experience and insightful research cuts through the bullshit and gives it to you straight. This funny and useful book will have you lacing up your workout shoes and saying "no" to that second beer. (Well, maybe sometimes...)

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs