COMIC BOOK CREATOR #47

CBC #47 gets positively Epic with our tribute issue devoted to Archie Goodwin, editor/writer supreme, as we talk to friends and colleagues about the exceptionally talented and much beloved man, with a comprehensive focus on his helmsmanship of Epic Illustrated and the eclectic and wide-ranging Epic Comics line of the ’80s. Plus, since we’re in the Epic groove, things get in-depth and definitive with a years-in-the-making, lengthy feature talking with Michael Wm. Kaluta and Elaine Lee about their wild and enduring Starstruck projects, which started as an Off-Broadway stage production and blossomed into a comic-book series that has traversed the decades. Also, Shaun Clancy investigates the life and art of Hal Seeger, animator of Batfink and Milton the Monster and comics creator of Leave It to Binky for DC and G. I. Jane for Stanhall. Additionally, we include a conversation with Rick Altergott in the first installment of a comprehensive interview with the Doofus creator, as well as a look at the best comics parodies in National Lampoon, with art by Neal Adams, Russ Heath, Barry Windsor-Smith, and others. Oh, all this and Hembeck, too! Edited by Jon B. Cooke.

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