SMURFS TALES VOL. 17

Gargamel, Friend of the Smurfs is the forty-first album in the Smurfs comic book series originally created by Peyo. This classic tale is written by Alain Jost and Thierry Culliford and illustrated by Alain Péral. Master Homnibus meets Gargamel for the first time. Homnibus reveals that the formula for the philosopher's stone contained in his grimoire is false. Gargamel realizes that capturing the Smurfs will not allow him to produce the coveted stone and that he has therefore devoted years to this quest for nothing. But the blue elves must face another threat: a biologist, Georges-Louis Bouffon, has decided to study their way of life at all costs. He begins to hunt them down. The sorcerer chooses to completely change his ways and help the Smurfs against this new peril. Plus Johan and Peewit, Benny Breakiron and more!

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