Sticks

The ultimate guide to the art and science of stick collecting. Because nobody knows sticks like the founders of Stick Nation.

What makes a particularly good stick? Is it the stick’s length and sturdiness—a trusty walking staff, perhaps, that conjures up fantasies of wizards and battle? Or is it the stick’s usefulness—say, as a drumstick on a log in the woods, or as a slingshot for propelling pebbles at your friend's face? Maybe what makes a stick great is its unique shape, like Poseidon’s trident or a Stormtrooper’s blaster gun?

Or maybe what makes a stick great is simply how it makes you feel.

In Sticks, enjoy an incredible collection of Stick Nation’s most magnificent sticks—some from as far as Cameroon!—and meet the people (and dogs!) who love them. Stick Nation founders Logan Jugler and Boone Hogg also share their top tips for finding and classifying sticks, encouraging readers to let loose, have fun, and embrace their imaginations.

Filled with unforgettable sticks found throughout the world, Sticks inspires readers to head into the great outdoors to find a stick of their own.

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