Turning 50

You’re not over the hill—it’s just taking you longer to get to the top.
 
Mick Jagger did it. Paul McCartney did it too, and Tina Turner made it in a short skirt and red lipstick. But when it happens to you, chances are you’ll find it hard to believe. Reaching the big Five-O is more of a milestone than other birthdays, but what does it really mean? Gloria Steinem says that fifty is what forty used to be. So if your birthday candles set off the smoke alarm, don’t despair—dig into this warm and funny collection of celebrity quotes, lists, interviews, and tongue-in-cheek advice. Here’s all the wit and wisdom of many who have already reached the half-century mark, hilariously (or hysterically) gathered to remind you that you’re not alone, and that the best is yet come.

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