Occasional Superheroine has a great post detailing the Seven Deadly Sins of the Comic Book Industry. I have to say, I agree with every point (especially #1 and #3). It’s a quick glance at the many problems the industry is facing. In turn, that reflects the books that are being put out. While I love all of the references and re-appearances in some of DC’s titles lately, this would have been the perfect time for a revised Who’s Who in the DC Universe series. As a kid in 1985, this was the series that pulled me into DC and I can’t help but think that a similar series would do the same and serve as a reminder/refresher for old and returning fans.
As a side note, on #4, I think it’s my responsibility to monitor what Carter is/will read, but a nice warning or reference would be nice and should be included.
1. Hey, I enjoy delving into the rich histories of the larger comic book companies’ output as much as the next fan. But please don’t assume I do. Don’t assume I can differentiate between Chemo & the Anti-Monitor at the “big reveal” of “Sinestro Corps” #1. Don’t assume that when I see Elektra turn into a Skrull it will automatically ring any bells. Don’t assume that I care. Assume I am a first-time reader. Because I might be. Because without some more first-time readers — or readers that have come back to the hobby after ten, fifteen years — you can’t grow your readership. Don’t give me a weak book like “Countdown” where its only claim to fame is that it digs out obscure characters and puts them in wacky situations. Please do include recaps at the beginning of each issue — especially if the book is a tie-in to another event.
