Once Upon a Time...I Needed Rent Money

Once upon a time, there was a young boy named Cory. His parents owned two business, at which he spent most of his young life, which happened to be located next to a comic book store (Acme Comics). He soon found himself visiting the shop often, buying books he thought had cool covers (Avengers Volume 3 written by Kurt Busiek, mostly). As he grew, so did his thirst for these skinny stapled pages filled with thought bubbles, bright costumes, and heroic deeds. As he grew even older he, in an attempt to separate himself from the 'geek' stereotype of a comic book reader (and to get laid), began to read non-superhero comics (which he referred to as "graphic novels"). Although this did not help him get laid, it did get him reading some really great stories. He read, and read, and read. He went to college. He wrote his freshmen research paper on how 'heroism displayed in the medium of superhero comics has changed" in which he analytically compared the first issues of The Avengers from the 1960s to the first volume of The Ultimates from the early 2000s. As comics became more popular (Watchmen movie-what?) and he began to find himself among others who enjoyed the story-telling form he decided to start buying comics again. But only in collected additions, because they were a little cheaper than buying issues monthly, and they would last longer. Then he decided to move into an apartment. And couldn't get a job to help with rent. But still wanted to read comics (among other things like drink, buy groceries, and get laid). What is our hero to do? 

Well that's as far as the tale has come kiddies. 

Essentially, I can't find a job in St. Louis. Not even the university 'residence department' would e-mail me back. And they just wanted me to carry garbage around the Washington University campus. Oh, and my internship? Totally unpaid. 

So here's the series that is going to break my bank:

Fables by Bill Willingham

The concept? What if all of the characters from fables, storybooks, nursery rhymes lived in a magical land together? And what if those fables were run out of this land by some unknown evil known only as The Adversary? And what if then, these fables took up secret residency in New York City? Well that would be Fables. The mere concept should be enough to hook you, but the amazing writing, mostly beautiful artwork, superb covers, and the ability to see what happens when the fairy tale ends (the Beast is only human as long as his Beauty loves him...what if she stops? Do the princesses mind that they are all rescued by one figure, simply Prince Charming?) will all grab you as well. 

The reason this is going to cost me? Well the series has been going for awhile now. In fact, I began reading it in High School, stopped at some point, and am now picking it back up again. There are currently 11 regular volumes, one extra previously unreleased graphic novel, and the series is still being published. Oh, and there is a spin-off with something like five volumes as well. With each of these costing (considering shipping) around $15-$20 a piece, its going to be an expensive hobby to take up. Luckily, I already own a number of these, but unfortunately also have every intention of buying the rest. And soon. 

Before you start, yes. I've thought about just getting them from a library. But I don't want to have to do that each time I want to read them. I don't read novels more than once usually (only have on a few occasions), but I read comics multiple times pretty often. They're a quick read because of their length, and depending on the series, some amazing artwork. 

Please ask me to borrow these, or check them out at your local libraries. You'll want to start with Volume One: Legends in Exile. Key characters you'll be following? Snow White, The Big Bad Wolf, Boy Blue, Prince Charming, and Rose Red (don't know who it is? Don't worry, you'll learn LOTS of fables by reading the series). 

*CORY FUN FACT: I used to have a livejournal. Try to find it. It was Fables themed. Oh yes. My username was a mix of one of my high school activities and a race of creature in a Final Fantasy game. Because I was really cool in high school. (I swear I actually was. I was even on Prom Court. Check that shit.) You'll never guess it. Comment and I'll probably just give it to you. 

Other comic collections I'd recommend? 

Y: The Last Man by Brian K. Vaughn

I've already whored these books out to most of my close friends. I don't want to ruin anything, so I'll tell you the basic plot of this ten trade (that's a collection of about six issues for those non-comic readers) series. What if every man on Earth died? Every last one but an amateur escape artist named Yorick Brown and his pet monkey Ampersand? These books are heart-wrenching, hilarious, and surprisingly epic (but with totally down to earth characters). I can honestly say that it may be the greatest piece of storytelling I've ever experienced. A must read. Especially before the movie trilogy comes out (in the works, starring Shia LaBeouf). (ALSO: There are lesbians!)

The Authority by Warren Ellis

This is for those who are a fan of the superhero genre but like their heroes a little darker, more realistic, and beating the living shit out of people. There are LOTS of volumes of this out (not all by Ellis) and while I can't think of an Authority story I didn't like, I'd say that the Ellis stuff is probably a little stronger than the others. It's a great look at superhero stories (especially if you're familiar with the genre) that explores what gives supposed heroes the right to do any of the things they do, and if that right even matters if the heroes have enough power. Oh, and it does it in a way that doesn't shove a bunch of shit down your throat (see: Marvel's Civil War). You don't have to pick a side, you're just along for the ride. 

So, will I make rent? Stay tuned. I'm sure internet will be the last thing I cut off (after heat, but probably before electricity) so at the very least you'll be given warning. 

I may be financially irresponsible, but I rationalize it pretty well in my mind. I attended a theater festival in my early and formative high school years, and the theme was "Why We Tell Our Stories". I consider myself a storyteller (a writer, comedian, and all around tale weaver). I live for narratives. And why I'd love to know why Willingham does the the things he's doing to his characters in Fables, I'll absolutely settle for finding out what exactly happens. 

What's your favorite childhood fable?