WALT DISNEY'S VACATION PARADE #2 [Gemstone; $8.95] is packed with fun-filled features, including a story I "script-doctored" for its publication in the issue. I don't review comic books to which I've contributed, but that doesn't preclude me from filling you in on the contents.
The wrap-around cover has been attributed to Carl Buettner and was restored by Rick Keene. It's reprinted from the original WALT DISNEY'S VACATION PARADE #2 [July, 1951].
Inside the issue:
Donald Duck in "Dangerous Disguise" with story and art by Carl Barks, from DONALD DUCK FOUR COLOR #308 [January, 1951];
"L'il Bad Wolf and the Pigmy Pigs," writer unknown, art by Al Hubbard, from VACATION PARADE #2;
Uncle Scrooge (and Donald Duck) in "Brig-A-Dog," story by Gail Renard, art by Manrique, and "dialogue" by me;
Chip 'n' Dale in "Out West," writer unknown, artwork by Harvey Eisenberg, from CHIP 'N' DALE #10 [June, 1957];
Ludwig Von Drake in "Pigeon Panic," story by Vic Lockman, art by Tony Strobl and John Liggera, from UNCLE SCROOGE #51 [August, 1964], and,
Mickey Mouse in "Ram's Head Ramblers," writer unknown, art by Bill Wright, also from VACATION PARADE #2.
As always, I'm happy to answer any questions you may have on my work and I thank those of you who buy this issue. Gemstone has been terrific to work with and, when you support their comics, you make it possible for them to keep hiring me.
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TONY POLLS
Today is your last chance to vote on the vacation-themed TONY POLLS questions I posted last week:
If you could go on vacation to these comics-related places or events, which one would you choose?
If you could go on vacation to these DC Universe places, which would one you choose?
If you could go on vacation to these Marvel Universe places, which one would you choose?
If you could go on vacation to these comic book or comic strip places, which one would you choose?
Each question gives 19 choices and an "other" write-in option. However, if you choose "other," you'll need to e-mail your choice to me at:
I'll be taking these questions offline sometime after midnight and replace them with new ones. So, while you still can, cast your votes at:
I had planned a much longer column, but the day before the day I'm writing this was a really bad day on so many levels that even I started to lose count. I'll do my best to shake it off and come back tomorrow with more stuff to thrill you anew.
I review The Amazing Adventures of Nate Banks #1: Secret Identity Crisis, Secret Identity Crisis: Comic Books and the Unmasking of Cold War America and The Walking Dead Volume 2: Miles Behind Us.
ZERO: Burn your money before buying any comic receiving this rating. It doesn't *necessarily* mean there's absolutely nothing of value here - though it *could* - but whatever value it might possess shrinks into insignificance before its overall awfulness.
ONE: Buy something else. Maybe I found something which wasn't completely dreadful in the item, but not enough for me to recommend it when there are better comics available. I only want what's best for you, my children.
TWO: Basic judgment call. I found some value, but not enough to recommend it. My review should give you enough info to decide if you want to take a chance on it. Are you feeling lucky today, punk? Well, are you?
THREE: This denotes something I find perfectly respectable. There are better books out there, but I wouldn't regret buying this item. Based on my review, you should be able to determine if it's of interest to you. Let the Force guide you.
FOUR: I recommend anything earning this rating. Unless you don't like the genre, subject matter, or past work of the creators, I believe you'll enjoy this item. Isn't it uncanny how I can look right into your soul that way?
FIVE: Anything getting this rating is among the best comicdom has to offer. You should buy/read this, even if the genre/subject matter doesn't appeal to you. It's for your own good. Me, I live for comics and books this good...but not in a pathetic "Comic-Book Guy" sort of way.
Please send material you would like me to review to:
Anything Goes Trivia
Last Kiss
