Writer James Asmus has put out one of the single best comics on the market with Quantum and Woody and all have been in top-notch from in it’s short run. Valiant starts each issue off with a nice “previously in” section and for those not in the know with Quantum and Woody it’s invaluable. In a nutshell you have all the information you need to catch up to speed. Sure, there are a few things that might not make total sense, the goat and Woody’s new “friend,” but it’s not always necessary to enjoy the ride. Asmus has the comic pulse and timing that makes this book so funny but also adds enough punch and action to make it a complete blast. Lee Garbett’s art is as lively and exciting as Amsus’ writing. He gift of comedic expressions lifts the witty dialogue to new levels and his action and pacing is just as stellar.
As a reader since the beginning I found this issue had the most laughs, puns and jokes than previous without it being simply a joke book. Eric is beginning to settle into being a superhero while Woody settles in to very questionable relations with the clone daughter of the teams first nemesis. Eric also knows that his situation with Woody is one he can’t avoid anymore and must somehow make Woody become a responsible partner and carry his share of the load. The estranged brothers need to find a happy medium or both of them will have extremely short life spans. And While Woody on the surface is shallow, selfish and lazy, underneath there is a sense he truly values his connection with Eric and their father.
Even with all the fun, you have to feel a little sorry for Eric. Since the beginning of Quantum and Woody’s run Eric has the burden of responsibility weighing heavy on his shoulders and Woody only adds to it. He must balance his new role as superhero with his government protection details job all while baby-sitting his brother, Vincent Van Goat and an unwanted teenage distraction. His boss is unusually demeaning and even back as far as his training days go he always seemed the best student with the worst teachers.
If all this isn’t enough to make you run out and grab this book then I fear there is little hope for you and you truly are doing yourself a disservice by not reading it. Asmus and Garbett have not missed a beat with this book and while most of Valiant’s line is full of action and great stories, Quantum and Woody is the most balanced with it’s attack. It’s simply a great read and a book that deserves a higher profile within the comic book world. It’s that good and that much fun!