Comics ive never read

Having been a comic collector since about age 11, i can honestly say that i have never, ever purchased an Archie comic.  Now thats not to say that I've never read one.  These things have been around for 60 years, comics, digests, graphic novels, merchandise and lots more. I'd be willing to wager that ANY casual comic fan can name not only the triangle of love, but at least a FEW supporting characters.  The gang from Riverdale is as old as my father, and have shaped the industry in many ways.  Their influence has transcended just the comic medium to so much more.

Well, it was time.  Several months back while perusing 'Previews' (the comic shop catalog) I noticed much hype for a bold new storyline, "Archie gets Married".  I thought, huh, the girl next door, or the girl with all the money.  Your heart or your head?  I must admit that it piqued my interest.  Money was tight, and Archie #600 just didnt make the cut on my preorder that month, but i was resolved to do what i could to eventually see what the hubbub was all about, bub.  Archie Comics " Archies Wedding" Issues # 600-#606  When i saw that it was collected in a nice size graphic novel, and for a good price, i jumped, much to the chagrin of my then roommate, with his rolled eyes, and an, "oh, bud, really?"  He felt much the same about Archie that most supes reading fanboys do.

This week in my monthly shipment (yes monthly, the wait is hard some months) i finally got it, The Archie Wedding: Archie In Will You Marry Me?.  I shouldn't have waited!

Comics as a serialized story are at their best when they leave you wanting, no needing more.  Archie didnt disappoint.  Yes, its G-Rated.  Yes, its formulaic (Archie walks UP Memory Lane instead of Down), but it is also a wonderfully plotted story that encompasses the whole of Riverdale.  This book answers the question completely, showing us both sides of Archie's dilemma.  Should Arch marry his girl or his gal-pal?  The money or the girl next door?  Problems we wish we all had, right?

With a starting point of graduation day, we see two complete stories diverge.  Well scripted, with the simple style of any Archie comic, we learn the fate of ole red.  Without *spoilers* its hard to say much, but we get a nice glimpse of about a 2-3 year span of what could happen just after the gang all graduate from State University.  Marraige, In-Laws, Moving, and of course 'Whoopee' which inevitably leads to children.  Archie is a man with a decision most of us would love to have, and ultimately learns a truth that is as profound as it is true: It's what we do RIGHT NOW that will determine our future.

Now i wont say that this book is for every comic fan; you zombie lovers, and hard core 'tights' fanboys just might not be able to handle a book this long with no death rays, or superpowers, but as a read, this book is EXCELLENT.  I have to say that it was a bit moving, and the attention to detail is phenomenal.  If a story sticks with you, it must have been good, and I'm sure I'll not soon forget how Archie's future could unfold.

Interested?  follow the embedded links, or check the links below to find it at Amazon.