PlanJam!From your screen to the scene

Not that many comic book stores in Chicago offer as much as this place does or have outlasted as many. Chicago Comics is a store where Comic Book Guy would feel right at home, perched above his nerdy pedestal, overseeing the lowly kids and 50 something geeks from far down below, just the way it should be. And who really cares if the guys behind the counter are a bunch of burrito munching, elitist snobs? They know their stuff inside and out, planning their schedules around Star Trek / Star Wars conventions, Comicons and reading up on the status of the latest underground rags - all so us miniscule peon shoppers and collectors can blow our pay checks to get our hands on all that is Avant Garde!

Walking in, patrons are transported into another world, though not exactly Krypton. That first whiff of old newsprint tantalizes the senses, beckoning to enter even further into its mighty depths. Besides the Marvel and DC standards, Chicago Comics carries an ungodly array of independent rags, back issues and rare gems many other stores simply do not have.

Manga, graphic novels and plenty of erotica are also in stock for more seasoned veterans and neophytes alike. And oh my yes - the statuary! and the toys, toys, toys! Where else can one lay their hands on an autographed Lady Death lunch box or an original Luke Skywalker action figure - in mint condition with original packaging?

Esteemed and independent artists make periodic signing engagements, so fans should sign up for their news letter to get the inside scoop. Indie artists can even contact the store for setting up consignment deals, which many stores simply will not handle. How cool would that be to bring your friends along and show them your mini comic gracing the shelves right alongside Stan Lee’s latest release? It’s enough to even make Brodie a tad jealous (though he’d never admit it).

So make the trek out to Chicago Comics, spend an hour or two with your closest friends, blow your hard earned money and swap out reading on the train ride home. Just be sure to scoop up some extra mylar bags, because you never know if what you just bought is going to become extra valuable!