Episode 206: Comics, Now With 100% More Capes!

Following up last week's discussion of graphic novels that don't feature caped heroes, this week, Josh and Dietrich dive deep into that nerdiest of topics, comic book heroes. Dietrich discusses discovering the complex work being done in comic books with the violent and brooding Nightfall. Josh explores the X-Men universe with a collection that explores religious fanaticism and bigotry through superpowers. They look over the astonishing work of Alan Moore, saving his most iconic work for last, and discuss the troubling but brilliant work The Killing Joke, and how it inspired a host of pale imitations that missed what made that book work. Before that, Dietrich reads a science fiction novel that inspired a much better television series, Josh talks about a unique new collection from Neil Gaiman, and Dietrich confirms that when Josh warns you that a book is going to mess you up, he's not playing around. Finally, Josh leaves the final segment in Dietrich's hands, so you get to hear about The Expanse, The Magicians, and a board game about colonizing Mars. You can send questions or comments to librarypolicequestions@gmail.com