Matthew K. Manning

Batman Files reviews...

2011-12-19T13:19:00.000-08:00

It seems while I’ve been locked away in my office finishing up the first draft of my newest book (more details on that one soon), The Batman Files has been getting a good amount of coverage in the press. So if you haven’t checked out the book yet, or are an extremely late holiday shopper, here’s a chance to see what folks are saying about it:

Entertainment Weekly:

“Who knew the Dark Knight was so into scrapbooking? This book imagines clippings, character bios, and vehicle specs as collected by Bruce Wayne.”

People Magazine:

"It will make any comic book enthusiast in your home, little or otherwise, positively batty."

Comic Buyers' Guide:

"Batman's journals, as he learns his craft and experiments with what will strike terror into the hearts of criminals, are especially well-written, and readers can almost hear the rasping voice as Wayne records his findings."

Book Page:

"This is the ultimate gift item for the inveterate Batman fan."

Comicvine (check out their great video review, too):

"This is a book you'll want to keep out on display. It's a book you can proudly show to friends and family that might not be into comics as much as you are... The book is definitely worth the price."

IGN.com:

"It's impossible to make reference to all of the smaller easter eggs that this book provides (a personal favorite is a newspaper clipping written by one Alexander Knox), but that's part of the fun."

The Denver Post:

"The truly spectacular Batman Files coffee-table giant qualifies as the ultimate treasure trove of this incomparable superhero."

The Los Angeles Times:

"A vivid assortment of "files" on everything in Bruce Wayne's world."

The Joker's Lair:

"Matthew Manning has crafted this masterpiece by going through exhaustive research... Very insightful, informative and fun to read, with literally hundreds of pictures to flesh [out] the mythos even further."

Dayton Daily News:

"It comes in a padded case and it contains lots of cool stuff like the "top secret blueprints of the Batcave, Batmobiles, Batman uniforms, and weapons schematics..."

Fresnobeehive.com:

"Comic book fans will be able to sort through the massive amount of items to do their own sleuthing into the life of the famed hero."

Gothamtrending:

"The newly released The Batman Files by Matthew Manning presents documents about Batman in a slick hardcover binder made to make collectors drool."

Indigo Fiction Blog:

"Matthew K. Manning's The Batman Files is a must-have, essential book for the Batman fan... There are truly hours of reading and entertainment here."

Angryweb.net:

"Fellow Batman fans, we hope you have a spare change of pants."

And while Men's Fitness got a few of their facts wrong (our book details Batman's entire career, not merely the first 50 issues of his comic...), here are their thoughts on an excerpt from Bruce Wayne's training schedule that we created for the book:

Men's Fitness Batman article

And since you're already looking at way too many links in the first place, here's a couple interviews I did for the book:

Midtown Comics

The Westerly Sun

Thanks for reading, everyone, and have a safe and happy holiday season.

New York Comic Con 2011...

2011-10-11T11:38:00.000-07:00

The New York Comic Con is coming to Manhattan's Javits Center this weekend (October 13th-16th). And to celebrate my new book The Batman Files from Andrews McMeel Publishing, the good folks at Midtown Comics will be offering it over a week before it hits retail shelves. I'll be signing copies of the massive 308-page life story of the Batman on Saturday, October 15th, at Midtown's booth (# 1638) at 11:30 a.m. The book will be released nationwide on October 25th.

If you haven't heard much about The Batman Files, you can find out more info on the book's official website here.

And if you can't make the New York show but live around the Connecticut/Rhode Island area, stop by Bank Square Books in Mystic, Connecticut for another signing of The Batman Files. The store will have many of my other past books in stock as well, and there will even be a super hero costume contest for the kids. The festivities get underway on October 29th at 3:00 p.m.

And finally, here's an early video review of the book from Comicvine to tide you over until the shows.

Thanks for stopping by.

Batman Files sneak peak...

2011-08-12T10:36:00.000-07:00

My newest book, The Batman Files, now has a fancy-pants website to call its own. Check it out and read some sample pages of the book for free:

www.thebatmanfiles.com

We're also planning a panel discussion and a signing or two to celebrate the book's release this October during the New York Comic Con. I'll be sure to post more details when everything's confirmed.

Thanks for looking.

What I've been doing this year...

2011-07-09T08:52:00.001-07:00

Since I haven't been active on this blog lately, it looks like it's time for a massive update post.

First up is my newest book from Marvel Comics, The Art of Captain America - The First Avenger. If you browsed through our Art of Thor book that was released a few months ago, then you'll know the type of format this new hardcover sports. Just like Thor, this book features an embossed cover, slipcase, and tons of behind-the-scenes artwork and photos from the making of the Marvel movie. Designed by Mike Zagari, the book weighs in at 240 pages, and is a great addition to any comic book or movie fan's library.

But what if you didn't get any of the other books in this series? I'm glad you asked. That was a very convenient question. Seriously, I probably would've volunteered that information if you hadn't wanted to know it, so this works out for everyone. As it turns out, Marvel is releasing a newly packaged and slipcased 4-pack of these great hardcovers. Besides the two books I wrote (Thor and Cap), this handy set includes both The Art of Iron Man as well as The Art of Iron Man II. Retailing at $150 (or around $95 on Amazon), Art of Marvel Studios also features the writing of John Rhett Thomas and John Barber. This one's not out until September 28th, so you have time to save up. And if you insist, I'll post a reminder when we get closer. Okay, I'll probably do that anyway.

In other news, I've been working on several assignments for Disney's comic division. One of those projects was the main story to an anthology comic tie-in to the new Pirates of the Caribbean film. The book has been finished, but for one legal reason or another, it's currently on hold. We're still pushing for a release date down the line, but as of now, there's nothing to report.

It's a little early to talk about my five other Disney projects, but I will say that they're all Marvel related. I'll be sure to post more on them when they've been officially announced. I also recently finished up a teen fiction novel for Stone Arch books revolving around a famous sports icon. More on that as it develops...

And while we're on the subject of things I can't really talk about yet, I've been assured my super secret DC Comics mini series is still in the works. All six scripts for this creator-owned series have been finished, and now we're in the process of finding the perfect artist, as we had a bit of a misstep early on. This little series is my favorite story to date, so I'll continue to update its progress when there's any news.

And now, on to something I can talk about: The Batman Files.

Finally, my reading obsession since the 5th grade pays off. The Batman Files is a massive 308-page hardcover, chock-full of artwork both taken from existing comics, and commissioned directly for this book. Designed by Michael Reagan from Lionheart Books and published by Andrews McMeel (the folks behind The Complete Calvin and Hobbes and The Complete Far Side), this book takes the form of Batman's personal scrapbook. Containing clipped Gotham City newspaper articles, police reports, Bat-Computer Crime Files, crime scene photos, blueprints and excerpts from Batman's design sketchbook, and even journal entries written by Batman himself, this book is topped with a high-tech leather-like material cover, a magnetic metal clasp, and black gilded pages. Available for pre-order on Amazon now, this book tells the entire life story of the Batman, from his childhood and years of training abroad to his newest missions and the creation of Batman Inc. The Batman Files has taken up the bulk of my writing time this year, and I think it's been completely worth it. Look for it in stores in October.

These days I'm working on a new book featuring a certain infamous wall-crawler. Too soon to talk about this one, but I will say that it's in the same series as two of my previous books...

So that's what I've been working on this year, and a good argument as to why I should update this blog more often than I do. In a few days I'll be heading to San Diego, so I might see you if you're lurking around Comic Con. I'll be the guy constantly looking at the sky and scenery, amazed that there is an actual world outside my office.

Bringing the Thunder....

2011-05-02T19:17:00.000-07:00

This week marks the release of Marvel's new film Thor, and to help you get excited, why not stop by your local book or comic store and pick up my latest book, The Art of Thor?

Full of incredible behind-the-scene artwork showcasing the Thunder God in all his glory, interviews with the cast and crew, and the design work of my old friend Mike Zagari, this book is a must-have for any fan of Thor, or of Marvel movies in general.

Complete with an engraved slipcase, this new hardcover weighs in at 240 pages of pure Norse goodness, and comes direct from the good folks at Marvel themselves.

And if you like this one, be sure to keep an eye out come July when we release the next in the series, starring a certain patriotic Avenger...

...more news on that one soon.

Housewarming...

2011-03-04T08:59:00.000-08:00

It's official, the family and I have packed up our Park Slope, Brooklyn apartment and moved to the literally greener pastures of Mystic, Connecticut. In between unpacking in the new place, taking my turn at watching the little girl, and writing a hefty new project for DC, I took a break this Wednesday and headed to my new neighborhood's comic book shop, Sarge's in New London.

As I was buying my regular weekly books, I found a nice little surprise waiting for me on the shelf. DC's newest Batman hardcover collection, entitled Time and the Batman, features a reprint of the four page Batcave schematic that I wrote for Batman issue # 700. So if you missed the feature the first time around (or the second time, in the reprint edition), be sure to snag a copy of this great book. It reprints Batman #s 700-703, featuring the always stellar writing of Grant Morrison. And if you're the type that just likes to gaze at pretty pictures, well then you're in luck as well. The book spotlights artwork by Frank Quitely, Tony Daniel, David Finch, Andy Kubert, as well as a host of other talented artists including my partner in crime on the Batcave spreads, Freddie E. Williams II.

And keeping checking back here for news on my newest Batman project which I'm not really supposed to talk about yet. In fact, forget I said anything...

Running Backwards...

2011-02-07T19:40:00.001-08:00

I'm a little behind on my posting due to the fact that my wife and I are busy packing up for our big move to Mystic, Connecticut at the end of this month. After nearly 14 years in New York City and Brooklyn, I'm finally heading out to the suburbs to give our little daughter a bit more room to stretch her admittedly small legs.

And since I'm currently writing a few books including the previously mentioned Art of Thor and Art of Captain America: The First Avenger, as well as another secret project for the Distinguished Competition, I've neglected to post here about a new release of mine available on Amazon.com.

The book is my fourth contribution to Stone Arch Book's DC Kids' readers line. It stars everyone's favorite super-speedster, the Flash, and his evil and opposite number, the aptly named Reverse-Flash. The book is titled The Flash: Attack of Professor Zoom, and features artwork by Erik Doescher and Mike DeCarlo, as well as coloring by Lee Loughridge. You can order the hardback library edition here,or order the soft cover version here.

There'll be more new projects announced on this page soon, so keep checking back whenever your boss is looking the other way.

Movies and reviews...

2010-12-15T08:18:00.000-08:00

Recently I took a trip to Los Angeles to visit the folks at Marvel Studios and get a glimpse of some of the behind-the-scenes artwork for their two new movies, Thor and Captain America: The First Avenger. I was even treated to a screening of a rough cut of Thor over on the Fox Studios lot.

The reason behind my sneak preview is because for the last few months, I've been working on the next two "Art of" books in Marvel's line of successful film tie-in hardcovers. And if you're interested in seeing some of the impressive artwork that had a hand in crafting these films, be sure to pre-order your copies of these books now by visiting my Amazon store. The books will be chock full of interviews with the cast, crew, and most importantly, the design team, and will show off artwork not available anywhere else. They also come in nifty slipcases so your friends will think you're classy.

In other news, the reviews for my story in the Batman 80-Page Giant 2010 are trickling in over the internet. If you haven't bought it yet, rush out to your nearest comic store and grab your copy. But don't take my word for it. Listen to these guys:

“From that heartbreaking 1st page (SO economical, yet so affecting) to the surprisingly touching finale, Matthew Manning takes a B-list villain and, in 10 pages, tugs at your heartstrings, earns your sympathy, and tells a decent story while he’s at it… Great story! Grade: A+.” – Mark Mackner, Poptardsgo.com

"Every Day Counts gets an A+!" – Bright Hub.com

“The third story, "Every Day Counts" blew me away… you should read this issue just for this story.” – Walter Richardson, Multiversity Comics

“Matthew Manning's script is nicely crafted and adds poignancy to a one-note character, while the art of Garry Brown and John Livesay has a haunting quality.” – Dangermart.blogspot.com

“This is the most surprising story in this issue; it actually makes a compelling character out of Calendar Man." Rated Five out of Five. – The Batman Universe.net

“Manning’s story “Every Day Counts,” …manages to not only make Calendar Man, Julian Day, an interesting character, but also a sympathetic character.” – Erik Lewis, By Odin’s Beard

Mark your calendars...

2010-11-29T11:43:00.001-08:00

In stores this week:

Batman 80-Page Giant 2010

I'm really proud of this one, folks.

In this new anthology comic featuring seven tales of the Dark Knight's extensive rogues gallery, I got the chance to write a Calendar Man story that was brought to life by a very talented Kubert School find, artist Garry Brown. The story hints at the origin of everyone's favorite holiday-obsessed super villain (there's not many to choose from, after all) and brings to light his relationship with Gotham's Caped Crusader. The comic hits stores Thursday, December 2nd, so be sure to save the date, as it were.

Here's the official write-up from the DC Comics website:

Written by BRAD DESNOYER, MATT MANNING, MANDY MACMURRAY, JOHN STANISCI, PAUL TOBIN and PETER MIRIANI; Art by LEE FERGUSON, GARRY BROWN, MATT SOUTHWORTH, RYAN KELLEY and SZYMON KUDRANSKI; Cover by DUSTIN NGUYEN

Some of the most promising new talent in comics are corrupted by the most depraved villains in Gotham City in this all-new special featuring The Joker, the Riddler, Calendar Man, Scarecrow, and yes, even Humpty Dumpty! It's seven short stories, all in one giant issue! The joke's on you if you think you'll make it out of this alive!

King Con 2010...

2010-11-02T10:24:00.000-07:00

Who says convention season is over? Not the King Con, that's for sure.

If you're around the Park Slope area of Brooklyn, New York this weekend (November 6th and 7th from 11am to 7pm), head over to the Brooklyn Lyceum on 4th Avenue (just steps away from the Union Street stop on the R line) and stop by the second annual King Con. Despite what their official website would have you believe, I will indeed have a table at the show, loaded with everything from my older Johnny DC Batman and Legion comics to the newly released DC Comics Year by Year: A Visual Chronicle. I'll also have a couple of my hardcover Stone Arch Batman and Superman kids books for you to check out, among other surprises.

Other guests for the convention include Chris Claremont, Paul Pope, Jonathan Ames, Kyle Baker, Cliff Chiang, and dozens more. There are plenty of panels scheduled, and for a measly seven bucks a day ($10 for the weekend pass), it promises to be an event worth your while.

Hope to see you all at the show.

Happy Halloween...

2010-10-31T21:31:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween from the Ventriloquist and Scarface.

Not to mention the new Ventriloquist and Scarface.

Trust us, Lilly is deadlier than she looks...

The many Halloween costumes of Matthew K. Manning...

2010-10-25T12:48:00.001-07:00

With Halloween right around the corner, I thought it time I post pictures of my previous costumes from New York Halloweens past. So let's get right to it.

It started with Batman. When I was in seventh grade, my parents decided to bestow upon me a rubber Batman suit from the movie Batman Returns. As a result, I wore the exact same costume every year up through my college years at the School of Visual Arts. But by my senior year, after adding a few comic book tweaks to the costume, I finally decided to retire the batsuit once and for all.

Here are a couple of pictures from that no-doubt emotional year:

Batman and Nightwing in a pre-cell phone world. Nighwing is played by my old friend Mike Zagari.

My now-wife Dorothy as the Julie Newmar Catwoman. It was a good year to be Batman. Here she's joined by two of her thugs (Jon and Matt Roscetti, respectively).

After that, I started on my new trend: comic characters that wear suits. Essentially, because I sweat a lot less in a suit than in a rubber Batman cowl. Suit costumes are also pretty easy to make.

First up was the Crimson Avenger.

Dorothy decided to play the part of a 1940s girl to match me.

After that, it was the Phantom Stranger.

Here's the enigmatic figure of the night eating a snack at Wendy's.

Shopping for greeting cards...

On a quest toward fatherhood...

And relaxing in a comfy Brookstone recliner...

Next up, was a rather careless Matthew Murdock (Daredevil). And no, my cane didn't glow, that's just a reflection off an actual retractable blind cane.

After that, I opted to shave my head and run for president as Lex Luthor.

And the year after, the villain trend continued with the original Red Hood.

Followed by Dick Tracy, complete with official badge and radio wristwatch, of course.

Last year, I was Tony Stark. I accessorized with my Stark Industries briefcase, a can of matching Tecate...

...and a Scotch on the rocks.

Check back after Halloween to see this year's costume. Here's a hint, my daughter Lilly is involved, against her will and my better judgment...

Giant killer...

2010-10-15T09:44:00.000-07:00

Coming in December to your local comic shop is the Batman 80-Page Giant 2010. An in it, is my latest Batman story, a 10-page yarn starring Calendar Man. If you're not familiar with the character (and who is, really?), well look no further. For the first time since his debut in the 1950s, Calendar Man's origin is finally hinted at in a tale pencilled by recent Kubert School phenom, Garry Brown. Here's the official solicit from the DC website:

Written by BRAD DESNOYER, MATT MANNING, MANDY MACMURRAY, JOHN STANISCI, PAUL TOBIN and PETER MIRIANI; Art by LEE FERGUSON, GARRY BROWN, MATT SOUTHWORTH, RYAN KELLEY and SZYMON KUDRANSKI; Cover by DUSTIN NGUYEN

Some of the most promising new talent in comics are corrupted by the most depraved villains in Gotham City in this all-new special featuring The Joker, the Riddler, Calendar Man, Scarecrow, and yes, even Humpty Dumpty! It's seven short stories, all in one giant issue! The joke's on you if you think you'll make it out of this alive!

Also, I want to say thanks to everyone who stopped by my signings and/or panel at the New York Comic Con. The advance release of DC Comics Year by Year: A Visual Chronicle was a smash success, and the good folks at DK Publishing sold out of all their copies. If you missed us at the show, the good news is that the book is officially released early next week. So head to your local book store (or to Amazon) and grab yourself a copy. It's a great month by month account of DC Comics from 1935 to the present day. I penned the 1980s and 1990s sections, and am looking forward to reading the rest of the book (written by Daniel Wallace, Michael McAvennie, Alex Irvine, and Alan Cowsill). The book is full of great illustrations, and the wrap around slipcase by Ryan Sook is not to be missed.

New York Comic Con...

2010-10-05T10:43:00.001-07:00

It's been a long wait, but it's finally here. This weekend, the New York Comic Con will once again be at the highly breakable Javits Center on the West end of 34th street in Manhattan. I'll be there again this year, and I have two signing and a panel discussion to prove it.

On Friday, October 8th, I'll be speaking in Room 1A24 at 3:15 p.m. in the DC Comics: 75th Anniversary Partners panel. I'll be joined by Paul Levitz, Bob Wayne, Daniel Wallace, Matthew Reinhart, Doogie Horner, and Peter Axelrod as we discuss the various 75th anniversary books and projects coming out from DC this year. I'll be talking about my new book DC Comics: Year by Year: A Visual Chronicle in particular. Click here for a bit more info on the panel.

On Saturday, I'll be signing the DC Year by Year Chronicle at the DK Publishing booth (#2415) from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m alongside my co-authors Daniel Wallace, Alex Irvine, Mike McAvennie, and Alan Cowsill.

And if you miss us then, stop by the DC Comics booth (#2243) on Sunday where we'll all be signing again from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.

The book will be debuting at the convention, so be sure to stop by and check it out. Just like the previous Marvel Chronicle from DK, it serves as a complete month by month history of the company, starting in the 1930s and ending this year. This time around, I wrote the 1980s and 1990s sections, and I'm quite happy with the results. As and added bonus, the book is also fairly heavy, so it makes a handy weapon to fend off any obnoxious con attendees.

Hope to see you all at the show. Every last one of you. Don't think I'm not keeping track...

Back to press...

2010-09-03T11:24:00.000-07:00

DC Comics is now offering a second printing of the popular Batman # 700 anniversary issue. The issue features a re-colored David Finch cover neatly sandwiching a great Grant Morrison story, a gallery pin-up section, and my Batcave feature drawn by Freddie Williams II. So if you missed this momentous issue the first time around, be sure to head to your local comic store next week and pick up a copy or twelve.

More fun than air conditioning...

2010-08-03T09:17:00.000-07:00

Time to put on your reading shoes, dust off your paypal account, and head to the nearest world wide web. I've got a few new projects available to order (or pre-order) now. Your life will never be the same again.

First up is an adaptation in comic book form of the classic (albeit morbid) tale of Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves. It's from Graphic Revolve, and is hitting book stores as we speak, or you can buy it from Amazon in either a hardcover or softcover edition. The comic is illustrated by Mexican cartoonist Ricardo Osnaya and is a great survivor's guide if you or a loved one ever finds yourself stranded in a magical cavern with piles of stolen valuables.

Next, from Stone Arch Books, my latest Batman's kids' book is now available on Amazon. Also in hardcover and softcover, the book is entitled Batman: Scarecrow, Doctor of Fear, and features art by Erik Doescher and Mike DeCarlo, as well as colors by Lee Loughridge.

And finally, here's a sneak peak of the cover to the sequel to our popular Marvel Chronicle from DK Publishing, DC Comics Year by Year: A Visual Chronicle. Just like the Marvel volume, this large hardcover coffee table tome features a month by month history of DC from its humble beginnings 75 years ago, to the present. This time around, I wrote the 1980s and 1990s sections, so be sure to at least rip those parts out while you're in the bookstore. If you cough loudly while you're doing it, no one will be the wiser. Or, you know, you can also just preorder the thing here. It's coming out this fall, so you have plenty of time to save up.

Either way, take a look at Ryan Sook's amazing cover.

Lots more news on the way, including three new secret projects from DC Comics, as well as two new Marvel gigs. I'll be sharing the details as soon as they'll let me, so keep checking back here or follow me on twitter for more cryptic clues.

My best project yet...

2010-06-23T21:33:00.001-07:00

Introducing Lillian Dorothy Manning. Weighing in at an even 8 pounds and sporting more hair than her father. Born June 23rd at 4:54 p.m. Both mother and baby are doing great.

How to spend your summer vacation...

2010-06-15T09:20:00.000-07:00

Here's a sneak peak of two of my new projects coming to stores in August. The first is a graphic novel adaptation of the classic tale of Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves. Part of the new Graphic Revolve line, it'll be hitting bookstores on August 1st, according to the good folks at Amazon. (In fact, why not just click here and preorder it. Better safe than sorry, after all...) Available in both soft and hardcover, the graphic novel features art by Ricardo Osnaya.
The second cover art is for my third DC Comics children's book from Stone Arch book. Pitting the Caped Crusader against the master of terror, Batman: Scarecrow, the Doctor of Fear is available to order through the classroom or direct from Amazon as well. Click here to preorder your copy. It features art by the team that brought my Superman book to life, Erik Doescher and Mike DeCarlo, with colors by Lee Loughridge.

Inside the Batcave...

2010-06-04T11:48:00.000-07:00

If you're a Batman fan, or a fan of good comics in general, then odds are, you're already looking forward to Batman # 700, writer Grant Morrison's triumphant return to Gotham City. Well be prepared to get even more excited. Or at the very last, be ready to shrug indifferently. Because besides featuring several different tales of everyone's favorite Caped Crusader drawn by some of the top talents in the industry, this issue also features a detailed Batcave schematic drawn by Freddie E. Williams II and written by yours truly. So if that's not a reason to go out and buy the issue, Mike Mignola's variant version, and the Mignola sketch variant variant edition, then, well, think up another one. Just don't miss it.

Here's a little bit more info from DC's website:

Written by GRANT MORRISON • Art by TONY DANIEL, ANDY KUBERT, FRANK QUITELY, DAVID FINCH & RICHARD FRIEND • Cover by DAVID FINCH • 1:25 "DC 75th Anniversary" variant cover by MIKE MIGNOLA 1:75 "DC 75th Anniversary" variant black and white cover by MIKE MIGNOLA

Grant Morrison returns to BATMAN with this oversized special! And he's brought an all-star roster of artists along with him including Andy Kubert, Tony Daniel and Frank Quitely to celebrate this milestone 700th issue featuring stories spotlighting each of the Batmen from different eras – Bruce Wayne, Dick Grayson and Damian Wayne. You won't want to miss this blockbuster story that paves the way for the return of Bruce Wayne and sports mind-boggling covers by superstars David Finch (BRIGHTEST DAY) and Mike Mignola (BATMAN: GOTHAM BY GASLIGHT, Hellboy)!

Batman # 700 arrives at comic stores nationwide next Wednesday (June 9th).

Amazon. Hero. Icon...

2010-04-29T11:04:00.000-07:00

I'm a little behind on my blog postings these days as I'm busy working on a secret mini-series and a few other projects I can't really spill the beans about yet. In fact, I just realized today that I had neglected to write about Wonder Woman: Amazon. Hero. Icon., a new hardcover book I worked on for Universe Publishing.

A book mostly devoted to showcasing Wonder Woman's diverse cover art over the years, Amazon. Hero. Icon. is written primarily by Bob Greenberger and is designed by my old college buddy Chris McDonnell. For one reason or another, the publisher wasn't satisfied with the book's first chapter, and so that's where I came in. DC contacted me, maybe due to my fascination with the eccentric life of Wonder Woman creator William Moultan Marston, and I whipped up a new version of the first chapter for them telling Marston's life story.

So if you're a Wonder Woman fan, be sure to check out this book. It's great addition to anyone's Amazon collection.

And keep checking back here. I'll have more hints about my upcoming projects in the near future...

Adventures in the DC Universe...

2010-04-05T13:32:00.000-07:00

Recently I was informed by a fan (okay, it was my mom - but she's still a fan...) that my two new young reader books are available in books stores now. The first, Superman: Little Green Men, is a tale of the Man of Steel desperately trying to find a moment's peace. The second, Batman: Two-Face's Double Take, is a story of Harvey Dent's obsession with duality and his old friend Bruce Wayne. Superman is illustrated by Erik Doescher, Mike DeCarlo and Lee Loughridge, while my old Arm-Fall-Off Boy partner in crime, Shawn McManus, drew the Two-Face yarn, again with the able coloring of Mr. Loughridge. Both tales are set firmly in Bruce Timm's animated universe, and each book is available in hardcover or softcover, depending on your preference and/or wallet constrictions. Visit my Amazon page to learn more.

Speaking of Arm-Fall-Off Boy, The Legion Omnicon blog just did a nice piece on his history, in honor of April Fool's Day. You can check that out here.

And while I'm at it, why not pre-order my next Stone Arch Batman book, Batman: Scarecrow, The Doctor of Fear on Amazon. Keep checking back, as I should have the cover art to display soon.

Whole lotta' Iron Man...

2010-02-16T09:17:00.000-08:00

From the people that brought you the long-winded title Wolverine: Inside the World of the Living Weapon, comes our newest mouthful: Iron Man: The Ultimate Guide to the Armored Super Hero. Containing everything you ever wanted to know about Tony Stark and his rather elaborate history, my new Iron Man guide is now out in bookstores nationwide. It's served up in the same new format as Wolverine was, and contains hundreds of great visual layouts by the design staff across the pond at DK Publishing. So if you're looking for the most in-depth Iron Man book on the market, click here to check it out on amazon.com. Or just click on the link anyway to humor me. Come on, I need the ego boost.

A few quick updates...

2010-01-29T15:37:00.000-08:00

I have a new interview up about The Batman Vault on the Legions of Gotham website. Click here to check it out. And here's a nice recent review if you just can't get enough vaultiness in your system.

In other news, I've just completed the first draft of my sections of the upcoming DC Chronicle for DK Publishing, so I'll keep you posted as things develop on that front. I'm starting now on two secret (for the moment at least) projects, one small and one much larger in scale. Expect lots of news in the near future.

And now for something less vague. I've just joined twitter, so stop by and follow me so I'm not just talking to myself. I promise that if I don't have anything funny to say, I'll just retweet from The Onion. Here's the link to my page.

Thanks for reading, and keep checking back as I hope to have a few new sneak peaks up on this site soon...

New projects...

2009-12-23T09:11:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted lately as I've been hard at work on the DC Chronicle, a new hardcover month-by-month history of DC Comics. A sort of sequel to the Marvel Chronicle out last holiday season, the DC Chronicle is again written by a slew of comic book historians, and encompasses DC's entire 75-year history. This time around, I'm penning the 1980s and 1990s, essentially reliving my childhood and college in the process. I think this book is shaping up nicely, and I'll be sure to post further details as I find them out.

In other news, two of my new children's books, Batman: Two-Face's Double Take and Superman: Little Green Men will be released early in the New Year. Both books are from Stone Arch Press and are set to be out in January. Click on their titles to order them on amazon, in either hardcover or softcover versions. Here's a sneak peak of the cover to the Superman book:

Meanwhile, The Batman Vault continues to garner a lot of great press. It made two "best of" holiday gift lists including Time Out New York and io9. If you're still on the fence, check out this youtube ad, kindly sent my way by my co-author, Bob Greenberger.

Keep checking back for news on a few other upcoming projects as well, including a comic mini-series that I've been working on for over a year now. But in the meantime, check out a personal little project my wife and I have been developing (well, more her than me...), due around June 22nd...

King Con...

2009-11-02T16:18:00.000-08:00

Got any plans for the weekend besides hours of Halloween candy-based regret? Well if not, head to Brooklyn for the first ever King Con, a comic convention right smack in the middle of Park Slope. I'll be signing autographs at my table on the convention floor all day Saturday and Sunday, so stop by and say hello. I'll have plenty of my work for sale, from single issues of The Batman Strikes, to the Marvel Chronicle hardcover, and I'll be happy to sign anything you bring in from home. Comics, a lamp, your uncle. I'm really not picky. Also, there will be a free giveaway comic, because frankly, I need the closet space.

And if you come by the convention on Saturday, I'll be speaking in a panel about my latest book, The Batman Vault, alongside my co-author Bob Greenberger, legendary Batman writer/editor Denny O'Neil, and longtime DC editor Paul Kupperberg. The panel starts at 2, so be sure to get there early and grab your seat before all the groupies arrive.

Click on this link for all the convention details, and I hope to see you at the show.

Just in from Gotham...

2009-09-24T14:40:00.000-07:00

In bookstores now is my newest Batman project, The Batman Vault. Co-written by Bob Greenberger, the book is a complete history of the character, telling you everything you ever wanted to know about the Caped Crusader, but were rightfully afraid to ask. It features great pull-out reproductions of hard to find items and plenty of insider info not found anywhere else.

But that's not the only Bat-news. To promote the book, I'll be appearing at Brooklyn's first King Con, a new convention taking place at the Brooklyn Lyceum in Park Slope. The convention is on November 7th-8th, and I'll have a table for the weekend on the main convention floor. And to top it all off, I'll be discussing all things Batman in a panel on Saturday alongside my coconspirator Bob Greenberger and legendary Batman writer/editor Denny O'Neil himself. It should be a really great event, so stop by their website to find out more info: www.kingconbrooklyn.com

And since there seems to be a theme to this entry, here's a sneak peak of the finished cover for my first Batman reader for Stone Arch Books. The cover is by Shawn McManus, and colored by Lee Loughridge. I'll have more info on its release date soon.

And the new DK Guide is...

2009-08-24T13:37:00.000-07:00

Now up on Amazon.com is my current project for DK Publishing, Iron Man: The Ultimate Guide to the Armored Super Hero. The book will be similar in format to our recent Wolverine: Inside the World of the Living Weapon hardcover, and will feature way too much information on Tony Stark and his various comic book exploits.

As of now, the book is scheduled for a February release, and is available for pre-order here. I'll post more teasers and info on this site as we get closer to the release date.

Batman Vault Sneak Peak...

2009-07-16T10:01:00.000-07:00

Here's a little look inside my new book project, The Batman Vault, courtesy of Diamond's website. If you like what you see, head over to your local comic store to order your copy.

Batman Vault link of Greatness

Hope to see you all at Comic Con.

San Diego or bust...

2009-07-13T16:08:00.000-07:00

This year my wife and I are journeying to San Diego for my first trip to the West Coast. We'll be attending the Comic Con and then driving all the way up to Seattle, seeing the sights and visiting friends along the way.

So if you plan on heading to Comic Con this year as well, make sure to stop by the DK Publishing Booth (# 2913G) on Saturday, July 25th from 2 to 3 pm. I'll be signing my books Wolverine: Inside the World of the Living Weapon, Marvel Chronicle, Hulk: The Incredible Guide, Spider-Man: The Ultimate Guide, Marvel Heroes: Greatest Battles, and any comics you feel like bringing in from home. Come drop by, chat comics, or just witness the look of convention fear on my unsuspecting wife's face. Either way, it should be worth the trip.

Sneak peak...

2009-06-15T11:13:00.001-07:00

Over the last few months, I've been working on a few young readers' books for Stone Arch Publishing starring Batman and Superman. The stories are fun little self-contained jaunts set firmly in the Bruce Timm created universe of Batman: The Animated Series and his other subsequent shows.

First up will be a Two-Face tale full of great illustrations by my former Arm-Fall-Off-Boy collaborator, Shawn McManus. The book is called Two-Face's Double Take. Here's a look at Shawn's pencil sketch for cover.

Keep checking back here for release dates and more info on my other books in this series.

Taking a bite...

2009-06-10T22:24:00.000-07:00

If you're around the New York area this weekend, I'll be appearing at the Big Apple Comic Convention's Summer Sizzler this Saturday from 10:30 am to 7 pm. It's a free show if you head over to their website and register. So stop by my table to get some signed books, chat comics, or to just bug me about not having anything witty to say in this post.

MoCCA 2009...

2009-06-03T16:19:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I'll be stopping by the MoCCA festival in Manhattan for their annual comic convention. I don't have a table this year, but I'll be wandering around the show, as well as the David Mazzucchelli gallery opening on Saturday night. It's a great event, so be sure to check it out if you're in the New York City area. Here's the info: http://moccany.org/

And if you're coming into town for the show, you might as well stop by Rocketship Comics in Brookyln on Friday night to check out the Syncopated release party that my old college buddy Brendan Burford put together. Rumor has it, they'll have some sort of fancy beer there, so even if you don't like good comics, there'll be something for you to do.

MoCCA show...

2009-05-12T10:58:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who came out for my signing at MoCCA with Chris Claremont. It was a packed house, and I'm glad so many of you picked up a copy of the book.

Here are a couple pictures from the event for those of you who couldn't be there:

And for more info on the show, check out these sites:

Marvel.com

Publisher's Weekly

Graphic Novel Reporter

Bookrastination

And here're a couple of new reviews for the book that started all the hubbub, Wolverine: Inside the World of the Living Weapon:

The Washington Times

Comic Mix

Next up is The Batman Vault, so preorder your copy now to be one step ahead of the game. You'll get bragging rights on your block for years. Guaranteed. Sort of.

A couple of interviews...

2009-04-28T12:48:00.000-07:00

As the Wolverine movie draws near and people everywhere toss away their bootlegs in favor of overpriced theatre tickets, the good people over at the AMC website put together a little piece to mark the occasion. I shared a couple of Wolverine tidbits with them, so be sure to check it out by clicking this link.

There's also a new interview of me up today at Biff Bam Pop sharing more factoids about Logan and his ever-complicated world.

And to get an even better Wolverine fix, be sure to join me tomorrow night as Chris Claremont and I talk at MoCCA. Hope to see you all there.

Hey New Yorkers...

2009-04-18T18:30:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, April 29th, I'll be speaking at the Museum of Comic and Cartoon Art here in New York City about my new book, Wolverine: Inside the World of the Living Weapon. I'll be speaking alongside comic writing icon (and author of the book's introduction) Chris Claremont about Wolverine's history, the process of summarizing Logan's rather extensive past, and all things Marvel. The event starts with a talk at 7 pm, followed by a Q and A and a book signing.

Here's the official press release about the event:

Event Description:
Discussion and Book Signing

In anticipation of the May 1 theatrical release of X-Men Origins: Wolverine, join us as Chris Claremont, best known for his work on Marvel Comics X-Men series, leads a discussion with Matthew K. Manning, author of DK Publishing’s newly-released Wolverine: Inside the World of the Living Weapon, a comprehensive guide to the savage world of the X-Mens most popular Super Hero.

First appearing in a cameo role in the pages of an Incredible Hulk comic in October 1974, Wolverine has evolved into a headlining superstar. The clawed mutant-fighting machine with a heart as strong as his adamantium-enhanced skeleton is not only the most popular member of the X-Men but, to many, the finest hero in the Marvel Universe.

Chris Claremont has encountered more success than most writers ever dream of. Although best known for his work on the X-Men series, he has written other seminal characters as Batman and Superman; originated several creator-owned series such as The Black Dragon and Marada, the She-Wolf (artist: John Bolton), and the contemporary superhero series, Sovereign Seven; is published throughout the world in many different languages; authored nine novels including the science fiction series First Flight, Grounded!, and Sundowner, and the contemporary dark fantasy Dragon Moon; and even had his first video game premiere in Spring 2006.

Matthew K. Manning has written numerous comics for a variety of publishers, including Marvel and DC. His work has appeared in the pages of The Batman Strikes!, Legion of Super-Heroes in the 31st Century, Justice League Adventures, Spider-Man Unlimited, Looney Tunes, and Marvel Romance Redux. For DK, he has penned the updated versions of Spider-Man: The Ultimate Guide and Hulk: The Incredible Guide, the childrens title Marvel Heroes: Greatest Battles, and contributed to the Marvel Chronicle.

For the rest of the gory details, check out Mocca's website by clicking here.

Hope to see you all there.

Wolverine: Inside the World of the Living Weapon...

2009-03-10T14:31:00.000-07:00

Recently I discovered that my aformentioned book Wolverine: The Ultimate Guide has been retitled as part of DK Publishing's new approach to their Ultimate line of books. So on March 16th, be sure to ask your comic book store or good old fashioned regular bookstore to save you a copy of Wolverine: Inside the World of the Living Weapon. It features a really in-depth look into the history and powers of the world's most famous mutant, and plenty of art from your favorite Wolverine comics.

But don't take my word for it. Or LeVar Burton's, for that matter. ICv2 has a few sample pages up on their site that you can check out here.

And here's what DK is saying about it on their own page:

One of Marvel Comics’ favorite characters, Wolverine is a mutant who possesses animal-like instincts, super-enhanced strength, and the ability to heal from any wound. While he was part of the Weapon X program his skeletal structure was bonded with the near-destructible alloy adamantium, and now very little can stop him.

DK’s publishing program celebrates Wolverine’s classic comic book roots, with gorgeous imagery, classic story lines, and a nod to the franchise that Wolverine has become.

Super-fans can learn about Wolverine’s comic book debut (a cameo in a Hulk comic in 1974), and the development of his character, his story, the X-Men, and more in our comprehensive and spectacularly illustrated Ultimate Guide.

The Batman Vault...

2009-02-10T14:03:00.000-08:00

So now that we're listed on Amazon (kinda'), I guess it's okay for me to shed a little light on my newest Bat-related project, the new Running Press hardcover, The Batman Vault.

This new massive binder of a book is chock full of never-before-seen Batman art and replicas spanning the entire history of the Caped Crusader. Robert Greenberger and I co-wrote the book, chronicling Batman's long life, with a bit of insight into some of the rare art and merchandise that the good folks at DC have dug out of their library.

The book is set to hit stores this November, so I'll keep you posted on the details as we get closer to the release date. In the meantime, why not browse through the DC Vault to whet your appetite.

On a side note, thanks to everyone who stopped by my signings for the Marvel Chronicle at the DK booth at the New York Comic Con this past weekend. We had a great time, and I hope you all enjoy the book.

New York Comic Con...

2009-01-27T20:46:00.000-08:00

For those of you heading to the New York Comic Convention this February from the 6th to the 8th, be sure to stop by my signings at the DK Booth (Booth 1802) on Saturday and Sunday.

At the show I'll be signing the Marvel Chronicle and my other DK works, like the updated editions of The Amazing Spider-Man: The Ultimate Guide and Hulk: The Incredible Guide, and the young reader Marvel Heroes: Greatest Battles. (I'll also sign anything you bring from home. Comics I've written, friends you don't like so much, whatever...)

Here's the schedule:

Saturday, February 7th from 2 to 3 pm. I'll be signing with two of the other co-authors of the Marvel Chronicle, Tom DeFalco and Peter Sanderson.

Sunday, February 8th from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. The whole Marvel Chronicle gang will be signing together. Tom DeFalco, Peter Sanderson, Tom Brevoort and myself.

So stop by the DK booth and say hello. Maybe I'll give away a few secrets from my upcoming Wolverine: The Ultimate Guide. Odds are, I will. I cave in quickly when cornered.

P.S. Here's another review of the book that's sparked all the hubbub: Bookgasm

Pop Interview...

2009-01-15T12:21:00.000-08:00

Several months ago, I did an interview for Jeffery Klaehn over on his blog. He posted it last month, and with a few pressing deadlines, I forgot to post a link to it.

So here's the interview in all its Batmanish glory:

http://jefferyklaehn.blogspot.com/2008/12/matthew-k-manning-interview.html

Happy Holidays...

2008-12-19T17:22:00.000-08:00

Still have a pesky comic fan on your shopping list? Well check out Real Simple Magazine's article on the 50 best gifts for Christmas. This year Marvel Chronicle made their list, so brave the snow and slush and head out to your local comic store and pick one up. And if you can't find it there, Barnes and Noble has a nice free-standing display with plenty of volumes just waiting to be ransacked by you.

Here's what some critics are saying about the book:

Comics Worth Reading
Comic Mix's Bob Greenberger

Hope you all have a good holiday season. Check back soon for a couple of announcements of my new projects for 2009. Two involve a certain Gotham resident, while the other deals with a famous flying denizen of a brighter Metropolis...

Chronicling the Chronicle...

2008-11-02T14:55:00.000-08:00

If you've been wondering what I've been doing with my time these last few months, look no further than your local book or comic store for the recently released Marvel Chronicle hardcover from DK Publishing. In this 352 page monster, you'll find a year by year, month by month history of the Marvel Comics and its characters. I was given the opportunity to write the 90s and 2000s sections, alongside co-authors Tom Brevoort, Tom DeFalco and Peter Sanderson who reported on the other decades of Marvel's long history. The book also features an introduction from Stan Lee, an afterword by Editor-in-Chief Joe Quesada, and an impressive slipcase cover to complete the package.

For more info, check out DK's website here.

But I finished that book months ago. So what have I been working on lately? I'm glad you asked, self. As of this week, I finished the text for my next massive project, Wolverine: The Ultimate Guide. Although it won't be released until around the same time as Wolverine's first solo film this spring, I think all you casual and diehard Logan lovers out there will be truly excited about this book. It breaks away from the traditional style of the DK Ulitmate Guides and tries a new and more visually dynamic format, but without losing any of the valuable info. I actually think this might be one of DK's most comprehensive guides to date, so be sure to check it out when it's released this spring.

For a sneak peak at its cover and some preliminary info, click here.

And hey, DC fans, rest assured I've also got something in store for you in the coming months. Keep checking back here for more updates, as I'll be posting about it soon.

The Wedding Comic...

2008-10-07T21:21:00.000-07:00

After finally catching up on work since my return from Hawaii with the newly crowed Mrs. Manning, it's time to finally fulfill that promise of free comics. So without further ado here's...

For our wedding favor, Dorothy and I decided to create a comic book that would tell the story of our relationship. I wrote the script and drew thumbnails for the artists to follow for the sake of continuity, and then Dorothy and I each drew our own introductory pages. I then asked nine of my talented and generous friends if they would pitch in and draw a page for us. I asked my old friend (and former roommate) Cory Petit to letter the book, and my older friend (and never roommate) Rob Donnelly to color the comic, and both did a bang up job, their work helping to blend the comic's various art styles together. Faithful DC employee and groomsman Mike Zagari then chipped in further to help me lay out the book for the publisher (and again to convert these files to jpegs for publishing here on the web). The whole thing was topped off by a painted cover by my now wife, which we had also used for our wedding invitation.

Anyway, I hope you enjoy our story or, as the kids call it...

The Creators:

Cover Painting and Art for Page 2: Dorothy Manning
Art for Page 1: Matt Loux
Art for Page 3: Yours Truly
Art for Page 4 and the Title Page: Chad Coleman
Art for Page 5: Erin Gallagher
Art for Page 6 (and layout assist): Mike Zagari
Art for Page 7: Tom Valente
Art for Page 8: Jon Roscetti
Art for Page 9 and Coloring: Rob Donnelly
Art for Page 10: Matt Roscetti
Art for Page 11: Farel Dalrymple
Letterer (and painter in his own right): Cory Petit

Thanks again to everyone involved in the making of the comic, and for those of you who made the long trip out to Michigan for the wedding.

I'll be reading mine in Hawaii...

2008-08-22T14:41:00.000-07:00

On the week of September 3rd, be sure to stop by your local comic store and take a gander at The Batman Strikes # 49, my final issue for the series. Ending at issue # 50 due to Kids WB canceling its tie-in show, this issue should nonetheless be a really fun read, and I'm very happy that we managed to slot it in before the bell. With great art from series regulars Christopher Jones and Terry Beatty, the issue features Robin in a solo adventure. Click here for more info from DC.

Oh, and after you've bought the comic, call my brother. It's his birthday, and he'll be lonely.

For those still on the proverbial purchasing fence, here are a couple of people who liked my last comic:

Legion Abstract

Comixtreme Forum

Legion World Forum

In other news, I'm off to Michigan to marry my longtime girlfriend Dorothy DiComo. The wedding is to take place at my parents' lakeside home, and from there, we're off to Hawaii for a honeymoon complete with research reading for two new upcoming book projects that I'll post about soon. If the marriage lasts after a honeymoon that chock full of comic books, look forward to an interesting post in the coming weeks with the one thing everyone loves even more than weddings: free comics.

Unless Dorothy takes half of my things by then.

Hold on to your hat, and your limbs...

2008-07-08T07:49:00.000-07:00

Be sure to head to your local comic shop this week to pick up issue # 16 of The Legion of Super-Heroes in the 31st Century. The issue features the untold origin of your new favorite character Arm-Fall-Off-Boy. Yes, his only super power is that his arm falls off. Find out what happens when he tries to apply for a position in the Legion.

Here's a hint. It doesn't go well.

Click here to check out the official solicit on DC's site.

The Robin Strikes…

2008-06-16T14:15:00.000-07:00

Here’s Andie Tong’s cover to my final issue of The Batman Strikes! for DC’s Johnny DC line. The series is set to come to a close with issue # 50, but we managed to sneak this little Robin solo tale in before the buzzer at # 49. The issue is slated for a September release and features art by series regulars Christopher Jones and Terry Beatty.

Get more information here from DC’s website.

Hulk out...

2008-06-11T11:21:00.000-07:00

This week, be sure to check out the new updated edition of DK Publishing’s Hulk: The Incredible Guide. It features an updated version of Tom DeFalco’s text from the book’s original publication, along with sixteen new pages by me that will fill you in on the latest happenings in the life of Dr. Banner and co. Find out everything you ever wanted to know about Planet Hulk, World War Hulk, and even the mysterious new Red Hulk, in this $24.99 oversized hardcover, now available in comic and book stores nationwide.

Get your nerd on…

2008-06-02T11:47:00.000-07:00

For those of you in the New York City area, stop by the Theater under St. Mark’s (94 St. Mark’s Place, between 1st Avenue and Avenue A) for the AMC Batman night, at the Sci Fi Screening Room. The show is this Wednesday, June 4th and starts at 7 pm. It’s seven bucks a person, but well worth it for a chance to chat comics with me, not to mention a chance to see Batman as a Hobbit…

Here’s a bit more info from the source:

BATMAN NIGHT!
at the Theater Under St. Mark's
94 St. Mark's Place, btw 1st Ave and Avenue A
Wednesday, June 4 @ 7:00 PM $7

The Sci Fi Screening Room presents an evening of rare Batman videos, from the 1943 serial to a Tolkien-esque episode of Challenge of the Superfriends. Plus fan films, screen tests, trivia, prizes, Batman haikus, and a visit from Batman Strikes writer Matthew K. Manning.

Hosted by Kevin Maher (AMC's Sci-Fi Department)
And Nick Nadel (Huffington Post, AMCTV.com columnist)

The Sci Fi Screening Room has been a Voice Choice, Time Out NY Best Bet, and featured in the New York Times.

After-party at the Hanger Bar (217 E. Third Street)

Putting Arm-Fall-Off-Boy together...

2008-05-08T09:58:00.001-07:00

As promised, here’s a brief look inside the process of Alex Serra, the artist behind the cover for my upcoming issue of Legion of Super-Heroes in the 31st Century.

Here are his original ideas, including an homage cover to Adventure 247 that he was kind enough to draw up from my suggestion (choice B):

After the powers that be approved the homage cover, Alex then took a different shot at the composition, making it a bit more visually exciting.

But decided on his original sketch, which he then worked out into the pencil stage.

And then into the final inked version.

Be sure to check out Legion of Super-Heroes in the 31st Century # 16 this July to see what lurks beneath the cover. I’ve seen some of Shawn McManus’s interior pencils, and I promise they won’t disappoint.

Check your appendages at the door...

2008-04-15T09:24:00.000-07:00

No, the solicit isn’t wrong this time. DC is really letting me dedicate an entire issue of The Legion of Super-Heroes in the 31st Century solely to the origin of Arm-Fall-Off-Boy, a character famous (but not really) for his embarrassingly pathetic super power. And to top it off, Shawn McManus (Sandman: A Game of You, Aquaman) will be providing the artwork, topped with a great homage cover by series regular Alex Serra. The issue is # 16, and will be released nationwide this coming July.

Stay tuned for some behind the scenes images from the comic, and in the meantime, click here to see more info about the issue on DC’s website.

And for those of you attending the New York Comic Con this weekend, be sure to stop by my table in artists' alley. It’s booth # J 29-30, listed under my tablemate’s name, Wes Craig. Swing by, say hello, get stuff signed, or just laugh at me and point. It’s your call.

Signings and such...

2008-04-07T09:19:00.000-07:00

This Saturday I’ll be in midtown Manhattan, participating in Kid’s Day at Jim Hanley’s Universe, one of New York’s finest comic stores. I’ll be signing from four to six in the afternoon, along with George O’Connor and Nick Bertozzi. There’ll be plenty of other comic book creators also on hand as early as ten in the morning, along with live readings, drawings and even a free cookie or two.

Check out Hanley’s site to see who else will be there.

Also, for those of you attending the New York Comic Convention on April 18-21st at the Jacob Javits Center, make sure you stop by my table and say hello. I’ll be sharing space with Wildstorm artist Wes Craig in artist’s alley at booth # J29-30. Hope to see you all there.

Now that's service for you...

2008-04-01T17:49:00.000-07:00

The good men and women at DC Comics have heard your frantic pleas and have answered your desperate calls. Looney Tunes # 161 is being released earlier than expected and will be gracing a comic store near you this week. I know, I know. It all seems too good to be true. You thought you'd have to wait all the way until the end of the month to read about Bugs' dubious foray into the world of real estate. Well, the future is here. Or here, rather.

And don't say I never did anything for you.

In other news, here are a few quick reviews about my newest Legion of Super-Heroes in the 31st Century issue, in case you're one of those word of mouth types:

Comics Bulletin

Superman Homepage

Legion Abstract

Comics in the Classroom

And finally, for you New Yorkers, I'll be doing a few signings as we approach the New York Comic Con. Keep checking back here for the details and such. Thanks, guys.

Call of the Wild...

2008-03-10T18:08:00.000-07:00

Be sure to drop by your local comic shop this week and pick up The Legion of Super-Heroes in the 31st Century # 12. The issue features my second Legion script, with art by Ethan Beavers, and a solo story focusing on Timber Wolf. And tell your storeowner that Matt sent you. When he asks you to be more specific, refuse any further details, and just give him the old wink and nod routine. When he continues to ask you what you’re talking about, just stand still and smile widely at him until he feels so awkward that he slowly backs away from you and retreats into the backroom.

Repeat as necessary or until someone calls the cops.

Don't believe the hype...

2008-01-31T16:32:00.000-08:00

Despite what the solicit on the DC Comics website would have you believe, issue # 12 of Legion of Super-Heroes in the 31st Century is actually my second issue for that title, featuring a story starring Timber Wolf. While the rest of his team is off celebrating National Legion Day, Timber Wolf uncovers an assassination plot that just might be targeting the very heroes the people of New Metropolis have gathered to honor. The issue goes on sale March 12th, and features art by the talented Ethan Beavers.

Many thanks to editor Jeanine Schaefer for supplying the sneak peak at issue twelve's cover.

Real estate brokers and other heartless pirates...

2008-01-28T09:00:00.000-08:00

Be sure to reserve your copy of Looney Tunes # 161 at your local comic store this week. The issue will be released on April 28th, and features a story I wrote where Elmer Fudd tries his hand at the real estate business, much to the dismay of a certain famous gray hare. It also features work by Sam Agro, Robbie Busch, Walter Carzon, Pablo Zamboni, Ruben Torreiro and Horacio Ottolini, with a cover by Scott Gross.

Click here to see the solicit on the DC website.

Fighting is good for you...

2008-01-24T08:46:00.000-08:00

Last Wednesday, comic stores nationwide saw the release of my new book from DK Publishing, Marvel Heroes Greatest Battles. This week, this 48-page book for young readers (available in both hard and soft cover) is now available at books stores all over the country. Now all of you who maintain unhealthy fears of rooms crowded with action figures and back issues can shamelessly walk into your local corporate chain store, and read the book for free while you accidentally spill drops of coffee on it in the cafe. Oh, and be sure to get one of those brownies while you’re there. Those things are awesome.

In other news, here are a couple of nice reviews for my first issue of Legion of Super-Heroes in the 31st Century:

Comics Bulletin
The Legion Abstract blog

Thanks to everyone who took the time out to comment. And while you're wasting time on the internet, why not check out LegionWorld.net? It's a great site for diehard and casual Legion fans alike to share their opinions on the latest comics and Legion-related news. After all, what are the odds that your boss will come to your cubicle today? I say, take the risk.

Corrupting yet another generation...

2008-01-20T19:32:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who came out to the Gallery 194 signing in Michigan. We had a great turnout, and it was really refreshing to see so many young faces in the crowd. Hey, maybe this industry won't die before I do.

If you missed the Q and A and the signing, don't worry your pretty little head over it. You can at least check out the comic art hanging on the walls until the exhibit closes on February 8th. And for those of you who did catch the show, tell your friends, and your friends' friends to go take a look for themselves. Hopefully your phone conversations with your friends' friends won't be too awkward. I mean, your friends seem like nice people, so I'm sure their friends aren't too bad. Just put a little effort into it.

Head to www.gallery194.com for more info.

Why I Like Saturn...

2008-01-16T08:21:00.000-08:00

Be sure to visit your local comic store this week for my first issue of Legion of Super-Heroes in the 31st Century. Issue # 10 features art by series regular, Alex Serra, and inks by Jeff Albrecht. Read all about the true story of five evil strangers as they are forced to live in a house (with Saturn Girl and Lightning Lad) and have their lives taped (sort of). Find out what happens when they stop being polite, and start getting real.

Or something like that.

Hey Michiganers...

2008-01-05T15:51:00.001-08:00

For those of you around the Detroit-ish area, be sure to check out a new exhibit of comic book art at Gallery 194 in my parents' home town of Lapeer. The show will feature art from local cartoonists, as well as from a few of my friends in the comic world. Omega the Unknown's Farel Dalrymple, JSA Classified and Legion of Super-Heroes' Steve Uy, Sidescrollers' Matt Loux, and The Mighty Skullboy Army's Jacob Chabot will all have artwork proudly hung on the gallery's walls. And about halfway through the exhibit (on the 19th), I'll be flying to the show to give a talk about writing comics and to do a signing. There'll be other workshops there and such, so don't miss your chance to help spread a little comic culture to the Midwest.

Sweet learning action...

2007-12-17T07:49:00.000-08:00

Here's the cover for my new DK project coming out next month. It's a children's reader titled Marvel Heroes: Greatest Battles and covers most of the major fights of Marveldom, from the Richards' wedding all the way to the Civil War. Be sure to preorder it if you're a Marvel fan, or hoping to ruin some young, impressionable child's life by making him one.

See more info here.

And also, check out the Comics in the Classroom website for a quick review of my newest Batman Strikes issue. Thanks to John Norris for his continued support.

The Riddler Strikes...

2007-12-11T07:46:00.000-08:00

Be sure to head to your local comic store this week for The Batman Strikes! # 40. Here's what DC Comics has to say about it:

Written by Matthew K. Manning; Art by Adam Archer; Cover by Christopher Jones and Terry Beatty

The Riddler's on the rampage, trying to prove himself as the cleverest person in all of Gotham City! Can Batman outwit the Master of Riddles before Gotham burns?

Hey, DC Comics asked you a question. I'd answer him if I were you. Or, you know, just go buy the issue.

Happy Halloween...

2007-10-31T16:22:00.000-07:00

The Red Hood will take all your candy. Sorry, that's just how he rolls.

House Arrest...

2007-10-16T08:20:00.000-07:00

The solicits are up on the DC Comics website for my first issue of Legion of Super-Heroes in the 31st Century. This issue (# 10) stars Saturn Girl as she and Lightning Lad find themselves trapped alone inside Legion Headquarters when the Fatal Five attack. The comic features interiors and a cover drawn by Matthew Stewart and will be released on January 16th.

Oh, and ignore that synopsis on the DC site. The curse of the mis-solicitation is alive and well, and it's got my name tattooed on its neck.

Somebody tell MySpace not to sue...

2007-10-09T08:42:00.000-07:00

Stop by ComicSpace (MySpace for comic fans, pros and those scary guys that wear Vampirella costumes to conventions) and check out my new page there. I'll be making an effort to check it regularly, so feel free to share your thoughts with me about any of my past or future projects, or just say hello. I'm not too picky.

www.comicspace.com/matthewkmanning

Riddle me this...

2007-09-19T07:37:00.000-07:00

What comic features the Riddler setting off explosions all over Gotham City to once again torment Batman and Robin?

(Um, don't look at the picture. That's cheating.)

(Or look. Whatever. I'm not your mom. I can't tell you what to do. But if I was, I'd tell you that comics build strong bones, and you should buy more of them. I'd also constantly remind you of how long I was in labor with you and insist that you clear the table, because honestly, you've been slacking at that lately.)

Any who, I'm talking about issue # 40 of The Batman Strikes! Released this coming December 12th, my newest issue of this series features art by Adam Archer with a cover my Christopher Jones and Terry Beatty.

Check out the solicit here on the DC Comics website for more info, and please, try to make it home by curfew. My blood pressure is high enough the way it is.

It's like the future, or 1984 at least...

2007-09-06T08:17:00.000-07:00

Recently I wrote a not-too-preachy-so-don’t-worry-about-it-it-probably-won’t-offend-you comic for the ACLU’s first venture into the world of comic books. The short story was illustrated by Mark Badger, and was published alongside another story which was written by Jimmy Palmiotti with art by Rick Burchett. The whole neat little package, titled Defenders of Freedom, was topped off with a Cliff Chiang cover and an Art Spiegelman back cover.

The comic itself was released yesterday in a guerilla marketing attempt of sorts to a few select cities, but it’s also now available online here at the ACLU’s website.

Also here’s an article on the topic if you think I’m lying. But keep in mind, you only get two challenges per set.

Seeing Red...

2007-08-01T12:31:00.000-07:00

Be sure to stop by your local comic store this week to check out my first short story for Looney Tunes. The issue is # 153, and features art by Walter Carzon and Ruben Torreiro.

Without exaggeration, I can honestly say that this is the best $2.25 you'll ever spend in your entire life. Remember that bus fare you paid to visit your dying great aunt? This is better. Remember that lottery ticket you purchased that secured you and your family financial freedom for life? Better. Remember that load of laundry you did that inadvertently caused you to meet your soul mate sitting near the next machine over at the laundromat? Better than that, too.

It's truly one of the few modern examples of concentrated genius you will ever get lucky enough to experience.

Oh, and it stars Pepe Le Pew, too.

So that's cool.

Week 53?

2007-07-12T14:25:00.000-07:00

During the few months that I wrote the Daily Planet articles on DC Comics’ 52 website, I was commissioned to write an article that tied in to the real-life death of the race horse Barbaro. The article was to serve as a follow-up to the original Bizzarbaro article penned by Bill Rosemann. The headline never saw the light of day, so I thought I’d post it here if for no other reason but the fact that I think it’s funny.

Funeral For a Friend
By Ajax McGilicutty, Daily Planet Contributing Sports Reporter

METROPOLIS, FEBRUARY 4 –

“It am greatest thing that never happened.” Those were the somber words spoken yesterday by jockey Cromano Clooney about her champion racehorse Bizzarbaro who passed away early this week due to problems with his hip. They were words paraphrased “out of the horse’s mouth” so to speak, as Bizzarbaro was not only known the world over for his speed and penchant to run backwards, but also for his ability to speak English, or something loosely resembling it.

Clooney was one of a dozen speakers who appeared at the horse’s funeral, a tribute ceremony honoring the animal’s achievements in the world of competitive racing. Not glossed over among the topics of discussion was Bizzarbaro’s record-breaking time at the Kentucky Derby this year of 1:37.19, a time crushing the record of 1:59 2/5, Secretariat’s 1973 showing.

Said Clooney, “We were always a long shot. But Bizzarbaro would just laugh in the face of adversity. He’d say, ‘Me am not terrified. Me love racing.’ But then again, he said everything backwards so, come to think of it, he probably was really miserable. Huh. Yeah, that horse hated me.”

Clooney’s use of the phrase “long shot” was an understatement at best. Measuring in at 6’4 and weighing an ounce or two short of 300 pounds, Clooney was easily the heaviest jockey in racing history. “Hey, people said the Hindenburg wouldn’t fly,” said Clooney. “It just goes to show you what you can accomplish if you set your mind to it. And if you have a super-powered horse. Yeah, the powers definitely help out.”

Also in attendance at the funeral was Senator Francis DuFonte, a longtime supporter of Bizzarbaro’s and a man infamous for proposing a bill to conduct all Senate hearings at a nearby horse track with periodic intermissions for betting and purchasing hot pretzels. Said DuFonte, “It’s just nice to know that in these hard times of war and economic strife, Americans can come together, united over what really matters in life: a once relatively fast, dead horse.”

Bizzarbaro is survived by his wife Gladys and their two kids Eduardo and Bitsy. Oh, um, actually Bitsy was just shot due to a bum leg.

Bitsy is survived by her mother Gladys and brother Eduardo. For now.

Well, at least he liked my story...

2007-07-09T13:52:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine just pointed me to a review of the last issue of Meathaus at www.sequart.org. It wasn't the most glowing review Meathaus has ever received, but there were a few nice comments, including praise for my contribution to the anthology, a story illustrated by Rob Donnelly:

"The futuristic story by Matthew Manning & Robert Donnelly is perhaps the highlight of HEAD GAMES, a beautifully weird, futuristic murder mystery that's also a clever comment on consumer culture."

This issue marks what was probably my last work for Meathaus, so I guess we went out on a high note.

Well, according to that one guy. But that guy is totally in my will.

Love Stinks...

2007-06-28T07:59:00.000-07:00

Although the solicit paints a different picture, I've recently discovered that my first Looney Tunes story will be featured in issue # 153. The story features Pepe Le Pew with a new love interest: a "husky American female." Available August 1st.

52 Pick Up...

2007-05-29T14:17:00.000-07:00

Now that DC Comics' 52 maxi-series has ended, my weekly Daily Planet articles for the 52 website have also come to close. Since I started writing the articles midway through the series, I thought I'd catalog all the articles I authored in one entry, to make it easier for the folks who missed them the first time around and still want to stay on my good side. I can't blame them. There are lollypops involved.

So here they are, in nonrandom order:

Infinity Inc. Foils Daring Halloween Heist
The Turkey Man Speaks
Madness at the Metropolis Mall
Drunken Magic Show Frightens Tourists
American Titan?
Dear Santa...
The Eve of Destruction - Part One
The Eve of Destruction - Part Two
Man on the Street
Teenager Arrested for Theft, Secedes from Country
Crazy Weather Confounds Citizens
Tourist Troubles in Kahndaq
The Fall of an Empire?
Your Valentine Horoscope
Fireside Reading
Remembering the Dibnys
Moments of Silence
In Pursuit of Death
Luthor in Lock Up
Ask Prof. Expert!
Man on the Street 2
Where are they now?
Doom Comes to Pisa
City Honors Fallen Hero
Interoffice Emails

So those are all the ones I wrote. Feel free to browse the others as well, but honestly, shouldn't you be getting back to work by now?

Final 52...

2007-05-04T09:11:00.000-07:00

So DC Comics went and created this giant moth, who promptly ate the universe. Don't believe me? Well I don't blame you. But Click here anyway for my final article for the 52 website.

And try to hold back the waterworks, huh? You're only making a fool of yourself.

And you thought Spider-Man week was fun...

2007-04-28T10:31:00.002-07:00

For those interested in attending the funeral services of Paper Mache Guy, please click here.

For those just interested in mocking his life and tragic death by reading about him on DC Comics' 52 website, please click on the same link.

That is all. Thank you for your time.

Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man Interview...

2007-04-28T10:20:00.000-07:00

Here's a clip from DK Publishing's latest newsletter. It's an interview of me coducted by Daneil Brooks for the new Spider-Man: The Ultimate Guide. I guarantee that it will not only change your life, but that of your children's children as well.

The interview:

As Marvel's greatest icon and signature character, Spider-Man has connected with generations of fans as the everyday hero with everyday problems. Not only does Peter Parker have to constantly save the world, he also has to pay the bills, get home in time for dinner, and make time for Mary Jane. Your Spider-Sense tingling? We've got the cure: DK's updated and revised The Amazing Spider-Man: The Ultimate Guide , a fully-illustrated and exhaustive history of one of the great heroes in modern fiction.

In this issue of Pop Cult, we'll be talking with Matthew K. Manning, comics scribe and writer of the new content for The Amazing Spider-Man: The Ultimate Guide, and will test your Spidey-knowledge with a Pop Quiz. 'Nuff said!

The Pop Cult Q&A With...The Amazing Spider-Man: The Ultimate Guide (Updated Edition) new-content writer Matthew K. Manning

Updating Tom DeFalco's bestselling Spider-Man: The Ultimate Guide would be no easy task. So much had happened to Spidey since the book's original release (he joined the New Avengers, publicly unmasked himself, etc.) and DK needed someone who knew it all. Enter Matthew K. Manning, an exceptional comic writer and poet, with stints on Spider-Man Unlimited, Romance Redux, The Batman Strikes, and Justice League Adventures. Brooklynite Manning recently spoke with Pop Cult about how he got the job, how he did it, which are his favorite Spider-Man comics, and more.

The Book

Pop Cult: How'd you get involved with updating Spider-Man: The Ultimate Guide?

Matthew K. Manning: A friend of mine who works at Marvel referred me. He'd read my past work, knew that I'd read everything related to Peter Parker since the Ultimate Guide 's first release, and figured I'd be a good fit for the project. When he got in touch with me, I jumped at the opportunity to finally get some use out of my countless hours of Spidey reading.

Pop Cult: Can you talk about what you added to the book, and how you decided what to add and what to leave out?

Matthew K. Manning: I basically contributed 16 all-new pages, with a sentence or two added here and there to a few past entries as well. It was quite a challenge to cram six years of Spider-Man comics into that small of a space, but I like to think I fared pretty well. There were quite a few major changes in Peter's life that needed to be documented. Spider-Man went through everything from being reunited with his wife, to dying and being resurrected, to getting an entirely different costume altogether. He also joined the Avengers for the first time, met a horde of new villains, and developed new superpowers. It was a pretty busy couple of years at the Parker household.

Pop Cult: What was your process for gathering the new information and then writing?

Matthew K. Manning: The gathering was the easy part. I'd read most of the material beforehand just because I love the character. Summarizing all of that information was the difficult part. But since I was working on Tom DeFalco's book, I modeled my writing off of his entries, and tried to match his style as closely as possible.

Pop Cult: How'd you find the experience? More challenging than you expected? Easier?

Matthew K. Manning: It was just more time consuming than I expected. There was a lot of rereading and fact checking involved. More than I thought I had to do. But since many of my friends are either comic fans or comic professionals, I know how people like us would react if any of my facts were wrong. So I took extra care to make the guide as accurate as I could.

Essential Spidey

Pop Cult: What's your favorite Spider-Man storyline and why?

Matthew K. Manning: If I had to boil it down to just one story, I'd probably say "Kraven's Last Hunt." It was a really moody tale and was full of unexpected turns. If I could choose an entire series, it would be Ultimate Spider-Man. Brian Michael Bendis has a great grasp on writing Spidey's personality, and has really captured the feel of the classic Stan Lee/Steve Ditko comics where Peter Parker's personal life is just as interesting as his life in costume.

I blame Mario...

2007-04-20T13:37:00.000-07:00

It seems Black Adam has something against the Italians. Now I don’t know if there’s something about the culture or the local weather, or if maybe he just had a particularly bad ice treat at his local pizzeria, but for some reason, he’s got it out bad for our European friends.

Click here to read about his temper tantrum in my latest article for DC Comics' 52 website.

And you might wanna’ cancel those travel plans while you’re at it.

DC True Hollywood Story...

2007-04-13T10:19:00.000-07:00

It's the nagging thought in the back of your brain. It keeps you up at night, tossing and turning. You can't eat, you can't relax. You break into a cold sweat when you least expect it. You just have to know, and you won't rest until you do.

What has Turkey Man been up to lately?

Click here to find out.

And then take a nap for god's sake. Your starting to worry your mom.

Missing a Diamond...

2007-04-06T13:48:00.000-07:00

It’s about time the citizen of Metropolis had their voices heard.

Well, again, I mean. Click here to check out my latest article on DC's 52 website. Any similarities to actors from 90's Saturday morning dramadies are purely coincidental, and anyway, you should be ashamed to notice it in the first place.

Need advice? Ask an Expert...

2007-03-30T08:01:00.000-07:00

This week I took a crack at writing my first Professor Expert column over at DC Comics' 52 website. Take a look here and maybe you'll learn something about yourself. Odds are against it, but you might as well give it a go.

Maybe now you can get that GED, Lex...

2007-03-23T13:52:00.000-07:00

It's three in the morning on a Friday night and your husband says he has to leave to go "save a third world country" with Wonder Woman. You know Clark, that excuse doesn't really work when you come home smelling like Greek perfume with your "S" on all crooked.

Read about someone Lois hates even more than a seven-foot-tall Amazon in a tiara here in my latest article on DC's 52 website. Then someone talk some sense into Ms. Lane already. It's called neglect, Lois, and you don't have to take it.

Read your comics or no supper...

2007-03-22T10:11:00.000-07:00

John Norris over at Comics in the Classroom wrote up a nice little review of The Batman Strikes! # 31. Check out his site and then buy some unsuspecting child an issue of something. But make sure it's a kid you don't know. That way the whole thing is extra creepy.

Black Adam strikes again...

2007-03-16T11:17:00.000-07:00

Time for another serious article this week on DC Comics' 52 website. What'll that wacky Black Adam do next?

Probably kill many, many people.

Click here to read all about it.

Trust me, I wrote it...

2007-03-15T09:25:00.001-07:00

While at the comic store yesterday, I was surprised to come across my new hardcover from DK Publishing, the revised version of Spider-Man: The Ultimate Guide. Although Tom DeFalco wrote the text for the majority of the book, I supplied the updated text for this new version, explaining the history of the last six years of Spidey's life.

So if you're in a comic and/or books store anytime soon, be sure to check it out. If you bring a magnifying glass you might even be able to read my credit on the title page...

What the Batman does when he's unhappy with his working conditions...

2007-03-14T13:23:00.000-07:00

My newest issue of The Batman Strikes! (# 31) is out now in comic stores nationwide. Here's the solicit info from the DC Comics website:

Written by Matt Manning; Art by Christopher Jones and Terry Beatty; Cover by Dave McCaig
Batman has only one night to solve a baffling kidnapping in Gotham. The problem? The police think he's the kidnapper! The catch? They're right!

Johnny DC 32pg. Color $2.25 US

At least they made a toy of her first...

2007-03-12T12:38:00.000-07:00

So here's my latest Daily Planet article for the 52 website. It's a bit more serious this week since it deals with the death of Isis, a major character starring in this maxi-series. But come on, if you can't mourn for short-lived fictional characters, then who can you mourn for?

Nobody. That's who.

R.I.P. Ralph Dibny...

2007-03-02T08:33:00.000-08:00

My newest article for the 52 series is up here on the DC website. They let me run a little long with this one, but I'm pretty happy with it. It's my farewell tribute to the Elongated Man, a minor DC hero from the sixties. And no, he's not called Elastic Man. You made that up yourself.

If you're looking for fake books to not buy...

2007-02-22T13:46:00.000-08:00

...then look no further than my latest article on the 52 website. Then write nasty letters to Amazon for not carrying these titles.

New York Comic Con...

2007-02-21T13:47:00.000-08:00

I'll be at the New York City Comic Con this weekend at the Javits Center in Manhattan, so stop by and say hello. I won't have a booth or table or anything, but I'll be lurking around the DC booth since they were kind enough to give me a pass.

I'll also be lurking around that one guy that airbrushes people's pets onto T-shirts. Just because that guy rules more than the Cider House.

Your Valentine Horoscope...

2007-02-16T09:00:00.000-08:00

Will that handsome guy at the bagel shop ask you out? Will your big presentation go well at work? Will that homeless guy on Lexington Avenue punch you in the face for looking at his cart too long?

Find the answers to your future by reading my new article on the DC Comics website. It's also jam-packed with hints about the rest of the 52 mini series for those of you who like those funny book thingies.

Lex Luthor, that ol' rascal...

2007-02-08T13:23:00.000-08:00

My new article is up on the DC Comics website. It's a good day to be Lois Lane.

And as always, the fake poll.

My chia pet never worked either...

2007-02-02T14:14:00.000-08:00

If you’ve ever been worried about customer service problems taking place in fictional countries, have I got an article for you.

Click here for my new 52-related Daily Planet column.

New Fiddy Two...

2007-01-26T08:31:00.000-08:00

Because my friend Rob Donnelly critiqued my use of links in a past entry, this is a very special post, supercharged with hyperlinks.

Oh, and go see my new article for the 52 website.

Another kind of love...

2007-01-24T12:53:00.000-08:00

The fabled Marvel Romance Redux trade paperback was released today, featuring a short story that I wrote entitled "The Language of Love". It's in comic and book stores everywhere, so go out and buy it, or at the very least, read it in the store when the clerk's not looking. Or read it right there in front of him. What's he going to do? That guy's a wuss and he knows it.

New headline...

2007-01-19T13:33:00.000-08:00

Here's a link to my newest fictional article on the 52 website. Any resemblance to people I know and/or am currently borrowing a DVD from is completely coincidental and should be ignored. Unless you think it's funny. Then you should send me a fruit basket.

http://www.dccomics.com/sites/52/?action=headlines&i=7268

New things of stuff…

2007-01-16T12:13:00.000-08:00

According to the Previews website, the trade paperback for Marvel Romance Redux will be in stores as of the 24th of January. It features (or is saddled with, you decide) a short story I wrote entitled “The Language of Love”. For those of you who don't know, Marvel Romance Redux comics are basically old romance comics from the sixties and seventies rewritten with new dialog, to make them funny this time around.

My newest issue of The Batman Strikes (issue # 31) will be in stores this March and features my first collaboration with regular series artist Christopher Jones. The issue looks great, and I hope you all enjoy it. Look for another issue featuring the Riddler around October or thereabouts.

In more Johnny DC news, I’ve just finished two Looney Tunes eight-page scripts for DC. One features Bugs Bunny and Elmer and the other is a Pepe le Pew short. I’ll keep you posted with the issue they’ll appear in and with other details as I find them out.

As far as Marvel Comics go, I’ve recently finished work on writing the updated text for DK Publishing’s Spider-Man: The Ultimate Guide hardcover book. I wrote the revised section of the book, basically detailing everything that’s happened to Spidey in the last six years or so.

And for those of you who missed our show at Rocketship Comics in Brooklyn, Meathaus 8: Headgames has indeed finally been released. It features an eleven-page story that I wrote and Rob Donnelly drew, among other contributions from the likes of superstars James Jean, Tomer Hanuka, and Farel Dalrymple.

52...

2007-01-16T12:01:00.000-08:00

This year DC Comics has been publishing a comic entitled 52 in an experimental weekly form. The comic takes place in “real time”, or as close as a comic can get to real time, and spans a year not chronicled in the monthly comics. Since around November, I’ve been writing the weekly article on the 52 website (www.52thecomic.com) under the names of several fictional Daily Planet employees. The articles tie loosely into the comics, but can be enjoyed by anyone who has good taste and/or spare time to kill at work.

Every Thursday afternoon, a new article goes up, so I’ll try to keep on top of this and update this blog accordingly.

Here are the links to the articles I’ve written so far:

http://www.dccomics.com/sites/52/?action=headlines&i=6755
http://www.dccomics.com/sites/52/?action=headlines&i=6909
http://www.dccomics.com/sites/52/?action=headlines&i=6919
http://www.dccomics.com/sites/52/?action=headlines&i=7067
http://www.dccomics.com/sites/52/?action=headlines&i=7081
http://www.dccomics.com/sites/52/?action=headlines&i=7098
http://www.dccomics.com/sites/52/?action=headlines&i=7102
http://www.dccomics.com/sites/52/?action=headlines&i=7106
http://www.dccomics.com/sites/52/?action=headlines&i=7261

I also write the weekly fake polls which go up every Friday afternoon. Here’s the latest:

http://www.dccomics.com/sites/52/?action=about

So I have a blog...

2007-01-16T11:57:00.000-08:00

Due to technical difficulties with my website (based solely on my infinite lack of knowledge), I’ve decided to cave in to peer pressure from the rest of the world and start a blog to keep people updated on my new projects and such. We’ll see how long it lasts.

But if you like old things, check out my website, last updated in May. Excitement!

www.matthewkmanning.com