DC Comics continued its run at the top of the comics sales charts in January for the sixth straight month as Geoff Johns and Jim Lee's Justice League #5 was the month's best-selling comic book and the publisher took the top ten spots on the comics sales chart for the month, according to information provided by Diamond Comic Distributors, the world's largest distributor of comics, graphic novels, and pop culture merchandise.

January was a split month in terms of Market Share, with Marvel Comics edging out DC Entertainment in Retail Dollars 35.17% to 33.55%, while in Unit Share DCE edged Marvel 39.86% to 37.51%.

Sales in January declined slightly from December, with Comics falling by 7% and Graphic Novels falling by 4.5%. January's sales improved over the year previous, with Comics sales up by 32% and Graphic Novels up by 18%.

The untold tale of Batman's first encounter with the Mad Hatter is revealed in Batman: Through the Looking Glass, an original hardcover by Bruce Jones and Sam Kieth from DC Comics, January's best-selling graphic novel.

AMC's top-rated zombie series The Walking Dead, based on Image Comics and Robert Kirkman's best-selling comic book series, gave rise to McFarlane Toys' The Walking Dead TV Series 1 Action Figures, January's best-selling Toy product to specialty retailers.

The dynastic struggles of the land of Westeros, from George R.R. Martin's best-selling fantasy novels, were recreated by Fantasy Flight Publishing for the A Game of Thrones Board Game (Second Edition), January's best-selling Games product to specialty retailers.

TOP 10 COMICS FOR JANUARY 2012

LIES, HOAXES & SCAMS OF SCIENCE EXPOSED BY GRAPHIC NOVELIST

Darryl Cunningham, author of the bestselling Psychiatric Tales, turns his questioning mind and sharp intelligence to decoding some of the most fiercely debated issues of popular science in his new graphic book Science Tales: Lies, Hoaxes & Scams.

This graphic milestone of investigative reporting debunks media myths and exposes the lies of scientific naysayers and conspiracy theorists. Thoroughly researched and sourced, Cunningham’s clear narrative, graphic lines and photographic illustration explain complicated and controversial issues with deceptive ease. Topics include:

• climate change • electro-convulsive therapy
• the moon landing • homeopathy • evolution
• the MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) vaccine
• chiropractic therapy • science denialism.

Cunningham’s tales have been guided by feedback from his online audience: each tale has been published on his popular blog Darryl Cunningham investigates… ‘There’s a huge level of interest from a noncomics readership. The evolution tale leads the field with over 250,000 hits a month,’ Cunningham says.

‘Darryl Cunningham continues his comics crusade to untangle lies, myths, and misconceptions with a new book defending the science that’s grown from Darwin’s theory of natural selection. As usual, he does so with wit, charm, and quiet persistence.’ - Scott McCloud

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
DARRYL CUNINGHAM went to Leeds College of Art and is a prolific cartoonist, sculptor and photographer. He has also worked as a health care assistant on an acute psychiatric ward which informed and inspired Psychiatric Tales. He lives in Yorkshire. His blog Darryl Cunningham investigate… can be found here.

Al Feldstein

At EC Comics, Al Feldstein created, wrote, illustrated and edited a popular line of titles which are now collectors' items. These included horror, such as Tales from the Crypt (which was adapted for TV by HBO), sci-fi, and suspense.

In 1955, he became editor of MAD Magazine, one of EC's titles. He took the magazine's circulation from 375,000 to a high of almost 3 million by gathering a staff of talented artist and writers: supervising every phase of operation, editing and re-writing every word, designing layouts, and creating the format that led to MAD's success, including christening its trademark Alfred E. Neuman.

Paul Coker Jr.

After a successful stint as an illustrator for Hallmark, Paul Coker Jr. moved to New York City and began contributing to MAD, Esquire, Playboy, and other magazines.

Coker's first appearance in MAD was 1961. He has since gone on to illustrate over 400 articles for the magazine. His drawings encompass a wide range of characters, expression, and forms. And although they may appear simple, they reflect considerable sophistication and talent. Coker's proudest accomplishments for MAD have been "Horrifying Cliches" and the MAD Pet Book.

Al Jaffee

In 1955, Al Jaffee received his first assignment for MAD. Since then Jaffee has become MAD's resident artist for elaborate gimmicks and gadgets, including the popular MAD inside back cover fold-ins and the feature "Snappy Answers to Stupid Questions." Jaffee is a true artist who's led an amazing life. He remains a regular in the magazine after 55 years and is its longest running contributor.

Sergio Aragones

Soon after he moved from Mexico to the United States in 1962, the "World's Fastest Cartoonist" started contributing to MAD with his special brand of non-verbal gags, which often appeared in the margins of the magazine. He quickly became one of MAD's featured artists. He also created several books and co-created the humorous magazine Plop for DC comics. During the early 1980s he created Groo the Wanderer with Mark Evanier.

Also coming are Brian Azzarello, Jeremy Bastian, Joe Benitez, Simon Bisley, Mark Brooks, Stephanie Buscema, Greg Capullo, Jim Cheung, Cliff Chiang, Becky Cloonan, Amanda Conner, Katie Cook, Geof Darrow, Renae De Liz, Steve Epting, Jamal Igle, Rebekah Isaacs, Phil Jimenez, Alex Maleev, Ed McGuinness, Phil Noto, Jimmy Palmiotti, David Petersen, Tom Raney, Ivan Reis, Paolo Rivera, Tim Sale, Bill Sienkiewicz, Jill Thompson, Ben Templesmith, Joe Quinones, Bernie Wrightson, Skottie Young, Chrissie Zullo, and many more!


The Boston Comic Con is a 100% independently run comic book show committed to bringing the biggest and best comic creators to New England. Run by fans for fans, Boston Comic Con is not affiliated with any other convention tour or corporate interests.  Hosting over 40,000 square feet of vendors selling comic books, toys, posters, trading cards, and other pop culture memorabilia, this is a destination event for geeks of any stripe. The convention will be held Saturday April 21st and Sunday April 22nd at the Hynes Convention Center, 900 Boylston Street, Boston, MA from 10am to 5pm each day. For more information please go to our website at www.bostoncomiccon.com and follow us on Twitter (@BostonComicCon) and Facebook!

After a three-year absence, Xeric Grant winner and internationally exhibited artist Joshua Hagler returns to comics with the release The Boy Who Made Silence trade paperback.  The first of two expected volumes, the trade collects the first six issues originally released by London-based publisher AAM/Markosia in 2008.

Rural boy, Nestor Gudfred, mysteriously loses his hearing after nearly drowning in a river.  As Nestor adjusts to a silent world, other mysteries arise, including an ability to create an impermanent silence around him, casting anyone within its reach into the pasts and memories of others.  With an eye and ear for both the familiar and the fantastic, Hagler imagines the intersecting lives of a small town through a surrealist lens.  An ensemble cast of characters include Peter’n’Charlie, the mysterious upside-down cat-headed visitor, Pastor Buddy, Nestor’s mother who seems to run a strange kind of brothel, and, at the center of it all, Esmé, the young girl who saved his life.

After a three-year absence, Xeric Grant winner and internationally exhibited artist Joshua Hagler returns to comics with the release The Boy Who Made Silence trade paperback.  The first of two expected volumes, the trade collects the first six issues originally released by London-based publisher AAM/Markosia in 2008.

The fully painted 160-page edition will include the original six chapters along with never-before-seen artwork by Hagler and a special forward by renowned comic book creator David Mack.

Although single issues remained in relative obscurity, the miniseries was regarded with significant critical acclaim, noted on various Best-Of lists including best miniseries of 2008 by Comic Book Resources.

“Joshua Hagler is one of the most talented artists to come along in a very long time. For anyone who wants to see the new and exciting creators advancing the medium, The Boy Who Made Silence is going to be required reading.”—Broken Frontier

Hagler, who, like Nestor, grew up surrounded by cornfields in the rural midwest, began the first pages of the series ten years ago while still an undergraduate in illustration, basing the character on his late brother.  Over the past few years, Hagler’s career has focused mainly on contemporary art that deals with issues of religion and belief, where he has crossed over into painting, sculpture, and animation, while exhibiting in galleries and museums throughout North America and Europe.  Recent solo exhibitions have occurred at Carlo V Castle in Lecce, Italy, 101/Exhibit in Miami, and Frey Norris Contemporary and Modern in San Francisco.  Recent projects include “The Evangelists” a four-channel animated short featuring, among others, the voice and physical likeness of comics veteran Sam Kieth with whom Hagler worked on the miniseries My Inner Bimbo published by Oni Press in 2009.  “The Evangelists” will be on view as part of the artist’s solo exhibition The Imagined Chase at Frey Norris from March 1 through April 28, 2012.

-The Boy Who Made Silence release Date: April 1st 2012

-Websites: http://www.markosia.com/wordpress/titles/the-boy-who-made-silence/ http://theboywhomadesilence.blogspot.com/

Opening with a keynote address from Image Comics Publisher Eric Stephenson on Friday night that will include some exclusive announcements, the programming at the upcoming Image Expo on February 24-26 in Oakland, California features some of comics’ most creative personalities discussing the industry’s hottest topics, as well as talking about their own work.   The programming ranges from large event panels, like those with Saga creators Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples and The Walking Dead superstar Robert Kirkman, to small, intimate workshops with the Image Comics founders that will require advance registration to attend. Panels on topics such as women in comics, writing and art, and comics on TV will offer cogent conversation; and workshops on retailing, combating censorship, writing, and design will engage with attendees’ creativity and passion for comics. And, of course, there will be an Image Comics 20th Anniversary panel that will reunite seven of Image Comics’ founders to talk about the future of comics and reminisce about their decision to leave work-for-hire behind for independent creator ownership.   A full list of programming follows:

FRIDAY

6 p.m.
Keynote Address
Image Comics Publisher Eric Stephenson welcomes you to Image Expo, the comics convention that celebrates independent creativity. Expect some incisive commentary as only Stephenson can provide, plus some exclusive announcements.

SATURDAY

11 a.m
Womanthology: What Zeitgeist?
It's no secret that diversity in comics takes up a large part of the critical discussion of the medium online. How does gender relate to who is telling a story, what story they're choosing to tell, and how that story is perceived by an audience? Womanthology started as an online discussion, then quickly blossomed into a full-fledged idea. And from there it went on to be one of the most successful comics projects on Kickstarter. Join some of the contributors and editors to discuss the experience of making Womanthology, the role of women in comics, as well the need for more anthologies that feature new creators from a variety of backgrounds. Plus, jokes about giant crab attacks and superheroes wearing underwear.Panelists: Bonnie Butler, Mariah Huehner, Trina Robbins, Nicole Sixx, Fiona StaplesModerator: Blair Butler

12 p.m.
Stories and Scripts: Writing Comics
How do comics readers get their vision from their minds, to script, to the drawn page? What do you need to know about successful collaboration with artists? Some of comics’ best writers will talk about the challenges, triumphs, and idiosyncrasies of the comics creative process. Find out how comics like Fatale, Haunt, Chew, Morning Glories and Saga are conceived, written, and brought to the printed page from the writers who knew them from “PAGE ONE, PANEL ONE.”Panelists: Ed Brubaker, Steve Seagle, Joe Casey, Jonathan Hickman, John Layman, Nick Spencer, and Brian K. VaughanModerator: Richard Starkings

1 p.m
Twenty Years of Independence: The Image Comics 20th Anniversary Panel
Twenty years ago, a group of young artists left their work-for-hire jobs to forge their own path in comics. The result was Image Comics, a publisher dedicated to creators’ individual visions and a champion of creative ownership. The Image Comics partners and some of the original founders now come together to talk about that momentous meeting of minds and talent.Panelists: Robert Kirkman, Erik Larsen, Rob Liefeld, Todd McFarlane, Whilce Portacio, Marc Silvestri, and Jim ValentinoModerator: Eric Stephenson

2 p.m.
Saga: A Conversation with Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples
One of the most-anticipated new comics of 2012 is Saga, by best-selling writer Brian K. Vaughan (Y: The Last Man, Pride of Baghdad) and the amazing artist Fiona Staples (Northlanders, Jonah Hex). The sweep of the series is epic, but its emotions are intimate: a forbidden romance and a young family on the run, set against the backdrop of galactic war and racial hatred. Vaughan and Staples will talk about the conception of their gorgeous new comic, the creative process, and the overwhelming response that it has gotten from the media months before its first issue even hits stores.Panelists: Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples

3 p.m.
From Page to Screen: Comics on TV
How do producers go about translating comics for the small screen? How does working in comics compare to working in television? A panel of comics creators who have worked in television — whether as producers like Robert Kirkman (The Walking Dead) and Brian K. Vaughan (Lost), writers like Jay Faerber (Ringer), creators like Joe Casey (Ben 10) and Todd McFarlane (Spawn), or a little bit of everything like Blair Butler — will assemble to talk about the ins and outs of the industry.Panelists: Blair Butler, Joe Casey, Jay Faerber, Robert Kirkman, Todd McFarlane, and Brian K. Vaughan

4 p.m.
The Talking Dead Live
Is watching the recap talk show The Talking Dead after every episode of The Walking Dead part of your weekly viewing ritual? Then you won’t want to miss this panel! Chris Hardwick sits down with creator of The Walking Dead comic and executive producer of the hit AMC television series Robert Kirkman and actor Steven Yeun, who plays the fan-favorite character Glenn, for a lively conversation with The Talking Dead host Chris Hardwick about the latest shocking plot twists and what it’s like working on a show that has taken the world by storm.Panelists: Robert Kirkman and Steven YeunModerator: Chris Hardwick

5 p.m.
Spotlight on Chew
How does it feel for your comic book about an FDA agent who gathers clues by eating things — including people — to sell out, become a critical darling, win multiple awards, and appear on a New York Times bestseller list? Wait, how do you even come up with the idea for a comic about a cibopathic police-officer-turned-food-plant-inspector? You have questions about Chew. Creators Rob Guillory and John Layman just might be the right guys to answer them.Panelists: Rob Guillory and John Layman

6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
CAPTURED GHOSTS Screening
Warren Ellis sees the future. He is a comic book writer and cyberpunk philosopher living on the edge of tomorrow. He speaks to a cult audience of artists, journalists, scientists and fans who hail him as Internet Jesus. The new film Captured Ghosts features the most extensive interview Ellis has ever given, covering his life from his first memory watching the moon landing as a child, to his recent cross-media success with the film adaptation of Red. Along the way, Ellis' acerbic wit and core belief in humanity come across like never before. Complimenting Ellis' own words are interviews with his artistic collaborators, friends and admirers from across all media. Ellis' comic book collaborators also provide insight into Ellis' mind and creative workings. The film features numerous ambient interludes that spotlight Ellis' prose and writing from both his online columns and his comics.

SUNDAY

Instructions for Workshops
Admission to workshop panels is limited and attendees will require tickets for entry. Tickets for each panel may be picked up at the Image Comics booth no sooner than one hour before the workshop begins. Tickets are given out on a first-come, first-served basis and quantities are limited.

11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
MAN OF ACTION: Ben 10 and Explosive Creativity
Join two of animation’s most influential creators as they talk about their creation - Ben 10 - the story of a shape-shifting boy that burst on to Cartoon Network and now boasts hit television series, movies, and video games all over the world. What’s in store for MAN OF ACTION? Founding members Joe Casey & Steven T. Seagle talk Ben 10, Generator Rex, their upcoming TV shows and the Image Comics projects all rolling out of their action-filled creative development company!MAIN ROOMPanelists: Joe Casey and Steven Seagle

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Pro Tips with Todd McFarlane
In a world of comic book icons, comic superstar Todd McFarlane and his creation Spawn have clearly stood the test of time. Now McFarlane himself is inviting aspiring creators and fans to an extended workshop where he'll share behind-the-scenes tips and tricks about his creative process. Armed with a Wacom and more than 20 years of experience as one of the most successful pros in the business, McFarlane will show fans how to unleash their own creative beast within!
WORKSHOP ROOM A

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Putting Words in Their Mouths: The Art of Lettering
With over 150 fonts in his Comicraft library, chances are you’ve read a comic lettered with a font designed by Richard Starkings. Join him, Chew co-creator and letterer John Layman, and letterer J.G. Roshell for a workshop on creating professional, pleasing lettering.Panelists: Richard Starkings, John Layman and J.G. Roshell
WORKSHOP ROOM B

12 p.m. - 1 p.m.
Image Introduces...
Some of Image Comics’ most exciting new creators assemble to talk about their new work and life as independent comics creators. Join the creators of Moriarty, Li’l Depressed Boy, Hell Yeah!, Witch Doctor, Peter Panzerfaust, and Skullkickers for an eye-opening conversation about what it’s really like to work in comics.Panelists: Daniel Corey, Sina Grace, Joe Keatinge, Brandon Seifert, Kurtis Wiebe, Steven Struble, and Jim Zubkavich
MAIN ROOM

12 p.m. - 1 p.m.
Retailing the New Generation of Comics
With creator-owned hits like The Walking Dead, Morning Glories, and Chew grabbing their places on the sales charts and bringing in new readers to comic shops, the comics industry is excited about new titles and new ideas. What are the best retailers in comics doing to strengthen and support the creator-owned comic revolution while competing with faceless online outlets or big box bookstores? If you're a comic creator, retailer or fan, we'll help you understand how to stay on top of the next wave of hidden gems.PANELISTS: Brian Hibbs (Comix Experience), Steve (Third Eye), James Sime (Isotope), Todd Martinez (Image Comics), Jim Zub (Skullkickers)
WORKSHOP ROOM B

1 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Crossing the Line: Twenty Years of Shadowline
Join Jim Valentino and some Shadowline superstars for a rollicking question-and-answer session about Shadowline Comics past, present and future — plus dancing bears and a few surprises. Well, maybe not the bears (but we'll try).Panelists: Jim Valentino, Jimmie Robinson, Kurtis Wiebe, Tyler Jenkins, Joshua Williamson and Jade Dodge
MAIN ROOM

1 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Portfolio Reviews with Erik Larsen (a.k.a. Larsen Tears You a New One)
Image Comics partner and Savage Dragon creator Erik Larsen, will be imparting artistic wisdom via no-holds-barred portfolio reviews... for those that have the guts! A random drawing will be done during the workshop to determine which aspiring artists in attendance will be chosen to have the brutal light of truth shine upon their work. Larsen's ready to tell you what he really thinks! Can you handle it?
WORKSHOP ROOM A

1 p.m. - 2 p.m.
Design Workshop with Jonathan Hickman
The creator of The Nightly News, Pax Romana, A Red Mass for Mars, and the upcoming Secret and The Manhattan Projects will address the basics of making your work stand out: cover design, book design, design strategies, personal branding, and understanding what appeals to your market.
WORKSHOP ROOM B

2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Top Cow Panel
Top Cow: We Create... REBIRTH
2012 is the best time EVER to jump into the Top Cow Universe with Rebirth. Get the scoop on what's changed, what remains the same, and where things are headed for the rest of the year. Get behind-the-scenes information on the making of The Darkness II video game and be the first to hear about what exciting new projects Top Cow has lined up for their 20th anniversary! Plus special surprise guests and a free giveaway for every attendee. Moo!Panelists: Marc Silvestri, Matt Hawkins, Filip Sablik, and Joshua Hale Fialkov
MAIN ROOM

2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Jim Valentino Workshop
Shadowline publisher and Image co-founder Jim Valentino discusses what he's looking for in new projects, the founding of Image, and his work with the Hero Initiative. He will be doing portfolio reviews with a donation to the Hero Initiative ONLY. We will have a donation jar in the room.
WORKSHOP ROOM A

2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
CBLDF: The History (and Future) of Comics Censorship
Learn the shocking history of comics censorship and how even today comics and the people who make, sell and read them are still threatened.  CBLDF Executive Director Charles Brownstein tells the sordid tale, from the public book burnings and Senate hearings that led to the Comics Code Authority in the 1950s through the attacks on retailers in the 1980s, artists in the 1990s, and readers today that the CBLDF is working to combat!
WORKSHOP ROOM B

3 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Portfolio Reviews with Whilce Portacio
Whilce Portacio, creator of Wetworks and current artist on Incredible Hulk, will offer thoughtful tips and critiques for artists looking to break into the comic book industry. A random drawing will determine which lucky artists will get a personal review during the workshop. Bring your portfolio for an hour of a guidance from a master of the medium!
WORKSHOP ROOM A

3 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Writing Workshop with John Layman
The writer of the best-selling comic Chew (drawn by Rob Guillory) will talk about the fundamentals of crafting a story, drafting a script, and effectively communicating your intentions to artists.
WORKSHOP ROOM B

3 p.m. 4 p.m.
Take to the Sky: Skybound and the Next Generation of Independence
Things continue to look up for Skybound, Robert Kirkman's imprint at Image Comics. The premiere original Witch Doctor has sold out nationwide, the all-ages hit Super Dinosaur  continues to soar, and And Kirkman’s first-ever writer’s room-driven crime drama, Thief of Thieves, is a critical success… what’s next? Join Robert Kirkman as he discusses the future of the imprint with his stable of creators, including the creative teams behind Witch Doctor, Thief of Thieves, and more! Expect only AWESOMENESS.
Panlists: Robert Kirkman, Brandon Seifert, and Nick Spencer
MAIN ROOM

4 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Robert Kirkman Q&A
Kirkman, one of the most successful writers in comics today, best known for his work on The Walking Dead, Invincible, and Haunt, will offer fans some insight into the genius behind their favorite hit comics. After becoming an Image Comics partner in 2009, introducing the internationally renowned hit TV show based on the comic, The Walking Dead on AMC, and recently announcing an upcoming video game adaptation of the same series from TellTale Games, he has proven to be an unstoppable creative force.
MAIN ROOM

4 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Covers and an Eye for Talent: Marc Silvestri Workshop
Join Top Cow founder, Image partner, and top industry artist Marc Silvestri as he takes a look at two facets that have helped define his career. Silvestri is best known in the industry as a highly-sought cover artist and as an incredible mentor for young artists who have come through his studio system at Top Cow. In this intimate workshop, Marc will present his thoughts on what makes a dynamic, memorable cover using his own pieces as examples and also tell young, aspiring artists what he looks for in undiscovered talent. Find out what draws the eye of the man who discovered Michael Turner, David Finch, Joe Benitez, Francis Manapul, Mike Choi, and many, many others!
WORKSHOP ROOM A

4 p.m. - 5 p.m.
Creating Living Legend: Eric Shanower and Age of Bronze
Relive the Trojan War in Age of Bronze, Eric Shanower’s award-winning comics version of the world's greatest story. With words and pictures, Shanower will detail his creative process from initial idea, through research into literary sources and archaeological remains, to writing and drawing comics pages and coloring for the digital edition.
WORKSHOP ROOM B

According to Marvel, it will be an exciting new chapter in the history of Spider-Man:

The next big Spider-Man epic begins in Amazing Spider-Man #682, part one of Ends Of The Earth, by Dan Slott and Stefano Caselli! The Sinister Six, led by the vengeful Doctor Octopus, is back and they’re looking for revenge! Can Spider-Man & Earth’s Mightiest save the world before Doc Ock’s explosive endgame is revealed? Find in Amazing Spider-Man #682 hitting comic shops and the Marvel Comics app this March!
 
Join the conversation on Twitter with #SpiderMan.
 
AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #682 (JAN120658)
Written by DAN SLOTT
Pencils & Cover by STEFANO CASELLI
Colors by FRANK MARTIN JR.
FOC – 2/27/12, ON SALE – 3/21/12