 Free Comic Book Day 2018
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Celebrate Free Comic-Book Day 2018 - Fun
Times and Famous Faces at Golden Apple Comics! Written by: Abel S. Pinedo
On a seasonably warm Saturday in May, I made my way to my favorite comic book shop, Golden Apple Comics. In Hollywood it's known as “The Comic Shop to the Stars”. As I always do, I arose early and made my way to the store. I wanted to get there early so I could assure my place in line for a very special celebrity guest signing. Brian K. Vaughn, the writer of such titles as Saga, Paper Girls, and my favorite comic series of the last 20 years, Y: The Last Man, would be on hand signing copies of issue one of his new series, Barrier. In addition, he would be signing up to four other personal items. Well, I was more than a little surprised, although in retrospect I shouldn't have been, I arrived nearly 90 minutes prior to opening to find that many of my fellow comic readers had the same idea. The line was stretching around the block. I knew I'd be here awhile so I got my line pass and then got into a separate line for my free comic books. The way it worked was you were given a checklist of every free comic book available. There was a display on the walls in front of the shop of every title. All the free comics were set up on tables on the sidewalk. You picked four that you wanted and then you handed your list to a staff member who quickly bagged up your free issues. Very fast and efficient. I then proceeded inside the store.
Paul Eiding and Richard Fairgay There was also a great sale going on. Nearly everything was on sale for 20% off. I found quite a few things I wanted, made my purchase, and then headed to the back of the store where Paul Eiding and Richard Fairgay were signing issue number one of Blastosaurus. I guess the best way to summarize their new comic would be to call it a lighthearted version of Savage Dragon.
Michael McMillian Michael McMillian also on hand and was signing a preview copy of his new book, Adventure Van. I had the chance to read this back at Wondercon but I had missed the signing then. Now was my opportunity to take a moment and talk to McMillian about the new book. I don't want to give any spoilers about the book itself, which comes out in late July, but when I told him that I kind of got a 'Bill and Ted' vibe off the book, he smiled and said that that was the angle he was aiming for. I'm definitely going to be adding this to my list. It's a fun read and kind of out there. Finally it was time for the signing with Brian K. Vaughn. I made my way to the back of the line and waited my turn. Sales of Vaughn's works and various merchandise were brisk as fans scooped up whatever they could. I came prepared though; I had brought my first four issues of Y. I'm happy to report that when I finally met Brian K. Vaughn, he simply couldn't have been nicer. Despite the massive crowds, he took time to talk to everyone and pose for photos. We talked for a few minutes about Y and I got to ask him many questions about my favorite series. The fan turnout was so large he actually seemed a bit humbled by the crowd.
Brian K. Vaughn I did one more spin through the bargain bins and found a great deal on another graphic novel I'd been looking for. With that, arms weighed down by comics, I said my goodbyes to some friends and made my way out past the crowds that never seemed to let up. There's a multitude of reasons why I come to Golden Apple. First and foremost is the knowledgeable staff. Aside from that, you never know just who may drop by. Samuel L. Jackson is a regular customer, and he's only one of the many famous faces who frequent this store. Overall it was another wonderful day at our favorite store in Hollywood. So thank you Golden Apple for another successful Free Comic Book Day.
Free Comic-Book Day Loot! About the Author: Abel S. Pinedo has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. He's also an annual visitor to such conventions as WonderCon, San Diego Comic Con, Wizard World and More. When he's not touring the convention circuit he can usually be found at his keyboard telling the World about his adventures.
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