Astronaut Elementary – Lessons 5-6-7: Dave Roman
Astronaut Elementary is going to be released by First Second (but retitled as Astronaut Academy) which is definitely “YAY!” but since it’s also not going to be out until Summer 2011, it’s also a little bit of a “BOO!” because I want it now. Yes, I know I can read it online, but it’s not the same, OK? I like books.

This is adorably hilarious and all-ages in the best way (as in, everyone from children to adults will enjoy it equally) and Roman lets himself have all kinds of freedom in his storytelling. He has pandas as faculty members, a school secretary named Mrs. Cupcake and the school sport is called Fireball, which is played with huge spiky scythes that look like weapons out of fighting video games.

Probably the centerpiece story here is about the cyborg, Cybert, and his tireless mission to eliminate Hakata Soy. However, he is thwarted by a mirror-visored, bee-obsessed guidance chancellor

Roman’s art has a very animated style and the whole effect is loose and playful. I mean, seriously, I want the book and I want it now. Am I really supposed to wait a year?

Remake (2010 SPX): Lamar Abrams
I’m not sure what the actual title of this is, so I’m just kind of going by what’s on the back. Max Guy is kind of a cross between Astroboy, Mega Man and every immature guy you’ve met. The other characters, including the no-nonsense Sybil, come across as much smarter and more together than our alleged hero. I have not read Remake (I’ve meant to, OK?) but even though I didn’t know what was going on, I enjoyed this. Lamar has a fabulous sense of design and framing of scenes and while this mostly revolves around a couple of jokes about poop, it also feels pretty innocent.

Geraniums and Bacon 1 & 2: Cathy Leamy
I really enjoyed Leamy’s Green Blooded, but that was more informative pamphlet than comic. These autobiographical comics deal with crises of faith, weird dreams and other every-day occurrences. Leamy’s obviously having a lot of fun (I love her “Writer’s Embellishment” bits) and her art is airy and constantly lovely. There’s a wonderful sense that she didn’t deliberate too long over these drawings but they don’t feel rushed. It’s almost as if she was just drawing a lot of this for her own amusement and that feels really free and great. I am glad she shared, however.

Sticky Rice: A Travelogue Through Bangkok, Thailand: Jeremy Nguyen
Styled like a Moleskine notebook, this short travel journal evokes Craig Thompson’s Carnet De Voyage (which Nguyen does namecheck). It’s fairly short and sometimes lacking in details, but I did like Nguyen’s ability to capture the world around him in his sketches. The portions of the journal he styles as comics (with dialogue in word balloons) come across as more interesting than his text descriptions. It’s maybe a little slight, but in some ways, I’m kind of happy Nguyen was probably enjoying his trip instead of focusing on his travel journal.

Missing Pieces: A Terka Story: Andrea Tsurumi
Tsurumi e-mailed me before SPX and told me to check out her work. I looked at her website, liked what I saw, and definitely knew this was something I wanted to pick up. Tsurumi’s drawings are ambitiously detailed and her aesthetic evokes Tim Burton’s morbidity and sometimes European comic artists like Moebius (and that’s not faint praise). The story is about a girl named Terka who lives in a land of monsters and it may feel incomplete in some ways — it’s obviously the beginning of a longer story — but Tsurumi seems to have all the pieces in place. I am going to look forward to where this story goes and what she does next.

Comics from Mars #2: Paul Pope
A collection of short stories, Pope’s work has a crazy sort of freedom. His style is always gorgeous and complex, and there’s a delightful sense that he’s making all of this up as he goes along. He seems to wear his influences — Jack Kirby, Heavy Metal magazine — on his sleeve, but he does it fearlessly. (And this further proves to me that you can basically buy everything from AdHouse Books sight unseen and not be disappointed.)

The reviews are in no particular order for the most part. I am breaking it up into two days because it got ridiculously long once I wrote about everything.

The Pyramid: Kenan Rubenstein
This comic is a 8 1/2 by 11 inch sheet of paper folded into sixteenths and readers unfold it as they go. The panels change orientation or form as the paper is unfolded, revealing a final, full-page image. The story — about moving possessions into storage — is pretty simple, but Rubenstein’s clear voice and sharp, moody images makes it work. It’s a cool and unexpected comic.

Full Sanction in [F(S]PX]: Joe Mochove & Rusty Rowley
I have no business reviewing this, really, because I know these two and so even if I hated it, I wouldn’t be telling them that. But I don’t hate it. Not even a little. This is a hilarious skewering of some of the motifs that you’ll find in various comics for sale at SPX. Rusty makes a comic called Dino Docs and Joe makes a comic called Sun/Mun and the compete for sales. The outcome is ridiculous but awesome.

Yes, Joe draws stick figures, but they’re quality stick figures, and part of the beauty of comics is how the art suits the story. I think the style is basically perfect for what they’re doing. (And by the way, the real-life Rusty and Joe actually made the comics that appear here and they were also for sale. I don’t have them because I’m dumb.)

Beard: Pranas T. Naujokaitis
In Beardville, all men (and even some women and children) have beards. Except for Gus. However, after Gus’ wish for a beard is granted, he revels in being a manly man. Unfortunately, Gus doesn’t know when to stop and the town turns on him. Lessons are learned. This is a fun little story with a good message about what makes a man and that not all manly attributes are necessarily good.

Naujokaitis’ art is playful and fun. I love how Gus’ beard has a life of its own. The die-cut cover, showing Gus with and without his beard, is also an awesome touch. (I see that this is the third printing of this comic. That doesn’t surprise me.)

Last Day and The Last of the Real Small Farmers: Idiots’ Books
These aren’t comics, but a beautiful mix of prose and art by Matthew Swanson and Robbie Behr respectively.

Last Day is a beautiful meditation by Swanson on what we take for granted in life — the little everyday moments of life — accompanied and complimented by Behr’s dreamily abstract watercolors. The Last of the Real Small Farmers recounts various things that Bill, a farmer, said in an interview (the transcript was edited by Swanson and Brian Francis Slattery). Bill talks about everything from the size of his vegetables to various conspiracy theories. Behr’s accompanying art encompasses everything from portraits of Bill to increasingly abstract scenes of radio equipment and technology. It’s a fun read.

Also, Swanson and Behr, who are adorable themselves, have two of the cutest kids on the planet, including Kato who was at SPX. I think Kato was the perfect salesman because I’m not even the baby-crazy sort and I wanted to give him all my money.

Daily Catch: An Anthology of Comics: Jon Chad, C. Frakes, Katherine Roy and Laura Terry
This is a short, entertaining anthology of stories about the sea. Some are funny, some are scary, but all in all, it’s a lovely showcase of the talents of these four creators. I’ve liked Frakes’ previous work so I’m biased toward her story, but this served its purpose in that I immediately wanted to look up the other three and see what else they’ve done.

Echoes from Asteroid X: Mark Rudolph
A space explorer and his android servant have to survive after crash-landing on the titular asteroid. They battle against dinosaur-like creatures (the explorer) and their own programming (the android) in a surprisingly poignant tale of what we’re capable of when pushed. Rudolph’s art is obviously inspired by the square-jawed comic book heroes of the 1960s and the out-there perspective of Jack Kirby and it works. This is unique and fun.

Six more tomorrow!

But every year is better than the last. This year was no exception. I probably had too much fun (I did mention the drink tickets, didn’t I?).

I was delighted to see all kinds of new faces and new comics out on the floor. You know, when you travel to enough of these things up and down the East Coast, you do begin to see the same comics again and again. Sadly, I didn’t have much money to spend (and most of my budget went to Adam Hines’ Duncan the Wonder Dog published by the always-reliable AdHouse. I have no regrets about that, though, because I think this book is going to sell out quickly. I did pick up plenty of minicomics, too (and my boyfriend left his here for me) so I do have a lot to read.

All the exhibitors I heard from (whether in person or on Twitter) seemed to have done really well, and it was clearly packed both days. That’s a great sign. It makes me happy that so many people have enthusiasm for this art form.

And while show itself is undoubtedly and deservedly the focus, to me, what makes SPX special is this tangible sense of community. Creators, publishers and fans all come to be a part of something really wonderful. It feels like a celebration more than anything else.

I’ve often said that it seems like a lot of people — exhibitors included — come to SPX primarily to hang out. And to me, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that (I am, more or less, becoming one of those people). It feels very relaxed and everyone’s approachable. Other than a tiny number of exceptions, everyone I’ve met at SPX — volunteers, attendees, exhibitors — have been incredible people who I feel honored to know.

Maybe the scene isn’t quite everyone’s thing (after all, if you’re a fan of superhero comics, this may not be the show for you. Although I gave these silly little wallets made of old Marvel trading cards to Rusty and Joe and they reported that everyone loved them, so who knows?) but I think most people will be won over in the end. I am, of course, already looking forward to next year.

(I didn’t take photos because I was lazy, so I’m just using this year’s poster again. But that’s OK because I think it’s my favorite of all the SPX posters. That’s another thing — every year I think “No, I think that poster is my favorite.” This one, though, may have some staying power.)

But if you’re a little SPX-ed out and haven’t spent a lot of time in the D.C. area, here’s a few recommendations.

Museums
Yeah, so you know of The Smithsonian Museums — well, you know of the Air & Space Museum (cute, but dated) and the National Museum of Natural History (OK, still pretty cool) and probably the National Museum of American History, but don’t overlook the Freer and Sackler Galleries and the National Museum of African Art. Both usually aren’t as crowded as they should be and are constantly wonderful. Off the mall is the National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum, both of which are fun (I especially like the modern art room in the American Art Museum — it just needs a DJ and a bar).

Outside of the Smithsonian system is the National Gallery of Art (huge! You probably want to pick a particular part and focus on that) and the National Building Museum, which is always great and a gorgeous space. It also has one of the best gift shops/bookstores in the city (sadly, you missed the Lego exhibit, though).

I haven’t been to the Newseum, because I actually work in journalism and therefore I can’t afford it. If for some reason you’re insane and want to go to Madame Tussauds, we have one of those. Other people love the International Spy Museum, but I think it’s a little overrated.

Drinking and eating, but mostly drinking
Since you’re comic book types, I’m going to guess you’re not looking to go to exclusive clubs or anything of that nature. (And if you are, I can’t really help you out there.) The Black Cat is an institution and great for hipster-watching. You’ll be tempted to go to Brickskeller, but I’d recommend sister bar R.F.D. instead.

H Street NE has taken over as the center of cool in D.C.with Rock ‘N’ Roll Hotel, Little Miss Whiskey’s, and Palace of Wonders (which has a burlesque show on Saturday night with a $10 cover). If you’re still looking for a great meal, I am partial to Sticky Rice. If you do want to go to H Street, there’s a free shuttle than runs from Gallery Place, which is conveniently on the Red Line. There’s not really a Metro stop nearby, so if you’re without a car, do take it.

Other stuff
Intervention is also going on and it’s just two Metro stops away from SPX. With a focus on web comics and Internet culture and with guests like Molly Crabapple and Fred Gallagher, it’s probably going to be a good deal at $25 for Saturday, $15 for Sunday or $45 for the whole weekend. While it’s really unfortunate that it’s taking place on the same weekend as SPX, that sort of overlap happens pretty frequently in the D.C. area, especially once fall hits.

DC VegFest is taking place on Saturday, which makes me a bit sad because I would’ve gone otherwise. But that may only be of interest to me.

Things to keep in mind
Saturday is obviously the anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, so expect a few things in remembrance of that (however, most of those seem to be in Arlington). There may be a little bit of extra security on the Metro, but it’s probably nothing you’d really notice.

If you want to make your own plans, Washington Post’s Going Out Gurus and The Washington City Paper are good places to start.

And if for some reason you’re still in the area Sunday night, come to Arlington’s Galaxy Hut to drink some awesome beers and to help save the Arlington Planetarium.

View Larger Map

(Just so you can judge distances a little bit better on the map above, the White Flint and the Twinbrook Metro stations are about 1.5 miles apart. It’s up to you about how you decide what’s within walking distance or not).

The area isn’t particularly pedestrian-friendly — Rockville Pike is a major road and a lot of what is around is strip malls. Just be careful if you’re walking.

Your nearest grocery stores are Harris Teeter and Giant, each less than a mile.

If you’re looking for an awesome selection of beer, friends recommend Gilly’s Craft Beer & Fine Wine. It’s within walking distance of Twinbrook. There is also a Trader Joe’s less than a half-mile from the Twinbrook stop, if you’re going that way.

DC also has a good selection of restaurants if you want to venture into the city (and I’ll have a few recommendations for that in tomorrow’s post) but do keep in mind you are pretty far out in the suburbs and so getting anywhere will probably take a little while.

Yesterday: SPX 2010: Survival Guide
Tomorrow: What else to do

• I don’t think I need to say this, but bring cash with you. A few of the bigger publishers do take credit cards, but mostly, you want cash. There is an ATM on site (the line can get long, though, and last year, it ran out of money. As did another nearby one). Smaller bills are the best, overall.
• You’ll also want to bring a bag. This may seem obvious, but it’s really not — you’ll want something to put your comics in because trying to juggle your purchases as you go through the show isn’t fun. Those snazzy reusable shopping bags are good as are messenger bags (which is typically what I use). If you forget, some exhibitors did give out bags with purchases, like Drawn & Quarterly did last year. And you’ll get to be the coolest person at the grocery store
• You’ll probably want to wear layers. Since SPX is a bit earlier this year, fall hasn’t quite hit the D.C. area yet, but right now, we’re looking at highs in the lower to mid-80s with lows in the mid-60s and possible thunderstorms on Sunday. You say “Yes, but I’ll be inside most of the time.” This is true, but last year, the exhibit hall was freezing on Sunday. Having a jacket on hand may be helpful.
• Check out the programming. Yes, I know it’s easy to get distracted and lose track of time, but the programming is an under-appreciated part of SPX. I’m totally excited about this year’s line-up and the Animation Showcase looks like it’s going to be a great addition.
• Likewise, check out some of the Ignatz nominees. You can’t be expected to buy them all, but they always highlight a diverse group of comics.
• Buy mini-comics. I am broke (and I’ve reported widely in the past) so my purchases will be pretty limited this year. Still, I will set aside some money specifically for mini-comics. They are a great way to support creators and find new things you might like. Or hate. Most run $1-3 and it’s a good value for your money.
• Don’t be afraid to take a break. The North Besthesda Marriott actually has a lot of nice, comfy places to hang out if you just want to sit and read for a bit. You can decompress, check out what you’ve bought and then go back for more. Just don’t sleep in the middle of the floor, OK? I saw some people doing that last year.
• Be courtesy and thoughtful with regard to the other events that are going on in the hotel. I’ve only heard a couple of reports of bad behavior at SPX, so I trust everyone, but SPX usually isn’t the only event going on. Last year, there was a gospel revival, a fancy-dress fundraiser and an expo or some such for beauty pageant contestants. Don’t be rude to people there for other events and always obey hotel and SPX staff. Somewhat related, if you’re sick, please stay home. Yes, missing SPX sucks, but getting other people sick isn’t very nice.
• If you had fun, strongly consider volunteering next year. SPX is a labor of love — it’s run completely by volunteers, by people who just love comics and the event. It’s always a good time — you get to meet a bunch of cool people and make friends and be a part of something really awesome. We have cookies and temporary tattoos. I don’t know what else I have to tell you to sell you on it.

Tomorrow: Where to eat!
Thursday: Other stuff to do in the area!

But on Sept. 11-12 is one of the highlights of my year — Small Press Expo. And this is my call to encourage you to volunteer if you’re going to be in town. You only have to commit to four hours and you’ll get free admission. You’ll have the opportunity to do awesome things like direct your favorite creator to the bathroom or the 7-Eleven across the street. You’ll make friends and have fun. And while I’m not saying the two things are at all related, Nate Powell was a volunteer one year and he now has an Eisner.

You’ll also get to hang out with me. And we’ll have removable tattoos.

I am not being asked to do this. I just really like volunteering at SPX and I definitely recommend it to everyone.