FORTIER/KATO'S RETURN TO NEVER NEVER LAND

I knew that Ron Fortier and Gary Kato had taken a stab at J.M. Barrie's exalted Peter Pan, but I had only experienced bits and pieces of the 1991 endeavor (catching a picture here and there). I'm proud to report that I finally purchased a copy of their comic-book triumph, Peter Pan in Return to Never Never Land (both issues in one, 52-page, Redbud Studio volume) and must declare, it's even better than I anticipated. In fact, I consider it one of the best Pan exploits ever rendered, holding more than its own with Barrie's classic novella. 

For this particular sequel, Fortier's script places understandable emphasis on its titular hero, but also grants special focus on Roxbury, Massachusetts brothers, Jerry and Mike (the former, a lover of cowboy lore and the latter, his conscientious, older sibling). 

The story starts with the youngsters being accosted by bullies just before Christmas break, but by a twist of fate, Peter Pan arrives to halt (and humiliate) the aggressors. Then, along with the glitzy Tinkerbell, the eternal boy inspires the lads to embark on a journey to his fabled world.

Once there, Jerry and Mike meet the petulant, Captain Hook; the legendary Lost Boys; the verbose Carousel Broncos; and neighboring, American Indians, including the beautiful yet crafty Tiger Lily, as they engage in roughhouse shenanigans that support the old adage, Boys Will Be Boys. 

Kato's artwork, combined with Aiden Belcher's vibrant coloring, gives Return to Never Never Land a fresh, modern look, though at the same time, Fortier's story never overlooks Pan's roots (as some retellings and follow-ups have done). Return to Never Never Land respects Barrie's mythology, with Jerry and Mike fitting right in, always embracing the proper, derring-do spirit.  

Return to Never Never Land is so darn invigorating, it's guaranteed to manifest the kid in anyone and everyone. (I only wish I had experienced the jubilation sooner!)

Order now at 

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1953589618?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details

SATIN'S WAYS: FORTIER'S LONG-PLANNED DREAM COME TRUE

Sometimes it takes a spell, even decades, for a creative dream to reach fruition. A significant case in point is Ron Fortier's superb, 58-page, Satin's Ways, published by Redbud Studio.  

The saga's titular lead, Satin Wei, was an orphan trained by Hong Kong's most successful, jewel thief, and now in America, she continues her "Artful Dodger" ways, though behind the cover of an unassuming boutique. 

For the issue's commencing adventure, Ms. Wei is coerced into a tricky mission from Fort Morgan's "real power," Armand Dupont, owner of White Cobra Imports, who wants her to retrieve and destroy an incriminating disk. As one might expect, things don't go quite as planned, forcing our stealthy lady into a head-spinning spree of high danger and political intrigue, as only Fortier could compose. 

In addition to the prime adventure, Fortier gives readers a nifty bonus, "The Perfect Murder," which rolls like a fine-tuned, Alexander Mundy jaunt with Selina Kyle trimmings. It's short, sweet and delivers a swell, surprise ending. 

Artist Gary Kato, Fortier's long-time, Mr. Jigsaw collaborator, takes his illustrative skills to yet another impressive level for the main feature, with page after page of pulse-pounding, Bondian imagery.  

Artists Gonzalo Martinez, Terry Staats and Jaymes Reed do wonders with "The Perfect Murder," establishing a sleek, Hitchcockian ambiance; and the sensational, cover artwork comes courtesy of the legendary Rob Davis.  

I hope that Fortier launches a sequel issue (if not an ongoing series). Satin's Ways has far too much potential to stand as a one-shot, but even it if doesn't progress beyond this terrific teaser, I'm grateful for the explosive treat. 

Order Satin's Ways at 

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/195358960X?ref=ppx_pt2_dt_b_prod_image

MR. JIGSAW #18: JIGGY IN A BIG-TIME BOUT

Though "In This Corner..," was included in The Adventures of Mr. Jigsaw #6 (released Feb '23), Mr. Jigsaw #18 is now available as a separate release through Redbud Studio and Indy Planet!

Issue #18 tosses Ron Fortier's Man of a Thousand Parts (aka Charlie Grant) into battle with a bully in need of a hard-knocks lesson. Accompanying this swell, morality tale is the madcap "One Saturday Morning", which is certain to generate grins galore.

Mr. Jigsaw is a fantastic character and represents Fortier's nice-guy perspective in every way, with conscientiousness and fun all rolled into one; and Gary Kato's cheery artwork matches Fortier's ebullience to the ideal tee. Mr. Jigsaw #18 is just another stand-out, collaborative case in point. 

Order Mr. Jigsaw #18 at

https://www.indyplanet.com/mr-jigsaw-18?fbclid=IwAR2kAFLh-sa6DQNHqa-7axJbtJ8Ib3VmVO62ix1kelTaEOPaB48HzpVL4xI

THE ADVENTURES OF MR. JIGSAW, VOL #6

Ron Fortier's committed character, Mr. Jigsaw, aka Charlie Grant, returns in a new curation from Red Bud Studio. The Adventures of Mr. Jigsaw, Vol 6 contains issues #16 - #18, adorned by a vibrant cover featuring Jiggy and his compassionate pals, the Misfits. (A stand-alone offering of #18 is on the way from Indy Planet.) 

All stories are written by Fortier, with spiffy artwork by Jiggy's prevailing artist, Gary Kato.

The tales feature The Man of a Thousand Parts in a driving lesson; Blimp and Turtle intersecting an armored-car heist; Charlie enduring a broken heart; a big-time, bullying, brawler bout; and a harrowing, Saturday-morning mishap. 

Mr. Jigsaw is a terrific character who represents Fortier's good nature, and Kato's artwork matches the writer's ebullience to an honorable tee. Without question, the proof in the pudding can be found in this euphoric edition. 

Order The Adventures of Mr. Jigsaw #6 at

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1953589456/ref=sr_1_4?crid=3EDFSAKGXAVDU&keywords=The%20Adventures%20of%20Mr.%20Jigsaw&qid=1676067724&s=books&fbclid=IwAR3FXSoOmU22X4NZq0mBxjY7Gg92d99zkJOVETKHpVKTFt8yMrgWsCO0RFw

RON FORTIER/GARY KATO'S MR. JIGSAW #17: BROKEN HEARTS & MISFITS

Ron Fortier's Mr. Jigsaw #17 is now available from Redbud Studio and IndyPlanet. As with previous issues, this one supplies a blast of wholesome entertainment, featuring not only Fortier's amiable storytelling, but Gary Kato's charming artistry. 

 

In "Broken Hearts & Misfits", our famed Man of a Thousand Parts, aka Charlie Grant, faces heartbreak, but as one door shuts, another opens. This paves the way for Winnie the Witch, Ms. Speed and a band of cordial, thug-pounding oddballs to draw the jarred Jiggy into their comforting fold. 

Beyond a doubt, "Broken Hearts & Misfits" is one of the tenderest chapters in Mr. Jigsaw's successful saga, and though it brims of poignancy, it doesn't skimp on the action, as its climaxing panels prove. 

 

If one hasn't yet experienced Fortier/Kato's satisfying series, #17 is a great way to snap into Mr. Jigsaw's superheroic groove. Give the Man of a Thousand Parts a try at

https://www.indyplanet.com/mr-jigsaw-17

R.A. JONES' ALICE IN NEVERLAND: A CROSSOVER FOR THE AGES

R. A. Jones has just delivered one of the jolliest, literary crossovers imaginable: "Alice in Neverland". Not only does Jones blend the narrative styles of James Barrie and Lewis Carroll in this vivacious Airship 27 submission, he also distinguishes his sequel with poignancy, danger and identifiable depth. 

For the sake of this clever, literary merger, Peter Pan and Alice Liddell (now the former's adored Lost Girl) must join forces to find a hidden treasure, so that dear Tinkerbell might be set free from a revived and evermore embittered Captain Hook and his crocodile-loving companion, Sangramore, Queen of Diamonds. 

Along the spry adventurers' riddling journey, readers are treated to other established and original characters, including Tiger Lilly; the Cheshire Cat; the diminutive Seela; Blackie the wolf; scraggly cannibals; an emoting Yeti; a colossal, living skeleton; the charismatic, elixir-peddling Doctor Philogenias and his fanciful horse, Footloose; to name but a few.  

Though its eccentric personas and scenarios grant Jones' story plenty of pep, what truly makes the author's crossover so extra-special is its ability to work on several levels, with additives to engage boys and girls, old and young. Matters of responsibility and liberation, as well as life and death are discussed throughout, setting this fine yarn leagues beyond the hollow fluff one might otherwise find among today's "young reader" selections. 

To adorn Jones' deft text, "Alice in Neverland" includes adorable illustrations by Gary Kato and a soaring cover by Ted Hammond.

I recommend "Alice in Neverland" to the highest degree: a destined classic that cannot help but please.

Order a copy today via paperback and/or Kindle at

https://www.amazon.com/Alice-Neverland-R-Jones-ebook/dp/B08N3B4KKC/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=alice+in+neverland&qid=1605395590&sr=8-1

RON FORTIER'S MY LIFE IN COMICS: THE AUDIO EDITION, READ BY MARK FINFROCK

Radio Archives has just released the audio edition of Airship 27 Production's "My Life in Comics (a Memoir)" by Ron Fortier.

As most know, I hold Fortier's memoir in high regard (see Nov '19 post), and actor Mark Finfrock gives the author's reflections flavorful expression, covering Fortier's creation of Mr. Jigsaw and his involvement with such iconic characters as Popeye, Peter Pan, Rambo and the Green Hornet. 

There's an undeniable warmth to Fortier's recollections. Finfrock's gracious tonality matches the content to a tee, making the five-hour sojourn an utter joy to absorb. 

Whether one purchases Fortier's book as an audio event or in paperback (enhanced by those neat Rob Davis illustrations), the results are certain to prove satisfying. Beyond any doubt, Fortier's memoir is a must-have for any comic-book collector. 

The audio edition can be obtained at 
https://www.radioarchives.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=RA1043D
and the paperback through
https://www.amazon.com/Life-Comics-Memoir-Ron-Fortier/dp/1946183695.

MR. JIGSAW: THE EARLY ADVENTURES #2

Right on the heels of The Adventures of Mr. Jigsaw, Vol 1 (see Jan '20 post) comes a second edition of the Man of Many Parts' early years, courtesy of Rob Davis' Redbud Studio. 

The content is written by Jiggy's creator, Ron Fortier, accompanied by Gary Kato's awesome artwork and includes "American Sidekicks"; "The Bully and the Knight"; "Charlie's Best Friend"; and "The Phantom of Studio-B" (a tale sure to please all famous-monster fans). Each entry bounces with glee and also a staunch sense of doing good, which the world so often needs. 

As nifty bonuses, Vol 2  features pin-ups, a photo album and a fantastic foreword by Tony Isabella, acclaimed author of "1,000 Comics You Must Read", who offers insightful reflections on Jiggy's manifestation. 

The Adventures of Mr. Jigsaw, Vol 2 can be purchased at
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0849T1LN7/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_image_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1.

MR. JIGSAW: THE EARLY ADVENTURES

Thanks to creator/writer Ron Fortier and Rob Davis' Redbud Studio, The Adventures of Mister Jigsaw #1 has hit print and presents the superhero's earliest adventures.

The volume contains Fortier's classic, 1982 origin of  "the Man of a Thousand Parts" (aka Charlie Grant), along with "The Job", "The Apartment", "Lt. Boltz", "A Day in the Park", "Up on the Rooftops", "Secret Identity" and "The Icemen Cometh", each brought to detailed life by faithful Jiggy artist Gary Kato. The stories are breezy, dynamic and above all, brimming of cheer.  (Issue #1 also includes a "Just for Laughs" overview by Fortier on how Mr. Jigsaw came to be.) 

One can purchase The Adventures of Mister Jigsaw #1 at
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B083XTH61G/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1.

Beyond a doubt, The Adventures of Mister Jigsaw #1 is an essential, historic addition to any quality, comic-book collection!!!

MR. JIGSAW'S FULL COLOR CHRISTMAS SPECIAL!!!

Ho! Ho! Ho! Redbud Studio and Airship 27 Productions have released Ron Fortier's latest Mr. Jigsaw compilation: Mr. Jigsaw's Full Color Christmas Special!!!

The 56-page installment features four Fortier tales, including the mysterious "Miracle on Christmas Island". Each adventure hosts charming artwork by Gary Kato and vibrant coloring by Mort Todd, who also created the splashy cover. 

Joining Jiggy is his pretty pal, Amy Boucher, along with the patriotic Liberty Belle and the one and only, Santa Claus, who spreads Christmas cheer in a nifty nod to Rod Serling's "Night of the Meek". 

I got a huge, sentimental kick out of this thematic release and so will you.  Mr. Jigsaw's Christmas Special is certain to bring year-round joy to anyone bighearted enough to experience it. 

Purchase your copy at 
https://www.amazon.com/dp/1946183725/ref=sr_1_8?keywords=Mr.+Jigsaw&qid=1576708069&s=books&sr=1-8&fbclid=IwAR20clzfLXkbPK0PVNX871tI2VdE07b2f_2kXYHVPNjlocZWBcACh0fuLo0.

RON FORTIER'S MR. JIGSAW: HOW TO MAKE A COMIC BOOK!!!

Author Ron Fortier's Mr. Jigsaw has adorned many comic-book adventures over the years, always accompanied by the awesome artwork of Gary Kato. The Man of a Thousand Parts now hosts a noteworthy, how-to special edition. 

Fortier's "Mr. Jigsaw: How to Make a Comic Book (How a Mr. Jigsaw Comic is Made)", published by Rob Davis' Redbud Studio, takes the reader through all the necessary steps to construct a comic book. The process is cheerfully detailed through Fortier's script-page samples and Kato's sketched outlines, which culminate in an actual, paneled story, featuring Mr. Jigsaw's dear pal, Amy Buck Boucher. For the record Fortier performs as one of the instructional characters, along with the magical Great Waldo. You'll be surprised by how much you learn, as these endearing folks bring the connecting formats to succinct life. 

As fans are aware, Fortier teaches a comic-book course at Colorado's Front Range Community College. Alas, not all of Fortier's admirers can attend, but at least this special edition grants them his valuable know-how in a fun, condensed way. It's also a nifty Mr. Jigsaw collectible in its own delightful right.

"Mr. Jigsaw: How to Make a Comic Book" is available for purchase at ... https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Jigsaw-Special-Comic-Made/dp/1946183431/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1533667035&sr=1-1&keywords=mr.+jigsaw+how+a&dpID=51zvVImvhxL&preST=_SY291_BO1,204,203,200_QL40_&dpSrc=srch. 

HAUNTING CHEER ARRIVES IN MR. JIGSAW #15!!!

MR. JIGSAW #15 has arrived, and boy, oh boy, is it ever jammed with good ol' fashioned merriment!!!

Now, I must confess, as much as I'm a fan of Ron Fortier's work, this is my first, hands-on experience with his--and artist, Gary Kato's--creation: that is, I was familiar with Mr. Jigsaw, aka Charlie Grant, resident of Portland, Maine (who sprung from Charleton Comics and is now part of Rob Davis' Redbud Studio), but alas, only from afar. 

So glad I've finally gotten on the ball, for what makes Mr. Jigsaw (aka, Man of a Thousand Parts) so endearing is his throwback style. In fact, just last week I was discussing comics with some folks, who expressed their disdain toward the way so many popular characters have been mishandled in recent years, particularly Marvel's turning dear Cap America into a darn Nazi. This led us to reminisce on older comics, including those of Dell, Harvey and Gold Key, and I gotta say, Mr. Jigsaw embodies the carefree spirit of those latter companies to a tee. I mean, really, this one will delight readers of all ages, especially those of a nostalgic inclination. 

(Incidentally, in case one is unaware, Mr. Jigsaw's novelty is his ability to detach his body parts to assist in various situations: the sort of hero that Inspector Gadget fans might appreciate, only Mr. Jigsaw exudes an unmistakable, traditional, superhero vibe.)

The latest issue contains two adventures, the first being "Little Lost Ghost", where our champion is enlisted by an elderly woman, who seeks closure on a brother who vanished some ninety years prior. Along for the ride is a group called the Ghost Finders (a spoof of any such number of reality-show investigators). Before long, a spectral child surfaces, but it's the ever diligent Mr. Jigsaw who unravels the mystery. What follows is not only fun, but deeply moving.

In "Mile High Surprise", Mr. Jigsaw (accompanied by his buddy, Dan Miller) visits Denver's Rocky Mountain Comic Convention, encountering a couple eager fans who prove to be honorable crime-stoppers in their own right. Our hero is also approached by an admirer who'd like to publish a Mr. Jigsaw comic, no less, which naturally leads to lots of good cheer!

The stories comprise a 24-page expanse, with Kato's terrific, black-and-white artwork bringing Fortier's stories to bubbly life. BTW: The dynamic cover is by Darren Goodhart and Mort Todd and superbly captures (as one can clearly see above) the joyous panache of comical, comic covers of the past. 

If you have a taste for something different--different, that is, in light of the mean, modern scheme of things--you'll find Mr. Jigsaw #15 a refreshing alternative. 

Order your copy today at ... http://www.indyplanet.us/product/150721/.