Omega: The Unknown Classic TPB
In the 1970s, a number of young writers tried to shake up superhero comics by using them to voice real-world concerns. Foremost among these mavericks was Gerber, whoseHoward the Duckbecame a cult phenomenon. He was less successful with the ambitiousOmega the Unknown, which maintained two parallel story lines, one featuring mysterious, mute, superhuman Omega, who comes to Earth to escape his war-torn planet; and the other focused on orphaned, emotionless, 12-year-old genius James-Michael Starling, placed in foster care in Hell's Kitchen. As Omega fights superpowered villains and James-Michael contends with school bullies and inner city life, we learn more about their backgrounds and hidden connection. Too odd and ponderous to find commercial success, and not helped by pedestrian artwork,Omegawas cancelled after 10 issues, and another writer tied up its loose ends none-too-satisfactorily in two issues ofDefenders, which yet are included in this collection.Omegais fondly remembered by many, including novelist Jonathan Lethem, who has announced plans to revive it.Gordon FlaggCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved