This week's comic expectations

You know how in many of the past few weeks I've been saying that it's a deep week but not a big, heavy-hitter week?

Well, this week isn't very deep, but there sure is a lot of big things goin' on.

Let's start with Marvel, since there is less going on there (in fact, I think there are more "second printings" out this week than new issues).

The two big hitters from "The House of Ideas" has to be The Immortal Iron Fist #13 and Captain America #36. I don't think it a coincidence that both books are written by Ed Brubaker.

Danny Rand is in for a world of pain this week, with lots of brawling and maybe even a few more clues looking at Danny's past. We often talk about which books really deserve a bigger readership (see "Booster Gold," "Brave and the Bold," etc.), and this book certainly falls into that category.

Meanwhile, Captain Bucky and the Black Widow are still trying to unravel the Red Skull's plans in Cap #36. This has got to be considered the best superhero book of the past year, and the 11th issue since Steve Rogers' death certainly seems no exception. The true greatness of this book, though, may just be that we still have yet to see the Red Skull's end game. And where does Steve Rogers' unborn child fit in?

Looking over at DC, there's a bit more depth.

Death of the New Gods #7 is the penultimate issue of this strong miniseries. While it may be a bit too late for you non-readers to start picking up the series now, those who have enjoyed it all the way through are likely on the edge of their seats wondering how Scott Free will turn out and who, of the Fourth World New Gods, if any survive the series.

Justice League of America #19 is hoping to build on a strong 18th issue that ties in to "Salvation Run." The full strength of the JLA is about to travel across the universe to that perilous planet, and it should be interesting to see what happens when the villains see the good guys. As far as I am concerned, though, I will just be happy if this JLA tie-in doesn't ruin the ending of the main "Salvation Run" series.

Batman and the Outsiders #5 isn't exactly a heavy hitter, but in a lighter than usual week, you may want to pick it up. In the fourth issue, we were given a clue that a certain re-incarnated couple was back from the dead and ready to help out the team. Would it be a STRETCH to think they may become regular members on the book?

Anyway, enjoy the light but big week.