This week's comic expectations

Well folks, it's going to be a good week to be a DC fan, and for Marvel ... well ... you might find something you like, since all sorts of niche books are on the way. Check out the full list of releases HERE.

But before we get to Marvel's grab bag, we start with DC's A+ titles.

Without question, the most anticipated book of the week is Green Lantern #39, the first part of the four-issue "Agent Orange" arc introducing — who else — the Orange Lanterns of Avarice. Geoff Johns has said time and time again the Oranges are his favorite Corps to write, so I for one am looking forward to what role these selfish bastards will play as we chart a course toward "Blackest Night." And remember, our buddy Hal Jordan, having already wielded the power of yellow and red, was just bonded to the power of blue hope. How will this change Mr. 2814?

Without question, the second most anticipated book of the week is Superman: World of New Krypton #2. Clark — excuse me — Kal-El is now entrenched in his new Kryptonian life as a member of General Zod's army. Frankly, I don't have a clue as to where this series is headed (you know, other than a meeting with the Green Lanterns in issue #4), and I think that's one of the things I am really excited about. How often do publishers ruin our surprises with over-hype and solicitations? Here, all I know is Kal is stuck looking like a traitor to Earth, looking like a traitor who cannot be trusted by the Kryptonians, and currently he's going to have to take orders from someone he hates. I love it!

Without question, the third most... OK, I'll stop it already with this ranking anticipation crap. The point is, Batman: Battle for the Cowl #2 is out this week, and here's hoping we actually get some story development out of this one because the debut issue didn't give us much other than less respect for Damien. In all seriousness, I am expecting the pedal to the metal here, if only because this isn't some long, drawn out event. After this issue, we have the conclusion and that's all folks. So, is Dick going to start acting Batty? Is Tim going to start acting like 'ole pointy ears? Is Damien going to start acting like himself? And who the heck is that impostor Batman, anyway?

From there, we go over to Marvel, which while is bereft of the top-flight titles this week, the "House of Ideas" have more than enough mini-series for you to enjoy.

There are the first issues you may be interested in: All-New Savage She-Hulk #1 of 4, Daredevil Noir #1 of 4, Dark Reign: Hawkeye #1 of 5, Deadpool: Suicide Kings #1 of 5, Marvel Zombies 4 #1 of 4, War of Kings: Ascension #1 of 4, plus the non-mini-series debuts of Marvel Apes: Amazing Spider-Monkey #1, Exiles #1 and Wolverine Weapon X #1.

Of the minis, I'd say you "Dark Reign" followers should definitely take a look at the Bullseye ... er... I mean, "Hawkeye"-staring series, and for the rest of you, Deadpool is always a blast, so I may check his mini out.

"Daredevil Noir" is your first sign that Marvel's "Noir" series has already jumped the shark. How much more "Noir" can you get than Daredevil himself? We need to re-imagine a street-level guy without many powers into another street-level guy without powers?

And, of course, if you're buying any of the "Marvel Zombie" or "Marvel Apes" junk, you are part of the problem.