Kirkman touted this issue as the "Fifty 1st," so I'm going to start this review by addressing its first issue accessibility.

There is none. There ya go.

If you've never read Invincible and are looking to start with this one, don't. With no recap this issue will leave many first time readers confused and cranky. My advice to those people: just pony up the cash and score the Invincible trades or the hard covers. This is one of the best (some would argue that it is the best) superhero books going. You won't regret the loss of fundage or the trip it gives you.

Now, for those caught up on Invincible matters, get ready for more of what you have come to love. This issue spans the introduction of Mark's little brother as a superhero. He and Mark form a team and fight crime together. His little brother's racial growth and ability development is addressed a bit, and the two together sport a dynamic that could really boost the series to a whole new level. Readers will probably grow incredibly attached to the duo, and that's when Kirkman will be able to rip their hearts out and splatter them against a brick wall. He's good at that. Don't say I didn't warn you. It hasn't happened yet, but my money's on some nerd tears before this show's over.

Kirkman solidifies Mark and his girlfriend's relationship here as well. In fact, all kinds of people are getting lucky as even Mark's mom is in on the scoring front. It's a great issue in terms of strengthening character relationships and even forming some new ones. Issue #51 seems like it will be plenty pivotal in the coming months, so enjoy the calm before the storm. This light stuff is probably my favorite part of Kirkman's work. He makes build up and event development interesting and immersive.

Ottley's art is just as great as always, and the color work is bright and poppy too. There are some action sequences within, particular one at the detention center that may be a bit cluttered, but beyond that the book sings its usual song. It's a great, iconic, superhero style.

Invincible himself gets a new suit. It's on the cover, so no major spoilers here. I like it, readers probably will too. But you will miss the yellow, black and blue from the old get-up. No bum gloves either, so Mark's little man-fingers won't show through. Kirkman writes in some dialogue from Mark's tailor that explains the change of colors and design. It's a nice way to back up the decisions made.

The one thing that kept this book from its perfect score was its final page splash. Man, I flipped to it as I was making my way through and the first uncontrollable words out of my mouth were "God Damnit." It's something that I thought was done with, but no, it's back. I said it loud enough to make my roommate who is not caught up to current happenings look down and repeat the same phrase. He, of course, was speaking to me. I ruined quite a bit for him on accident. Oh well, stop reading over my shoulder, jerk.

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