It’s important to remember that comic books are for everyone. As many of us are introduced to comic books when we are young it’s sometimes tempting to think that the books have grown-up with us, and to ignore the simple joy of fun stories told well. Marvel Action Avengers: Off The Clock is a short graphic novel that brings together some Avengers stories that are firmly aimed at younger minds, but they’re a total joy to behold.
The premise of the book is simple; what happens when you tell Earth’s Mightiest Heroes to take a day off? Well of course wackiness ensues; we get Thor having to face Loki in a flea-market, Captain America teaming up with Squirrel Girl to teach road safety (and to face one of Spider-Man’s dumbest villains) and Doctor Strange and Captain Marvel getting together to deal with a run away cape.
The Infinity Saga this is not, but writer Katie Cook has perfectly captured the elements of the Marvel heroes that we find most interesting, whilst maintaining a sense of child-like fun and wonder. Butch Mapa’s art captures a ‘Saturday Morning Cartoon’ vibe throughout, and effortlessly sells the various sight gags and silly scenes to the reader.
Marvel Action Avengers: Off The Clock is not going to join the canon of classic Marvel books and it’s not one that most collectors will seek out, but if you have a younger person in your life, we strongly recommend you pick it up for them and have a sneaky read first, you will laugh your socks off.
