As a general rule, I find DC’s Year One stories to be pretty played out. The current Diggle/Jock Green Arrow origin is one of the best I’ve read in ages, but is ultimately unnecessary. Having said that, I have to admit that I’m getting somewhat jazzed about the upcoming Teen Titans: Year One mini. Not because I’m a huge TT fan - I like them fine and all, but they aren’t the end-all be-all - but because the preview art just looks so sweet. Karl Kershl’s cover and promo piece (shamelessly stolen and posted below) are pretty much amazing, and he’s claiming on his blog that the interiors are just as nice or better. If the man’s storytelling abilities are the equal to his illustration skills and his sheer enthusiasm for the project, this looks to be a winner. Also, bonus points for actively engaging and soliciting opinions and minor costume continuity help from the fanbase. That’s some smart marketing there, gaining trust and respect from some pretty rabid fans without actually tipping into the Arena of Obsession. Considering Kershl’s rather drastic new look for Aqualad, simply asking for clarification on Kid Flash’s costume goes a long way towards mollifying the more…rabid fanbase.

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