[Johnny L. Wilson]

"Shoes of Doom" had some of that bold, brooding ink style of Kinstler with a clever little story. Having a clue based on patronizing a business that almost doesn't exist in the present day (but which I used many times as a kid and a teenager) was a nostalgic trip for me.

As usual, the "Gus" story was pretty humorous. It seems like the poor ghost can never catch a break, even when it looks like he has. Hint: The theme is heavily foreshadowed in the first few panels.

If you're like me and annoyed at the way McGinty always ends up with the credit for the Black Hood's efforts, I think you'll enjoy "The Cop and the Kid" where, to some degree, McGinty experiences some karmic payback for being willing to take that undeserved credit.

As simple as the two-page text stories may be, I liked "The Corpse Near the Window" because it was Kip (if I haven't confused something) solving the case instead of the Black Hood. It added a different texture to the ongoing fictional history between the superhero, the secret identity, and the "boss."

Finally, "The Case of the Disappearing Corpse" featured Babs in a prominent role. Certainly, she has saved the Black Hood's bacon on many occasions, but here she demonstrates courage and perseverance, even when she seems to be ignored both as a woman and as a reporter. The "colorer" really brightened up her customary red dress on this story and I think, during this early run of the book, she has evolved to the point where she could out-Lois Lane both the famous Daily Planet reporter and her rival Lana.

Link to the book: Black Hood Comics 18