Recommended ‘Thor’ reads (plus a Hulk)
The third “Thor” film, “Thor: Ragnarok,” is hitting theaters, and from reports, it is perhaps the most comic-book inspired of the three films.
For those wanting more “Thor” escapism once the credits roll, here are some recommended reads featuring the Asgardian god of thunder.
‘Thor Visionaries: Walter Simonson Vol. 1: Walt Simonson v. 1, Bk. 1’
This first collection of Walt Simonson’s “Thor” collects “Thor” (original series) #337-348.
For many years, Walt Simonson’s run on “Thor” was considered the high-water mark for the hero. This collection kicks things off with a bang, with the introduction of Beta Ray Bill, an alien who gains the powers of Thor. Those who want to jump into the entire run can try the “Thor by Walt Simonson Omnibus,” containing “Thor” (original series) #337-355, #357-369, #371-382; and “Balder the Brave” #1-4.
‘Thor Epic Collection: When Titans Clash’
This collects “Journey Into Mystery” (1952) #110-125 and Annual #1, “Thor” (1966) #126130, and material from “Not Brand Echh” #3.
Stan Lee and Jack Kirby created the Marvel version of Thor, and while it took a while to find the character’s footing, by “When Titans Clash,” the second of Marvel’s Epic collections for Thor, provides a Marvel-style update on Norse mythology. This collection also features a Thor vs. Hulk throwdown, likely to appeal to those introduced to the pairing in “Ragnarok.”
‘Thor Vol. 1’ by J. Michael Straczynski
This collection of the first six issues of the 2007 series of “Thor” sees the revival of the hero as he settles down in a small town in Oklahoma. Meanwhile, the mythic Norse kingdom of Asgard isn’t far away — in fact, it hovers above the small town of Broxton.
A creative angle on Thor and the Asgardians and the dynamic, heroic art by Olivier Coipel made this run a best-seller, and tied Thor to the state of Oklahoma officially. (The recent “U.S.Avengers series from Marvel noted Thor as Oklahoma’s Avenger.)
“I wanted to put this somewhere fresh, somewhere in the American heartland, and for a number of reasons, including the Heavener rune stones, this seemed like the perfect place,” Straczynski said in an interview with The Oklahoman.
“(Coipel) is doing a magnificent job realizing Thor, especially his strength and sense of presence,” Straczynski said. “Thor as drawn by Olivier is big and powerful and noble and somehow above it all. And I’d hold his Asgard up against what has been done by anyone before.”
Straczynski said he’s long been a fan of classical mythology and followed the “Thor” comics since he was a child.
“He always seemed much bigger than life, especially in the early Kirby/Lee days, and I want to go back to that,” Straczynski said.
‘Thor: God of Thunder Vol. 1’
Jason Aaron’s entire run on “Thor” has been compelling, including the mystery of the Goddess of Thunder, introduced later. But it all started with the “God of Thunder” series, which featured Thor in three different eras as he must face the destructive power of the God Butcher. Esad Ribic provides the art.
BONUS SUGGESTION: ‘Planet Hulk’
While Thor doesn’t factor into the original Planet Hulk storyline, it appears pieces of it have inspired parts of “Ragnarok.” To check out Hulk battling warriors on an alien planet, check out the “Planet Hulk” collection, containing “Incredible Hulk” issues #92 to #105.