Every year on the first Saturday of May, comic book shops all across the globe unite together in an effort to bring new readers to the medium. This is also a chance for local comic book shops to generate some attention for themselves in an effort to ensure these stores can stay afloat.
Free Comic Book Day, is the brainchild of Joe Field of Flying Colors Comics in Concord, California. FCBD officially started in 2002 as Field collaborated with the comic industry's largest distributor: Diamond Comic Distributors.
Over the years, FCBD has grown to include 2300 comic book shops world wide. This year, they will give away over 5.7 MILLION comic books.
Instead of trying to compete with him, I will let the great Wil Wheaton explain Free Comic Book Day for all of us.
This year, publishers will be giving away 50 different comic books. Different shops have different rules on how many titles you are able to take. But no matter what, I am sure everyone can find something he/she will enjoy.
Here are the tiltes available this today. (Clickable version can be found on FCBD website)
As you can see from those titles, there will be options for boys and girls of all ages (even 45 year old boys).
In addition to these comic books, there will be a FCBD exclusive Juggernaut Heroclix figure available.
I have been taking my children to Free Comic Book Day since they were three years old. Even if you think they (or you) don't like comic books, it is such a fun atmosphere. The shops are always filled with energy (and geeks). Who knows, maybe a trip to the local comic book shop will spark a new love of reading in your children. Besides... it's FREE!!!!!!!
In addition, it is a wonderful way to support local businesses. In a world where anyone can order just about anything and have it delivered by a drone without ever having to actually stand up, these retailers can use all the help they can get.
Click here to find a participating shop near you.
For more info on the day, please check out the FCBD website.
Juggernaut image
All other images from the FCBD website