The Top 10 comic books for 2017

1. Archie #16-26

Mark Waid continues on his exceptional tear revamping and recreating Rivderdale and its cast. Archie, Betty, Veronica, Jughead, and the rest have never been more relevant. Furthermore, Waid has done his best to juggle comedy, romance, and drama into one narrative. Unlike the predictable slapstick of yesteryear, it’s closer to a “girl’s manga” series than anything else out there. Artists have included Joe Eisma, Pete Woods, and Audry Mok.

While every issue has had its laughs, Waid has focused more on serious affairs in 2017. Symbolic of this was “Over the Edge,” an arc where a drag race between Reggie and Archie puts Betty in a wheelchair! Seeing all of Riverdale mourn the wounding of their beloved blonde made for gut-wrenching stuff. Other subplots have included Cheryl and Jason Blossom adding some drama, as well as Dilton and Betty trying to date!

Don’t be fooled by assumptions. While this is nowhere near as dark as the CW Network show, it’s hardly the animated slapstick of yesteryear. Yet it hasn’t forgotten its heart or its humor amid some of the drama, and that makes it a pleasure every month. One of the best, and most drastic, relaunches in recent years!