Today’s Comic> Batman ’66 #6

That’s what I call heavy reading.

Batman ’66 #6

DC Comics (February. 2014)

In the first story, we learn giant checks are cashable in Gotham City when the Bookworm steals one from one of the many organizations Bruce Wayne is a part of. However, it’s part of a large plan as Bookworm is really collecting data on Batman.

What they got right: Guest writer Tom Peyer (this is usually Jeff Parker’s gig) nails the feel of the show except for maybe two instances of exaggeration. The don’t ruin the story, though. I like how they open a story with Bookworm by having Robin give a keynote about literacy and he even gets in some solo combat and holds his own for awhile. I’m pretty sure Bookworm was one of the original villains from the show and he gets a good showing here.

What they got wrong: I really have nothing to complain about.

In the second feature another show-created villain, Olga, traps Batman because she’s so angry about Batman defeating Egghead that she wants to marry him. Wait, what?

What they got right: Parker sets up a future story that may involve Batgirl ’66. (’68, but from here on out we’ll just use the first season year like the comic does) Could it be a reinterpreting of Felix Faust? I can’t recall any straight-on Batfoe who uses magic, although being a book on the occult it could lead to another Bookworm appearance.

What they got wrong: Parker’s been known for making strange premises work, but I’m having trouble with this one. Would Olga really fun for Batman over Egghead? About the only thing I liked in the story was the parts with the bears. It’s classic 1966 Batman. Sorry, Jeff. I really like your work, as previous reviews of this and Marvel Adventures: The Avengers will prove, but this story didn’t work for me.

Recommendation: The main story at least is worth getting this issue.

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