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Lets take a look at two of the best books to come from the Marvel brain trust in a long time.

In the past, Marvel has reprinted almost all of the X-MEN comics in one form or another. Now, it has released The Essential X-MEN and a companion book, The Essential Wolverine.

Both of these books print over 20 issues of continuity, and also give us some of the best story telling of these two books.

Spotlighting the work of Chris Claremont, John Byrne, John Buscema and Archie Goodwin, these are the ideals that set the standards for the Mutant titles of today.

Perhaps Marvel should forget most of the garbage they are putting out now, and return to this type of story. It might help sales and entertainment.

I have heard these books called "Foam Books" because of the type of paper used. Cheap newsprint with a standard card stock cover, all black and white interiors with a color cover.

But oddly enough, the lack of color enhances the story. I saw things I never noticed in the original, due now to the fact that it was much less cluttered.

These books rate First Class. And with a selling price of around $13.00 bucks for each book, Marvel may set another priority straight. A decent book for a decent price.