Trades vs. Issues (AKA: Why Does This Blog Exist?)
Part of me started this blog out of my own ego -- wanting people to listen to my opinions and ramblings, because I'm important, dammit! Part of me started it out of frustration with not being published legitimately (yet). Yet another part of me did it becasue there are so few comics-related websites on the Internet catered for the trade reader. But I guess the biggest reason I started this blog is because I wish I had had something like it when I was first getting into comics.
It's a daunting world. I didn't know the difference between DC and Marvel, let alone the difference between trades and issues.
For those of you in that same position, allow me to help: Comic book stories usually come out monthly in single issue format. That's those floppy, twenty-odd-page magazine-like things you always see stereotypical comics readers with.
These issues each contain a "chapter" of a larger story, but can also be "one-shots" (like short stories). When each story is done, it is usually collected into a book-like format. These are called "trades", which is short for trade paperback, although they can also be hardcovers. Don't worry if you're confused.
There are, of course, various exceptions to this process, but that's usually how things go. Basically, if you want to read complete stories, like you would with a book, you should buy trades. The downside to this is that you miss the "gossip" associated with monthly issues. You'll be behind everyone else, and risk getting story elements spoiled, but in my opinion it's worth it.
Just remember that I'll be right there with you; cautiously browsing message boards and patiently waiting for the next instalment of my favourite series.
I hope I've been some help. If you have any questions about the big wide world of comic books, please don't hesitate to ask. It's probably something I've asked at some point too.
NOTE: I am going to update this page soon, with a much more comprehensive guide for the new comics reader. Stay tuned!
