Free Comic Book Day

My GeekSon has shown some interest in comics. At bedtime, we have occasionally read a “racket noggle.” (His preferred pronunciation of graphic novel.)

With the arrival of Free Comic Book Day I took the suggestion of new GeekDad writer Dave Giancaspro and planned a trip to The Comic Stop in Watertown, Massachusetts. I picked this location because they were scheduled to receive a visit from members of the 501st Legion.

What’s better than free comics? Free comics and Stormtroopers.

Walking down the street, I got that sign that every parent loves to see: the happy skip of excitement. “Daddy, daddy, there’s a desert trooper, a scout trooper, and a royal guard!” This excitement waned as we got closer. The GeekSon became more interested in hiding behind my leg as we approached the Imperial troops. Eventually he warmed up to the three members of the New England Garrison of the 501st Legion. We scooted inside The Comic Stop, explored, and grabbed a few items.

The strangest thing? While chatting outside with a few people and the Imperial troops, a couple walked up to us, looked at the group and said to the desert trooper: “Do you know where the Starbucks is?” Apparently the guy in the Star Wars outfit looked like more of a local than me.

The GeekSon walked away with a few of the free comics offered on Free Comic Book Day, an introduction to comic book stores, and memories of the Imperial forces. (The GeekDad walked away with Joss Whedon’s Astonishing X-Men.)

That’s Scout Trooper TB 2832 doing the photobomb.