interview - Page Chewing

Page Chewing is where books, comics, and conversations collide. From in-depth chats with authors and artists to lively discussions with fellow readers, we explore the craft of storytelling, the worlds we love, and the ideas that stay with us long after the last page.

This week on Panel Chewing Pick of the Week, Steve and Jarrod dive into another stack of comics and break down the books that stood out from the week’s pull list.

Before jumping into the comics, the conversation kicks off with a nostalgic look at the comic-magazine era. From Wizard Magazine to Comic Shop News, the hosts reflect on the lost culture of comic journalism and how the internet—and now social media—has changed how fans interact with the hobby.

Then it’s time to talk comics.

Highlights this week include discussions on new releases like Absolute Superman #17, Astral Quantum #2, and Save Now #3, along with the finale of a recent Detective Comics arc and the latest chapter of Rick Remender’s The Sacrificers. The guys also dig into indie titles, time-travel chaos, noir mysteries, and the continuing brilliance of Conan the Barbarian.

A few books nearly steal the show, including:

The Peril of the Brutal Dark — a noir mystery blending archaeology and pulp adventure
Assorted Crisis Events #8 — a deeply emotional comic about fading relationships and lost connections
Conan the Barbarian #29 — an issue so strong it works even without Conan appearing until the final page

But the biggest surprise of the week?

Steve’s Pick of the Week ends up being Batman #7, a haunting psychological story featuring a silent Joker, an uneasy conversation with Batman, and echoes of The Killing Joke.

Finally, the hosts continue their Grant Morrison Batman group read, discussing issues 657–658 from the Batman and Son storyline. Damian Wayne enters the story with a bang—and not in a good way—raising questions about Batman’s judgment and the darker implications of the character’s introduction.

If you’re reading along, the next discussion will cover issues 663–664 after a short break.

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Co-Hosts:

Jarrod