One of the new books that really surprised me last month was Skaar: Son of Hulk. The first issue of that book really blew me away and I was really looking forward to the ongoing series. Unfortunately, the second issue that was released this week does not hold up to the same amazing standards as the first.

If you are new to Skaar, the basic premise of the book spins directly out of the events of Planet Hulk. Those of you who read Planet Hulk will remember our green friend getting it on with Caiera the Oldstrong (perhaps only a female with Oldstrong powers can take on the Hulk) on Sakaar. She got pregnant and all seemed to be looking up for Hulk, until his ship blew up and destroyed the capital city, killing Caiera in the process. Very emotional moment; I would recommend reading Planet Hulk if you haven’t. Hulk thought that his unborn son was killed in the process, but little did he know, Skaar survived and was somehow born out of a radioactive swamp or something (the comic never really explains that very well, so I just let it go). After the break, I’ll review this issue and tell you why I think this book is going down hill really fast.

The first issue was really interesting because it showed Skaar’s growing up on Sakaar and there was plenty of action. Pak moves the story along at a nice pace and the art is really well done. However, the second issue really doesn’t do anything with this initial pace set by Pak. He slows things down to a grinding halt. Suddenly, we are stuck in basically one fight the entire issue. And one of the things that intrigued me about the first issue was that Skaar never spoke. In this issue, however, it started to annoy me. How can you have a main character that never speaks (aside from Black Bolt, cause he can say more with a look than words)?

One redeeming thing for Skaar for me is the amazing art by Ron Garney. Once again, he is spot on with his depiction of the characters and the world of Sakaar. The somewhat sketchy drawings work perfectly with the story that is being told. If for no other reason, pick up the book for the art.

Hopefully, next month, Pak will pick up the pace on this book again and we can get a more interesting story. Until then, this book is going to be on my “meh” list.