Free Comic Book Day Rewards Long-Time Fans, New Readers

Fans of the Avengers, Spider-Man and Transformers can pick up special-edition issues starring their favorite superheroes during Free Comic Book Day on May 5.

From 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., visitors to the may receive a free special-issue comic while supplies last. It's part of the shop's celebration of Free Comic Book Day, an event that happens every year.

Each May, retailers, publishers, suppliers and distributors make some comics free in an effort to reward comic book veterans and draw in new fans.

"It's a big event put on by the comics industry," said Scott Samson, who manages the Fantasy Shop. "It's a chance to come in and see what the comics industry has to offer beyond the movie theaters and cartoons."

Forty-two different titles will be available, including comics targeted toward kids. A full list of Free Comic Book Day titles is available online.

All branches of the St. Louis County Library, including the at 4444 Weber Road and at 9920 Lin Ferry Drive, also will have free comics to give away. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., residents may visit their local branch and receive one issue per person while supplies last.

All Fantasy Shop stores also will run a special sale for back issues throughout the weekend. All regularly-priced (below $10) back issues will be priced at $1 each.

Are you a regular customer at the Fantasy Shop? Visit and leave a review for others to see!