"Simpsons Comics Colossal Compendium: Volume One" by Matt Groening

The Simpsons are back in another trade paperback that collects material from various comic book releases focusing on the first family of Springfield. Simpsons Comics Colossal Compendium: Volume One (Harper Design), by Matt Groening, features a strong emphasis on gaming in several short stories, including a nod to World of Warcraft. The hi-jinks kick off with a two part story centered around a visit to the Springfield Fair, titled "Midday on the Midway," which finds Bart using his powers of manipulation to trick the adults around him, while Homer ends up with a pumpkin on his head. In other words, it appears to be business as usual for the dysfunctional family.

The most amusing short story featured here is "How Sweet it Ain't," which focuses on how to improve the quality of food choices in school cafeterias. Of course, the kids want what is bad for them, but that does not stop European chef Darcy Michael from trying to change their habits. However, Bart has a plan to outwit Darcy and enlists Homer in his mission to eat as much junk food as he wants to, while earning money in the process. Other stories center around Radioactive Man, an alternate reality, and a tribute, of sorts, to the titular family in "The Simpsons Save the World."

This 176 page effort is larger than previous collected Simpsons releases and includes two page interlude stories featuring The Spectacular Spider-Pig, among other characters. There is more of an emphasis on Bart and Homer in the various stories, but Lisa, Maggie and Marge all play important roles, too. Who else can keep the guys in line? The typical sights gags, topical humor and laugh out loud moments, which are hallmarks of the television series, are an integral part of this collection. As a result, this effort will likely appeal to established fans of The Simpsons, but is also accessible to new readers. Finally, the Simpsons Comics Colossal Compendium: Volume One also includes a papercraft project, featuring The Android's Dungeon & Baseball Card Shop, with step by step instructions on how to build a 3D replica of the building. Future Simpsons volumes will include additional Springfield landmarks that will allow readers to build their own town.