Cool, a book club!
I know this is a year away but will this go twice-weekly when we get as far as Special Missions?

I came to the series much later and still don't have an original copy of #1 yet, but "Tales Of" and the comic packs have helped!

I think this is a great beginning for the series, introducing us to the team very believably -- it's our introduction but they already know each other and we get to see some endearing character interaction -- then involving all the vehicles works within the mission so there's not a lot of overt exposition.

Nice to see the villains getting a little depth from the get-go as well, with the conversations between CC and the Baroness, the deception used for their getaway and the fact that the Joes do confront and even wound CC proving he's not some unreachable supervillain.

I'm especially impressed with the portrayal of Dr. Burkehart, who is much more than a captured scientist plot-device but instead presents an opposing viewpoint and stops the comic being thoughtless Jingoist shooting-the-badguys fare. She also allows the Joes to show how they truly are heroes by explaining just why they're doing what they do. This balance of differing philosophies is something I felt Hama carried through the entire run, either earnestly as in this issue or in a more satirical sense later on.

I think Hot Potato was actually reprinted in the Marvel UK Action Force comic as I'm certain I've read it. If I'm right, it's a good character focus, further clarifying just how courageous, loyal and honourable the Joes are as well as being a key foundation of Snake Eyes' mythical status!

*whew!* Gotta pull out my comics to be ready for next week now!