1. Spiderman – ok, the first one is super but in an ordinary kind of way.  Spidey built his web shooters, using his brain to enhance his powers.  He was a dork first; almost everyone is.  Practically every man and quite a few women I know speak reverently of Spiderman.  Why?  Because he’s funny!

2. Naruto – speaking of funny, this quick ninja is a wise cracking but loyal friend.  Sasuke could have easily been the star of this series what with his amazing talent and good looks but manga-ka Kishimoto made a wise choice placing Naruto at the center of the story.  He’s a true hero with a strong heart that carries him further than raw strength.

3. Sadie – a central character in Mouse Guard, Sadie manages to warn everyone of danger.  Determined and smart, this mouse is a dedicated mouse guard with a mind of her own.

4. Batgirl – Robin was kind of clingy and needy (not that we blame him, who wouldn’t be in his weird situation).  There have been several Batgirls and almost all of them have a penchant for breaking Batman’s rules.  I’m not saying kids should necessarily “learn” to break rules but challenging authority isn’t always a bad thing.

5. Professor Xavier - mainly because he’s pretty cool and he helps kids in need.

My reaction – Batman is hot even when he’s not.  Watchmen is still being bought.   Marvel Zombies meeeeehhhhhh.  A Drifting Life – interesting.  Saga of Swamp Thing – there’s alway one surprise on the list and this is it.  Maybe it’s a generational thing but I really thought Swamp Thing had sunk back into the ooze a long time ago.

Manga  – what will happen when Naruto finally ends?  Will there be a giant black hole?  Will that be the end of the American manga industry?  I’m serious.