Rebirth of the Silver Surfer!!
THE GOOD
I read this for two main reasons: 1) Silver Surfer; 2) it was the second TPB in the Annihilation Story Arc. In fact, I picked the entire Annihilation series because of Silver Surfer's participation. I could not have been happier with the Silver Surfer's part in this story. It not only included many other power-houses in the Marvel Universe, it included one of the best "rebirth" stories for Silver Surfer. Ever. His power in this seems to know no limit. His attitude adjustment made all the difference for the direction and mood of the story. Even though he is no longer "free" and back as Galactus' herald, it "feels better" this time around. It was almost as if it was Silver Surfer's choice, as opposed to a Galactus command or world saving extenuating circumstance.
The Super-Skrull story was great. I didn't have much information on the Super-Skrull before this story, but I am a big fan now. The twist (betrayal by R'Kin) at the end was completely unexpected and fit so well with the story. Even though the Super-Skrull is a villain, you root for him the entire story, through all the adversity right through to the end.
The Ronan story was good, not my favorite art, but I liked the reintroduction of Gamora (though she looked a bit different than I remember). The best part of this story was Ronan's conviction to prove his innocence and redeem his good name. As tragedy would play out, his only proof died with the Annihilation wave - but nothing will stop his new conviction - warning the Kree on Hala as well as hopefully well deserved redemption.
THE BAD
Art - The artist changes from series to series is very noticeable. While I am partial to the Silver Surfer art, I would rank the series in this way (from best to worst): Silver Surfer, Super-Skrull, Ronan. The Super-Skrull art looks overly cartoony and the Ronan art looks very "Æon Fluxy" (yes, I know I keep using that - I am not sure what it is about it, it is just very different and not my favorite).
Writing - Where the Silver Surfer and Super-Skrull stories fit nicely into the Annihilation story arc, the Ronan story seemed very disjointed, of course that was resolved at the end of the book. The Ronan part seemed a bit hard to follow at times, but overall was a solid addition to the overall story.
THE VERDICT
This is a great TPB for the continuation of the Annihilation Story Arc. I am a bit biased due to my love of the Silver Surfer, but I believe anyone, Silver Surfer fan or not, will enjoy his part in this story. I had no real knowledge of the Super-Skrull or Ronan, but I did enjoy each of their stories. I recommend this TPB as it collects some of the best Annihilation tie-in stories as well as the relevant Nova Corps Files.
