JLA Classified #51

For those of you out there that want to see Barry Allen as the Flash, Arthur Curry as Aquaman, and a classic representation of Oliver Queen, then this is your book. Writer Roger Stern goes old school with the JLA this issue going back to when the team was just forming its identity. It is a classic lineup with Black Canary, Green Lantern (Hal Jordan), Martian Manhunter alongside the previously mentioned heroes. Both Superman and Batman also make a showing. Stern provides a good story with a powerful protagonist and a good reason for the JLA to get involved. John Byrne's penciling is top notch providing good characterization and detailed panels. Mark Farmer handles inking Byrne's pencils quite well. While the alien bad guy looks a bit silly, he comes across as very powerful due both the Stern's direction and Byrne's depiction of him in action.

I was very satisfied with this issue. Both Stern and Byrne are a power team and really compliment each other here. I should note that my LCS owner commented that he was selling more "JLA Classified" now and he wondered why. When I pointed out the team of Stern and Byrne he nodded his head in agreement. It is good to see that the comic buying public doesn't forget the greats.