This month for the Galactic Comics and Collectibles Book Club we read Flashpoint from writer Geoff Johns and artist Andy Kubert published at DC Comics.

Picture yourself waking up one day and realizing that everything you’ve ever known has changed. Your loved ones are strangers, and your closest allies cease to exist. This is the world that Barry Allen wakes up to in DC Comics’ Flashpoint. The story throws its readers into a world that is on the brink of a cataclysmic war, and the Earth’s greatest heroes are nowhere to be found.

The Flashpoint storyline is a captivating tale that forces its readers to question the very fabric of reality. It’s a world wherein America’s last hope is Cyborg, who seeks to unite the forces of The Outsider, The Secret 7, S!H!A!Z!A!M!, Citizen Cold, and other new and familiar-yet-altered faces. The comic storyline sets an apocalyptic tone, which can be felt with every turn of the page. The story does an excellent job of setting the stage of hopelessness and helplessness that our protagonist finds himself in.

While the story feels like it’s missing certain elements, as the Flashpoint trade paperback misses the other comics involved in the story arc. We are left to question what is truly happening in this world, who caused the change, and how can it be fixed? The storyline raises pertinent questions and showcases the strengths of DC Comics in delivering thrilling tales that leave readers on the edge of their seats.

One of the key strengths of DC Comics’ Flashpoint is its unique blend of characters, both old and new. The story successfully weaves together storylines from different comics, including characters from Batman and Superman, to deliver a captivating narrative. Each character is given its due, with readers getting in-depth character arcs for even the most minor characters. DC Comics did an excellent job of creating a world where each hero felt authentic and was given their due. The characters come together to deliver a promising yet troubling world to its readers.

The Flashpoint is a necessary storyline for those who are fans of The Flash. It’s a world where Barry Allen, the fastest man alive, is put to the test. In the comics, we see how his resolve, determination, and power are pushed to their limits. The storyline is not only thrilling but also insightful, as we get an idea of the mental and physical fortitude needed to be a hero. Barry Allen’s journey throughout the story is not just about saving the world but also about rediscovering himself and what makes him a hero.

DC Comics’ Flashpoint is an epic storyline that highlights the strengths of the comic giant. The story delivers an apocalyptic world that’s not only thrilling but also insightful. It’s a tale that showcases the unique blend of DC characters, delivers captivating character arcs, and handles its protagonist with care. While some elements feel amiss, the story is still a necessary read for those who love the world of The Flash.

The majority of the book club members really liked the story and glad to have read it, but will likely not read any connecting storylines.

Join The Book Club

Galactic Comics and Collectibles hosts a book club each month to read and discuss one trade paperback. Each month a group of individuals reads the same book and meets to discuss. Follow along as we discuss these books here as well. Next month we head back into the world of Independent Comics with Trojan from AWA Studios by Daniel Kraus and Laci.

In previous months the group has discussed Wynd, Nailbiter, House of M, The Recount, Superman: Last Son of Krypton, Something is Killing the Children, I Hate Fairyland Vol. 1, Thanos by Donny Cates, Wytches, and Batman: The Long Halloween.