cover image Nothing Nice to Say

Nothing Nice to Say

Mitch Clem, . . Dark Horse, $9.95 (125pp) ISBN 978-1-59582-150-8

Unlike some better known Web comic collections (such as Perry Bible Fellowship ), this volume is unassuming: a small, square paperback. That’s in keeping with the content, humorous incidents among punk rock fans in Minneapolis. The book sort of just appeared—as the author correctly posted on his site, “no one knows who I am, no one’s ever heard of my comic”—and it’s likely to die the same way, having little that stands out. The book jumps ahead in the strip’s run to 2005 when the art became more consistent. It’s still simple and graphically uninteresting, mostly talking heads distinguishable by hair or lack of it. Like many subject-based Web comics, it stems from a single sub-culture and speaks best to those in it who will gain enjoyment through recognition if nothing else. That group not only includes punk music but Web comic creators, with a series of in-jokes about strip creation. Fans of the series will appreciate the permanent collection and the bonus material, including other strips Clem has drawn, resulting in even more self-references. Others can read the material for free online. (Oct.)