The comix community celebrates the colorful diversity of our often-marginalized medium this Saturday, May 3 with Free Comic Book Day. In a show of appreciation unique to our industry, publishers and retailers go to great expense to make exclusive editions available at no charge to consumers. The goal is to attract new customers or introduce regular readers to books they might otherwise overlook. With that noble intention in mind, allow us to suggest that Free Comic Book Day in no way prevents patrons from purchasing comics on Saturday.
It would be wonderful to see comic book enthusiasts emulate the example of music fans on Record Store Day, when thousands of people flock to independent record retailers and stock up on product in a remarkable display of affection for their favorite shops. Your local comic book stores deserve similar support. So enjoy the free comic books and remember to purchase a few as well.
If you're near Seattle, complete your Free Comic Book Day adventure at Fantagraphics Bookstore & Gallery where we'll be hosting a tasty Intruder barbecue from 2:00 to 5:00 PM with hot dogs, refreshments, of course, and free comix.