Free Comic Book Day!

MARIETTA, OH — Jordan Lowe is the owner and proprietor of Asylum Comics on Third Street in Marietta. He's been getting ready for free comic book day all year.

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"This is actually the 20th year of Free Comic Book Day. It's actually a worldwide event that any participating shop can get in on."

He said today is a day to just throw open the doors and let people know what you have.

"So people can get a sample of something. We're going to have a sale. We discount back issues, toys, and graphic novels. So a little incentive to get people to stop in."

Lowe isn't just doing this to help his shop, he's also helping the community.

"The last few years we've done a canned food drive as well for the Tri-County Food Pantry."

They give away two free comics to anyone who shows up. But anyone who shows up with non-perishable food items, or a dollar donation, can take home some extra issues.

Comic book lovers are welcome to show up, but Free Comic Book Day is geared towards the kids. They will have superhero comics with broad appeal, like the Avengers. They will have comics for younger kids like the Investi-Gators. You can also expect some old-school comics for all ages, like Archie.

Lowe says he believes that he's the only shop in Marietta participating in Free Comic Book Day, but is sure that folks in Vienna, Belpre, and Parkersburg will have spots close to them where they can grab some free comics.

He asks for folks to come out and have a good time at his store.

"We used to have more activities. We used to have face painting, have cosplayers and things, but we're trying to be a bit more COVID-safe this year. Definitely, we're aiming for the kids to find something they'll like!"

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