Worldwide Free Comic Book Day Comes to Sandusky with Comics for All Ages!
The POP Shop in Sandusky, Ohio is one of thousands of comic book shops around the world celebrating the comic book art form on Saturday, May 6, 2023. On Free Comic Book Day, close to 2 million comic books will be given away by participating stores, introducing as many people as possible to the wonders of comic books! The POP Shop will be giving out over 500 books right here in Sandusky, OH.
“The wide array of comic books being published today ensures that readers of all ages — children, teens, and adults – can find something appropriate that will stir their imaginations,” said David Baum, Owner of The Pop Shop. “Comics are alive and well in 2023,” Baum continued. “Comic Books have propelled to the front ranks of American pop culture, many being adapted into movies and TV shows.”
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 arrives in theaters a couple days prior to Free Comic Book Day, and that is not just a coincidence. Marvel has been releasing their big summer events in conjunction with Free Comic Book Day for many years. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and Warner Brothers The Flash both hit the big screen a month later in June. Four of the top ten highest grossing films of all time are Comic Book Movies. One could argue that even Star Wars the Force Awakens, also in that top ten list is a comic book movie, making the total number five.
Lizzy Bartish took over as the Comic Buyer in 2022 for the POP Shop. “Even Star Wars Comics are among the best comics in the industry,” stated Bartish while explaining the impact of Comic Books on popular culture. She continued, “There are currently more than ten different Star Wars comic book titles in publication monthly. The new characters that are first introduced in the comics are now finding their way into the Disney Plus TV shows.”
Everyone who enters The Pop Shop on Saturday May 6th will be able to pick 4 Free comics from a large assortment of books, additional books are given out with purchase. Baum stated that since supplies are limited, people should come early. “Last Years FCBD celebration had nearly dozen people waiting at our front doors, we are expecting the same response this year.” He continued, “this event is for everyone, it doesn’t matter if you are a seven-year-old kid or a seventy-seven year old kid, you’ll have fun reading comics.”
Meet The Red Power Ranger
Feel the protection of the Super Morphed Red Power Ranger and join his squad for Free Comic Book Day at The POP Shop.
Eric Simmons, who goes by the name Schrye both online and professionally, is an avid fan of pop culture, comic books, gaming, and all things geek/nerd-related. He hails from Ashland, Ohio and has been immersed in this culture his entire life.
In 2012, Eric founded The Nerd Rave on Facebook, which has since become a go-to hub for nerd/geek content in a neutral space that everyone can enjoy. The Nerd Rave produces various forms of content, including videos of unboxings and interviews.
Eric’s passion for nerd/geek culture has also led him to expand his presence online as a cosplayer, gamer, and streamer. The Nerd Rave has grown to nearly 3000 followers. Eric loves meeting new people and sharing his passion with the world, and he is excited to meet others who share his interests at the upcoming Free Comic Book Day.
You can find more information about Schrye and his work at Linktree [ Click Here ], Facebook [ Click Here ], or Instagram [ Click Here ].
Meet Darth Vader
Embrace the power of the dark side when you discover Darth Vader awaiting your arrival at The POP Shop.
When you enter the store on Free Comic Book Day you may find yourself face to face with the crushing might of the Galactic Empire’s most powerful enforcer, Darth Vader.
Don’t worry too much though, if you undergo an interrogation in the presence of Lord Vader and give in to the dark side of the Force, you’ll discover Local Cosplayer Gregory Lopez, who looks and sounds just like Vader. Lopez is a fan favorite at The POP Shop, Star Wars fans young and old are awed by his presence.
Bring your cell phone, you will want to get a photo of with Greg or should be say Darth Vader!
Guest Artists and Creator Zane M. Fannin
Zane is a talented commission and concept artist with a focus on creating stunning comic book style artwork.
With a lifelong passion for comics and graphic novels, he has been drawing since he first picked a pencil at 18 months old and has never stopped honing his craft.
Currently, Zane is working on several independent comics, including an exciting superhero anthology that is set to be launched by the end of the year.
His dedication to his art and love for storytelling is evident in every piece he creates.
You can find Zane and his work on Instagram at… [ Click Here ]
Guest Artists and Creator Jason Eisentrager
Jason Eisentrager is a talented freelance commission artist hailing from Findlay, Ohio. Known throughout Northwest Ohio, Jason is recognized for his exceptional skills in creating 90’s comic book style art with a distinct passion for using bright, bold colors.
With over 20 years of experience as a creator, Jason has an impressive portfolio of work that showcases his versatility and artistic prowess. He is particularly excited to meet and chat with fellow comic book enthusiasts at the upcoming Free Comic Book Day event at The POP Shop.
View his work and find more info about Jason by visiting his pages on Facebook [ Click Here ] or Instagram [ Click Here ].
Guest Artists and Creator Steven Myers
Steven Myers is an accomplished art teacher based in northern Ohio who applies his artistic talents to a variety of mediums. In addition to teaching, he channels his creativity into crafting polymer clay statues, painting, and drawing in both pastel and ink. With a keen interest in comics and pop culture, his artistic creations often revolve around these themes.
Steven is not only a skilled artist but also a talented writer. He is the creator of his own mini-comic called the F.E.D.s and two webcomics, namely “Mutant Elf” and “Mutant Animals vs. Zombies Vs. Machines vs. Humans”. He is also a regular contributor to several anthologies, showcasing his ability to collaborate with others and produce outstanding works of art.
Learn more about Steven Myers by visiting his blog… [ Click Here ]
Guest Artists and Creator Shawn Butler
Shawn Butler is a local artist who uses his ink and marker talent to create nostalgic works of art with a comedic twist. His work has been collected as commissioned work by private collectors. Recently, he has been begun work illustrating for a new upcoming christian children’s book titled, “Freddy Finds The Real Treasures Of Christmas”.
Shawn is also the Founder & Curator of Yesteryear Funland Traveling Toy Museum.
With the assistance of his long time friend and Co-Founder John Zura, they tour with their private collections, delivering a one of a kind educational experience to fans.
To promote his traveling museum, he writes articles for Yesteryear Pop Culture News, announcing upcoming themed tours, as well as nostalgic toy stories, and pop culture celebrations.
To learn more about art by Shawn and his traveling toy museum Yesteryear Funland visit, [ YesterYearFunland.com ]
Guest Vendor Tyranno Treasures
Guest Vendor Crystal Tokyo Creations
Niki, the owner of Crystal Tokyo Creations, started her artistic journey as a hobby that eventually blossomed into a small business. She specializes in creating a wide range of unique items, including hair accessories, keychains, and jewelry made from various materials.
Her creations offer a fun and creative twist to the typical offerings found at The POP Shop, giving customers the chance to find something truly one-of-a-kind for themselves or as a gift. With her talent and passion for creativity, Niki’s Crystal Tokyo Creations are sure to add a touch of whimsy and charm to anyone’s collection.
Free Comic Books
These are just some of the books that you can get for Free…
