Marvel Comics/Icon; $5.99

Every so often, David Mack, the creator behind Kabuki, releases one
of these beautiful compilations of his sketches, concept paintings, drawings,
and behind-the-scenes photographs. Each time they’re a wonderful insight into
how one of the most popular creators in current comics plies his craft. This
year, it’s a little extra cool because his gal pal Mandy Amano has made such a
splash (as “That Pepsi Girl” and in Maxim), and she’s the subject of
several of the paintings in the book, including the cover. So, crank up the
celebrity factor and enjoy seeing the development of pieces for Kabuki,
Alias, Daredevil, Atomika, and more.