Ragman #5
Published and © by DC, June-July 1977
Title: Untitled
Synopsis: While Ragman battles various thugs, blind/mute orphan Teddy brings this missing-money mystery to a fiery close.
Writer: Robert Kanigher
Artist: Joe Kubert
Review: Co-creator Joe Kubert picks up the pencil and brush for this final issue of Ragman. The results are as delightful as expected, but not really that much of a change (the “Junk Mail” letters column in this issue confirms the artist had been doing layouts for this series all along). Unlike other series that we’re victims of early cancellation, Kubert and writer Robert Kanigher seem to have known Ragman was ending. This issue does a great job in wrapping up several plot threads, particularly the mystery of the missing money. This conclusion fits the overall tone of the series perfectly.
Grade: A-
Second opinion: “A well-written and illustrated book about a rather unusual crime fighter.” – Mike Conroy, Comic Media News #31, June-July 1977 … Recommended by The Slings & Arrows Comic Guide (second edition), 2003.
Cool factor: This moody series wraps up nicely, giving it the feel of a great mini-series – before the format was invented!
Not-so-cool factor: How did the missing millions become just a million?
Collector’s note: According to MyComicShop.com, there is a Mark Jewelers variant of this issue.
Character quotable: “Okay, puss … you’ll get your milk … as long as you keep my secret!” – Rory Regan, Ragman and cat lover
Editor’s note: This review was originally published by Comics Bronze Age on Dec. 4, 2009.
