Anticipated series, others drawing one issue closer to a close and unexpected delights are all the picks for the mother of all comics, Jessica Boyd. She explains in this week’s MOM’S COVER WATCH.

BATMAN/SUPERMAN #1
Written by Greg Pak
Cover by Jae Lee
Published by DC Comics

Light and dark are perfectly melded on the cover of  this team book which pairs DC’s one-two power punch. Superman of course, the pinnacle of light, is immediately seen in the center, his logo grabbing your eye. Then it falls down to Batman, cast in dark shadow with the even more dark representations where his feet rest.

The literal and metaphorical representations work together so well. Superman taking flight, literally powered by the sun, as well as a beacon of hope the best humanity has to offer and protect it. Batman is grounded, in the dark, dealing with the horrific life-altering crime that someone has to confront, even when it is not pretty.

This cover, on the other hand, is very pretty.

JOURNEY INTO MYSTERY #653
Written by Kathryn Immonen
Cover by Jeffrey Becker
Published by Marvel Comics

Beta Ray Bill and Sif, together again. While their portrait together here is very well crafted and beautiful, it’s the little details in the background that make this cover pop.

For those who do not know, they came together last issue in space. With the addition of the flowers and hummingbird as well as the movement and bright color coming up from the bottom of the page, they stand out so much more. The flora in the background outlined in the same neon green as the light emanating from the bottom creates a cohesion in the cover, marrying everything together.

FIVE GHOSTS HAUNTING OF FABIAN GRAY #4
Written by Frank J. Barbiere
Cover by Chris Mooneyham
Published by Image Comics

Wisely placed negative space gives the title room to breath on this cover. It also presents the demons facing Fabian in dark purples and blues while he is highlighted in red. Normally, colors like these, in such dark shades, could actually blend with one another.

However, when combined with the white background, they both standout. The terrifying moment of being dragged where no one should have to go is highlighted and emphasized.

DAREDEVIL #27
Written by Mark Waid
Cover by Chris Samnee
Published by Marvel Comics

The target is acquired. Senses are primed.  If you have been reading, it’s the type of cover that makes you catch your breath. If not, then you recognize the use of red and white contrasted with the red and black with the central green figure standing out from the center of it all.

All these tiny pieces add up to a cover that makes you want to rip it open and see what is inside. Therefore, Chris Samnee: Mission Accomplished.

ANGEL & FAITH #23
Written by Christos N. Gage
Cover by Dan Jackson, Steve Morris
Published by Dark Horse Comics

I have made it very clear I am not a fan of pastels. On anything.

However, every once in a while, an artist or pairing of artists, come along and make me break my word. This is a prime example. Greens, pinks and oranges are not thought of as the best colors to throw together, unless you’re lighting a rave or decorating a little girl’s room. However, here these mellow colors are juxtaposed against the violent nature, acts and Gothic locations for this magical showdown.

It also plays upon what some of the normal color choices would be, such as skin tone or the brick color of a house at night. It creates that eerie sense of the wickedness which is about to ensue.