A DECADE of reading encouragement was marked May 7 when Comic Book Encounters held the annual Free Comic Book Day in conjunction with other dealers from across the continent.
“We've been involved since day one,” said Encounters owner Gerry Mattson. “It's a way to show people what is available and to promote literacy.”
“Comic books are much different than when you were a kid. Today there are so many more options. The art is better; the stories are better.”
Despite the many changes, Mattson did note that some traditional brands, such as Archie, keep developing new legions of fans.
Graphic novels now have an established foothold within the reading public and Comic Book Encounters supplies both the Kitimat and Terrace public libraries as well as schools.
“It's really a win-win when you can supply something to read,” said Mattson.
Comic Book Encounters has been in Terrace for 20 years and has established a world-wide mail-order business.