The Unbelievable Gwenpool Vol. 2: Head of M.O.D.O.K by Christopher Hastings

The Unbelievable Gwenpool Vol. 2: Head of M.O.D.O.K written by Christopher Hastings and illustrated by Irene Strychalski and Gurihiru is the second collected volume of Gwenpool comics. I previously reviewed the first volume Believe It, which introduces the character, and a holiday special. Quick background for those unfamiliar with the character: Real World comic fan Gwen Stacey gets transported into comic book world and, recognising the comic book tropes around her, endeavours to become a main character.

What's the best part about living in a world of comic-book heroes? Team-ups, baby! And imagine the awesome when Gwen Poole meets Miles Morales! Spider-Men and Gwens are a match made in heaven, right? Huh. Maybe not always — this one goes to some dark places! Second best thing about living in the Marvel Universe? The job opportunities! She's only been here a few weeks, and now she's got a shot at running her very own Mercenary Organization Dedicated Only to Killing — M.O.D.O.K.! Talk about getting ahead in business! But Gwenpool may not be up to the task! Still, it's always good to be wanted, right? Except when it's by the NYPD. Or aliens. Her only chance? Do something awful and not care about the consequences! Join the Gwenpool army today!

The problem is, Gwen isn't that good at being morally unambiguous and quickly gets on the bad side of the NYPD and also Miles Morales (Spiderman). The fact that she has also become de facto head of a shady organisation doesn't help either. Also, there are alien arms dealers after Gwen, complicating matters.

This was a fun read and I was sad when I got to the end of it because I have not yet bought the subsequent available trades. Sadface. I think this series has jumped to number two on my Marvel priority list after Squirrel Girl, which is not an easy achievement (knocking Ms Marvel, Spider-Gwen and Captain Marvel down a rung).

I recommend this comic and this series to anyone that likes their fiction to break the fourth wall. I also generally recommend starting with volume 1, but I think volume 2 will make enough sense to a new reader to be an OK place to start. There'll just be some missing backstory. I am very keen to read the next volume of Gwenpool, whenever I manage to get my hands on it.

4.5 / 5 stars

First published: 2017, Marvel Comics
Series: The Unbelievable Gwenpool, vol 1 of 5 so far (I think), collecting issues #5–10
Format read: Trade papeback
Source: All Star Comics, Melbourne