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Hidden Universe Travel Guides #2
Hidden Universe Travel Guides: The Complete Marvel Cosmos: With Notes by the Guardians of the Galaxy
The ultimate guidebook to Earth, the Nine Realms, and other dimensions from Marvel Comics, as told by Peter Quill, Rocket, Groot, and the rest of the Guardians of the Galaxy.
Ever since Super Heroes like Thor and the Guardians of the Galaxy started stomping around planet Earth, we’ve had to open our horizons a little and embrace the wider reaches of space. If you’re thinking of journeying to one of the many new realms for a little R’n’R, then don’t leave home without Hidden Universe’s guide to the cosmos. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the divine splendor of Asgard or soak up the multicultural atmosphere of intergalactic waypoint Knowhere, this is the book for you. It even provides some tips on surviving excursions to Planet Moord and Chitauri Prime, if you like your vacations to be on the extreme side.
• SEE THE COSMOS – Features information on the hot spots, history, and culture of more than forty locations in the Marvel Universe, including Planet X, Halfworld, Weirdworld, and the Planet of the Symbiotes.
• REDISCOVER EARTH – Get the lowdown on some of the Earth's most exotic and mysterious locations, such as Wakanda, Latveria, the Savage Land, and New Attilan.
• GET INVALUABLE ADVICE – Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, and Groot, aka the Guardians of the Galaxy, have filled this book with their own unique travel tips, from where to get a drink in Alfheim to dealing with Ego the Living Planet.
Ever since Super Heroes like Thor and the Guardians of the Galaxy started stomping around planet Earth, we’ve had to open our horizons a little and embrace the wider reaches of space. If you’re thinking of journeying to one of the many new realms for a little R’n’R, then don’t leave home without Hidden Universe’s guide to the cosmos. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the divine splendor of Asgard or soak up the multicultural atmosphere of intergalactic waypoint Knowhere, this is the book for you. It even provides some tips on surviving excursions to Planet Moord and Chitauri Prime, if you like your vacations to be on the extreme side.
• SEE THE COSMOS – Features information on the hot spots, history, and culture of more than forty locations in the Marvel Universe, including Planet X, Halfworld, Weirdworld, and the Planet of the Symbiotes.
• REDISCOVER EARTH – Get the lowdown on some of the Earth's most exotic and mysterious locations, such as Wakanda, Latveria, the Savage Land, and New Attilan.
• GET INVALUABLE ADVICE – Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, and Groot, aka the Guardians of the Galaxy, have filled this book with their own unique travel tips, from where to get a drink in Alfheim to dealing with Ego the Living Planet.
160 pages, Paperback
Published October 25, 2016
7 people are currently reading
460 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
December 7, 2017
You see, somehow I always end up reading a DC comic instead of a Marvel one. It's not that I dislike Marvel or anything like that, and I honestly don't know what the rivalry between the two labels is all about. It's just that, well, DC has Harley Quinn and the Joker, and that's what got me into comics in the first place. Also, both labels have a big history and it's hard to know where to start in the first place. And I hate the early years art style for both DC and Marvel.
Not to mention how overwhelming Marvel's multiverse is. There are so many Earths, and so many different races within one universe. This is where this guide comes in handy.
The guide, too, can be a bit overwhelming at times if you're new to Marvel comics like I am. But the notes from the Guardians of the Galaxy make the read lighter, funnier. It made me think of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. That one, too, had notes from Harry & co.
This is definitely something everyMarvel graphic novels fan should have. That way, if you're reading a comic and you're not sure about the setting or the alien culture, you can check the guide.
*Copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Not to mention how overwhelming Marvel's multiverse is. There are so many Earths, and so many different races within one universe. This is where this guide comes in handy.
The ultimate guidebook to Earth, the Nine Realms, and other dimensions from Marvel Comics, as told by Peter Quill, Rocket, Groot, and the rest of the Guardians of the Galaxy.
Ever since Super Heroes like Thor and the Guardians of the Galaxy started stomping around planet Earth, we’ve had to open our horizons a little and embrace the wider reaches of space. If you’re thinking of journeying to one of the many new realms for a little R’n’R, then don’t leave home without Hidden Universe’s guide to the cosmos. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the divine splendor of Asgard or soak up the multicultural atmosphere of intergalactic waypoint Knowhere, this is the book for you. It even provides some tips on surviving excursions to Planet Moord and Chitauri Prime, if you like your vacations to be on the extreme side.
• SEE THE COSMOS – Features information on the hot spots, history, and culture of more than forty locations in the Marvel Universe, including Planet X, Halfworld, Weirdworld, and the Planet of the Symbiotes.
• REDISCOVER EARTH – Get the lowdown on some of the Earth's most exotic and mysterious locations, such as Wakanda, Latveria, the Savage Land, and New Attilan.
• GET INVALUABLE ADVICE – Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, and Groot, aka the Guardians of the Galaxy, have filled this book with their own unique travel tips, from where to get a drink in Alfheim to dealing with Ego the Living Planet.
The guide, too, can be a bit overwhelming at times if you're new to Marvel comics like I am. But the notes from the Guardians of the Galaxy make the read lighter, funnier. It made me think of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. That one, too, had notes from Harry & co.
This is definitely something every
*Copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 24, 2016
The Marvel Universe is quite vast thanks to it's many locations from Earth to Asgard along with the many alien planets and alternate universes. The Guardians of the Galaxy provide commentary on the known Marvel Universe.
The Hidden Universe Travel Guides: The Complete Marvel Cosmos is a Marvel history lovers dream. The attention to various locations alone is staggering as newer locations such as the Quiet Room and the Alpha Flight space station are included. I was surprised to see the inclusion of alternate universes as the majority are only visited once over a short period of time.
The Complete Marvel Cosmos is a solid book full of the tidbits honorary Marvel historians live for.
3 out of 5 stars
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The Hidden Universe Travel Guides: The Complete Marvel Cosmos is a Marvel history lovers dream. The attention to various locations alone is staggering as newer locations such as the Quiet Room and the Alpha Flight space station are included. I was surprised to see the inclusion of alternate universes as the majority are only visited once over a short period of time.
The Complete Marvel Cosmos is a solid book full of the tidbits honorary Marvel historians live for.
3 out of 5 stars
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 26, 2016
The Guardians of the Galaxy might be my favorite superhero team. The chemistry between the characters that's been set since the beginning is amazing to witness, both in the comics and on-screen.
That chemistry is beautifully incorporated in this book. We learn so much about the Marvel Cosmos, little history and details about all the planets and universes, from Earth and all it's nooks, to Asgard's crannies, and Knowhere's charm. And it's all seconded with laugh-out-loud comments by the member's of the team, their personalities evident in every sentence.
I enjoyed getting to know the Marvel Cosmos, it's wonderfully written, even better executed, and the artwork included was amazing.
That chemistry is beautifully incorporated in this book. We learn so much about the Marvel Cosmos, little history and details about all the planets and universes, from Earth and all it's nooks, to Asgard's crannies, and Knowhere's charm. And it's all seconded with laugh-out-loud comments by the member's of the team, their personalities evident in every sentence.
I enjoyed getting to know the Marvel Cosmos, it's wonderfully written, even better executed, and the artwork included was amazing.
December 2, 2016
The Hidden Universe tour guides from Insight Editions takes readers on a cursory tour of the media tie-in universe, which is a clever concept. Former Marvel editor Marc Sumerak tackles the vastness of the Marvel Universe, simplified for mass readers who know only the movie and TV versions of the concepts. As a result, the visits to the various realms and empires -- Kree, Skrull, Shi'ar, etc. -- are dramatically distilled to the essentials and written as a travel guide.
Earth gets a disproportionate number of pages as New York City, Latveria, Atlantis, Wakanda, the Savage Land, Atlantis, etc. -- all get attention.
Since this is a cut-down version of the cosmos, dozens of established worlds are omitted in favor of a final section visiting the Ten Realms of Asgard, the Negative Zone, the Dark Dimension, Limbo, Battleworld, and so on.
The book is also time-locked, reflecting the reality of the Marvel Comics continuity through 2016 and obviously, the status quo on Earth and around the universe will change by the time this is released in early 2017. One example would be the imminent Monsters Unleashed event which will likely change at least the Monster Island entry and the still-evolving situation with the Inhumans.
Annotating the book are the Guardians of the Galaxy, a clear tie-in to May's second film, and most of the witticisms and asides are fun while others seem to be there merely because they needed more commentary. The movie personalities show through here, more than their comic book antecedents.
The art is curiously underwhelming and feeling homogenized and no art credits were evident in the proof provided by NetGalley.
Earth gets a disproportionate number of pages as New York City, Latveria, Atlantis, Wakanda, the Savage Land, Atlantis, etc. -- all get attention.
Since this is a cut-down version of the cosmos, dozens of established worlds are omitted in favor of a final section visiting the Ten Realms of Asgard, the Negative Zone, the Dark Dimension, Limbo, Battleworld, and so on.
The book is also time-locked, reflecting the reality of the Marvel Comics continuity through 2016 and obviously, the status quo on Earth and around the universe will change by the time this is released in early 2017. One example would be the imminent Monsters Unleashed event which will likely change at least the Monster Island entry and the still-evolving situation with the Inhumans.
Annotating the book are the Guardians of the Galaxy, a clear tie-in to May's second film, and most of the witticisms and asides are fun while others seem to be there merely because they needed more commentary. The movie personalities show through here, more than their comic book antecedents.
The art is curiously underwhelming and feeling homogenized and no art credits were evident in the proof provided by NetGalley.
February 4, 2017
First of all, a disclaimer for anyone reading this who doesn't know; I am a HUGE Marvel fangirl. I honed my writing skills writing Marvel fanfiction, I own every Marvel movie on Blu-Ray and I'm even a big Marvel's Agents of SHIELD fan. So I'm already pretty knowledgeable about the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The problem with this guide is that it can't seem to make up its mind which Marvel 'verse it's part of. Is it the Cinematic Universe? The commentary by the Guardians characters certainly reads like it is... there's a particularly hilarious reference in the Savage Land section to the fact that Chris Pratt plays both Star-Lord and Owen Grady from Jurassic World.
Except... the Savage Land doesn't exist in the MCU, and neither do a lot of the other places referenced here. The Fantastic Four and the X-Men are mentioned multiple times, and they CAN'T exist in the MCU because of contract issues. So we have to assume that this is in fact set in the main comic Marvel 616 'verse.
And that's a problem. Because MCU fans outnumber comic fans by large numbers these days, and I think this book could actually have huge appeal to MCU fans. It's funny, it's informative, it could really help keep things straight and explain other things which are only mentioned in passing on screen.
Instead, it's just going to confuse readers because of all the non-MCU things in it - which will never be MCU.
This is funny, it's beautifully illustrated, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I can't give it five stars, though, because I think it's going to miss its target audience. Which is a pity.
The problem with this guide is that it can't seem to make up its mind which Marvel 'verse it's part of. Is it the Cinematic Universe? The commentary by the Guardians characters certainly reads like it is... there's a particularly hilarious reference in the Savage Land section to the fact that Chris Pratt plays both Star-Lord and Owen Grady from Jurassic World.
Except... the Savage Land doesn't exist in the MCU, and neither do a lot of the other places referenced here. The Fantastic Four and the X-Men are mentioned multiple times, and they CAN'T exist in the MCU because of contract issues. So we have to assume that this is in fact set in the main comic Marvel 616 'verse.
And that's a problem. Because MCU fans outnumber comic fans by large numbers these days, and I think this book could actually have huge appeal to MCU fans. It's funny, it's informative, it could really help keep things straight and explain other things which are only mentioned in passing on screen.
Instead, it's just going to confuse readers because of all the non-MCU things in it - which will never be MCU.
This is funny, it's beautifully illustrated, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I can't give it five stars, though, because I think it's going to miss its target audience. Which is a pity.
October 25, 2016
Lonely Planet of Marvel Cosmos. I loved the tips for a fun trip and little notes in the guide by Star-Lord, Drax, Rocket, Gamora & Groot.
Thank you Insight Editions and Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you Insight Editions and Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 8, 2020
An Interesting guide book for people who were really looking forward in marvel's universe ! The editing and colouring of this book does attract the attention of the reader to explore more in every pages of the book . For marvel's fan , this book is a MUST for you guys. Go check 'em out! 😁
August 10, 2017
Its a cute little coffee table book for those that must show off their geekery and consumerism.
As far as content its light and repetitive. The notes from the Guardians of the Galaxy made me laugh out loud once or twice, but for the most part its the same one-note joke over and over in a various distracting fonts. The most interesting places tended to have the least amount of information on them, but by god a third of the book is covering Earth.
Everything this seeks to do I can't help but feel the Magic Planeswalkers Guide did better.
As far as content its light and repetitive. The notes from the Guardians of the Galaxy made me laugh out loud once or twice, but for the most part its the same one-note joke over and over in a various distracting fonts. The most interesting places tended to have the least amount of information on them, but by god a third of the book is covering Earth.
Everything this seeks to do I can't help but feel the Magic Planeswalkers Guide did better.
April 8, 2019
dumb, but entertaining
February 12, 2017
This was a lot of fun. It was like the Guardians of the Galaxy lent me their copy of Lonely Planet: Marvel Universe. Written as an actual travel guide for the Marvel U with notes in the margins by the Guardians crew. So much fun.
Received an advance copy from Insight and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Received an advance copy from Insight and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 28, 2017
Clever way to introduce all the planets and worlds made popular in the comics. Though missing a few worlds, it covers a decent amount of the planets and places. My limited Comic knowledge means this is a valuable resource and helps me learn more about the different cultures. However my limited Comic knowledge also points out that the Guardians and Captain Marvel has faced more planets than this book explores.
I still love it none the less.
I still love it none the less.
November 17, 2016
The Guardian's comments throughout become tiresome and repetitive. I mean, how many times can you read "I AM GROOT," before saying enough already?
November 19, 2016
I received a copy of this book for review (Thanks Insight Editions) and the main reason I wanted to read it was because I'm a huge Guardians of the Galaxy fan. I was pretty impressed with the amount of effort put into this book with the detail and layout of the travel guide to the cosmos!
It would be a great book for older children, young adults or even adults that are fans of the comic or movie because it has a lot of knowledge about the planets in this universe. It mostly follows through the process of describing a world, talking about the history, letting you know what you should wear on that planet, etiquette, the sights and activities, where you should stay, what you should do or not do and a few fun facts as well. So as you can see from that huge list there is plenty to read as there is a long list of planets described in the book but there's a large portion on Earth and other popular destinations like Asgard and the Dark Dimension.
Throughout this book we also have commentary for the team and some of it can get pretty hilarious but possibly not suitable for younger children since it follows the same sort of dialogue they have in the movie with their lack of halos. The illustrations are also beautiful but I think they are from the comics from the style of them but of course they are a welcome addition to the book.
It would be a great book for older children, young adults or even adults that are fans of the comic or movie because it has a lot of knowledge about the planets in this universe. It mostly follows through the process of describing a world, talking about the history, letting you know what you should wear on that planet, etiquette, the sights and activities, where you should stay, what you should do or not do and a few fun facts as well. So as you can see from that huge list there is plenty to read as there is a long list of planets described in the book but there's a large portion on Earth and other popular destinations like Asgard and the Dark Dimension.
Throughout this book we also have commentary for the team and some of it can get pretty hilarious but possibly not suitable for younger children since it follows the same sort of dialogue they have in the movie with their lack of halos. The illustrations are also beautiful but I think they are from the comics from the style of them but of course they are a welcome addition to the book.
April 5, 2019
I love Marvel stories. I admit that back in the day I thought my brother childish when he read the comic books, but once the first tv show came out I was hooked. Bruce Danner was a favorite of mine when the tv series ran, and of course Superman before him. But as more and more characters starred in movies, their home planets were harder to keep track of, and sometimes a bit hard to understand (since I had not read my brothers comics). This book remedies that! And explains a lot of detail overall. I would never guess the spelling of many of these places.
So if you would like to plan a trip to the marvel universe this is for you. Or some obscure places on Earth. It also tells you what to do and what not to do, cultural info and even how to dress or act. Plus miscellaneous notes from the guardians of the galaxy. All in one place. What's not to love about that? A really cool book to get or gift.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
So if you would like to plan a trip to the marvel universe this is for you. Or some obscure places on Earth. It also tells you what to do and what not to do, cultural info and even how to dress or act. Plus miscellaneous notes from the guardians of the galaxy. All in one place. What's not to love about that? A really cool book to get or gift.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher and NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
June 14, 2017
I received this as a Goodreads giveaway.
In the spirit of full disclosure, I'm a curmudgeonly Marvel Comics fan who grew up on the comics at the tail-end of the '80s through the mid-'90s. So for me, the books are canon. The MCU is just flights of fancy. I know. I know. It's all flights of fancy, but I am who I am :)
All that said, this was a fun travel guide so reminiscent of the old Official Handbooks of the Marvel Universe I collected as a teenager. Except in this case, it catalogs places in the vast marvel Universe (as well as the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe) instead of characters and does it with twinkle in it's eye.
All-in-all, this is a handy cornerstone book that fills the gap between the comics and the movies nicely. Excelsior! (always wanted to say that :) ) and four Stars.
In the spirit of full disclosure, I'm a curmudgeonly Marvel Comics fan who grew up on the comics at the tail-end of the '80s through the mid-'90s. So for me, the books are canon. The MCU is just flights of fancy. I know. I know. It's all flights of fancy, but I am who I am :)
All that said, this was a fun travel guide so reminiscent of the old Official Handbooks of the Marvel Universe I collected as a teenager. Except in this case, it catalogs places in the vast marvel Universe (as well as the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe) instead of characters and does it with twinkle in it's eye.
All-in-all, this is a handy cornerstone book that fills the gap between the comics and the movies nicely. Excelsior! (always wanted to say that :) ) and four Stars.
October 25, 2017
I received an advanced copy of this book from Netgalley and Simon and Schuster, in exchange for a fair and honest review. Thank you! 🙂
This was a fun colorful book. It dealt with a lot of the people and planets we have met in the MCU and a few we haven’t yet. I just felt that if your going to base a travel guide on the Marvel universe then try and include all the characters and planets. Still....an informative read. The little side notes by the Guardians of the Galaxy were hilarious.
This was a fun colorful book. It dealt with a lot of the people and planets we have met in the MCU and a few we haven’t yet. I just felt that if your going to base a travel guide on the Marvel universe then try and include all the characters and planets. Still....an informative read. The little side notes by the Guardians of the Galaxy were hilarious.
December 30, 2017
This was a lot of fun. I enjoy reading about fictional worlds and this was well delivered. The information is concise and each section is about the right length to let you know what's what but not get boring. The pictures are pretty, although I can tell that they're recycled as I recognised a few (and I've not read many comics). The comments by the Guardians fit with my type of humour. So many puns.
September 28, 2018
Cool if cheesy little book that acts as a travel guide to many destinations in the Marvel Universe. Easy to read while half paying attention watching something else. Not sure if you can buy this, think it wa in a Loot Crate. Anyway, it had some good art and reminded me how many stories have been spun over the years through all the Marvel properties.
February 3, 2021
A great read for any marvel fans and I really hope there are more of these as it was fun the read also some of the notes from the Guardians did kind of make me laugh. Also it was just nice to read about different spots and learn about the lore of the Marvel Universe. I did notice some locations were left out like Hell.
June 6, 2017
wow!! ridiculously funny! Love the comments from guardians throughout! I am groot!
July 20, 2017
I did learn a few things about the Marvel Universe (current), and it was a goofy fun read - and not just the notes strewn through.
December 29, 2017
Entertaining little book for people who like Marvel. It is not very in-depth, but I greatly enjoyed the notes by the Guardians of the Galaxy [they were quite funny].
December 9, 2018
Not at all what I was expecting, but it was interesting.
June 22, 2025
Much too focused on Earth, 'our' solar system and the Realms of Asgard. That takes up the majority of the book and the Guardians gimmick doesn't add anything of note to the reading experience or the information being presented to warrant having included it.
October 20, 2016
informative yet entertaining.
March 16, 2017
I was going to go with The Good and The Bad, but it turned out that the only thing I really liked was that it was actually written like a travel guide, strange as it might be to take note of that. I especially liked What to Wear parts as well as Tips for a Fun Trip, though the general tone of the rest is entertaining as well.
On the other hand, the rest didn't do much for me. As a Deadpool reader, I expected that I would love at least the notes scribbled here and there, even if I didn't like the rest (because let's face it, these things are hardly ever written as well as they look; pick up any encyclopedia you want). In fact, I actually did like them for a little while, but there is only so many of similar jokes you can go through without getting sick of them, especially where Groot is concerned. The problem was more the lack of variety than the amount.
I don't have much to say about the art either. I've seen better; I've seen worse.
Overall, I would say that this guide is more for turning a few pages while waiting for something than actually sitting and reading. I can't recommend. 2/5
On the other hand, the rest didn't do much for me. As a Deadpool reader, I expected that I would love at least the notes scribbled here and there, even if I didn't like the rest (because let's face it, these things are hardly ever written as well as they look; pick up any encyclopedia you want). In fact, I actually did like them for a little while, but there is only so many of similar jokes you can go through without getting sick of them, especially where Groot is concerned. The problem was more the lack of variety than the amount.
I don't have much to say about the art either. I've seen better; I've seen worse.
Overall, I would say that this guide is more for turning a few pages while waiting for something than actually sitting and reading. I can't recommend. 2/5
January 3, 2017
This review originally published in Looking For a Good Book. Rated 2.5 of 5
I absolutely adored the Star Trek edition of the Hidden Universe Travel Guide (see review here), and being a long-time fan of Marvel comics (and renewed fan thanks to the movies) I was really looking forward to this next edition in the series. But what felt like a real travel guide in our make-believe world of the Star Trek universe, feels much more like a comic book atlas than a take-off on the Fodor's or Frommer's that sit in the travel sections of book stores.
The book is nicely researched and there's a whole lot of information in here that will really appeal to the Marvel fan. Not being a Marvel historian, I can't really say how much might be created just for this book and how much has existed through the decades of comic book creation.
On every other page (or thereabouts) members of the Guardians of the Galaxy have made additional 'hand-written' notes commenting (usually irreverently) on something. These notes are often fun and editor/author Sumerak manages to not get too carried away with it such that it gets annoying or distracting.
For the history and humor, this book is a lot of fun.
But this is part of a fake Travel Guide series and it kind of doesn't quite live up to the expectation. Unlike the other Hidden Universe guide I read, this one didn't make anything sound like a place to visit with sights to see, instead, it seemed more like a history tour guide - places where battles occurred or where famous villains reside(d).
While I understand including the Guardians of the Galaxy as note-makers given their recent film and appeal, it does strike me (especially after looking at the opening few pages of the book) that Silver Surfer might have made a better guide through the universe.
One of the last things that I didn't care too much for, but again - completely understand - is the art. As a mock travel guide, I would like to see images that are much more like photographs of the places I'm considering visiting. What we get here is very traditional comic book art which, for this reader at least, serves to remind us that this is not much more than a novelty comic book. If that's what you are hoping for then, this is a great addition to your collection. If you are wanting something more, or a Hidden Universe series that is strikingly similar from book to book, then this is a disappointment.
For me, it was the latter.
Looking for a good book? Hidden Universe Travel Guides: The Complete Marvel Cosmos: With Notes by the Guardians of the Galaxy by Marc Sumerak is sort of a comic book atlas that has a lot of interesting and fun information, but departs from the appeal that the Star Trek Hidden Universe book held.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely adored the Star Trek edition of the Hidden Universe Travel Guide (see review here), and being a long-time fan of Marvel comics (and renewed fan thanks to the movies) I was really looking forward to this next edition in the series. But what felt like a real travel guide in our make-believe world of the Star Trek universe, feels much more like a comic book atlas than a take-off on the Fodor's or Frommer's that sit in the travel sections of book stores.
The book is nicely researched and there's a whole lot of information in here that will really appeal to the Marvel fan. Not being a Marvel historian, I can't really say how much might be created just for this book and how much has existed through the decades of comic book creation.
On every other page (or thereabouts) members of the Guardians of the Galaxy have made additional 'hand-written' notes commenting (usually irreverently) on something. These notes are often fun and editor/author Sumerak manages to not get too carried away with it such that it gets annoying or distracting.
For the history and humor, this book is a lot of fun.
But this is part of a fake Travel Guide series and it kind of doesn't quite live up to the expectation. Unlike the other Hidden Universe guide I read, this one didn't make anything sound like a place to visit with sights to see, instead, it seemed more like a history tour guide - places where battles occurred or where famous villains reside(d).
While I understand including the Guardians of the Galaxy as note-makers given their recent film and appeal, it does strike me (especially after looking at the opening few pages of the book) that Silver Surfer might have made a better guide through the universe.
One of the last things that I didn't care too much for, but again - completely understand - is the art. As a mock travel guide, I would like to see images that are much more like photographs of the places I'm considering visiting. What we get here is very traditional comic book art which, for this reader at least, serves to remind us that this is not much more than a novelty comic book. If that's what you are hoping for then, this is a great addition to your collection. If you are wanting something more, or a Hidden Universe series that is strikingly similar from book to book, then this is a disappointment.
For me, it was the latter.
Looking for a good book? Hidden Universe Travel Guides: The Complete Marvel Cosmos: With Notes by the Guardians of the Galaxy by Marc Sumerak is sort of a comic book atlas that has a lot of interesting and fun information, but departs from the appeal that the Star Trek Hidden Universe book held.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
October 20, 2016
Description
The ultimate guidebook to Earth, the Nine Realms, and other dimensions from Marvel Comics, as told by Peter Quill, Rocket, Groot, and the rest of the Guardians of the Galaxy.
Ever since Super Heroes like Thor and the Guardians of the Galaxy started stomping around planet Earth, we’ve had to open our horizons a little and embrace the wider reaches of space. If you’re thinking of journeying to one of the many new realms for a little R’n’R, then don’t leave home without Hidden Universe’s guide to the cosmos. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the divine splendor of Asgard or soak up the multicultural atmosphere of intergalactic waypoint Knowhere, this is the book for you. It even provides some tips on surviving excursions to Planet Moord and Chitauri Prime, if you like your vacations to be on the extreme side.
• SEE THE COSMOS – Features information on the hot spots, history, and culture of more than forty locations in the Marvel Universe, including Planet X, Halfworld, Weirdworld, and the Planet of the Symbiotes.
• REDISCOVER EARTH – Get the lowdown on some of the Earth's most exotic and mysterious locations, such as Wakanda, Latveria, the Savage Land, and New Attilan.
• GET INVALUABLE ADVICE – Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, and Groot, aka the Guardians of the Galaxy, have filled this book with their own unique travel tips, from where to get a drink in Alfheim to dealing with Ego the Living Planet.
Available Editions
Wow, I love this book. I want to be clear, I know nothing of Marvel Worlds,Universe's or Galaxies. I read some comic books as a kid, but I am coming at this as a voyeur into a culture I know little about.
What I do know, is that this book would make an excellent gift for anyone young or even an adult who loves Marvel,D.C. or any of the huge/vast enterprise comic books have created.
The drawings are spectacular, and they were always the reason behind me picking one up. I love the art, and the details of each world are set up as if you actually are reading a travel guide, say to go to Spain.
Very well put together and entertaining. The book goes on to tell you what to wear, the cultures, and what to see while you are there, and even where to stay. How cool is that? It also has notes from The Guardian's of the Galaxy telling you what to avoid, and a retell of things that happened to them while visiting. I am impressed!
This book, will be really amazing in published form, and I would look for it. It is fantastic.
The ultimate guidebook to Earth, the Nine Realms, and other dimensions from Marvel Comics, as told by Peter Quill, Rocket, Groot, and the rest of the Guardians of the Galaxy.
Ever since Super Heroes like Thor and the Guardians of the Galaxy started stomping around planet Earth, we’ve had to open our horizons a little and embrace the wider reaches of space. If you’re thinking of journeying to one of the many new realms for a little R’n’R, then don’t leave home without Hidden Universe’s guide to the cosmos. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the divine splendor of Asgard or soak up the multicultural atmosphere of intergalactic waypoint Knowhere, this is the book for you. It even provides some tips on surviving excursions to Planet Moord and Chitauri Prime, if you like your vacations to be on the extreme side.
• SEE THE COSMOS – Features information on the hot spots, history, and culture of more than forty locations in the Marvel Universe, including Planet X, Halfworld, Weirdworld, and the Planet of the Symbiotes.
• REDISCOVER EARTH – Get the lowdown on some of the Earth's most exotic and mysterious locations, such as Wakanda, Latveria, the Savage Land, and New Attilan.
• GET INVALUABLE ADVICE – Star-Lord, Gamora, Drax, Rocket, and Groot, aka the Guardians of the Galaxy, have filled this book with their own unique travel tips, from where to get a drink in Alfheim to dealing with Ego the Living Planet.
Available Editions
Wow, I love this book. I want to be clear, I know nothing of Marvel Worlds,Universe's or Galaxies. I read some comic books as a kid, but I am coming at this as a voyeur into a culture I know little about.
What I do know, is that this book would make an excellent gift for anyone young or even an adult who loves Marvel,D.C. or any of the huge/vast enterprise comic books have created.
The drawings are spectacular, and they were always the reason behind me picking one up. I love the art, and the details of each world are set up as if you actually are reading a travel guide, say to go to Spain.
Very well put together and entertaining. The book goes on to tell you what to wear, the cultures, and what to see while you are there, and even where to stay. How cool is that? It also has notes from The Guardian's of the Galaxy telling you what to avoid, and a retell of things that happened to them while visiting. I am impressed!
This book, will be really amazing in published form, and I would look for it. It is fantastic.
December 9, 2016
Hidden Universe Travel Guide to the Complete Cosmos: With Notes by the Guardians of the Galaxy by Marc Sumerak is the ultimate guidebook to Earth, the Nine Realms, and other dimensions from Marvel Comics, as told by Peter Quill, Rocket, Groot, and the rest of the Guardians of the Galaxy.
Ever since Super Heroes like Thor and the Guardians of the Galaxy started stomping around planet Earth, we’ve had to open our horizons a little and embrace the wider reaches of space. If you’re thinking of journeying to one of the many new realms for a little down time, then don’t leave home without Hidden Universe’s guide to the cosmos. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the divine splendor of Asgard or soak up the multicultural atmosphere of intergalactic waypoint Knowhere, this is the book for you. It even provides some tips on surviving excursions to Planet Moord and Chitauri Prime, if you like your vacations to be on the extreme side.
Hidden Universe Travel Guide to the Complete Cosmos is a good place to start if you are know to the Marvel universe, or just want to fill in some knowledge gaps. It is not comprehensive- as there are just so many things to cover, but it an entertaining start because of the interjections of the Guardians. This book offers readers information on the hot spots, history, and culture of more than forty locations in the Marvel Universe, including Planet X, Halfworld, Weirdworld, and the Planet of the Symbiotes. There is also some discussion of some of the Earth's most exotic and mysterious locations, such as Wakanda, Latveria, the Savage Land, and New Attila. The humor and snark of the commentary really made the book a fun read, and I learned a few things.
Hidden Universe Travel Guide to the Complete Cosmos is a good guide to those who enjoy some of the graphic novels or movies that feature the Marvel world of superheroes and creatures. It helps fill in the blanks that you might not know if you have missed an important issue or movie- and want to fully understand the possible implications of wise cracks, drawn weapons, and diplomatic mistakes.
Ever since Super Heroes like Thor and the Guardians of the Galaxy started stomping around planet Earth, we’ve had to open our horizons a little and embrace the wider reaches of space. If you’re thinking of journeying to one of the many new realms for a little down time, then don’t leave home without Hidden Universe’s guide to the cosmos. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the divine splendor of Asgard or soak up the multicultural atmosphere of intergalactic waypoint Knowhere, this is the book for you. It even provides some tips on surviving excursions to Planet Moord and Chitauri Prime, if you like your vacations to be on the extreme side.
Hidden Universe Travel Guide to the Complete Cosmos is a good place to start if you are know to the Marvel universe, or just want to fill in some knowledge gaps. It is not comprehensive- as there are just so many things to cover, but it an entertaining start because of the interjections of the Guardians. This book offers readers information on the hot spots, history, and culture of more than forty locations in the Marvel Universe, including Planet X, Halfworld, Weirdworld, and the Planet of the Symbiotes. There is also some discussion of some of the Earth's most exotic and mysterious locations, such as Wakanda, Latveria, the Savage Land, and New Attila. The humor and snark of the commentary really made the book a fun read, and I learned a few things.
Hidden Universe Travel Guide to the Complete Cosmos is a good guide to those who enjoy some of the graphic novels or movies that feature the Marvel world of superheroes and creatures. It helps fill in the blanks that you might not know if you have missed an important issue or movie- and want to fully understand the possible implications of wise cracks, drawn weapons, and diplomatic mistakes.
February 6, 2017
I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
3.5 Stars. This Review was originally posted on my blog @ Swissbookworm.
Looking back at my reading updates on Goodreads, I would say it’s clear that I enjoyed this book. Thanks to a glitch in my app it seems like I’m overexcited on page 41. What better way to express your feelings, right?
But I actually really did enjoy reading this book. I like to read travel guides in my freetime anyway, and what better travel guide than one explaining the entire Galaxy? (At least how it exists in the Marvel world…) With really great artwork and a brilliant layout you can easily spot what you want to read, and get all the tips you need if you ever plan to visit Planet Moord, Halfworld, Ego or Knowhere (most of which I’d actually advise you not to visit…).
The description of the different planets and worlds didn’t bore me at all, but after a while I had to concentrate on not slipping away with my thoughts. Thankfully, there were the (comical) comments by the Guardians of the Galaxy team to lighten up the mood.
This can be a fun read which you definitely don’t have to read in one sitting and can leave and pick up again anytime you want. If you’re interested in the Marvel Cosmos, I recommend you to have a look at this fun travel guide. It might even help you explain some of the different power sources of our beloved superheroes and villains.
But wait! This isn't the end of my review. You can read the rest of the review on my blog by clicking here.
3.5 Stars. This Review was originally posted on my blog @ Swissbookworm.
Looking back at my reading updates on Goodreads, I would say it’s clear that I enjoyed this book. Thanks to a glitch in my app it seems like I’m overexcited on page 41. What better way to express your feelings, right?
But I actually really did enjoy reading this book. I like to read travel guides in my freetime anyway, and what better travel guide than one explaining the entire Galaxy? (At least how it exists in the Marvel world…) With really great artwork and a brilliant layout you can easily spot what you want to read, and get all the tips you need if you ever plan to visit Planet Moord, Halfworld, Ego or Knowhere (most of which I’d actually advise you not to visit…).
The description of the different planets and worlds didn’t bore me at all, but after a while I had to concentrate on not slipping away with my thoughts. Thankfully, there were the (comical) comments by the Guardians of the Galaxy team to lighten up the mood.
This can be a fun read which you definitely don’t have to read in one sitting and can leave and pick up again anytime you want. If you’re interested in the Marvel Cosmos, I recommend you to have a look at this fun travel guide. It might even help you explain some of the different power sources of our beloved superheroes and villains.
But wait! This isn't the end of my review. You can read the rest of the review on my blog by clicking here.
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