MR. Comic Shop Opens in Nearby Watkinsville

Two lifelong comic book fans and collectors are bringing their passion for the industry to Watkinsville.

John Crowe and co-owner Kristy Klinck are opening MR. Comic Shop at 18 N. Main Street on April 3.

Since new comics are released on Wednesdays, it seemed fitting to open the doors for the first time that day, Crowe explained.

The pair moved from California to Farmington one year ago to be closer to friends and Crowe's alma mater - the University of Georgia.  They're also enjoying the serenity a home in rural Oconee County offers, he said.

Though the Watkinsville store will be the first they've owned in Georgia, Crowe and Klinck aren't new to the business world. For five years they operated Neon Monster, a comics and specialty toy store in San Francisco. And since moving, they've continued to deal online.

According to Crowe, the comics industry is booming.

Part of that success can be attributed to the popularity of The Walking Dead, which began as a comic published by Image Comics.  Blockbuster hits like Marvel's Avengers and the Spider-Man series have also revived and increased the fan base, he said.

Mr. Comic Shop boasts a huge inventory ranging from the 1940s to the present and the vintage editions will be constantly rotated. However, the focus will be on the sale of new comics, both mainstream and independent.

On average 40-100 new comics are released each week, and those titles will hit the shelves at 11 a.m. sharp, Crowe said.  Trade paperbacks- compilations of similar story arcs in book format- will also be available.  Customers may choose to sign up for a subscription service so they won't miss an issue, he added, and those subscribers will be treated to a 10 percent discount on purchases.

Additionally, Crowe says he's always open to buying collections if someone is interested in selling.

The shop will be open Tuesdays- Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Along with  comics, related merchandise such as t-shirts will be sold.

Comic fans can keep up with MR. Comic Shop on Facebook and reach the store by calling 706-769-7414 or by emailing mr.comicshop@gmail.com.