This week I got to read Fisk S.u.b.s.t.i.t.u.t.e. Hero, the newest title from indie publisher Caruso Comics. The story is by Dino Caruso, with art by Shawn Richter.

This story was a take on the secret government agency working the the background of society story. The local for this popular trope was fairly original though, as a school district.  The main character Fisk goes in covertly to the schools to clean up the mess.  Hints are given that the “messes” range from mad science to supernatural.   I was immediately struck with a feeling that this was very similar to Sunnydale sans Buffy.

Even with this unique twist, the story seemed a little forced to make the teachers look extraordinary greedy but overworked. I doubt anyone except teachers would enjoy some of the jokes made.  (I wonder if Caruso had an earlier career as a teacher???)  However, this comic falls squarely in the parody world, making it a light-hearted read.

The art was spot on throughout the issue. Done in black and white, Richter used clean lines and details to make each character unique and easy to remember. I also enjoyed his cover, which made me want to seek out more of his color work.

While a fun read, Fisk S.u.b.s.t.i.t.u.t.e. Hero isn’t going to make it on my monthly pull list.  This is a great gift for the teacher in your life, especially as an intro to comics!