My Visit to Ken's Comics: A Hidden Gem
There’s nothing quite like stepping into a freshly opened comic book shop—that intoxicating blend of new paint and old paper, the scent of nostalgia mixing with possibility. That’s exactly what greeted me when I walked into Ken's Comics yesterday, a new spot that instantly felt like home.
The Selection & Experience
The shop boasts an impressive selection of books, with shelves arranged like a comic lover’s library. You don’t just flip through random stacks here; you grab a short box, walk it over to the end cap of an aisle, and dive in. It’s an efficient and satisfying way to browse, making the hunt for hidden treasures even more enjoyable.
I did notice that some prices still carried that pandemic-era inflation, but even so, we managed to unearth some real gems. One of the biggest surprises was discovering the work of Tim Tyler. His sketch covers were beautifully displayed in a glass case, and after admiring his art, we decided to snag all of them.
Wall books line the entire showroom floor, all neatly protected in top loaders. A sign reminds customers to “ask for help” before handling them, which is understandable for preservation’s sake. However, the prices are listed on the back, which can be a bit inconvenient when browsing multiple books. A small suggestion: putting prices on the front might make things easier for customers—and likely increase sales.
Beyond comics, the shop also had an impressive selection of character statues. From classic superhero icons to more niche collectibles, the variety was solid. What really caught my attention was their collection of Bowen statues—these are getting increasingly hard to find, and seeing a few on display was a nice treat for serious collectors.
The People & The Atmosphere
Beyond the books, the shop’s real charm lies in its people. Piper, the daughter of the shop’s owner, Ken, was a delight—knowledgeable, friendly, and clearly passionate about comics. She even gave us a fantastic lunch recommendation: Dominic’s, conveniently located downstairs, which turned out to be a perfect spot to refuel after a deep dive into the bins.
Before we left, we noticed that a fresh collection had just arrived, still waiting to be priced. Naturally, we pulled out a stack and left them behind to be priced out; a perfect excuse for a return visit.
Final Thoughts
A clean, well-organized shop with a strong selection and a welcoming atmosphere—what more could you ask for? Ken's Comics is definitely a spot worth checking out, and I’ll be back soon for round two.
10/10 would recommend.