“Sandman Special” #1 opened the door to mythological world in October 1991

In October 1991, DC comics released “Sandman Special” #1, a one-off story adapting the mythological story of Orpheus, with a glow-in-the-dark cover.

Because I’d heard good things about the series, and because I was interested in both cover gimmicks and first issues, I bought this one.  It probably was responsible for my sticking with comics throughout college.

This is the latest in my continuing series looking back at the comic books of 1991.  In this post, I’ll look at the comics I bought in October 1991, and at some of the other comic books that were available.  I’m using the newsstand option at Mike’s Amazing World of Comics as my reference guide for this.  When I remember, I’ll share details about how and where I bought comics at the time.

“Sandman” was the acclaimed series by Neil Gaiman, a revamp of the 1940s “Sandman” character with a completely new twist.  Working with a variety of artists, over 75 issues Gaiman told the tale of Morpheus, aka Dream or the Sandman.  The Sandman is one of the Endless, seven immortal siblings who personify seven concepts: Dream, Death, Destiny, Destruction, Desire, Delirium and Despair.

This issue was deeper and more intense that what I was used to at the time; it led me to quickly pick up issue #33 of the series, on sale at the same time, and to eventually go on to read Hellblazer and some of DC Comics’ other books aimed at adult readers.  I’m pretty sure both “Sandman” comics were picked up at the New World Comics that was then at Main and 24th in Norman.

Also bought at New World – though not seen at Mike’s site – was “Harbinger” #1, which deepened my interest in Valiant Comics. I had previously tried “Magnus, Robot Fighter” #5, and was interested in “Solar: Man of the Atom.” I may have picked up issue #5 this month, though I’m not positive.  When I saw a chance to get in on the ground floor with “Harbinger” #1, I jumped on it, and even bought two copies.  Soon after, I was buying the entire Valiant line.