One of the great things I love about going to Comic Con International in San Diego is taking a stroll through the small press section, Artist’s Alley and the Image set-up. I never know what I’ll find, but I always find something interesting that nearly makes the whole convention worthwhile.

In 2011, it was Ian Churchill’s Marineman.

This year, it was Reed Gunther by Shane and Chris Houghton.

I’ve forgotten which one of the creators I met at the Image Comics booth (got to start writing these things down), but he hand-sold me a copy of Reed Gunther #2, one of the older issues.

This is a terrific comic book. The story is touted for all ages, and it truly is. I can easily see this being enjoyed by a 9-year-old and a 39-year-old - it’s just great fun with terrific storytelling chops on display by both writer and artist.

Here’s all you need to know: Reed is a a cowboy who rides a bear named Sterling. They appear to roam from town-to-town getting into and out of all kinds of wild situations. In issue #2, Reed is roped into heading into a local mine ostensibly to look for gold. He gets a lot more than he bargained for, including some trouble from the creatures who lurk down below.

The art is top-notch. It’s a fluid, cartoony style that easily captures the feel of the Western setting while bursting out into wildly comedic action. It's like watching a Cartoon Network show in comic book form.

Now I have to find all the missing issues and catch up.

[Artwork: Reed Gunther #2]