A Guide to Comic Book Stores in Savannah
Written by Matthew Thompsen. Graphic by Nathan Adolphe. Photos by Matthew Thompsen.
When I was growing up in rural South Carolina, the nearest comic book store was a 30-minute drive away, so coming to Savannah was quite the adjustment. On one hand, it was great to have so many options, but on the other, I had no way of knowing where to begin. What I hope to give you with this article is a place to begin.
I have compiled five of what I believe to be the best comic book stores in Savannah so that you can get a glimpse into what each of them has to offer and decide if they’re worth checking out. So, whether you’re a SEQA major or just a fan of the art form, I hope you’ll get some use out of this guide to comic book stores in Savannah.
Planet Fun Satellite
For my money, this is the best comic store in Savannah if for no other reason than the variety of its selection. From the big names like DC and Marvel, to independent publishers like Image, mangas from Dandaddan to Uzumaki, collections to single issues, classics to modern, and even a stand dedicated to novels; if you’re looking for it chances are they have it.
They’re located on Abercorn Street, a block from Trustees Theater and Jen Library, so if you ever go to watch a movie or check out a book, you can swing by and have a look. Worst-case scenario, you can check them off the list. If you ask me, I say their combination of selection and accessibility can’t be beat.
Odin and Sons: Comics and Collectibles
Located on the same block as Planet Fun Satellite, this shop may at first seem unwhelming compared to its neighbor, but don’t let that first impression turn you off. It’s true that it doesn’t have the same variety of comics as its competitor, but it more than makes up for that with the second part of its name: collectibles.
They have figurines, stickers, pushies, board games, hats, backpacks, and collectibles of all shapes and kinds. They even have some claw games in the back. They may not have the strongest comic selection, but if you’re looking for an accessory, chances are they have it. It’s certainly a different experience from Planet Fun, and it won’t be what everyone’s looking for, but if it is what you’re looking for, then I’d give this place a try.
Neighborhood Comics
Located within walking distance of Arnold Hall, Neighborhood Comics boasts a selection comparable to Planet Fun. They place more focus on single issues and collector’s items (they have a display near the front filled with what I assume are original print classic comics), so be aware that you’ll be less likely to find collections or sets before you make the trip.
Neighborhood Comics also has two tables for card games in addition to their usual comic store offerings. There isn’t a lot of room, but if you and a few of your friends are looking for a place to play some card games this is certainly a viable option.
E Shaver Booksellers
Now, I know that if you’ve been looking into places to buy books, you’ve probably heard of E Shaver plenty of times before, but that’s only because it’s such a good store. While technically a store dedicated to books and novels rather than comics, if you go in and take the second right and then go right again, you’ll find a wall dedicated to comics, manga, and graphic novels.
They boast an impressive selection for how small their space is, and have a more diverse selection of works that you’d be less likely to find in a more typical comic book store. I personally got a copy of Nimona the last time I was there, and I usually see some of the works of Simon Stålenhag when I visit. It wouldn’t be my first choice for comics specifically, but it’s worth checking out.
Savannah Comics & More
Readers be warned: you will need a car to reach this one, as it is located south of the Oglethorpe Mall. If you can make it down there, though, I can’t recommend Savannah Comics & More enough. Of all the stores on this list, this one manages to pack its comics in the most efficient way. The store isn’t that large, but the fact that every wall in the store is filled to the brim means that you could spend quite a long time there regardless.
In regard to what they offer over the other stores on this list, that would be collections. I have never seen so many omnibuses, collections, books, and volumes in the same place before. If you’ve got a series you’re looking to collect, I’d recommend checking Savannah Comics out before buying from Amazon. See if you can’t support a small business.
