Tom Strong #22

Tom Strong #22, published in 2003, is part of the seminal superhero series created by Alan Moore and Chris Sprouse under the America's Best Comics imprint. Launched by WildStorm and later DC Comics, the title was designed as a pastiche and tribute to the golden age of pulp science fiction and comic book adventure. Moore intended the character to be a departure from the grim, deconstructive tone prevalent in the industry at the time, opting instead for a bright, optimistic atmosphere centered on the life of a science hero living in the retro-futuristic city of Millennium City.

The issue features artwork by Chris Sprouse, whose clean, classic line work was essential to maintaining the series' distinct aesthetic. His design choices were deeply influenced by the heritage of adventure comics, blending intricate mechanical details with a grounded human perspective. Like the rest of the series, this issue was widely praised by critics for its narrative density and its ability to engage with classic tropes while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of contemporary storytelling.