Graham Crackers Comics of St. Charles — Local services in St. Charles

I should point out that my days of serious comic book collecting are pretty much behind me, and ended because money was becoming an issue. At the risk of dating myself, this was actually before the implosion in the nineties…if you know, you know.

The point being, I am the epitome of the casual browser when I come into a comic shop. I used to be the kid that had to be reminded that the comic shop was not a library. Now I’m the old man grousing that comics these days are not nearly as good as they were back in my day. (They’re not, but I’m here to talk about the store, not the publishing industry.)

But for my purposes, Graham Cracker Comics on Randall has become a bit of a haven when I have the urge to reminisce about my favorite hobby from my youth, and check out what’s new in the era of the Marvel Cinematic Universe—itself something almost miraculous to a lad who had to settle for “The Greatest American Hero” growing up.

The point is, the staff has been very indulgent to letting me walk around and browse, and has been exceedingly helpful in answering questions to someone who’s been out of the field for a long time, and is probably annoying them with his eighties comic references. They have a comprehensive and well-organized collection of trade paperbacks. And while I don’t buy toys for myself anymore, their action figure selection almost makes me wish I did.

My only complaint (apart from the artistic quality of the merchandise, which isn’t the store’s fault) is that when I do find a series or story arc catches my attention, they seem chronically understocked on the specific issues I’m looking for. And I can’t ding my rating on them for that, I’m sure they’ve got a fine system for pulling reserved issues for customers. I just haven’t availed myself of it because where the modern comic book industry is concerned, I’ve got commitment issues, so I’m keeping it spontaneous.

If you’re into comics, or just curious, you want to check out a store where the staff are as knowledgeable as they are helpful. And unlike many retail stores these days (grumpy old man here, remember) I actually say that as a positive...

The KIDS that work at Grahams are not helpful and rude. Yes they have comic books so there's your one star. Came in without a mask kid tells me very rudely with no shame to put one on.. I tell him ok and that no one is in the store. I put mask on and ask him who the manager is the other store doesn't care and he refuses to give his name and managers than argues and tells me to leave store had my son with me whom stayed and I stood by door. He caled police who came and did NUTHING because masks are not a ticketed offense. For the store owners or the patrons. Graham Crackers comics can find some more professional employees and not narrow minded children who only practice rudeness. Go somewhere else for your comics. Was never told I was banned but is laughable!! Even police were humored. Maybe kids should learn reality outside of what's in a comic. Goodluck in the real world displaying professional skills are needed. Might be only working at comic book store is for you. I have all on video and will be sending to local news feeds and corporate Graham comic headquarters. Oh and If masks worked the first time we wouldn't need them again.. keep...

This one of my all time favorite stores in all of the Chicago land area. Dan and the rest of his staff has been nothing but nice and very helpful on helping me fill holes in my collection, expand my overall collection and introducing me to new comics and helping me find old comics that make my collection truly complete. I am a dedicated buyer and if i find a place that makes my buying experience to my liking, i will always return. and if i don't, i will not return. i found Graham Crackers at C2E2. I love all the graphic novels they had. so i always would check them out year after year. i had a comic book guy for years but he was not willing to go the extra mile on helping me get my collection in order. after many attempts to get his help i gave up on him. then i made the move to Graham Crackers and have never looked back since. i love this store and overwhelming helpful staff. Thanks Again for all your GRAHAM CRACKERS.

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