When Thor died at the end of his last series, it was only a matter of time before Odin's son returned. No one in comics stays dead for long, much less one of the most powerful heroes in the Marvel Universe. Although the tone is very different from past presentations of the character, it is true to the original concept. This issue is surprisingly contemplative as it touches on the power of belief and the meaning of life.

Past events necessary to the story are recapped in a very natural way that serves to move the story forward. The Thor/ Donald Blake dynamic is re-established but presents the pair on equal footing. While past incarnations have looked to remove the god from the man (or vice versa), it is embraced here and  sets up what looks to be the crux of this series- a study of the god-as-man/ man-as-god concept. Who is more powerful -- the god or the man who believes in him?

The issue tends to the usual first issue chores of establishing the new status quo. There are no villains brought to the fore, only the vague promise of a disaster to avert and malevolent forces unhappy with Thor's return. There is, of course, the obligatory fight scene, but it is staged as a symbolic fight for life. By the end, Thor is back in the Marvel Universe proper, albeit tucked away in one of its dustier corners. A satisfying setup, to say the least.

The art is a pleasure to look at. Coipel captures the dignity of the earth bound god layered with very human emotion. His art has a power and scope that serves the story well. The colors are rich and beautiful and give the action as much weight and drama as the pencils themselves.

Straczynski has crafted an issue that is low on action and high on conversation. In the hands of a lesser writer it may have been a problem, but JMS has a firm handle on where he wants this ship to go. It may be a little early to tell, but I think this may be his best comics work yet.

Thor is back. Didn't you hear the thunder?

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