Phoenix Comics: A Hang-Out Place For Gaming And Geekdom

Before vampiric gore-fests and anti-heroes like Shadowhawk -- who was known for breaking the spines of his victims -- comic books were society-approved Americana, and the medium was friendly to children.

With its dark graphic novels and specialty imprints catering to adults, the comic book industry barely resembles its former wholesome self. But at Scarsdale's Phoenix Comics, owner Joel Rosenberg has tried to re-capture some of that decades-lost innocence, while still catering to the serious collectors who want more mature fare.

"Comics are not for children anymore," said Rosenberg, who's been reading them since his childhood, when they cost a dime.

That's why, in addition to newer titles that thrive on adult story-lines, Rosenberg stocks an entire rack filled with titles that are kid-safe, and written especially for youngsters. Included in that collection are reprints of comics from the classic days, when Stan Lee and artists like Jack Kirby plotted out moral lessons in between superhero slugfests.

Rosenberg is old-school, fitting right in with Scarsdale's Norman Rockwell image. He's the kind of guy who gives refunds to a child whose replica power ring won't work. He has a subscription pickup system for his regulars, who come from as far away as the Bronx and Bedford, because the discounts make up for the gas money.

For those customers, the store is a destination and a hang-out place: Rosenberg's always willing to talk superpowers and plotlines, and unlike similar stores, it's free to use the 2,500-square-foot game room at Phoenix Comics.

In comic book store culture, the game room is like a club house for kids and adults. Rosenberg says he wants the atmosphere in the store to be "no pressure," which means gamers aren't expected to buy items while they're facing off in tabletop games like Warhammer, or presiding over imaginary catecombs as dungeon masters.

Rosenberg -- who owned shares in the much-beloved Dragons Den on Central Avenue -- has been selling comics for about ten years, and he's owned his own store for five.

He lists Spiderman and Captain America as his favorite heroes, and says he prefers classic Marvel to classic D.C. -- with the exception of Batman, Rosenberg believes D.C.'s stories are "too happy-go-lucky." Rosenberg points out Marvel often explores the consequences of having superpowers, whether it's being shunned by society or learning Spiderman's famous lesson about greater responsibility. That, he says, makes most Marvel plots more interesting than their counterparts at D.C.

While many newer titles don't aim younger than young adulthood, Rosenberg still thinks there's value in children's comics, and he believes they can be a useful tool in spreading literacy and getting young kids to read. Like other mediums, he said, parents should be familiar with what their children are watching or reading to make sure it's age-appropriate material.

"There are some children who have a hard time learning to read and thankfully most publications print kid's comics, versions more suitable to children," he said.

While Rosenberg certainly doesn't complain when a customer buys an item, it's also free to come in and shoot the breeze, set up a subscription or ask advice. The store holds regular card and tabletop tournaments, which can be entered with a nominal fee. Like a bookstore coffee shop, it really is okay just to hang out.

"We," Rosenberg said, "are big on sitting here."

The Phoenix of Westchester -- aka Phoenix Comics -- is at 4 Grayrock Road, two blocks from Scarsdale's train station. For more information, call the store at 914-472-2702.