Marvel; December 1981
Cover by Mike Zeck and John Beatty

Title: “The American Dreamers!”
Synopsis: Captain America shifts between several different realities before realizing something is very wrong with America!

Writer: J.M. DeMatteis
Penciler: Mike Zeck
Inker: Quickdraw Studios

Review: J.M. DeMatteis’ story about the American dream was a strong parable when it first hit the stands, but resonates more powerfully in the divided America of today. The writer explores tensions between hate-fueled fascism, childlike ignorance and the idealistic promise of a better tomorrow – and whose job is it to determine an appropriate balance between different people’s rights and desires. It’s strong stuff, though the back story to establish this issue’s far-too-powerful-to-be-that-obscure villain interrupts the story’s flow. The art is also a step down: Mike Zeck’s pencils are decent but the inconsistent inks of “Quickdraw Studios” are subpar.

Grade: B+

Second opinion: “DeMatteis… has thrown out odd issues (#264, #267, #270) which verge on excellence.” – Adrian P. Snowdon, FantaCo’s Chronicles Series Annual #1 (1983)

Cool factor: That’s a striking Mike Zeck cover.
Not-so-cool factor: Little Me wanted more X-Men.

Collector’s note: According to the Grand Comics Database, there is a 20p British variant of this issue. According to MyComicShop.com, there is also a Mark Jewelers variant.

Character quotable: “I will build a better nation… I will bring back decency… morality… pride…” – Morgan MacNeil Hardy

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