This ninth issue of Mome really demonstrates that the series is on a role, and has begun to transcend the rather ho-hum nature of the earliest few issues. Among the stellar contributors to volume 9 are Tim Hensley, Al Columbia, Eleanor Davis, Mike Scheer, and the incomparable Jim Woodring. Of course, weak contributions from long-time Momers Gabrielle Bell and Sophie Crumb drag the proceedings down a bit, and a lackluster episode of Paul Hornschemeier's "Life with Mr. Dangerous" doesn't help much either. But overall, the signs are positive for the future of Mome, especially since the second part of Woodring's "The Lute String" is promised for next time around - that's enough right there to bring me back for more! ( )