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By M.K. McGarrity

Special to Brooklyn Eagle

BAY RIDGE — Galaxy Comics carries a wide selection of trade paperbacks, graphic novels, toys, figurines, trading cards, posters, t-shirts, collectibles and, of course, comic books.

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The store is part of a local enterprise operated by two cousins and their close friend. The Bay Ridge Galaxy is owned by Abdul Esa, who is clearly passionate about his comics. This location, at the corner of Fifth and Bay Ridge avenues, is notable for its close relationship with customers and the community.

“This is a friendship business,” Esa said.

The store carries well-known Marvel and DC comics, as well as less familiar and more difficult-to-find titles from Vertigo Graphic Novels and Independent Comics. It carries hard-to-find back issues in addition to current releases. Comic-related merchandise, including some rare action figures, is placed all over the shop. The shelves are well organized and clearly marked. Bright colors and vibrant tones create a warm, fun and festive atmosphere.

The store serves customers from young children of 5 or 6, who come in with their parents, to those in their 70s or 80s who have nurtured a lifelong love of comics and graphic arts.

Esa and his staff can quickly direct customers to specific issues, or categories of interest. A children’s section is set off for the perusal of Galaxy’s youngest customers. The staff is happy to advise parents about material that will be age appropriate. There is a rating system as well: ‘A’ for all ages, ‘T’ for teenagers, and ‘M’ for mature readers.

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Galaxy Comics is currently developing a web presence. Stop in and ask for guidance if you are new to the field, or just want to connect with fellow comic lovers. The shop will hold items for one week in general. For longstanding customers, the store maintains a “pull list” and will set aside special or desired issues upon request for established clients who are not able to stop in on the day of a new release; customers can leave something on hold on this list for up to two months.

Galaxy happily takes part in the national Free Comic Book Day every year on the first Saturday in May. The store gives out one free comic per person to celebrate the love of comics on that day. Stop by and partake beforehand, if not on that first Saturday in May.

Galaxy Comics is located at 6823 Fifth Ave. For more information, call (718) 921-1236. The shop is open seven days a week: Sunday, noon to 9 p.m.; Monday, noon to 8 p.m.; Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Wednesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.