The Curious Case of the Mid-Life Comics Crusader

Let me tell you a story about this website called “Insightful Jan”

Once upon a time, in a city not too far away, there was a 44-year-old named Jan. Jan had a pretty busy life: a 9-to-5 job, a loving family, and a penchant for watching TV. But one day, everything changed.

It all began on a lazy Sunday afternoon in January 2023. Jan was rummaging through the attic, looking for a misplaced family photo album. Instead, he stumbled upon a dusty old comic book titled “Super Senior: The Hero with a Backache.” Intrigued, Jan wiped off the dust and began to read. The story was about a superhero who discovered his powers after turning 40 and had to juggle between saving the world and attending parent-teacher meetings. It was hilarious, relatable, and oddly inspiring.

The comic was a revelation. Jan wondered, “Why did I never get into comics before? Is it too late now?” But then, a thought struck, “If wine gets better with age, why can’t comic enthusiasts?”

And so, the quest began. Jan visited local comic book stores and searched online marketplaces, only to be overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices. “Should I start with Marvel or DC? Manga or graphic novels? Vintage or contemporary? Do I buy Single Issues or Omnibus? What if a single issue is not available anymore?” The questions were endless. And every time Jan asked someone for advice, he’d get a surprised look followed by, “Aren’t you a bit… mature for this?”

But Jan was undeterred. He started watching YouTube videos and attended a comic convention, albeit sticking out like a sore thumb amidst teenagers and young adults. He even tried joining online forums, only to be nicknamed “Grandpa Gotham.”

One evening, while nursing a cup of chamomile tea and reading “The Adventures of Arthritis Man,” an idea popped into Jan’s head. “What if there’s a platform specifically for people like me? Those who want to dive into the world of comics in their midlife and have no clue where to start?”

And thus, “Insightful Jan” was born. The website became a haven for mid-lifers looking to embark on their comic journey. It had guides on where to start, reviews tailored to mature tastes, and tips on collecting and preserving comics.

The website’s tagline? “Mid-Life Comic Geek: Because superheroes don’t have an age limit!”

Soon, “Insightful Jan” became a sensation. Stories poured in from people worldwide, sharing their experiences and thanking Jan for creating a space that made them feel seen and included.

And as for Jan? He became a proud beginner comic collector, with a special corner in his living room displaying his prized possessions. But more importantly, he became a beacon of hope for every mid-lifer who believed they were “too old” for something.

So, the next time someone tells you, you’re too old for comics, just remember Jan and smile. Because age is just a number, but passion? That’s timeless.

Welcome To InsightfulJan.com

Insightful Jan found comic in Attic
Insightful Jan has idea to create website

Recent Insights Of A Comic Geek

vinland saga manga

Vinland Saga Manga: An In-Depth Guide to the Epic Viking Saga

Introduction Vinland Saga is more than just a manga—it’s a story that captures Vikings, war, and a boy’s journey toward understanding life. Created by Makoto Yukimura, this series has gained massive praise around the world. Fans love how it mixes real Viking history with exciting action and deep characters. It’s a must-read for anyone into…

The Promised Neverland Manga Series – From Hesitation to Hooked
|

The Promised Neverland Manga Series – From Hesitation to Hooked

Don’t Let the Title Fool You I’ll admit it: I almost skipped reading The Promised Neverland because of its title. As a long-time comic and manga enthusiast, I’m used to wild names, but this one conjured images of Peter Pan and fairy tales. “Neverland” sounds like a whimsical place where children never grow up –…

TMNT Sourcebook IDW edition
|

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Sourcebook Review

​The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: IDW Sourcebook hardcover, released in March 2025, is a comprehensive guide to IDW Publishing’s TMNT universe, spanning over 14 years and 250 issues. Authored by Patrick Ehlers, this 408-page volume delves into the intricate world of the Turtles, offering detailed insights into characters, storylines, and settings. Overview This sourcebook serves…

Onimai I'm now your sister

Onimai: I’m Now Your Sister! – Manga Review (Up to Chapter 98)

By a manga fan who didn’t expect to enjoy this… but absolutely did! Introduction I’ve just finished reading Onimai: I’m Now Your Sister! up through chapter 98, and I have a lot to say about this quirky and heartwarming manga. As someone who’s usually not into slice-of-life manga, I was genuinely surprised at how much…

Why start reading Comics mid-life?

Rich, Compelling Storytelling

Rich, Complex Storytelling

Marvel has been crafting interwoven tales for over 80 years. These aren’t just simple stories of heroes versus villains. They delve deep into topics like moral ambiguity, personal sacrifice, societal issues, and even tackle questions of identity and purpose. For a mature reader, this provides a treasure trove of material that resonates on multiple levels.

Nostalgia

Nostalgia & Cultural Connection

Even if you haven’t directly engaged with Marvel Comics, it’s nearly impossible not to have been exposed to its vast influence. Whether it’s the iconic Spider-Man theme tune or the wave of Marvel movies, these stories have permeated popular culture. Exploring the source material can offer a delightful trip down memory lane.

Artistic Appreciation

Artistic Appreciation

The artwork in comics isn’t just about flashy costumes and explosive battles. It’s about conveying emotion, movement, and story progression through static images. Comics are a blend of visual and narrative artistry.

Mental Stimulation

Mental Stimulation

Reading, in any form, keeps the brain active and engaged. Comics, with their blend of visual stimuli and narrative, require a different kind of processing, which can be both refreshing and cognitively beneficial.

Fun reading comics

It’s Simply FUN

Sometimes, we need to remind ourselves that it’s okay to indulge in things simply because they bring joy. Comics are fun, entertaining, and provide a break from the monotony of everyday life. Simply enjoy!

Sign Up & Get Updates*