Let me start by saying that I have no previous knowledge of any of Richard Stark's work, I bought this book solely because of Darwyn Cooke. There isn't anything that Darwyn Cooke touches that isn't spectacular, he reminds me of a modern Jack Cole with his style. This book is a stand alone story that gets you ready for Darwyn Cookes' upcoming project 'the Outfit' (which looks like it's going to be awesome) it costs $2 and you can't go wrong buying it. The story is freaking cool and the art is better! Buy it NOW, you'll love it.