Whether you’re starting a new title or have been into a character for awhile, there comes a point when you want to know more about them. You might know the stories they’ve been involved in, but perhaps not their entire history. Or maybe you want to make sure you didn’t miss any of the pertinent details. Sure, the big two have had their versions of encyclopedias over the years, but now Valiant has the Valiant Universe Handbook.

Released last week, the Handbook is marked as 2016 Edition #1, meaning there will likely be yearly editions. As the largest independent publisher, it’s good to see Valiant coming through for fans, and hopefully attracting new ones, with this information-packed book (40 pages!). That’s a lot of reading for only $3!

Each character in the Valiant universe gets from a half page to two pages, depending how long they’ve been around. Full dossiers for Bloodshot, Ninjak and Faith, newcomers like Divinity and Imperium – and more. Everything you’ve wanted to know about your favorite characters, from first appearances to personal history to key plot points to aliases and enemies. And of course there’s great artwork from all the artists involved.

If you’re into Valiant titles or want something outside the big two, the Valiant Universe Handbook is a great resource.