A young Scott Snyder fan drove 12 hours to meet his hero — and got an absolute surprise he’ll never forget

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Last month at Free Comic Book Day, Scott Snyder did a special appearance at Knoxville's Comic Exchange. Over 2,000 people came into the store that day, got some comics and made some memories — but there was one fan who made the biggest memory to date, and made one for Snyder as well.

One Iowa family made a 12-hour drive so their comics-loving son, Julius, could meet his favorite comic creator, Scott Snyder. Arriving into town around 11 P.M. the night before, you can imagine the son was tired from the day but wired with the idea of the day yet to come (especially considering some fans camped out overnight to be first in line). When Julius and his parents made it into Comics Exchange, they got in line with about 2,000 others to meet Scott, and they got their chance - and shared their story.

And while roughly 1,999 other fans came out of Comics Exchange with free comics (and hopefully some paid ones too), Julius got a bonus — a one-of-a-kind Scott Snyder banner.

"Scott was so touched by their story that he signed, and gave the son one of the banners Scott had at his booth," Comics Exchange owner Bill Langford writes on Facebook. "His father said as soon as they got home from the signing, Julius immediately made room in his bedroom for the banner."

Scott didn't stop there. When he heard about fans camping out the night prior, he called in an order of doughnuts for those in line. Although the box said 'Dunkin,' the staff quickly dubbed them 'Absolute Doughnuts.'

Julius and his parents gave Comics Exchange store owner Bill Langford a gift in return for the memorable experience: a magnet featuring the Iowa Buckeyes. Langford, a longtime Tennessee Vols fan, graciously accepted the gift... although we haven't gotten confirmation of where that magnet ended up.

Get ready for what's next with our list to upcoming comics and how to buy comics at a comic shop.