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Marvel's biggest hero during the annual Eisner Awards ceremony wasn't Spider-Man, Wolverine, or any of that ilk - instead it was the diminuitive land-shark known as Jeff. The digital-first series It's Jeff by writer Kelly Thompson and artist Gurihiru won 'Best Humor Publication,' marking a big win for the creators and for Marvel as it re-invigorates its efforts in reaching younger readers.

Although neither Thompson or Gurihiru were in attendance to accept the award, colleague Ryan North accepted the award on their behalf  and read a speech the writer had prepared in the chances that they'd win.

"I want to thank Jeff's fans. First and foremost for recognizing Jeff's greatness right away, and then Marvel recognized the fans' correctness," the speech began.

Thompson's speech goes on to thank editors Steve Wacker and Sarah Brunstad, as well as artist Daniele Di Nicuolo, who drew Jeff's first appearances in West Coast Avengers.

"It was Gurihiru, my co-creator on this title, that tapped most powerfully into Jeff's potential," Thompson continued. "I also would like to thank my family who supported by desire to write comics, even with that being absurd, and to my partner Adam who puts up with my endless nonsense, and my two cats who are the original inspirations for Jeff and will surely not hold that over my head at all."

"I think its perhaps extra gratifying to win with this all-ages title, because I think all ages books are so important to the future of comics," Thompson ended. "And if Jeff can help on that front, even in a small way, that feels like a beautiful way for all of us who love comics."

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