For more than a century the comic book has been one of our most familiar, yet least appreciated, popular art forms. As vehemently criticized as it is passionately defended, it has evolved from humble beginnings into a graphically sophisticated and culturally revealing medium.
At a time when vintage comics are fetching huge prices at auction, this book traces the history of the medium from "comic papers" for kids, through the underground "comix" movement of the 1960s and 1970s, to the glossy book-format "graphic novels" of today. Organized thematically, it investigates comic art's varied genres, including humour, adventure and titles for girls, and charts the rise, fall and revival of the medium. In so doing, Roger Sabin highlights the careers of the creators behind some of the best-known characters in modern fiction, from Superman to Tintin to Tank Girl.
Encompassing traditions from the USA, Britain, Europe and Japan, this book presents the most complete and up-to-date survey of comic art available. Illustrated with over 600 images, this book will appeal to comic fans of all kinds, and will undoubtedly become an essential reference work for students, graphic designers and media professionals.
