I've been working for two weeks on the latest Link Dump, and thought a teaser might buy me a little time to sort out two months worth of Hernandez awesomity.
Next big thing link:
The L.A. TIMES BOOK PRIZE "Graphic Novel" category winner will be announced this Friday (4-23), according to this report by Callie Miller. The nominees are also listed:
1) LUBA hardcover Gilbert Hernandez
2) GOGO MONSTER Taiyo Matsumoto
3) ASTERIOS POLYP David Mazzucchelli
4) SCOTT PILGRIM Volume 5 Bryan Lee O'Malley
5) FOOTNOTES IN GAZA Joe Sacco
Smackdown spotlight links:
Tim Hodler reviews THE ART OF JAIME HERNANDEZ by Todd Hignite, and the greatest comment thread in the history of the Fantagraphics Production crew ensues. Jacob Covey and Adam Grano (co-workers of TAOJH book designer Jordan Crane), Fantagraphics Co-Publisher Kim Thompson, and Abrams ComicArts executive editor Charlie Kochman, and a cast of dozens discuss design in comics-themed books in more depth than ever thought possible. Fascinating discussion by some folks you don't usually hear from.
Marc Sobel responds at "Trouble With Comics" to Tim Holder's article. I like Marc's efforts on the Hernandez Brothers, and with THE ART OF JAIME HERNANDEZ now released to the general public it seems like a good time to revisit this discussion.
Speaking-of-Jordan-Crane link:
Jordan Crane posted the first portion of Jaime's 2002 mini-comic DEATH TALES 1, the rest is to be posted 4-28. This looks to be a limited edition comic from San Diego Comicon, or some similar event.
Calling All Academics link:
Gene Kannenberg reports on a call for papers from guest editors Christopher Gonzalez and Derek Parker Royal for a special Hernandez Brothers tribute issue of the publication "ImageTexT."
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Review: BART SIMPSON 52
SIMPSONS COMICS PRESENTS: BART SIMPSON 52 (Bongo Comics, February 2010)
"Homer Simpson: Chick Magnet" 12 pages
GILBERT HERNANDEZ: writer/artist
ALLAN HELLARD: colorist
KAREN BATES: letterer
BILL MORRISON: editor
MIKE ROTE: staff artist
Gilbert Hernandez returns for a second time to the Simpsons universe, following 2008's "Homerstein Conquers the World" in TREEHOUSE OF HORROR 14. This story tracks the journey back home of Homer and Bart from the forbidden donut shop. When Bart tries to bribe another comic from his Dad, he throws the comic into the trash. It's retrieved surreptitiously by Bart, and stashed in Homer's back pocket. Gilbert turns the comic into one of his "magical object" plot devices. The boys walk is interrupted constantly by beautiful women mistaking Homer for a TV star or lost love. Then Homer begins to think he has some kind of newfound effect on women, and has Bart pick out one on which to test his supposed animal magnetism. This works all too well as Homer is lovingly mangled by a very butch-looking gal. Bart is left holding the comic book after the melee when a little red-haired girl says "hi" to him. A nonplussed Bart shoves the comic back into Homer's back pocket, whereupon they are chased down the sidewalk by a horde of crazed women. Bart quickly throws the comic at the stampede and the ladies lose all interest in the chase. Leading Bart to conclude, "A man with a comic book attracts a woman like nothing else[...]." I enjoyed this rare opportunity to see Gilbert's work in color, as well as his take on the Simpsons character's. However, one review I read found the story hard to understand. This may be true for some folks as Gilbert paces his stories like almost no one else. The story is basically just a father and son walk with the magic comic thrown in as the action instigator. If more creators were able to tell a story with the less-is-more template, I think there would be more comics that children would want to read. In closing, I hope to see more of Gilbert in future Simpsons comics, if editor Bill Morrison sees fit. -Gary Usher
"Homer Simpson: Chick Magnet" 12 pages
GILBERT HERNANDEZ: writer/artist
ALLAN HELLARD: colorist
KAREN BATES: letterer
BILL MORRISON: editor
MIKE ROTE: staff artist
Gilbert Hernandez returns for a second time to the Simpsons universe, following 2008's "Homerstein Conquers the World" in TREEHOUSE OF HORROR 14. This story tracks the journey back home of Homer and Bart from the forbidden donut shop. When Bart tries to bribe another comic from his Dad, he throws the comic into the trash. It's retrieved surreptitiously by Bart, and stashed in Homer's back pocket. Gilbert turns the comic into one of his "magical object" plot devices. The boys walk is interrupted constantly by beautiful women mistaking Homer for a TV star or lost love. Then Homer begins to think he has some kind of newfound effect on women, and has Bart pick out one on which to test his supposed animal magnetism. This works all too well as Homer is lovingly mangled by a very butch-looking gal. Bart is left holding the comic book after the melee when a little red-haired girl says "hi" to him. A nonplussed Bart shoves the comic back into Homer's back pocket, whereupon they are chased down the sidewalk by a horde of crazed women. Bart quickly throws the comic at the stampede and the ladies lose all interest in the chase. Leading Bart to conclude, "A man with a comic book attracts a woman like nothing else[...]." I enjoyed this rare opportunity to see Gilbert's work in color, as well as his take on the Simpsons character's. However, one review I read found the story hard to understand. This may be true for some folks as Gilbert paces his stories like almost no one else. The story is basically just a father and son walk with the magic comic thrown in as the action instigator. If more creators were able to tell a story with the less-is-more template, I think there would be more comics that children would want to read. In closing, I hope to see more of Gilbert in future Simpsons comics, if editor Bill Morrison sees fit. -Gary Usher
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
New Books from the Hernandez Brothers
Hello, sorry for the long lapses between posts, family matters and a lack of cat pictures to fill up space all contributed.
All of Jaime and Gilbert's books that we have been waiting patiently for have been released in the last few weeks (and a suprise from Gilbert and Homer):
PENNY CENTURY publisher page
HIGH-SOFT LISP publishers page
THE ART OF JAIME HERNANDEZ publishers page
All of Jaime and Gilbert's books that we have been waiting patiently for have been released in the last few weeks (and a suprise from Gilbert and Homer):
PENNY CENTURY publisher page
HIGH-SOFT LISP publishers page
THE ART OF JAIME HERNANDEZ publishers page
BART SIMPSON 52 mycomicshop.com page
I'm leaning toward buying the first three in a package deal from amazon.com for a little over $50, here's a link to one of the books for sale on amazon that lists the deal.
We had a question from Matt in the comments section quite a while back that I will try to answer now: "I'm trying to figure out if I should get LOCAS II of PENNY CENTURY or both. Any idea what the difference is between the two collections?"
Remember that those great hardcovers like LOCAS and LOCAS II do not reprint every strip by Jaime from LOVE AND ROCKETS Volumes One and Two. If you aren't picky about that I would recommend the hardcover LOCAS II, as it reprints all under one cover most of LOCAS IN LOVE, DICKS AND DEEDEES, GHOST OF HOPPERS, and THE EDUCATION OF HOPEY GLASS. The softcover PENNY CENTURY volume will include the WHOA NELLIE graphic novel that does not appear in LOCAS II, and the eventual follow-up to this volume will include the rest of the stories appearing in LOCAS II. I'm also thinking that "La Maggie la Loca" and "Gold Diggers of 1969" from LOVE AND ROCKETS Volume Two #20 are not in the LOCAS II hardcover.
This is all vaguely confusing, so here are links to the contents pages of the two books so you will be able to see side by side which stories are in which book (you might have to click on "table of contents" in the "look inside" feature of these two sales pages):
PENNY CENTURY title page
LOCAS II title page one/page two
All artwork (c)2010 Jaime Hernandez or Gilbert Hernandez
Friday, March 12, 2010
Top Ten Issues of The Comics Journal: 59 Part One
THE COMICS JOURNAL 59 (October 1980) buy hereFantagraphics, Inc., 196 West Haviland Lane, Stamford CT 06903
GARY G. GROTH: Executive Editor, Art Director
KIM THOMPSON: Editor, Circulation Director
GARY KWAPISZ: Assistant Art Director
JOHN DAKIN: Correspondent
BRUCE SWEENEY: Correspondent ("Undergrounds")
GRETCHEN MEYER: Senior Mascot
KAREN C. HUNTER: Live-in Mascot
VIVIA McKENZIE: Live-in Mascot
FRONT COVER:
Ken Macklin was a fantasy artist probably best known for his "Dr. Watchstop" and "Weasel Patrol" series in the comics world. Neither of those had started yet when he did this cover for the JOURNAL, but he was active in other other areas. Two of his contemporary paintings are posted here, a role-playing game cover here, his Schanes and Schanes published "Smug the Dragon" print [advertised in this issue of the JOURNAL], and work in RIGEL SCIENCE FICTION 1 (Summer 1981, Aesir Press) [latter via abebooks.co.uk]. He was married to fantasy artist Lela Dowling. Later he had a career in game animation and creation for LucasFilm (and others) [source: http://www.mobygames.com/developer/sheet/view/by_title/developerId,1373].
(c)1980 Ken Macklin
OPENING SHOTS:
"The Obscure Eisner" (page 4) by Jim Korkis [THE SPIRIT reprints and offbeat Eisner appearances in ARMY MOTORS, P.S. MAGAZINE, STAR JAWS, 101 OUTER SPACE JOKES, African-American textbooks, interviews and research (like Catherine Yronwode was conducting and writing in THE SPIRIT MAGAZINE and other publications).]
NEWSWATCH:
[Individual articles are not credited. The contents page says, "researched, compiled, and edited by Kim Thompson." The majority of the news articles are probably written by Mr. Thompson, assisted by John Dakin, with Bruce Sweeney reporting on his specialty "Undergrounds."]
[With the recent retirement of President & Publisher (or whatever he was, the last time I bought a DC comic Jenette Kahn was still in charge) Paul Levitz from DC Comics the below quoted news article is particularly relevant, it details Levitz's early promotion to Manager of Business Affairs.]
"Changes at DC Comics: Giordano Named Editor, Levitz and Orlando Promoted" pages 8-9 J. Michael Catron: photos [quoted from beginning of article: "DC Comics' Managing Editor Joe Orlando has been promoted to Editorial Director, while Paul Levitz, formerly the Editorial Coordinator, has been promoted to Manager of Business Affairs. In addition, Dick Giordano has been hired to take over the editing chores on the titles vacated by Levitz.
"Orlando and Levitz: Special Projects
"Both Orlando and Levitz will, according to a DC press release, be more active in the areas of DC's merchandising properties that range beyond the regular comics publishing business.
"DC Publisher Jenette Kahn commented on Orlando's promotion: 'Joe's unique ability to rise to meet the creative challenges of mastering new fields has been an important asset to DC's growth as a multi-faceted publishing company.' she added that despite his promotion, Orlando's management of the DC editorial team would 'remain an important part of his contribution.'
"Similarly, Levitz will continue working in an administrative capacity at DC Comics, while gaining an increased responsibility with regard to special projects. In order to make time for his new functions, he will relinquish the three comics titles he is currently editing, BATMAN, DETECTIVE, and BRAVE AND THE BOLD." (c)1980 Kim Thompson/The Comics Journal
*"Roy Thomas at DC" page 9 [Mr. Thomas' first work at DC was to include: BATMAN [somewhere in 331-342 which were published in 1981] , ALL-STAR SQUADRON (not titled yet), ARAK (not titled yet), DC COMICS PRESENTS [33 34 37], GREEN LANTERN [1981 issues were 136-147], and a "Supergirl" story [in SUPERMAN FAMILY 205-213 1981 issues]. issue #'s taken from STANDARD CATALOG OF COMIC BOOKS 4th edition (KP Books, 2005)]
*"Marvel Focuses on Direct Sales" pages 11-12 ["Dazzler #1 Exclusive" "The Cooperative Advertising Program" "Albums in Preparations" [several future Marvel graphic novels are mentioned in this section, one as yet unpublished (outside of excerpts in THE JACK KIRBY COLLECTOR, anyway) is THE PRISONER, to be written by Steve Englehart and drawn by Gil Kane/Joe Rubinstein and Jack Kirby/Walt Simonson, respectively] "The General Market Not Forgotten" [MARVEL UNIVERSE (which sounds an awful lot like BIZARRE ADVENTURES, down to the Christmas issue), Simon and Shuster books, and children's books)]
*"Briefly Noted at Marvel Comics" page 12 [Daredevil drug story, Death of Phoenix ending changed, Hulk color magazine goes b/w, DC/Marvel team-ups announced (Spiderman/Superman, Batman/Hulk, X-Men/Legion of Superheroes, and JLA/Avengers), CAPTAIN AMERICA 255 printed from John Byrne pencil art, Jim Shooter/Alan Weiss SUB-MARINER comic, JAMES BOND comic (FOR YOUR EYES ONLY 1, 2), DENNIS THE MENACE comic]
*"Charlton to Publish Aspiring Pros' Work for Free" page 14 [good history of this effort which published Mark Heike, Arn Saba, and other future pros in CHARLTON BULLSEYE, notable for a short interview with Bill Pearson when he was an editor at Charlton.]
*"Marvel Merry-G0-Round" page 14 [John Garcia was to have drawn THOR 304, and many other comings and goings of Marvel artists and writers]
*"DC Merry-Go-Round" page 15
*"DC Heroes & Villains" page 15
*"Adventure Comics Skips Two Months" page 15
*obituary: Douglas Kenney (December 10, 1947-August 27, 1980) [source] page 15
*"Len Mogel Takes Over Heavy Metal From Ted White" page 17 photo: Len Mogel
*"Comic Strips: 'Lookin' Fine' Begins" page 17 photo: Ray Billingsley [short bio of Ray Billingsley, Mort Gerberg's "Hang In There!," "Lone Ranger" comic strip by Cary Bates/Russ Heath, "Barbara Cartland Romances" begins November 1980, 30th anniversary of "Peanuts," 25th anniversary of Irwin Hasen's "Dondi," and Lou Little named Head of Comics Development at Field News Syndicate.]
*"Alternative Press" page 19 [GANG BANG (Wallace Wood's infamous tijuana bible-type effort); VISIONS 2; QUESTAR; Fantaco: BAH HEMBECK, SMILIN' ED 2, MUGSHOTS, ALIEN ENCOUNTERS; Eclipse: ECLIPSE MAGAZINE 1 (contents for first issue were to include Jim Starlin, Don McGregor's "Ragamuffins" and a Steve Englehart/Marshall Rogers "serial"); CKR Productions/Comely Comics news.]
*"Undergrounds" page 19 [Rip Off Press: RIP OFF 7 and CARTOON HISTORY OF THE UNIVERSE 5; Last Gasp: SAN FRANCISCO 6, YOUNG LUST 6, HAROLD HEDD 1(reprint); Kitchen Sink: SPIRIT MAGAZINE 25, GAY COMICS, NARD N PAT 2, SNARF 9.]
[The below sidebar appeared at the end of the "Newswatch" section and was the first salvo in a long, bitter legal battle fought through most of the 80s.]
"NOTICE FROM THE EDITORS: On May 1st, 1980 we received a letter from Michael Fleisher threatening legal action against The Comics Journal if we did not print an 'apology and retraction' that Fleisher had written and signed our names to. Fleisher's claim was that Harlan Ellison made 'defamatory and untrue statements' about him and his work in 'The Harlan Ellison Interview' (Journal #53).
"We had researched the four points of contention that Fleisher outlined and prepared a statement covering each of them, which we would have published in this issue, in addition to a reply to Fleisher's letter from Ellison.
"However, in mid-August, Fleisher told Gary Groth that he had filed suit against The Comics Journal. Our attorneys have advised us not to print our statement until we receive legal notification of Fleisher's suit.
"We will keep our readers informed of things as they develop. -THE EDITORS"
(c)1980 THE COMICS JOURNAL, Fantagraphics, Inc.
BLOOD AND THUNDER:
[The links do not necessarily correspond with the names below, although I did try and track down what these folks were doing currently. Richard Gagnon was a particularly tough one as there is a Canadian cartoonist and musician both with the same name, unfortunately the cartoonist would have only been 15-years old when this issue came out and he had no ties to New Jersey at all. Likewise, facebook had almost every name below multiple times, so that was certainly not helpful if there were no clues to where they lived in their intro page.]
#Peter Iro/Willie Blyberg: illustration page 21
#unknown: illustration page 23
#Bruce Zick: illustration page 25 [films]
#Stu Potts: editorial cartoon page 27
#Willie Blyberg/Mutschler: illustration page 30 [www.comics.org and http://www.comic-con.org/cci/cci_eisners_pastwinners.php#1988 ]
#Bob Staszak: illustration page 31 [Mr. Staszak was a prolific cover artist for THE COMCS READER ca. 1975-80. source]
#Alan Hanley: illustration page 34
#Scott McCloud (credited as "McLeod"): illustration page 37
#JAMES KEEPNEWS page 20 [On the JOURNAL'S unbiased news coverage, Gene Colan, and Neal Adams]
#BILL HENLEY JR. pages 20-21 [This arrogant and condescending (and well-written) piece may encapsulate the perfect "B&T" letter! Wish I could print the whole thing, but you'll just have to find your own copy.]
#MIKE VALERIO page 21 [On the other hand Mr. Valerio may very well have been the perfect JOURNAL reader as evidenced by this short quote, "Essentially, comics are like any other business, whether it's producing Harlequin Romance novels or bottles of beer. We're talking about mass production for a mass audience. We're talking about the junk food of literature. That's all comics are." I really wonder how many other readers got this point in the entire history of the magazine? Mainstream comics were a product, while the actual FORM of comics storytelling could (and should) be used to create a unique hybrid of art/literature. (Okay, I added the latter point on myself, but it's a logical conclusion leading from Mr. Valerio's well-stated point.)] [wrote articles in the JOURNAL 65 and 67. source]
#RICH MORRISSEY pages 21-22 [on the JOURNAL'S biased news coverage] [obituary 1 2]
#THE EDITORS REPLY to Mr. Morrissey page 22 [history of JOURNAL coverage of various creator departures and a nice look at how Mr. Thompson approached news gathering back then.]
#KENT C. ORLANDO pages 22-23 [on editors Jack C. Harris and Dick Giordano] [author of "Cheeks, the Toy Wonder" MySpace page, now defunct. source]
#JOHN PIERCE page 23 [on Jack C. Harris]
#DENNIS SUMMERS pages 23-24 [reply to letter from James Lentini (#55) on Howard Chaykin Interview (#51)] ["Texturing: Concepts and Techniques" by Dennis Summers (Charles River Media, 2004), also a possible match.]
#ROBIN SNYDER page 24 [quoted in full: "Despite your 'elitist' attitudes and your habit of ignoring the bulk of the comics industry's output (war, mystery, and humor) I still find much of worth in your publication.
"Case in point: the light, up-beat Jack Harris interview [#55] makes up for the depressing, negative features of the past.
"I do agree with the points Kim Thompson raised in the editorial, however I think the solution lies in presenting the problem in a positive manner." (c)1980 Robin Snyder ]
(Mr. Snyder ten years later founded THE HISTORY OF COMICS (now just THE COMICS) newsletter which did exactly what he proposed in this short letter, a perfect counterpoint to the JOURNAL in my humble opinion.]
#MARIO NAVES page 24 [on the Marshall Rogers interview (#54)]
#LARRY BAFUS page 24 [on Marshall Rogers cover to DETECTIVE COMICS 476]
#FRANK BRUNNER page 24 [reply to R. Fiore's review "The Rocky Road to Tanelorn" (#55) of his "Elric of Melnibone" story in STAR*REACH GREATEST HITS.]
#R. FIORE REPLIES to Mr. Brunner pages 24-25 [this was R. Fiore's third review for the JOURNAL, preceded by reviews of "Night Music" (#54) and "Weirdworld" (#52) (source). He does a great job standing his ground, definitely an important part of the JOURNAL'S long tradition of excellence in criticism.]
#BILL MANTLO page 25 [replying to Brian Snell's letter, asks Are Critics Frustrated Writers?, and on the "fan elite."] [books-in-print and bio: http://hiwaay.net/~Ikseitz/comics/Rom/comic/mantlo.shtml ]
#THE EDITORS REPLY to Mr. Mantlo pages 25-26 [on positive reviews in the JOURNAL, on Burne Hogarth's analysis of mainstream comics, on commerce vs. content, and on reviewers as writers.]
#DAVE SIM page 26 [replying to Jim McPherson letter (#56)] [link via cerebusfangirl.com]
#MIKE W. BARR page 26-27 [replying to Jim McPherson letter (#56), on work being ignored by an independent publisher.]
#MIKE GOLD page 28 [replies to Stephen McGonagle (#56) letter, on Len Wein's comics writing]
#WALLY STOELTING page 29 [on Jack C. Harris interview (#55)]
#MIKE SOPP page 29 [on woes of Marvel fans] [twitter?]
#RICHARD GAGNON pages 29-30 [on Michael Fleisher interview (#56), reply to David Seidman on comics reviews.] [Google Phonebook lists three possible matches for "Richard Gagnon New Jersey"]
#DAVID S. MARSHALL page 30 [on Neal Adams back cover (#56)]
#CHRIS ASH page 30 [on Gene Phillips essay ""(#55)]
#GENE PHILLIPS REPLIES to Mr. Ash pages 31 33 [on comics creator's ancestral, racial, and religious tradition and influences, I think]
#RICH MORRISSEY (ROUND 2) pages 33-34 [on Michael Fleisher interview (#56), on Fleisher's writing on "The Spectre" "Jonah Hex," and Fleisher's swipes of old "Batman" plots (they call this "updating" nowadays, don't they?)
#JACK C. HARRIS page 34 [on SUPERMAN: THE MOVIE MAGAZINE written by Michael Fleisher.]
#MIKE SOPP (ROUND 2) page 37 [on MOON KNIGHT]
#JOHN BENSON page 37 [on Richard Howell's review of HEARTTHROBS (#55), the DC Comics trade paperback collection of Romance comics.] [Mr. Benson edited ROMANCE WITHOUT TEARS and CONFESSIONS, ROMANCES, SECRETS, AND TEMPTATIONS about Romance comics from fantagraphics.com.]
#TODD GOLDBERG pages 37 100 [on the JOURNAL 55, in general] [book]
#RUSS MAHERAS page 100 [on David Stallman's review of EPIC ILLUSTRATED 1 (#54).]
The Comics Journal (c)2010 Fantagraphics Books Inc.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Love and Rockets Links to Days Gone By
REVIEW:
*Rob Clough reviews THE TROUBLEMAKERS for tcj.com
*Jim Rugg (guest reviewer) reviews Gilbert's THE TROUBLEMAKERS and others for Robot 6. via FlogBlog
*A.V. Club (Zack Handlen, Keith Phipps, Leonard Pierce, or Tasha Robinson) reviews THE TROUBLEMAKERS. via FlogBlog
*Russell Heitzmann reviews THE TROUBLEMAKERS, scroll down to "Wednesday Roundup: Week of Jan 6/09"[year should be "10"] to find.
*Rich Kreiner reviews the LUBA hardcover for tcj.com
*Benjamin Herman reviews CITIZEN REX 1 2 3 4 5 and 6 for associatedcontent.com.
LISTS:
see comicsreporter.com archives for extensive coverage of "Best of 2009" and "Best of Decade" lists, or FlogBlog for more Hernandez Brother-centric lists.
*Brian Hibbs lists 100 best-selling books at Comix Experience, San Francisco. LOVE AND ROCKETS: NEW STORIES [no#] is on this list.
*Marc Sobel writes a fun column (at Trouble With Comics) on older comics he has recently read or reread. First is Gilbert's BIRDLAND XXX series, and he also mentions Gilbert's back-up story in an issue of HATE. Well worth a read if you didn't see it the first time it was posted. Mr. Sobel also writes for tcj.com.
*Greg McElhatton reading list of graphic novels for 2009 includes LOVE AND ROCKETS: NEW STORIES 2.
*Michael C. Lorah's "Best of 2009" has Gilbert's LUBA hardcover at #4.
*Richard Cowdry mentions CITIZEN REX in his runners up for "Best of 2009."
*Brian Michael Bendis includes SLOTH by Gilbert on his reading list for 2009.
*Ernest Hilbert also read SLOTH, uhm, ahh, two years ago. Thank you and good night.
MISCELLANEOUS:
*Tom Spurgeon wishes Gilbert a happy birthday.
*David P. Welsh (late of comicsreporter.com, we miss you already!) pays tribute to Gilbert on his birthday, and recommends his PALOMAR stories (and other like-minded media).
*Rich Johnston lists LOVE AND ROCKETS [I'm assuming he means both Volume 2 and NEW STORIES] among the honorary mentions in his Rumour Awards "Comic of the Decade" post.
*DIAMOND PREVIEWS "Staff Picks" for 1/10 include THE ART OF JAIME HERNANDEZ: THE SECRETS OF LIFE AND DEATH
*Adisakdi Tantimedh compares Season Five finale of DOCTOR WHO BBC series to end of Jaime's "The Death of Speedy Ortiz" storyline. I haven't seen the episode, but this is a well-done article about the (maybe) far-reaching influences of L&R.
*Cristiana Theodoli challenged herself to read 17 books and graphic novels over Christmas break, including LOVE AND ROCKETS LIBRARY: MAGGIE THE MECHANIC.
*Derek's "On My Pop Culture To-D0-List This Week [of January 7]" includes reading the LOCAS II hardcover by Jaime. Hope you are a speed-reader, Derek.
*Tom G. Wilkinson is reading fifty-two books in fifty-two weeks in 2010. First on the list was LOVE AND ROCKETS BOOK 1: MUSIC FOR MECHANICS by all three Bros. Post includes art samples and a good review of the book.
MEDIA:
Gilbert Hernandez is interviewed (audio) on 88.9 KNPR on the occasion of his being awarded a United States Artists fellowship.
COME AGAIN?:
Gilbert Hernandez original art from "Duck Feet" story sells for only $330.55 from Scott Eder Original Art on eBay. No, I still wouldn't be able to afford it, but the price seems on the low side for any piece of original art by a well-regarded cartoonist.
MYSTERY:
*I've noticed some strange websites that sell inocuous items, and have hidden comments sections that mention Gilbert and Jaime's work sometimes. Google Alerts picks out the key words from behind their firewall, but does not show the entire thread. "weightliftingshoes06.dnsalias.org" references Gilbert's THE NAKED COSMOS, and "oceanliving04.selfip.org" references Gilbert's PALOMAR stories.
*via Mike Sterling/via comics reporter I don't remember what this link goes to, although I supsect it's some rare Jaime cover art.
*Rob Clough reviews THE TROUBLEMAKERS for tcj.com
*Jim Rugg (guest reviewer) reviews Gilbert's THE TROUBLEMAKERS and others for Robot 6. via FlogBlog
*A.V. Club (Zack Handlen, Keith Phipps, Leonard Pierce, or Tasha Robinson) reviews THE TROUBLEMAKERS. via FlogBlog
*Russell Heitzmann reviews THE TROUBLEMAKERS, scroll down to "Wednesday Roundup: Week of Jan 6/09"[year should be "10"] to find.
*Rich Kreiner reviews the LUBA hardcover for tcj.com
*Benjamin Herman reviews CITIZEN REX 1 2 3 4 5 and 6 for associatedcontent.com.
LISTS:
see comicsreporter.com archives for extensive coverage of "Best of 2009" and "Best of Decade" lists, or FlogBlog for more Hernandez Brother-centric lists.
*Brian Hibbs lists 100 best-selling books at Comix Experience, San Francisco. LOVE AND ROCKETS: NEW STORIES [no#] is on this list.
*Marc Sobel writes a fun column (at Trouble With Comics) on older comics he has recently read or reread. First is Gilbert's BIRDLAND XXX series, and he also mentions Gilbert's back-up story in an issue of HATE. Well worth a read if you didn't see it the first time it was posted. Mr. Sobel also writes for tcj.com.
*Greg McElhatton reading list of graphic novels for 2009 includes LOVE AND ROCKETS: NEW STORIES 2.
*Michael C. Lorah's "Best of 2009" has Gilbert's LUBA hardcover at #4.
*Richard Cowdry mentions CITIZEN REX in his runners up for "Best of 2009."
*Brian Michael Bendis includes SLOTH by Gilbert on his reading list for 2009.
*Ernest Hilbert also read SLOTH, uhm, ahh, two years ago. Thank you and good night.
MISCELLANEOUS:
*Tom Spurgeon wishes Gilbert a happy birthday.
*David P. Welsh (late of comicsreporter.com, we miss you already!) pays tribute to Gilbert on his birthday, and recommends his PALOMAR stories (and other like-minded media).
*Rich Johnston lists LOVE AND ROCKETS [I'm assuming he means both Volume 2 and NEW STORIES] among the honorary mentions in his Rumour Awards "Comic of the Decade" post.
*DIAMOND PREVIEWS "Staff Picks" for 1/10 include THE ART OF JAIME HERNANDEZ: THE SECRETS OF LIFE AND DEATH
*Adisakdi Tantimedh compares Season Five finale of DOCTOR WHO BBC series to end of Jaime's "The Death of Speedy Ortiz" storyline. I haven't seen the episode, but this is a well-done article about the (maybe) far-reaching influences of L&R.
*Cristiana Theodoli challenged herself to read 17 books and graphic novels over Christmas break, including LOVE AND ROCKETS LIBRARY: MAGGIE THE MECHANIC.
*Derek's "On My Pop Culture To-D0-List This Week [of January 7]" includes reading the LOCAS II hardcover by Jaime. Hope you are a speed-reader, Derek.
*Tom G. Wilkinson is reading fifty-two books in fifty-two weeks in 2010. First on the list was LOVE AND ROCKETS BOOK 1: MUSIC FOR MECHANICS by all three Bros. Post includes art samples and a good review of the book.
MEDIA:
Gilbert Hernandez is interviewed (audio) on 88.9 KNPR on the occasion of his being awarded a United States Artists fellowship.
COME AGAIN?:
Gilbert Hernandez original art from "Duck Feet" story sells for only $330.55 from Scott Eder Original Art on eBay. No, I still wouldn't be able to afford it, but the price seems on the low side for any piece of original art by a well-regarded cartoonist.
MYSTERY:
*I've noticed some strange websites that sell inocuous items, and have hidden comments sections that mention Gilbert and Jaime's work sometimes. Google Alerts picks out the key words from behind their firewall, but does not show the entire thread. "weightliftingshoes06.dnsalias.org" references Gilbert's THE NAKED COSMOS, and "oceanliving04.selfip.org" references Gilbert's PALOMAR stories.
*via Mike Sterling/via comics reporter I don't remember what this link goes to, although I supsect it's some rare Jaime cover art.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Top 10 Issues of The Comics Journal: 38 Conclusion
INTERVIEW:
"An Interview with Gil Kane [April 6, 1926-January 31, 2000]" conducted by Gary Groth at Boston Newcon (October 20-22, 1976) and New York Creation Con (November 19, 1976). Transcribed by Mr. Groth, and edited by the same, with Mr. Thompson and Gil Kane.
[I don't believe this conversation has been reprinted in that Hermes Press book of Gil Kane interviews, so here's a paraphrasing of topics covered in this interview: The failure of HIS NAME IS SAVAGE and Adventure House; HIS NAME IS SAVAGE connection to "Conan" and Glenn Lord; Distribution and success (and failure) in the comics industry; Martin Goodman and Atlas/Seaboard; DC Comics and lack of a creative editorial viewpoint; "Comics is an incestuous business;" Adult comics content; Comics fanzines (John Benson mentioned) and fans at conventions; Influences: "Scorchy Smith" by Noel Sickles and "Tarzan" ("The Egyptian Period") by Hal Foster; Storytelling in comics; What he would do in comics if no commercial, content, or format restrictions; Jean Giraud (Moebius) comic artist he says is the "best comic strip artist going now;" Films and critical standards for evaluating comics; STAR HAWKS and Ron Goulart; EXCALIBUR book with John Jakes; Comics don't create they duplicate success until the characters are exhausted creatively; Views on: Harvey Kurtzman, Bernie Wrightson, Jim Steranko, Barry Windsor-Smith, Frank Frazetta, Jenette Kahn, Jack Kirby, Roy Thomas, Alex Nino, Ross Andru, Robert Kanigher, Neal Adams, Mike Golden, and others; Comics and content vs. format; and, more on films and parallels with comics.]
FANDOM REVIEW:
"Hogarth & CRIMMERS: An Excercise in Academic Futility" (pages 47-48) by Paul Dushkind [Mr. Dushkind takes over the "Fandom Review" column from early JOURNAL contributor Doug Fratz, who went on to edit the science-fiction magazine THRUST/QUANTUM. The following issue (#39 April 1978) the column passes on to Marilyn Bethke and her series of critiques of the JOURNAL'S comics press contemporaries!]
SCIENCE FICTION ANTHOLOGY:
"Growing Up Weird" (pages 49-50 55) by Mel Gilden. Ron Wilber: "Captain Video" illustration [I'm considering this the second (and last?) in a series of unpublished articles from Frank Catalano's defunct SIRIUS XIV science-fiction newsletter although I could be mistaken, the first (appearing in the previous issue of the JOURNAL) was "You, too, need protein for a smoother glissando (Or, food for thought)" by Greg Bear. This essay is a well-done slice-of-life done from the viewpoint of a science-fiction author growing up on science-fiction books and telelvision, and pondering how these inspired his writing career and life in general.]
REVIEW:
"The Kingdom and the Power of Jack Katz" (pages 51-52 54-55) by Bill Sherman [Mr. Sherman reviews the first six volumes, focusing somewhat on volumes 5 and 6, of Jack Katz's self-published THE FIRST KINGDOM, an anomaly in the 70s outside of the underground comix and far to individualistic to be considered mainstream.] [Preview page from the then upcoming THE FIRST KINGDOM Volume 7 on page 54]
PRIME-TIME SUPERHEROES:
"Greenskin, Webhead, and the Boob Tube" (pages 56-57) by Kim Thompson. Bob Aull: illustration [This was a bit of a surprise, a review of the pilots of the "Amazing Spider-Man" and "The Hulk." Since Mr. Thompson is now bringing us those amazing Tardi translations, I think I'll refrain from quoting any passages from this one!]
sidebar: "News Update: Marvel TV Movies" [Stan Lee said these movies were in development Human Torch, Captain America (released in 1979), Howard the Duck (released in 1986), Ms. Marvel, Dr. Strange (released in 1978), and Sub-Mariner. Also mentions Marvel considering buying their own animation studio, which I seem to recall them eventually accomplishing in the 1980s.]
ANIMATION:
"Allegro Non Troppo: Fantasia With a Vengeance" (pages 58-59) by Gary Groth [review of Bruno Bozzetto's animated movie, particularly the sequence adapting Ravel's "Bolero" which can be viewed below.]
part 1
part 2
via
"The Hobbit: A Rich and Colorful TV Adaptation" (pages 59 62) by Steve Clement (1953-1981)
sidebar: "Doonesbury" [a review of two animated television releases from 1977, the latter titled fully: "A Doonesbury Special."]
THE CREATIVE EXPERIENCE:
"The Outer Limits of the Imagination" (pages 60-61) by Jim Wilson. Judy (Judith) Hunt: illustration. [a review by then-television-producer Wilson of Ted C. Rypel's THE OUTER LIMITS: AN ILLUSTRATED REVIEW Volumes 1 and 2. I believe this is Mr. Wilson's last column for the JOURNAL as he does not contribute to the next issue, he was a contributor beginning with THE NOSTALGIA JOURNAL 27, the first Fantagraphics issue.]
COMIC STRIPS:
"Howard the Duck" (pages 63-66) by Steve Gerber and Gene Colan. [Three Sunday pages of the short-lived comic strip incarnation reprinted in black and white. 7/3, 7/10, and 7/17 with the first being printed twice just because it's TCJ!] [link via Journalista]
BACK COVER:
montage of ASTERIX, "Close Encounters," STAR HAWKS, and an original illustration by Joe Sinardi.
ADVERTISEMENTS:
(page 2) OMNIVERSE 1, Fall 1977, Mark Gruenwald/Dean Mullaney editors [Pete Poplaski cover, reprinted along with ad]
(page 3) subscription ad
(page 4) ROCKET'S BLAST COMICOLLECTOR 139, James Van Hise editor [Star Wars-themed issue. contributors: Ralph Fowler, Morris Scott Dollens, Steven Fabian, Kerry Gammill, Ron Wilber, Don Rosa.]
(page 6) Greg Tuliebitz sale list
(page 11) READER WRITTEN COMICS 2 [contributors: Steve Vance, Max Giguere, Dave Sim, Bill Kent Jr., and Bruce Shane.]
(page 12) 1977 Comic Art Fan Awards - Nominating Ballot [administered by Don Fortier]
(pages 16-17) Monkey's Retreat/Well News Service ad
(page 19) OUTER LIMITS NEWSLETTER, Steve Streeter editor
(page 23) Abel Mills 35mm film clips sale
(page 24) Pikes Peak Book Exchange, SCAN magazine ad
(page 31) Bud Plant ad [ASTERIX]
(page 32) Camelot of Houston, TX ad [THE GOLDEN AGE OF TARZAN 1939-1942 by Burne Hogarth.]
(page 33) Camelot of Houston, TX ad [this page has a "Drake Vader" t-shirt design by Newsome advertised.]
(page 46) 1978 COLLECTORS SHOWCASE auction catalog ad [painted cover reproductions by: Alex Schomburg; Sheldon Moldoff; Fred Ray; Dan Zolnerowich; Alfred Avison; Dick Briefer; Creig Flessel; C.C. Beck; John Celardo; Mike Sekowsky; Alex Kotsky; Paul Reinman; and, Bill Ward. Wow, here's what your favorite golden-age comic book artists were doing in 1978!]
(page 50) MR. KISS KISS BANG BANG 2, Mike France editor [James Bond movie fanzine]
(page 53) Bud Plant ad [FIRST KINGDOM]
(page 55) Sanford L. Jones E.C. Comics sale list
(page 57) BIZARRE THRILLS 1, Bill Black editor [High quality early Bill Black publication (still in print digitally). contributors: R.C. Harvey, Marc Hempel, Tom Lyle, Clifford Neal, Bill Pearson, Joe Staton, Steve Vance (he gets around), and Wallace Wood. partial cover illustration of "Phantom Lady" by Joe Staton and Mr. Black reproduced with the ad.]
(page 62) classified ads from: CEG, Star Gallery, Ernest Whitaker, Stan Timmons, Ward O. Batty, Dwight Decker, Charles Lawrence, Old Radio Warehouse, Howard Rogofsky, Larry Collier, Peter Crosby, Fry's, Christian Haerle, Mark E. Ernst, Harland Ronning, Clifford Meth, Chris Lareau, Bill-Dale Marcinko, and Masthead: AJFTHWON.
(page 67) Bill Cole ad
AFTERWORD:
Coming to a final top ten out of 274 issues of THE NOSTALGIA/COMICS JOURNAL without going crazy required dividing up the long run into rough periods and special issues. The first period (or "era," if you want to get pretentious) I label the "pre-lawsuit" halcyon days which ran from 27-52. While there were many individual highlights among these efforts (discounting all the tabloid issues which I've never seen), I picked #38 for the exhaustive Dwight Decker article on "Asterix" (which still stands up today as a history of the early years of the series) and Gary Groth's interview with Gil Kane which stretched the boundaries of comics journalism in touching on the artist's life and interests outside of comics rather than the worlds on paper he created (that some comic fans mistake for "real" life). There are also some quality shorter pieces like Bill Sherman's analysis of the early issues of THE FIRST KINGDOM, an unjustly forgotten pioneering work. Having reviews by both Mr. Groth and Mr. Thompson in the same issue would seem to push this one over the top, however I'll just say they got a lot better material to analyze in future issues. -GU
THE COMICS JOURNAL (c)2010 Fantagraphics Books, Inc.
"An Interview with Gil Kane [April 6, 1926-January 31, 2000]" conducted by Gary Groth at Boston Newcon (October 20-22, 1976) and New York Creation Con (November 19, 1976). Transcribed by Mr. Groth, and edited by the same, with Mr. Thompson and Gil Kane.
[I don't believe this conversation has been reprinted in that Hermes Press book of Gil Kane interviews, so here's a paraphrasing of topics covered in this interview: The failure of HIS NAME IS SAVAGE and Adventure House; HIS NAME IS SAVAGE connection to "Conan" and Glenn Lord; Distribution and success (and failure) in the comics industry; Martin Goodman and Atlas/Seaboard; DC Comics and lack of a creative editorial viewpoint; "Comics is an incestuous business;" Adult comics content; Comics fanzines (John Benson mentioned) and fans at conventions; Influences: "Scorchy Smith" by Noel Sickles and "Tarzan" ("The Egyptian Period") by Hal Foster; Storytelling in comics; What he would do in comics if no commercial, content, or format restrictions; Jean Giraud (Moebius) comic artist he says is the "best comic strip artist going now;" Films and critical standards for evaluating comics; STAR HAWKS and Ron Goulart; EXCALIBUR book with John Jakes; Comics don't create they duplicate success until the characters are exhausted creatively; Views on: Harvey Kurtzman, Bernie Wrightson, Jim Steranko, Barry Windsor-Smith, Frank Frazetta, Jenette Kahn, Jack Kirby, Roy Thomas, Alex Nino, Ross Andru, Robert Kanigher, Neal Adams, Mike Golden, and others; Comics and content vs. format; and, more on films and parallels with comics.]
FANDOM REVIEW:
"Hogarth & CRIMMERS: An Excercise in Academic Futility" (pages 47-48) by Paul Dushkind [Mr. Dushkind takes over the "Fandom Review" column from early JOURNAL contributor Doug Fratz, who went on to edit the science-fiction magazine THRUST/QUANTUM. The following issue (#39 April 1978) the column passes on to Marilyn Bethke and her series of critiques of the JOURNAL'S comics press contemporaries!]
SCIENCE FICTION ANTHOLOGY:
"Growing Up Weird" (pages 49-50 55) by Mel Gilden. Ron Wilber: "Captain Video" illustration [I'm considering this the second (and last?) in a series of unpublished articles from Frank Catalano's defunct SIRIUS XIV science-fiction newsletter although I could be mistaken, the first (appearing in the previous issue of the JOURNAL) was "You, too, need protein for a smoother glissando (Or, food for thought)" by Greg Bear. This essay is a well-done slice-of-life done from the viewpoint of a science-fiction author growing up on science-fiction books and telelvision, and pondering how these inspired his writing career and life in general.]
REVIEW:
"The Kingdom and the Power of Jack Katz" (pages 51-52 54-55) by Bill Sherman [Mr. Sherman reviews the first six volumes, focusing somewhat on volumes 5 and 6, of Jack Katz's self-published THE FIRST KINGDOM, an anomaly in the 70s outside of the underground comix and far to individualistic to be considered mainstream.] [Preview page from the then upcoming THE FIRST KINGDOM Volume 7 on page 54]
PRIME-TIME SUPERHEROES:
"Greenskin, Webhead, and the Boob Tube" (pages 56-57) by Kim Thompson. Bob Aull: illustration [This was a bit of a surprise, a review of the pilots of the "Amazing Spider-Man" and "The Hulk." Since Mr. Thompson is now bringing us those amazing Tardi translations, I think I'll refrain from quoting any passages from this one!]
sidebar: "News Update: Marvel TV Movies" [Stan Lee said these movies were in development Human Torch, Captain America (released in 1979), Howard the Duck (released in 1986), Ms. Marvel, Dr. Strange (released in 1978), and Sub-Mariner. Also mentions Marvel considering buying their own animation studio, which I seem to recall them eventually accomplishing in the 1980s.]
ANIMATION:
"Allegro Non Troppo: Fantasia With a Vengeance" (pages 58-59) by Gary Groth [review of Bruno Bozzetto's animated movie, particularly the sequence adapting Ravel's "Bolero" which can be viewed below.]
part 1
part 2
via
"The Hobbit: A Rich and Colorful TV Adaptation" (pages 59 62) by Steve Clement (1953-1981)
sidebar: "Doonesbury" [a review of two animated television releases from 1977, the latter titled fully: "A Doonesbury Special."]
THE CREATIVE EXPERIENCE:
"The Outer Limits of the Imagination" (pages 60-61) by Jim Wilson. Judy (Judith) Hunt: illustration. [a review by then-television-producer Wilson of Ted C. Rypel's THE OUTER LIMITS: AN ILLUSTRATED REVIEW Volumes 1 and 2. I believe this is Mr. Wilson's last column for the JOURNAL as he does not contribute to the next issue, he was a contributor beginning with THE NOSTALGIA JOURNAL 27, the first Fantagraphics issue.]
COMIC STRIPS:
"Howard the Duck" (pages 63-66) by Steve Gerber and Gene Colan. [Three Sunday pages of the short-lived comic strip incarnation reprinted in black and white. 7/3, 7/10, and 7/17 with the first being printed twice just because it's TCJ!] [link via Journalista]
BACK COVER:
montage of ASTERIX, "Close Encounters," STAR HAWKS, and an original illustration by Joe Sinardi.
ADVERTISEMENTS:
(page 2) OMNIVERSE 1, Fall 1977, Mark Gruenwald/Dean Mullaney editors [Pete Poplaski cover, reprinted along with ad]
(page 3) subscription ad
(page 4) ROCKET'S BLAST COMICOLLECTOR 139, James Van Hise editor [Star Wars-themed issue. contributors: Ralph Fowler, Morris Scott Dollens, Steven Fabian, Kerry Gammill, Ron Wilber, Don Rosa.]
(page 6) Greg Tuliebitz sale list
(page 11) READER WRITTEN COMICS 2 [contributors: Steve Vance, Max Giguere, Dave Sim, Bill Kent Jr., and Bruce Shane.]
(page 12) 1977 Comic Art Fan Awards - Nominating Ballot [administered by Don Fortier]
(pages 16-17) Monkey's Retreat/Well News Service ad
(page 19) OUTER LIMITS NEWSLETTER, Steve Streeter editor
(page 23) Abel Mills 35mm film clips sale
(page 24) Pikes Peak Book Exchange, SCAN magazine ad
(page 31) Bud Plant ad [ASTERIX]
(page 32) Camelot of Houston, TX ad [THE GOLDEN AGE OF TARZAN 1939-1942 by Burne Hogarth.]
(page 33) Camelot of Houston, TX ad [this page has a "Drake Vader" t-shirt design by Newsome advertised.]
(page 46) 1978 COLLECTORS SHOWCASE auction catalog ad [painted cover reproductions by: Alex Schomburg; Sheldon Moldoff; Fred Ray; Dan Zolnerowich; Alfred Avison; Dick Briefer; Creig Flessel; C.C. Beck; John Celardo; Mike Sekowsky; Alex Kotsky; Paul Reinman; and, Bill Ward. Wow, here's what your favorite golden-age comic book artists were doing in 1978!]
(page 50) MR. KISS KISS BANG BANG 2, Mike France editor [James Bond movie fanzine]
(page 53) Bud Plant ad [FIRST KINGDOM]
(page 55) Sanford L. Jones E.C. Comics sale list
(page 57) BIZARRE THRILLS 1, Bill Black editor [High quality early Bill Black publication (still in print digitally). contributors: R.C. Harvey, Marc Hempel, Tom Lyle, Clifford Neal, Bill Pearson, Joe Staton, Steve Vance (he gets around), and Wallace Wood. partial cover illustration of "Phantom Lady" by Joe Staton and Mr. Black reproduced with the ad.]
(page 62) classified ads from: CEG, Star Gallery, Ernest Whitaker, Stan Timmons, Ward O. Batty, Dwight Decker, Charles Lawrence, Old Radio Warehouse, Howard Rogofsky, Larry Collier, Peter Crosby, Fry's, Christian Haerle, Mark E. Ernst, Harland Ronning, Clifford Meth, Chris Lareau, Bill-Dale Marcinko, and Masthead: AJFTHWON.
(page 67) Bill Cole ad
AFTERWORD:
Coming to a final top ten out of 274 issues of THE NOSTALGIA/COMICS JOURNAL without going crazy required dividing up the long run into rough periods and special issues. The first period (or "era," if you want to get pretentious) I label the "pre-lawsuit" halcyon days which ran from 27-52. While there were many individual highlights among these efforts (discounting all the tabloid issues which I've never seen), I picked #38 for the exhaustive Dwight Decker article on "Asterix" (which still stands up today as a history of the early years of the series) and Gary Groth's interview with Gil Kane which stretched the boundaries of comics journalism in touching on the artist's life and interests outside of comics rather than the worlds on paper he created (that some comic fans mistake for "real" life). There are also some quality shorter pieces like Bill Sherman's analysis of the early issues of THE FIRST KINGDOM, an unjustly forgotten pioneering work. Having reviews by both Mr. Groth and Mr. Thompson in the same issue would seem to push this one over the top, however I'll just say they got a lot better material to analyze in future issues. -GU
THE COMICS JOURNAL (c)2010 Fantagraphics Books, Inc.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Top 10 Issues of The Comics Journal: #38 Part Two
STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP (page 13):
Here are some numbers that reflect the circulation of the tabloid-version of THE COMICS JOURNAL, contrast these with the statement on the contents page (page 5) of "Paid Circulation: 9,000" for the magazine-version.
"Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation (required by 39 U.S.C. 3685)
1. Title of publication: THE COMICS JOURNAL
2. Date of filing: 1 Oct. 1977
3. Frequency of issue: BI-MONTHLY
A. No. of issues published annually: 6
B. Annual subscription price: $1.80
4. Location of known office of publication: 9308 CHERRY HILL ROAD, COLLEGE PARK, MD 20740
5. Location of the headquarters or general offices of the publishers: SAME
6. Names and addresses of publisher, editor, and managing editor:
Publisher: FANTAGRAPHICS, INC., 9308 CHERRY HILL ROAD, COLLEGE PARK, MD 20740. Editor: GARY G. GROTH, SAME
Managing editor: J. MICHAEL CATRON, SAME
7. Owner (If owned by a corporation, it's name and address must be stated and also immediately thereunder, the names and addresses of stockholders owning or holding 1 percent or more of total amount of stock. If not owned by a corporation, the names and addresses of the individual owners must be given. If owned by a partnership or other unicorporated firm, its name and address, as well as that of each individual must be given.): FANTAGRAPHICS, INC., CHERRY HILL ROAD, COLLEGE PARK, MD 20740
1) GARY G. GROTH, SAME
2) J. MICHAEL CATRON, SAME
8. Known bondholders, mortgages, and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent or more of the total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securities (If there are none, so state): NONE
9. [...]
10. Extent and nature of circulation:
A. Total no. copies printed (net press run):
Average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 3, 157
Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 3,500
B. Paid circulation:
1. Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors and counter sales:
Average no. copies during preceding 12 months: 125
Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 500
2. Mail Subscriptions:
Average no. copies during preceding 12 months: 2, 632
Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 2, 682
C. Total paid circulation (sum of 10B1 and 10B2):
Average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 2,757
Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 3,182
[D.]Free distribution by mail, carrier or other means. Samples, complimentary, and other free copies:
Average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 206
Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 268
E. Total distribution (sum of C and D):
Average no. copies each issue during the preceding 12 months: 2,963
Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 3,450
F. Copies not distributed:
1. Office use, left over, unaccounted, spoiled after printing:
Average no. copies each issue during the preceding 12 months: 194
Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 50
2. Returns from news agents:
Average no. copies each issue during the preceding 12 months: ----
Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: ----
G. Total (Sum of E, F1 and 2 should equal net press run shown in A):
Average no. copies each issue during the preceding 12 months: 3,157
Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 3,500
11. [...]
12. [...]"
COMICS REVIEWS (page 14-15 18-19):
-"Steel and Fire from Conway" (page 14-15) by Gene Phillips [STEEL 1 and FIRESTORM 1 by Gerry Conway] This was Mr. Phillips second review for the JOURNAL, he had previously reviewed THOR in #35. (source Peter Coogan)
-"Women's Lib and DC" (page 15) by Marilyn Jo Bethke [SHOWCASE 97 (Power Girl)] This was Marilyn Bethke's first contribution to the JOURNAL, she became a powerful voice in future issues especially valuable (in my opinion, at least) as an interviewer (Joe Staton: #45 and Howard Chaykin: #51, off the top of my head). This review is fairly conservative with some perceptive analysis of the incompatibility of the Joe Staton and Joe Orlando art team. Although she does get in a nice paragraph in the middle of the review, on feminism: "Power Girl's statements reek of token feminism, stereotyped 'women's lib' behavior, which has nothing to do with real sexism, feminism, or liberation. The condescension of 'Come to Momma' on page two and the reverse sexism of 'You men -- always making problems...' on page six are examples of a particularly disgusting new women's stereotype, the 'libber.' Such distortion of feminism and its issues does nothing more than hurt all feminists, women and men, and turn women's (and men's) liberation from a serious, important, and complex issue into an over-simplified cliche.[...]" (page 15, column two) (excerpt (c)2009 Marilyn Bethke)
-"The Schlumps and the Spacecraft: A Grouse at Close Encounters" (pages 18-19) by Dennis O'Neil [review of CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND by the comics writer and editor]
FEATURE:
"Asterix: 'These Frenchmen Are Crazy!'" (pages 20-22 25-30) by Dwight R. Decker
I. "These Gauls are Crazy"
[Introduction to the basics of the ASTERIX album series and it's two main characters.]
II. Background
[Historical perspective on Rene Goscinny and Albert Uderzo's work before ASTERIX, the early days of ASTERIX in "Pilote" magazine, and it's place among then contemporary French comics.]
III. The Creators
[Short biographies of Rene Goscinny and Albert Uderzo]
IV. The World of Asterix
[The intersections of ASTERIX'S fictional world and historical France.]
V. The Players
[Character descriptions of Asterix, Obelix, Dogmatix, Getafix, Cacophonix, and Vitalstatistix.]
VI. How to Read Asterix
[A reader's guide on where to start reading this (even 32 years ago!) long-running series.]
VII. Critique
[Mr. Decker goes over a few weaknesses of the ASTERIX series.]
sidebar 1: ASTERIX FILMOGRAPHY
"Asterix the Gaul" (1968)
via
"Asterix and Cleopatra" (1970)
via
"The Twelve Tasks of Asterix" (1976)
via
sidebar 2: ASTERIX CHECKLIST [link to gallery of all english editions of ASTERIX, click on "Universalis" and choose English]
sidebar 3: Don Rosa: illustration [Tribute to Rene Goscinny (1926-77) upon his death, featuring all the major ASTERIX characters]
THE COMICS JOURNAL (c)2009 Fantagraphics Books Inc.
Our examination of THE COMICS JOURNAL #38 concludes next time (thrill to Gary Groth's review of ALLEGRO NON TROPPO)...
Here are some numbers that reflect the circulation of the tabloid-version of THE COMICS JOURNAL, contrast these with the statement on the contents page (page 5) of "Paid Circulation: 9,000" for the magazine-version.
"Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation (required by 39 U.S.C. 3685)
1. Title of publication: THE COMICS JOURNAL
2. Date of filing: 1 Oct. 1977
3. Frequency of issue: BI-MONTHLY
A. No. of issues published annually: 6
B. Annual subscription price: $1.80
4. Location of known office of publication: 9308 CHERRY HILL ROAD, COLLEGE PARK, MD 20740
5. Location of the headquarters or general offices of the publishers: SAME
6. Names and addresses of publisher, editor, and managing editor:
Publisher: FANTAGRAPHICS, INC., 9308 CHERRY HILL ROAD, COLLEGE PARK, MD 20740. Editor: GARY G. GROTH, SAME
Managing editor: J. MICHAEL CATRON, SAME
7. Owner (If owned by a corporation, it's name and address must be stated and also immediately thereunder, the names and addresses of stockholders owning or holding 1 percent or more of total amount of stock. If not owned by a corporation, the names and addresses of the individual owners must be given. If owned by a partnership or other unicorporated firm, its name and address, as well as that of each individual must be given.): FANTAGRAPHICS, INC., CHERRY HILL ROAD, COLLEGE PARK, MD 20740
1) GARY G. GROTH, SAME
2) J. MICHAEL CATRON, SAME
8. Known bondholders, mortgages, and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent or more of the total amount of bonds, mortgages or other securities (If there are none, so state): NONE
9. [...]
10. Extent and nature of circulation:
A. Total no. copies printed (net press run):
Average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 3, 157
Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 3,500
B. Paid circulation:
1. Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors and counter sales:
Average no. copies during preceding 12 months: 125
Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 500
2. Mail Subscriptions:
Average no. copies during preceding 12 months: 2, 632
Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 2, 682
C. Total paid circulation (sum of 10B1 and 10B2):
Average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 2,757
Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 3,182
[D.]Free distribution by mail, carrier or other means. Samples, complimentary, and other free copies:
Average no. copies each issue during preceding 12 months: 206
Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 268
E. Total distribution (sum of C and D):
Average no. copies each issue during the preceding 12 months: 2,963
Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 3,450
F. Copies not distributed:
1. Office use, left over, unaccounted, spoiled after printing:
Average no. copies each issue during the preceding 12 months: 194
Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 50
2. Returns from news agents:
Average no. copies each issue during the preceding 12 months: ----
Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: ----
G. Total (Sum of E, F1 and 2 should equal net press run shown in A):
Average no. copies each issue during the preceding 12 months: 3,157
Actual no. copies of single issue published nearest to filing date: 3,500
11. [...]
12. [...]"
COMICS REVIEWS (page 14-15 18-19):
-"Steel and Fire from Conway" (page 14-15) by Gene Phillips [STEEL 1 and FIRESTORM 1 by Gerry Conway] This was Mr. Phillips second review for the JOURNAL, he had previously reviewed THOR in #35. (source Peter Coogan)
-"Women's Lib and DC" (page 15) by Marilyn Jo Bethke [SHOWCASE 97 (Power Girl)] This was Marilyn Bethke's first contribution to the JOURNAL, she became a powerful voice in future issues especially valuable (in my opinion, at least) as an interviewer (Joe Staton: #45 and Howard Chaykin: #51, off the top of my head). This review is fairly conservative with some perceptive analysis of the incompatibility of the Joe Staton and Joe Orlando art team. Although she does get in a nice paragraph in the middle of the review, on feminism: "Power Girl's statements reek of token feminism, stereotyped 'women's lib' behavior, which has nothing to do with real sexism, feminism, or liberation. The condescension of 'Come to Momma' on page two and the reverse sexism of 'You men -- always making problems...' on page six are examples of a particularly disgusting new women's stereotype, the 'libber.' Such distortion of feminism and its issues does nothing more than hurt all feminists, women and men, and turn women's (and men's) liberation from a serious, important, and complex issue into an over-simplified cliche.[...]" (page 15, column two) (excerpt (c)2009 Marilyn Bethke)
-"The Schlumps and the Spacecraft: A Grouse at Close Encounters" (pages 18-19) by Dennis O'Neil [review of CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE THIRD KIND by the comics writer and editor]
FEATURE:
"Asterix: 'These Frenchmen Are Crazy!'" (pages 20-22 25-30) by Dwight R. Decker
I. "These Gauls are Crazy"
[Introduction to the basics of the ASTERIX album series and it's two main characters.]
II. Background
[Historical perspective on Rene Goscinny and Albert Uderzo's work before ASTERIX, the early days of ASTERIX in "Pilote" magazine, and it's place among then contemporary French comics.]
III. The Creators
[Short biographies of Rene Goscinny and Albert Uderzo]
IV. The World of Asterix
[The intersections of ASTERIX'S fictional world and historical France.]
V. The Players
[Character descriptions of Asterix, Obelix, Dogmatix, Getafix, Cacophonix, and Vitalstatistix.]
VI. How to Read Asterix
[A reader's guide on where to start reading this (even 32 years ago!) long-running series.]
VII. Critique
[Mr. Decker goes over a few weaknesses of the ASTERIX series.]
sidebar 1: ASTERIX FILMOGRAPHY
"Asterix the Gaul" (1968)
via
"Asterix and Cleopatra" (1970)
via
"The Twelve Tasks of Asterix" (1976)
via
sidebar 2: ASTERIX CHECKLIST [link to gallery of all english editions of ASTERIX, click on "Universalis" and choose English]
sidebar 3: Don Rosa: illustration [Tribute to Rene Goscinny (1926-77) upon his death, featuring all the major ASTERIX characters]
THE COMICS JOURNAL (c)2009 Fantagraphics Books Inc.
Our examination of THE COMICS JOURNAL #38 concludes next time (thrill to Gary Groth's review of ALLEGRO NON TROPPO)...
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