Blog Archives
A Master Narrative History
The amount of information you give to readers in this book is astounding. How much research did you undertake for Understanding Superhero Comic Books, and how much time did it take to put it all together?
This book took 6 years of study, research, interviews, and analysis from myself to piece together and write into a narrative history of the Superhero Comic Book, its origins, and evolutions over a hundred years.
What is your background and experience in writing and comic books, and how did it help you write this informative resource for readers?
I write and produce informational videos as well as an interview podcast with several guests who are professionals in the comic book industry, which helped me tap into, write, and rewrite my information and understanding of the superhero comic book commercial and artistic unit.
What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?
I really wanted to bridge overall, several theories on the origins and direction of superhero comic books into a master narrative history that would take the reader from A to Z, provide over 1200 citations to back up the information, dispel rumors, and get to the facts in an interesting and informative way.
What future plans do you have after writing this book, will there be a companion book to go with this one?
I’m currently writing a graphic novel that dramatizes some of the events that I objectively delineated here.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Understanding Superhero Comic Books
In today’s era, releasing a Marvel or DC superhero film is nothing short of a global spectacle. Yet, how many are genuinely acquainted with the roots of these iconic superheroes, the chronicles of the comic books they emerged from, or the evolution of their fandom? Understanding Superhero Comic Books by Alex Grand is a masterful exploration of the pivotal moments and influencers that have sculpted modern superhero comic books.
Grand’s narrative interweaves the tapestry of classic Hollywood cinema with the Golden Age of comics, revealing intriguing parallels such as Wolverine’s unresolved anger juxtaposed with that of the legendary Popeye. The depth of research is palpable, drawing from a rich repository of past interviews, seminal essays, and iconic comic strips. Further enriching the content are conversations that Grand has had with several luminaries, providing firsthand insights.
One standout segment involves Trina Robbins, a trailblazer as the first woman to illustrate Wonder Woman. Through her interview, readers are granted a window into the pivotal role of women in the comic book saga.
While Understanding Superhero Comic Books is generously peppered with comic images, underscoring the narrative, the text can be richly dense, adopting a more academic resonance. However, this depth only highlights its treasure trove of insights, making it indispensable for aficionados keen to delve into the genesis of their cherished superheroes.
Alex Grand crafts an opus that is enlightening and a pleasure to read. Whether one approaches this book out of nostalgic reverence or scholarly curiosity, Grand proves to be a maestro, offering a magnum opus on the history and metamorphosis of superhero comic books.
Pages: 581 | ASIN : B0C71K9H2M
I Stumbled Onto The History
Journey Into Mexico: The Revenge of Supay follows a young man with the ability to summon the Aztec and Mayan gods who is trying to save Mexico from demons and the old gods. What was the inspiration for your story?
During the time that the idea came to me, I was heavily researched into South American mythology and the pre-Catholic era, meanwhile I stumbled onto the history of Vicente Guerrero, Mexico’s first Afro-American president and his organized execution from rival political forces and the following Mexican revolution. Something started to form as I was putting all that together, and thought how interesting it would be to bring more knowledge of this material to the public, but also weave together a story that resulted in Mexico’s independence from Spain. Surprisingly it all took shape very quickly and I desperately sought an artist.
How long did it take you to imagine, draft, and write the world your characters live in?
This process took about 6 weeks to finalize where I wanted it all to go.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Sebastián Guidobono?
Sebastián was fantastic. I sent him the first few pages of script, and he hit it out of the park. I really couldn’t believe it, and wanted him to be the primary visualist of the story. He is incredibly easy to work with, and collaboration with him is a dream. We’re similar age-wise and we had a great time generating the graphic novel together.
What is the next installment in this series that you are working on, and when will it be available?
I’m in the research phase of that, and not quite sure if I want to do a direct extension of the story or fastforward it thirty years and involve Mexican politics during the American civil war. To be determined!
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
Journey Into Mexico
Set in the tumultuous 1830s Mexico, Journey into Mexico by Alex Grand is a captivating historical fiction graphic novel woven around the tale of the superhero El Fuego. As political strife and dark forces threaten to undermine peace and sow the seeds of injustice, El Fuego rises to fight for justice and freedom of choice, empowered by the fire gods of life and creation.
The nonstop action in El Fuego’s battles against deadly enemies from Mexican mythology, powerfully illustrated by Sebastian Guidobono, keeps readers on the edge of their seats. As a heroic champion of the people, El Fuego fights for justice and stands tall against the unyielding hordes of evil. Taking inspiration from classic comic book heroes of World War Two, this thrilling adventure is steeped in action with an altruistic and patriotic core. The transformation of Tijax Tabares, the young boy who discovers the power of the old gods, into the hero El Fuego whenever the innocent are threatened adds a powerful quest for truth. The war between gods directly impacts the lives of people on earth, making El Fuego’s journey impactful and highly engaging.
Journey into Mexico is an immensely enjoyable superhero adventure that weaves together the history, mythology, and enchanting culture of Mexico. Cultural representation, excellence in storytelling, and incredible art make this graphic novel a must-have for readers who love superhero adventures, history, and world culture.
Containing fantasy violence, blood, and mild language, this story is suitable for readers 12 and up who cannot get enough heroic action stories. Journey into Mexico takes readers on an exciting venture into the world of heroes and mythology. As El Fuego continues to fight for justice and truth in his beloved Mexico, readers will eagerly await the next installment of his adventures.
Pages: 102 | ASIN: B08WRCBVZV
Hashman
Hashman by Alex Grand and Josh Berman is a gripping graphic novel depicting the high times of Joey Berkowitz. Despite enduring a childhood of abuse, Berkowitz uses his wits and mediation skills to skirt the law and find his calling, moving from a modest neighborhood in Brooklyn as a young Jewish boy to one of the biggest movers and shakers in the city’s drug scene. Based on a true story, Hashman follows Berkowitz through his accounts of early life in the drug culture through the rebellious 60s, 70s, and so on. The book takes the reader through the gritty reality of historic and life-changing events, including cartel shakeups, mob connections, and the struggle for cannabis legalization.
Hashman is a refreshing, exciting read written by two talented authors, Alex Grand, and Josh Berman. The incredible artwork is created by Charbak Dipta and offers a psychedelic, gonzo style that fits the themes. The story gives a sense that all names have been changed to protect or conceal the actual characters on which the book is based. While the writers claim Hashman is both a work of fiction fused with true elements, most of the events cited throughout the story are historically accurate, which offers the perfect blend for a realistic, gripping tale. All these attributes contribute credibility to the real life of Berkowitz and his wild tales.
I thought the book was highly entertaining and a well-narrated account of the intriguing but dangerous world of the mid to late-twentieth-century drug culture. The legalization efforts in Washington and other historical references throughout the book were fascinating and worked well with the raw visuals and excellent storytelling.
Hashman by Alex Grand and Josh Berman is a fantastic book, and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in graphic novels and the world of cannabis culture.
ASIN B0BS1LXQQL | Pages 128
LITERARY TITAN 