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

This work dissects the origin and growth of superhero comic books, their major influences, and the creators behind them. It demonstrates how Batman, Wonder Woman, Captain America, and many more stand as time capsules of their eras, rising and falling with societal changes, and reflecting an amalgam of influences. The book covers in detail the iconic superhero comic book creators and their unique contributions in their quest for realism, including Julius Schwartz and the science-fiction origins of superheroes; the collaborative design of the Marvel Universe by Jack Kirby, Stan Lee, and Steve Ditko; Jim Starlin’s incorporation of the death of superheroes in comic books; John Byrne and the revitalization of superheroes in the modern age; and Alan Moore’s deconstruction of superheroes.

Posted in Interviews

1 Comment

Tags: Alex Grand, author, book, book recommendations, book review, book reviews, book shelf, bookblogger, books, books to read, Comics & Graphic Novel History & Prices, Comics & Graphic Novels, Comics & Graphic Novels Literary Criticism, ebook, goodreads, indie author, kindle, kobo, literature, nook, novel, read, reader, reading, story, Understanding Superhero Comic Books, writer, writing

Understanding Superhero Comic Books

Sep 14

Posted by Literary Titan

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