Stephen Krensky’s history of comics in the United States during the twentieth century gives young readers an intriguing perspective on this high-interest topic. Noting that comics, like popular culture in general, not only reflect the times in which they were (and are) created but also offer reflection and commentary upon them, Krensky connects what was happening in comics publishing—and often in the comic storylines themselves—to the broader social and political history of the United States. While always coming back to the readers of many ages to whom comics have appealed, and the characters and storylines that inspired devotion, Krensky illuminates the relationship between comics and society. He starts with comic strips and early bound volumes of the 1920s and early 1930s, then moves into the golden age of comics that stretched from the late 1930s through World War II. Next he chronicles the backlash against comics during the Cold War, struggling times during the 1960s, and finally the resurgence of comics—and innovation in the field—in the latter part of the twentieth century. Dynamic visual elements further energize a volume offering X-ray insight into this form of artistic and cultural expression. (Age 10 and older)

This book charts the history of American comic books, from 1930s comic strip collections to contemporary graphic novels. The author examines how comic books have reflected, and in some cases even shaped, American pop culture. Depression-era escapism, World War II patriotism, 1950s teen culture, Vietnam-era angst, Japanese comic book art influences, and a broad array of modern-day concerns are all reflected in comic book history.