Description

Now in paperback, this book examines comic publishing and reading in Britain, from the late-Victorian era to the present. Cultural historian James Chapman explores the origins and evolution of these beloved publications, tracing the rise of characters such as lovable rogue Ally Sloper. From the heyday in the 1950s and ’60s with titles like Eagle to the controversial era of violent comics in the ’70s, including cult favourite 2000AD, and the adult comics boom in the ’80s, Chapman covers it all. With insights into genres, creators and readers, he argues that British comics have a distinct identity, reflecting and responding to societal shifts. An essential reference for collectors, this book celebrates the lasting impact of British comics on the imaginative lives of readers young and old.

Publisher Review

‘an invaluable resource for even the most laissez-faire of fans.’-Seven Magazine, Sunday Telegraph; ‘Chapman’s British Comics does an excellent job of condensing the rich story of comics in the UK into a very readable narrative, exploring their long history and celebrating recent successes. Chapman provides exactly what the title promises. The book is hugely informative and engaging, focusing on how comics can provide insights into society and often mirror political events . . . there is for the general reader much here that will surprise and delight.’-History Today; ‘[a] cogent and enjoyable new study . . . Chapman proves to be an enthusiastic guide.’-TLS; ‘This is a book that reminds us of the fantasy worlds we have lived in, and analyses the appeal and structure of those worlds. Only those who enjoy popular culture can write about it well, and British Comics is a book in which not only is a genre analysed with expertise but enthusiasm is recollected.’-Times Higher Education; ‘James Chapman has penned the first truly scholarly survey of the origins and development of comics in Britain . . . a solidly researched piece of cultural history’-The Comics Journal; ‘Chapman takes a broad approach but offers specific examples . . . Popping up along the way are issues such as race, gender, censorship, the Cold War. Quotes, anecdotes and gems of knowledge add spice to an already facile reading. This superb, well-researched, well-thought-out volume deserves to be read by comics scholars and enthusiasts alike. Highly recommended.’-Choice;’Chapman’s analysis of key characters such as Dan Dare in their various incarnations is absorbing. Even when discussing well known characters, this book is full of interesting titbits . . . Chapman’s attempt to situate both creators and product in relation to social history is fascinating . . . its lively and interesting style makes it more than suited to the active fan and those nostalgic for the comics of their youth.’-Eye;’a valuable contribution to British comics history’-Comicbitsonline;’a well-written, well researched book, which is attractive and quite enjoyable to read.’-Cercles;’The British comic industry and tradition, often overshadowed by the American one, gets an interesting and important treatment in this book, which traces the history of British comics over the past two centuries in relation to economics and class, gender, war, technology, and the vagaries of the publishing business and popular taste.’-Anthropology Review Database