Book Description

Bridesmaid dresses -- what are they good for? We've got to pay for them, wear them, and then find a spot for them in the back of the closet. Our best women friends, suddenly transformed into tasteful-white-dress-wearing brides, tell us, "You'll be able to wear this bridesmaid dress again." But we know better.

101 Uses for a Bridesmaid Dress, tongue firmly in cheek, pokes fun at the hopelessly horrible dress that a bride asks her "court" to don. These whimsical illustrations and silly suggestions, from cocktail napkins and shower curtains, to pony blankets and frilly jock straps, are a hilarious antidote to the bridesmaid dresses we'll never wear again.

... Read more

Reviews (14)

You'll want to grab the scissors and go for the dress pronto
Every woman who's been a bridesmaid and had to wear some awful dress she'll never wear again, has got to read this book. Hilarious and endlessly creative, Cindy Walker's imagination could turn your rainy day into a hilarious dressmakeover workshop!

anyone who's ever been a bridesmaid should buy this book
The illustrations are so wonderful -- I love the cute little baby dressed in the ruffles and satin of cast-off bridesmaid dress. No matter what the bride says (or how nice she is), you won't wear it again! That's where this great collection of wacky ideas comes in. I loved it!

Fun Gift for Bride's Maids
I gave my bridemaids this book at the my bridesmaid brunch. We began to read through it. Other tables were looking at us because we were not doing a very good job of not laughing outloud. One of the better humor books I have seen for this topic. Helped me enjoy my wedding even more.

A great gift for past bridemaids too.

Not exactly practical
The book was cute, but few of the ideas were actually practical. 101 Uses for a Bridesmaid Dress was not what I anticipated. The 101 uses seemed more like the first 101 things that came to the authors mind. Not exacly clever.

TRITE & OVERPRICED
This book is trite and way, way, way overpriced. It's thin and quite predictable. ... Read more

Book Description

In terms of both words and images, the American comic book had a tremendous impact on popular culture. Comics could be funny and cute, or they could be bizarre, morbid, risque (acute accent), violent, and bursting with the subconscious desires of youth culture. The Classic Era of American Comics is a celebration of the golden era of American comics and the wonderful art and stories it produced. This volume takes a look at the pioneers of the comic book and the industry's founding connections with sleazy pulp magazines; the campaign for censorship in the fifties; the unstable and oftentimes unfair relationship between artists and publishers--how comic artists' work wasn't considered art at the time; and, of course, the exciting comics themselves.

The Classic Era of American Comics covers all of the genres--superheroes, westerns, crime, horror, war, science fiction, girl comics, animal characters, and more. It is vibrantly illustrated with more than 400 stunning color images and includes a foreword by Joe Kubert, editor of Sgt. Rock, illustrator of Hawkman, and producer of Fax from Sarajevo. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Classic Book about a Classic Era
Actually, I would like to give this 4.5 stars.

The Classic Era of American Comics begins where comic books almost ended. With Fredrick Wertham, "Seduction of the Innocent and the congressional hearings that followed the publication of that book.

When writer address the history of a specific character in Comics they briefly go over the history of comics. Mr. Wright and Mr. Kubert take their time and give a much fuller history of the events that created comic books. Also included are many colorful old pictures of comic strips, and later, comic books. Dividing the book into sections, they not only cover the very beginning of comics that we know, but comics that have been forgotten. Also included are sections of Animal comics, Jungle comics with "good girl Art" and many other forms that have come and gone. All with splendid pictures.

But the most important aspect of this book was context. Often glossed over, Mr. Wright emphasizes the role Fredrick Wertham had in ending an era of comics. In his book, "Seduction of the Innocent" published in 1955, Mr. Wertham contended that comic books were evil. He claimed Superman was a Nazi. He also claimed that Batman and Robin were gay and just reading about them caused children to become gay. Most important, he claimed that reading comics caused Juvenile Delinquency. A major target, of course, was the EC horror comics. In this very balanced book, Mr. Wright and Mr. Kubert show some of the artwork that should have been aimed for an adult audience. Soon, congressional hearings were held and congress forced the industry to censor itself. The censorship was so heavy it almost destroyed the industry. Rather than just going after ghouls and goblins, or giving a rating system that would put adult comics out of the reach of children, the new Comic Code went after ideas such as civil rights, anti war sentiments and the evils of drug use. It took 15 years before an anti drug theme could return to comics. It certainly ended an era.

I had two, small disappointments with the book. Often the author would refer to specific covers or events but not reprint them. Basil Wolverton's Mad covers and Mac Raboy's Captain Marvel Jr. covers are two examples. Also, much of the artwork did not give creative credit to the artists who drew them and sometimes the year was left out. These should be considered minor points.

If you do like this book my I suggest that you also read Jim Steranko's The History of Comics Volume I and II. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Manga Secrets
Good book, but in response to "A Reader" above, about MangaSecrets. The site DOES in fact deliver. If you did not get your product for some reason it simply a case of writing to the support email address? If you know anything about email, you'd know that a large bulk of it is begin deleted by your ISPs before it gets anywhere near you and the product is delivered via email... So *perhaps* that is what happened?.. Anyway just my two cents.

Pretty Good
This is an overall good book for learning perspective except unless you happen to be a professional some of the tools they suggest to create various effects and your supplies consist of a paper and a pencil it doesn't do you a lot of good. One example is when they tell you how to clouds which requires scratching away at your tones. It was greatly helpful in one way in that there was more than I expected on the various point persepectives. For example, when drawing characters of different height, it shows you how to make people not "float" or "sink" on the perspective plane when drawing them. It was also very specific on the relative height of someone to the door or rail, etc. giving exact heights in cm. It's one of those that's very specific for several things so more than likely there'll be a section that's just what you needed: forked roads, bushes..
Most of it wasn't overall wasn't real useful but would have some specific section what was greatly so. I particularly liked the section on where they talk about dividing all people according to a specific head length and "then" dividing it by six or seven head lengths you wanted which is something I would have never thought of.Well, you'd have to see it probably to understand what I'm talking about. The book tells you how to draw peerspectives outside, of stairs, classroom desks inside furniture, streets, below and above buildings etc.
(...)

Awesome!
Anyone who is interested in the world of Manga will LOVE this series of How to Draw books. They have one for everything!

Great for creating outstanding scenery
Having trouble with that woodland scenery? Is your metropolis going crooked with the horizon? Then this book shows the easy tricks of the Manga world to get you going on the right track and in no time you'll be amazed at how easy it is to create those effects that manga fans drool over on the screen! ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (11)

It was too dark to hear anything...
This book travels through time. The chapters are numbered out of sequence yet the story progresses in a brilliantly funny approximation of a linear manner, the art is quirky, the text is silly, and the book itself just feels good to hold.

I've seen "The Epiplectic Bicycle" presented in this little picture-book format and with two pictures a page in a larger Gorey anthology, and it's more fun in this edition, as the pictures and text are arranged in a way that looks better on a smaller, oblong page.

The title, as best as my friends with fondnesses for strange words can determine, refers to an epiplexis, a debating strategy/rhetorical-device that tries to convince listeners by mildly upbraiding/insulting them.

Just what the bicycle is trying to persuade people to do, fortunately (as it makes the book that much more fun) is harder to determine, so I heartily reccomend buying this strange little book and leaving copies in your bathroom, on a table by the front door, anyplace anyone will be waiting for a little while as a way of making their day better with a little fun wierdness.

A real gem ... short and sweet
This little book served as my introduction to Edward Gorey; after reading it, I am hooked. The illustrations are truly endearing, the text is well-crafted and hillarious. You can flip through the book in all of five minutes, but will be chuckling all the while. Highly recommended!

i love this book!
this is most definitely my favorite book on earth! i'm so serious, this is such a cool book. it really appeals to anyone. kids could read it because there are short sentances and pictures (some tough words though...start with epiplectic??) but teens and adults (i'm sure) can also appreciate the morbid and brilliant humor of edward gorey. for anyone that thinks that $10 is too much to spend on a little book, ((you may be right in some circumstances)) but this is such a fantastic book i know i am gushing but i love it soooooooo much!!!!

Wonderful Oddness...
Two children go an "adventure" of sorts, riding around on an "Epiplectic Bicycle" (which eventually meets its demise) in this "chapter book" of sorts by Edward Gorey.

One detail I enjoyed was the chapter numbers-I noticed about halfway through reading it that I was on something like Chapter 11, but never remembered seeing Chapter 10... Pure Gorey fun! If you're not really into the scarily macabre Gorey stuff, try this book instead. It's much more light, but still has those touches that only Edward could add. It's even good for slightly older children (9-11 year olds), and the pictures are good for any age (like the picture that is all black except for a sliver of light on a bicycle wheel).

pleased
i love this book. it makes me strangely happy and i hope to run across many of edgar goreys' books by accident aswell. this proves my theory that you always find the best books under another on the forgotten side of the book store.

and how could you go wrong with a name like "the epiplectic bicycle"? ... Read more

Book Description

Shoujo manga is one of the most popular styles of Japanese animation, featuring the most recognizable characters in manga-seen everywhere in comics, books, toys, television, film, and video. Since shoujo is based on stories that focus on peer pressure, romance, and friendship, it initially appealed to young females, but today more and more boys are attracted to this genre, which inevitably includes young male heroes. Best-selling author Christopher Hart once again reveals the secrets and techniques that go into building all the basics of the shoujo style-the big eyes, the miniscule noses, and the cute or angst-ridden expressions. Teen body language is explored. In addition, artists learn to draw teen clothing styles and also different character types, from school kids and cuddly creatures and cute pets to heartthrobs. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

amazing!
i realli think this book is worth it. it teaches you how to draw man and female, how to draw the clothes when there sitting and sooo much more! i reccomend his book for anyone that wants a challenge on drawing.... it is sooo worth it considering that it takes up every topic. thats pretty much why i gave this book 5 stars!

The art of Shoujo
This book is great for those who want to learn to draw shoujo. It goes over how to draw the faces and bodies, gives examples of many types of hair for both males and females. goes over chibis, cute mascots, bishies and their eyes, different genres of shoujo, and much more! A must have!

Awesome
This book gos over everything you need to know when drawing manga. It goes over hands, facial features, female AND male characters, diffrent hair types, bodys, Chibi, design detail, and a whole lot more. If you dont want to get a million books going into great detail with just one subject, then i suggest you get this book. It really helps with trying to create your own unique manga characters as well. I suggest you go out and get this book as soon as possible. ... Read more

Book Description

Comic books are more popular now than ever. Kids and adults avidly follow the tales of their favorite superheroes--and now, with the lessons in Comics Crash Course, they can create their own adventures!

Vince Giarrano has worked on some of the most popular comic books in the world, including Superman, Batman, Peter Parker, and Action Comics. Now, he brings his fifteen years of experience to bear on a book with over twenty demonstrations. Starting from the basics and working up to an intermediate level, he shows readers how to create: -Super heroes and villains -Animals and creatures -Robots and vehicles -Backgrounds and settings -And much more!

With clear, high-quality illustrations, this Comics Buyers Guide-endorsed book will also appeal to its target audience's taste for dynamic designs and colors. ... Read more

Book Description

Take a look at the wild popularity of such shows as Pokémon, Digimon, and Dragonball Z, and you'll see the Manga style of comic-book art in action. There's no doubt about it: Manga is hot. And Manga Mania is the only guide that details step by step, how young and veteran artists alike can draw fantasy robots, diabolical monsters, mythical animals, and the other exciting characters that are part of this dynamic genre.

Manga art has many styles: the young Manga style, à la Pokémon; and the more mature style popular with teens and adults. Manga Mania covers them both. Big, splashy chapters demonstrate how to draw martial arts, special effects, and much, much more. Since the Manga style stresses character rather than anatomy, Manga comics are easier to draw. So a beginning comic-book artist can easily learn the tricks of the trade.

Chris Hart, known for his very clear step-by-step illustrations and accompanying text, details how anyone can become a real Manga artist without having to reinvent the art of drawing. ... Read more

Reviews (78)

Not one of my favorites
I don't think I would buy "Manga Mania" again. While Christopher Hart has hired some talented artists to draw this book for him, most of them look like they have drawn in the style of american comics all their lives. It's like a book on basketball written by a rookie who has great potential, but has never really played as a pro. There's work from ten artists in this book, with Christopher Hart narrating. Only one of these artists (Svetlana Chmakova) seems to know what the manga art style is really like. As for the rest of the artists, it's like they said to themselves, "I think I'll draw manga today!" and applied for the job. Even if you have drawn american comics for years, you can't just jump into manga art and become a pro.
Topics in this book include an introduction(in which the pronunciation of the word, "anime" is written incorrectly), "manga basics", "action poses", "The bad boys of manga", "manga genres", "manga's fantasy realm", "drop-dead-gorgeous manga babes", "awesome robots and other cool stuff", "designing dynamic scenes", "common japanese terms"(why is this in here?), "So you wanna be a cartoonist?", "the inside view" (a nice interview with Viz man, Bill Flanagan), and an index.
Although the books by real manga-ka and manga-ka groups (like K's art, Hikaru Hayashi, the society for the study of manga techniques, and Kenkyukai Manga Gihou) are a little more expensive, I would definitley choose book by japanese pros over this.

good
very good, highly recommended. The pictures are pretty good and show the different spectrum of anime. The styles range from the more innocent manga forms in Metropolis, to the more serious look found in Ninja Scroll, to the fantasy and robotic style of Mega Man X. This book won't show you everything in order to draw flawless pictures, even though it does give good examples when provided. You'll probably like this book more if you know how to draw already, or something to that extent. If you wanna learn to draw first, I suggest Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain. If you know how to draw somewhat, this book is a great way to SHOW you how to draw manga really well. It also gives tons of creative ideas that never would have crossed my mind unless i read them here. Its really good to spark creativity. Enjoy. I know I will.

Blech blech BLECH!
Okay, if there's one thing I can not stand it is when amateurs try to teach amateurs. Christopher Hart doesnt even know what manga is. I wouldnt be surprised if he's never read one in his life.
His artwork is pefectly hideous, and an insult to manga to say the least.
ANYONE who got any help from this book has my pity, and disgust.
If you want to learn to draw manga, this is the last book you should look at, or anything else by this pitiful artist for that matter. Get some real manga first, and study the artists technique, then get the japanese How to Draw books to study techniques further.
Using this book is akin to watching hideous anime dubs like YuGiOh and Pokemon and saying you're an anime fan.

Just western cartoons with big eyes
This book is ok for someone who just watches Yu-ge-ou and wants to doodle on his notebook but not for anyone who really wants to draw. Its flat coloring also takes away depth from the pictures and makes it look like a cheap cartoon. Not recomended for anyone who really wants to learn the true elements of anime/manga.

Good for the beginner
This was the first book on drawing manga that I ever bought. All I had seen before hand was watching anime on tv, so I already knew the basic look for eyes and such. I have to say that it was a huge help in my manga drawing journey. It teaches the basics like how to draw the eyes and different types of figures, as well as great backgrounds for your characters. I love it! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Great book!
As a cartoonist and author myself ( of "Let's Toon Caricatures"), I have quite a collection of how to draw books that I've amasses over the years. This book is my all time favorite for drawing great, cartoony animals.

Wonderful!
I love the idea of putting cartoon animals into humorous situations, and this book shows exactly how to do that! Shows simple ways to draw some of the most seemingly complex cartoons! Highly recommended!

MUST HAVE!!!
Christopher Hart's how to draw books are all wonderful. I own this one and a couple others and I often go back to them when I just can't get my sketches perfect. When I first received them I couldn't tear myself away. I was drawing up a storm 24-7. I've drawn realistic pictures all my life, but until buying these books, I'd never been able to whip out anything cartoony. Unexpectedly, his instructions and tips on cartoon drawing also helped me out in my realistic drawing and creativity.

I can't say enough about this book! You won't be disappointed! It's well worth the price and more. One great thing about it is that not only does the author really know his stuff, he's managed to present it wonderfully. It's a fun & easy read!!!

A must for all potential cartoonists!
A well done book! This book shows you all you need to know about drawing animals. If there ever was a book that was intended for all potential animators and cartoonists, this has got to be it!

Simply the Best!
I have other how to draw comic books, but this ranks the best! I'ts great for those who are just starting out and experts! I rate it a 10+! ... Read more

Book Description

Chock full of insiders' information, this is the first book devoted to providing complete information about the syndication business, systematically detailing how writers and cartoonists can turn dreams of having work syndicated into reality.

Tell-all text addresses every aspect of syndication: creating columns, comics, and features most likely to sell; finding a syndication agency; working with people at a syndicate-or setting up self-syndication; marketing through the Internet or direct mail; attracting international sales; pricing; and invoicing. Extensive resource lists are included, as are sample documents and a clause-by-clause review of a syndicated contract by the nation's top syndication lawyer. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

The indispensable guide to acheiving syndication.
If you're serious about becoming a syndicated columnist or cartoonist, this book is for you. Sedge describes the process you will have to go through to make a professional submission. There are sample contracts and practical pieces of advice from professionals in the field.

In addition, Sedge provides resources in the form of various syndicates, both large and small, which could start someone on the path to syndication.

What I liked most about this book was that Sedge did not sugar-coat what syndication is like. Rejection is the norm, there are deadlines, and you have to be dedicated and prepared to put a lot of time and effort into your work. There is also a section on self-syndication for those bold enough to go it alone.

While time constraints and obligations do not allow me to be a full time syndicated writer, this book gave me my start and a good foundation. As a result, I have been published on opinioneditorials.com, Pakistan Today, Middle East News Online and the Los Angeles Times. Dreams do come true! This book will help.

Cough! Cough!
It's hard to take advice (however well footnoted) from a hack.

Essential for anyone seeking to syndicate their work.
Writers and cartoonists who envision syndicating their productions will find Successful Syndication an essential guide to the process, with chapters telling how to locate and work with syndicates, how to create marketable materials and identify audiences, using the Internet to appeal, and submitting pieces for consideration. Essential for any seeking to syndicate work.

Another Great Sedge Book!
The "Wizard" of marketing has done it again. This is one of those rare books that provides the reader with concrete and usable information. While honest enough to state the hard facts about becoming syndicated, Sedge is also brilliant enough to show the reader how to beat the competition. If you are serious about becoming syndicated, this is the only book you will ever need. Highly recommended.

Sell Your Work Over and Over
Multiply your efforts by publishing your work in several periodicals simultaneously. In 185 jam pack pages, Michael Sedge reveals how to find the right syndication agency and how to work with them. He provides submission guidelines and inside tips. You will discover how to submit your work and finally, how to run your business. Complete with addresses, contracts, forms and references.

After filling the initial need, find more needs and use the same fill. But automate your distribution with syndication. This book will guide the way. (...) ... Read more

Book Description

It's time to learn the basics of inking and two indispensable stroke types: strokes with tapered and even ends. Combining tapered lines with blunt, even lines allows for the production of balanced artwork. Applying discretion in using tapered and even lines when drawing figures will help you establish whether a character is good or bad. ... Read more

Book Description

Poser 4 Pro Pack f/x and Design takes readers deep inside one of the hottest programs for humanoid figure animation. The insider tips and tricks are revealed! This book takes the reader from using the controls to pose their characters and modify animations down to the knuckles on the model's fingers; as well as, exporting models and animation in Shockwave format to full-figure animation, prop animation, and creation of banner ads. The book features special Python scripting techniques so that designers can specify advanced joint parameters to gravity effects used in animations including making hair appear to be blowing in the wind and other gravitational effects of clothing and props. A CD-ROM is also included containing original models, animation files, special Python Scripts, and trial versions of Poser and other programs which work in conjunction with this must have character animation program. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

A Good Compromise
This is the only worthwhile book available at this writing...for anyone looking for some help with Poser 4.0. Admittedly (as the title states), Schrand focuses much of the book on the Poser Pro Pack, an expensive but very useful add-on to the base product. But he devotes half the book to explaining and demonstrating basic and intermediate tasks, and his examples are clear and easy to follow. The CD is chock full of useful gadgets and gimcracks.

I didn't read it as a beginner, but I'm familiar with a lot of beginner's books, and I think this one will get you started in Poser and keep enhancing your knowledge and growth as you master the software.

could be better
I think this book is worth having for the price. It does have some tutorials and offers insight to the mediocre Poser user. I learned a few things but it is not the vast tome of understanding I had expected. Still, if you are grappling with some of the more advanced concepts of Poser pro pack, I'd say you probably should get this book. It may shed some light on a few things for you. Don't expect to be Phil C after reading this one though. ;>
Hydra

Very Little 'Pro'
I just browsed the book and found it not very 'pro' related. Not many color examples. There are only 12 pages of color in a 416 page book. There should be more color where lighting and color are reletive to an image creation software book. There is more information and overlap of Poser 4 issues than the Pro Version.

I would re-consider purchasing book. I am also thinking about returning it.

A Great Book For Illegal Copies Users
While this book covers the basic of Poser, and some advanced features it does not go past what is offered in manual. In sense I feel it is just a retelling of what was offered for free.

A Must For All Poser Users
Richard Shrand's book is a must have for any Poser Pro Pack user. It is written in a style that conveys the author's knowledge without condescending to the reader, and is not so technical that a reader will turn away in utter confusion and helplessness after the third page ....

I spent the last week reading the book every night. As an intermediate to advanced Poser user there are tips and tricks and explanations in that book, enriching my knowledge of Poser immensely so that my pursuits as a texture map maker and 3d digital artist, who's main tool in the creative process is using all things Poser, becomes much simpler and more easily understood. For new users, this book will put several easily grasped concepts at your fingertips.

There are two informative and revealing Forewards by both CuriousLabs, makers of the Poser and Poser Pro Pack Software, and DAZ3D Productions, the creators of the finest models available for Poser today. It displays fine examples of work from some of the best artists and technicians in the 3d world today.

Richard covers with great ease and understanding the brilliance of Poser Pro Pack's features including Setup Room, one of the software's hottest features, where bones are added to make a model fully posable and ready to be animated within Pro Pack itself, or by importing it into 3d Studio Max and Lightwave for rendering, seamless integration between Poser Pro Pack and 3D Studio Max and Lightwave, and its web capabilities in such applications as Flash and Viewpoint, and, in conjunction with John Brugioni, the abilities of Python scripting, a way, as Richard so aptly describes "to go under the hood of Poser Pro Pack and create all new features and effects".

In addition there are two appendices, one that puts the reader in touch with how to use the web to find anything poser offered, and one with special effects like radiosity and lens flare.

This book is then capped off with a CD Rom that is packed to the brim with demo softwares, models, textures, and demonstrations and tutorials.

It is a Poser Pro Pack bible for users worldwide interested in learning the ins and outs of Poser Pro Pack, from the beginning to advanced level, written in a clear and understandable style, with a certain off-hand humor that creates an open channel in the relationship between reader and author. ... Read more

Book Description

In the five decades after the Yellow Kid first appeared in 1895, the funnies became an essential element of American life. Comic strip characters-Buster Brown, the Katzenjammer Kids, Krazy Kat, Tarzan, Dick Tracy, Popeye, Blondie, Li'l Abner-were everywhere. They starred in live-action and animated films, stage plays, and radio programs. Their phrases invaded the language; their adventures, which reflected societal changes, were retold in books and inspired hit songs.

This visually stunning, comprehensive survey-copiously illustrated with rare original comics art-is the most authoritative history of prewar American newspaper comics currently in print. It documents the major trends in the funnies business, decade by decade, and presents in-depth biographies of 21 of the most influential creators of the era. The Comics Before 1945 joins Brian Walker's The Comics Since 1945 to form a classic survey of American popular culture by one of the greatest authorities in the field. AUTHOR BIO: Brian Walker, a cartoonist and a founder of the International Museum of Cartoon Art, has written and edited more than a dozen books, including Abrams' The Comics Since 1945. Since 1984 he has been part of the creative team that produces the strips Beetle Bailey and Hi and Lois. He lives in Wilton, Connecticut. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (7)

Must Read
Shamus Culhane is one of the world's best animators. He created the walk cycle of the seven dwarfs in snow white. He demonstrated each characters personality walking in a line. All the characters are in synch. Amazing.
He explains the basics of animation. This book is a great way to understand the techniques of hand drawn animation. I have a few of the pages of this book Xeroxed and I keep them in my sketchbook. I have come across it in almost every animation studio and almost every animator's bookshelf.

Great book to get started
This book got me started in animation. Despite of a lot of helpful information, it also offers good excercises and points out other sources of great value. This book is written by the late former Disney artist who has been in the buisness from the first hour of animated cartoons. While all animation studios I've worked at consider Frank Thomas'and Olli Johnston's book "Illusion Of Life" as the animation bible, Culhane's book is a definate book for anyone who is just starting. It is also a great book for fans of the all time classic cartoons.

A very good book / Un excelente libro
This book should be on every animator personal library. Its very interesting to read how everything it has to be done in a good animation studio. (Spanish)Este libro esta muy bueno, el texto te atrapa por lo interesante de laas anecdotas y lo bien planteados que estan los temas. No debe faltar en la biblioteca del buen animador.

Great information from an arrogant animator
As an animator and video artist, I found the information in this book invaluable. I also found the text to be condescending, arrogant, and 20 years behind the times -- a tone which irritated me at first, but which I discovered to be common to many aging old-school animators.

This book is a must, not only because of the technical information it contains, but also as a sample of the crusty attitudes that a novice animator is likely to come across in the world of professional animation.

Good for "Traditional" Animation
I'm a digital artist and 3D animator, so I bought it to gain a bit of knowledge on traditional techniques, and this is what is all about, thought to me it could be better if the theory was covered more in depth. On the practical side a must. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Hajime Sorayama shows his talent off!
I look it as this, he is showcasing his talents. His diverse choice of material and textures, was a challenge to himself. He demanded much of himself, and to us he delivers! A fun, exciting joyride, causing you topause and imagine the life, he so closely brings to you with his paintings.-Kevin

Excellant artistic quality
It is 8x10 glossy air brush works of the artist. A good bit of it iswomen/fantasy women, which is the reason my husband/artist purchased it,but it also includes some of his advertisement art, which is very good.Alot of steel & chrome. It includes his short biography & a behindthe scenes of his sketches.Excellant book ... Read more

Book Description

"Happiness is a warm puppy."-Lucy Van Pelt, Peanuts, April 25, 1960

Newspaper comics arrive in millions of homes each day and make families laugh out loud. They're not only funny-they also reflect their times. In this collection, cartoon authority Brian Walker has amassed more than a half-century of strips-more than 700 illustrations-including scores of rare examples provided by the artists themselves. Featured cartoonists include Walt Kelly (Pogo), Charles Schulz (Peanuts), Garry Trudeau (Doonesbury), Bill Watterson (Calvin and Hobbes), Scott Adams (Dilbert), and Patrick McDonnell (Mutts), along with many more.

Organized by decade, with biographical profiles and descriptions of different genres and themes, The Comics is both comprehensive and graphically stunning. Taken as a whole, this humorous compendium is a classic survey of American culture since 1945. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A Great Look at the Funnies
I've felt for a while that the newspaper comic strip is the most ignored form of popular art, rarely looked at critically. While comic books prosper and have gone well beyond the standard superhero format, the comic strip languishes, rarely allowing new and creative strips to break through, while "institutional" strips (those that have not been amusing for years but are institutions, such as Heathcliff or Crock) dominate the paper.

In this sense, this book is not very helpful; it is a relatively uncritical appreciation of the comics. Nonetheless, it is an excellent book, a good summary of the major artists and developments in the comics since World War II. All the big strips are here: Garfield, Peanuts, Doonesbury, Calvin & Hobbes, the Far Side and many more, along with plenty of material from bygone eras.

This book is around 50% text and 50% comics, so there is plenty of fun stuff to read in either format. For what it is - an appreciative history - it is fantastic. The only flaw is that Walker ignores the comic strips of alternative newspapers, therefore neglecting such important works as Groening's Life in Hell (without which, there would be no Simpsons).

For anyone who has ever enjoyed the comics, this book is a great look at the field and a lot of fun.

An Insider Clues Us Mere Mortals into The Comics Strip World
A man who knows it all from the Inside: Creator, Writer, and Exhibition Curator, Brian Walker as a Comics Historian has every credential anyone could ask to create an interesting, informative AND knowledgeable read into the Pop Culture Core of the Comics. If he doesn't cover it, it doesn't exist in this fond retrospective of the last Fifty Years of the Comics. Great Examples, culled from Newspaper tear sheets , plus Black and White Examples of the Originals media.
Highly Recommended for Everyone interested in the Field of Comics.

The best single-volume history of the comics
Outstanding job. In every way, this book surpasses its precursors. I wasn't sure, at first, exactly HOW it was better than Blackbeard and Crain, Marschall, Horn, Wood, Blackbeard and Williams et. al. Then I pulled all those old volumes off my shelf. I saw the big difference at once: the layout and presentation is far and away the smartest. It's clear! It's easy to see and read! It doesn't turn the comics into a mystery and a cult; it renders this original American art form as history. Just take a look at Marschall and some of the others: the reader never knows where he or she is in time or even which artist's work is under consideration---or why. For a single-volume history, the clarity and compassion of this book, its generosity both to the reader and to the comics and to the comic artists makes it incomparable. Even a simple touch such as the artist's self-portraiture and self-caricature, carried throughout, becomes a kind of compass point for the reader. The prose is also first-rate, the research is bottom-of-the-well deep and feels deeply reliable, but the real achievement here is Walker's powers of selection. He's the David Lean of comic strip historians---bringing in the whole epic of the comics since 1945 in 325 shimmering, clear pages. I personally would have liked more of the character and personality of the comic strip artists themselves, but in fact, Walker has given us everything we need here (even Al Capp's parody of Peanuts), and, as Lean often said, the real power of the story comes from everything you leave out. ... Read more

Book Description

This fourth volume in the More How to Draw Manga series presents the basic drawing techniques depending on twelve (12) types of bishoujo characters, as well as their costumes, movements, etc. ... Read more

Amazon.com

There must be dozens of books on how to draw comics, but even the best artists need to tell a good story.Who can teach them?Dennis O'Neil.A comics writer and editor for more than 20 years, O'Neil oversees DC Comics' Batman titles--one of the most successful comics franchises ever.In addition, he's a bestselling novelist, a screenwriter, and a writing teacher. So when it comes to storytelling, O'Neil knows his stuff.In this guide he delivers his knowledge in a succinct, no-nonsense style.

O'Neil explains three-act story structure and examines subplots, characterization, and methods for developing drama and suspense. He then applies these concepts to comics' specific forms: graphic novels, miniseries, maxiseries, and the rare megaseries (such as Batman: No Man's Land, a year-long über-narrative played out across five comics titles).As in good comics, words and images work together in this book.Every idea is illustrated by panels or pages from great moments in DC Comics lore. Especially illuminating are the script excerpts that comepaired with the comic book pages they describe.

Strangely, the book ignores the visual side of comics writing. Modern comics scripts specify shots, angles, and blocking in movie-director fashion, but that craft is never addressed. (DC has a good opportunity here for a second volume.) However, what this book sets out toteach--storytelling--it does quite well. Aspiring comics writers won't just learn theory, they'll be empowered, because O'Neil provides a framework for crafting new tales. --J.B. Peck ... Read more

Reviews (15)

An solid introduction, but it leaves you wanting much more
"The DC Comics Guide to Writing Comics" is author by Dennis O'Neil, who wrote some of the classic Green Lantern and Batman stories (usually drawn by Neal Adams). In this volume O'Neil covers the various methods of writing scripts, procedures for developing a story structure, creating well-rounded characters, and more. Although most of what is covered in here is basic to all forms of writing, O'Neil does keep the focus on how these key concepts apply to the writing of comic books. The book is divided into two parts, with an appendix:

Part One: (1) What are Comics? is answered in terms of a comprehensive vocabulary of comic book terms such as speech balloon, story arc, and inker; (2) A Full-Script Versus Plot-First compares the latter, which is the Marvel method developed by Stan Lee, with the former, the traditional approach for writing film and television scripts, with the strengths and weaknesses of each; (3) Story Structure provides a listing of the basic kinds of structure used in comics, including a detailed look at different examples of "The Hook"; (4) Creating Drama looks at the importance of keeping the action going and offers a key distinction between suspense and surprise; (5) Subplots presents the advantages and inherent dangers of subplotting; (6) Characterization spends as much time talking about dialogue and humor as well as about the hero and other characters; and (7) Script Preparation is about the physical act of writing and producing something that can be turned over to an artist (assuming, for the sake of argument, you are not going to do the whole comic book yourself in the spirit of Dave Sims, the early years).

Part Two starts by covering the rules for different types of comic book stories: (1) Miniseries give you a title with a predetermined number of issues, usually between three and six; (2) Graphic Novels are, for want of a better definition, long fictional narratives (sidestepping graphic novel miniseries like "The Dark Knight Returns"); (3) Maxiseries are essentially longer miniseries, like "The Watchmen" or "Crisis on Infinite Earths"; and (4) Ongoing Series, which are the staple of DC Comics and include titles like "Action Comics" and "Batman" that have been published continuously for over 60 years. Basically the same general rules are applied to all of these forms, with a different balance of consideration. The rest of this unit looks at (5) Story Arcs as ways of doing a miniseries in an ongoing series; (6) The Levitz Paradigm for tracking plots and characters over the course of multiple issues; (7) Megaseries, which is O'Neil's newly coined term for stories that cut across multiple titles for the same characters, such as Batman's "No Man's Land"; (8) Adaptations, which in this case applies not to turning great works of literature into comic books but rather adapting Batman movies back into the comic books that inspired them; (9) Continuity, or rather three types of continuity; and (10) Denouement, which is O'Neil's final pat on the back to his readers.

The Appendix has Mark Evanier's thoughts on "Writing Humor Comics," and a list of suggestions for the Comic Book Writer's Library. Overall, the book is much more descriptive than anything else, which ends up being both its strength and its weakness. Still, O'Neil does try to crystallize his thoughts into specific rules whenever possible. If anything, O'Neil is guilty of trying to cover too much and sacrificing, to some degree, depth for breadth. Throughout "The DC Comics Guide to Writing Comics" the best examples are when O'Neil can go into detail (especially if it is regards to a comic we have actually read). The book is illustrated with examples from comics throughout DC's history, but the best examples are rough or finished pages paired up with the pages written up for the artist by the writer. This is where we get our best sense of how comic books are written and produced in the real world.

The companion volume to this work, "The DC Comics Guide to Pencilling Comics," is written by Klaus Janson. There is actually a minimum of overlap between these two volumes, which offer a complimentary approach to the creation of comic books. These two DC volumes are worthy additions to the limited library that every aspiring comic book writer/artist should own, which would include Will Eisner's "Comics and Sequential Art" and "Graphic Storytelling," Scott McCloud's "Understanding Comics" and "Reinventing Comics," and even John Buscema's "How to Draw Comics the Marvel Way."

GREAT BOOK FOR BEGINNERS
If you're a beginner when it comes to writing, as I was, then this book will be of great help. The author, Dennis O'Neil, has been writing comic books for a long time and has worked on some of my favorite Batman stories (such as the critical and commercial success "No Man's Land" series). In the book, O'Neil discusses different types of writing formats, such as plot-style and full-script, as well as the basic three act structure used in everything from screenwriting, playwriting, (and yes) comic book writing. On the downside, it's a little short and can be read through quickly. But don't let that stop you from buying it. There's a lot of information within its pages for people who don't really know the basics of comic book writing.

Thank you Mr. O'Neil
here in Palestine ( holly land), we miss the fortune of books and comics, I want our kids to see this fancy world just like I do every time I read BATMAN or Spiderman ...
For that I thank Mr. O'Neil who gave me this chance to know HOW TO WRITE COMICS , for a long time I wanted to write a comic stories , I drawn a Super hero of my own , imagined the story line, BUT did not know how to put it on paper, Now ... its an easy mission ... thanks to Mr. O'Neil

Hoping that writing for kids here in Palestine can make a little hope for Peace in the land of Christ.

Not at all a Bad Start
As an experienced, published writer in just about every genre EXCEPT comics, I came to this book expecting a simple, cookie-cutter, step-by-step guide that would have all its readers producing identically-plotted stories. I was pleasantly surprised. O'Neil leaves out the obvious (i.e. Rewrites happen. Deal with it.), and focuses on the "Why" more than the "How." Is it as easy as copying an existing comic? Of course not; anyone who would say that is naive. O'Neil talks about how to READ that existing comic, not as a piece of entertainment, but as a piece of writing. I'll use this in my writing classes as well as for myself.

DISAPPOINTING.
Half of this thin volume consists of B&W repro's of DC comics pages. 3/4 of the rest consists of tips cribbed from Hollywood Screenwriting books. (Note to O'Neil, comics are not movies. Or TV shows.)

What's in the guide specifically for comics writing? Well, the answer to one beginner's question - "What format do I use?" is: "There's no one right way." The answer to another beginner's question: "Do I write out the whole script, panel by panel, balloon by balloon, before the artist gets it, or do I just write a plot outline for the artist, then script the captions and balloons after the penciller is finished?" is: "There's no one right way."

Mr. O'Neil repeats "There's no one right way" about 53 more times, just in case you can't read.

The only thing interesting and worthwhile here is "the Levitz Paradigm" a way to organize plots and subplots across different issues or even across titles. But as O'Neil notes, nobody gets a chance to do anything like that at DC unless they have already been working there for many years.

O'Neil has been writing comics a long time. He must know what he's doing. Maybe he can't articulate it. Maybe he doesn't want to release the REAL secrets and foster competition.

I just don't know. ... Read more

Book Description

The first edition of The Animation Book, published in 1979, became the authoritative guide to making animated movies. Now, as we enter the twenty-first century, the explosion in computer technology has created a corresponding boom in animation. Using desktop hardware and software, animators can easily produce high-quality, high-artistry animation and mix the aesthetics of traditional cel animation with dazzling 3-D effects. Kit Laybourne's digital revision to The Animation Book brings you to the cutting edge of animation technology. Richly illustrated with frame-grabs, production stills, and diagrams, this volume shares Kit's infectious enthusiasm for the limitless possibilities of today's hybrid techniques, and it provides beginning animators with all the information they need to jump in and start their own animation projects. More advanced animators will find The Animation Book to be an invaluable resource with detailed descriptions of filmmaking gear, computer hardware and software, art supplies, plus Internet and other resources.

Using an innovative case-study approach, Kit deconstructs how a range of digital projects were carried out at some of today's hottest animation studios, including Wildbrain, Blue Sky, Protozoa, Fantome, Broderbund, Nicktoons, and Klasky Csupo. These step-by-step studies show how desktop animators can follow the same creative process in their own films. ... Read more

Reviews (17)

I adore this book.
I make short films and teach film and video, (as well as computer art), and "The Animation Book" made me weep gentle tears of joy.

Not only is it full of the information that both the beginner and the more advanced animator will use, it is an inspiration. It has stills from some of the best independent animations around, as well as pages Laybourne prompts the reader to draw in and rip out.

After reading the intro and flipping faster and faster through the pages, I felt a very powerful need to animate - right now! I haven't felt this excited about what I do in years, and I can't say I've ever found a book that has thrilled me so.

Just to make certain I wasn't being overly sentimental, I put this book in the hands of several non-animating, and highly cynical individuals. One by one, each succumbed to the charms of the little drawings of equipment and then distractedly searched around for a pencil, so they too could begin the exercises.

This was written in 1979, and Laybourne does quite an admirable job of discussing computer technology of that time. But this book rightly focuses on hands-on, experimental work with garage sale equipment; the wonderful animations an individual can make in his/her kitchen.

I want every student, every friend, to get this book, especially those working with new technology. It's a terrific antidote to the superficiality so often imposed by the ever-changing computer. "The Animation Book" encourages playing with ideas and aesthetics, a delightful reminder of what makes moving images amazing.

Most definitive guide to animation of every kind
Kit Laybourne should be commended for gathering the most up to date (as of 1998) and comprehensive information about animation of EVERY kind. I hope that there will be updates of this book. The animation field is exploding and transforming constantly.

Really Really Basic
This book is probably alright, if you don't know anything about animation. It's a survey book, explaining the very basic concepts that make up different types of animation. It's not very useful beyond that.

Good introduction to Animation
I am using this book for background info for an animation unit I teach with my graphics students. It gives you a good overview of many different animation techniques. It answered a lot of my questions. This book is a good start, but you might also want to check out animation by preston blair, and Animation from script to screen by Shamus Culhane. Shamus will make an animator out of you by the end of his book.

Very general, not enough updated info
Although it is almost impossible for a book to provide the most up-to-date info, this book tries it's best. I really think that an animation book should be specified (ie 2d, stop-motion, 3d, etc) in order to not "cheat" the reader out of more intense knowledge. However, if a broad introduction is what you seek, then this book will work (but there are less expensive books that will do just the same). ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Not as good as I had hoped.
I got this book pretty much based on the front cover, I have to say. While that is my fault, it's misleading. I wanted to learn to draw nekos (cat-girls), which I couldn't find in the book. One thing though, there were some cool sections about Japanese mythology and monsters.

I do like this book, it just wasn't as good as I hoped. I still look through it when I'm drawing, but I think only one picture (chibi devil girl) actually has any elements from this book.

Tettering over the edge
Don't let ANYONE fool you. The books at this level of "How to Draw Manga" series are not for beginners. Don't let anyone come and tell you that you'll get step by step instructions...because you won't. Especially not in this book.

BUT WAIT! Don't go off just because of that. This book isn't so much about walking you through things as it is about giving some EXTREMELY useful tips. While using this book I found myself looking back and saying..."Wait I ALREADY DO THAT!" And by paying attention to the techniques I was using for the genre unconciously I was able to refine and get better! If your interested in Occult, Horror, Fantasty, and magic based comics I'd suggest this book greatly. It's a nice RESOURCE.

Buy it as soon as you can. Just don't expect to have steps taken with you. This is a "Look at us do it and now YOU do it." Also for you strict pencillers out there, some of the inking techniques in this book can be applied to you. I don't like inking my work unless it's to certain parts. Never as a whole. So I mimicked alot of this in pencil. Hope this helps people! Bye bye!

Yay!!
A whole variety of fun ideas and techniques offered. Everything from how to get that severed limb just perfectly gory looking, to drawing convincing backdrops of many moods.

One of the coolest facets of this book is the fact that they explain what various drawn japanese expressions mean. I watch animae a little differently now- pretty nifty, indeed.

One of the best
Im sure all of you manga artists out there have probably heard of the "how to draw mang" series, although most of the books are for experts a begginer such as myself can learn a whole lot out of a book like this. The book concentrates on things like monsters and gosts ect.. The book shows some background techniques (very important) and as another reveiwer said there are a lot of RPG character ideas. The bad side: None of the how to draw manga series shows how to draw manga step by step if the book showed step by step it would definetly earn its 5th star. Although I must admit it is sometimes fun just copying the pics. It may seem expensive but trust me its worth every penny. for those who like step by step then perhaps a Christopher Hart book may be best for U

Thanks for reading my review !!

Great book
This book really helped me out on demons and ogres. I also really like how they teach you to make ghosts and zombies. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Lord Wherewithal is dead at Backwater Hall, Horace Gollop cavorts with Victoria Scone, and (perhaps most unsettling of all!) someone has offended decorum by disemboweling a stuffed thisby belonging to the Earl of Thump in The Other Statue, Edward Gorey's latest feat of macabre artistry and elliptical mystery. Come join the party! --Tim Appelo ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Beautiful book, Brilliant Author
pick this up, it's spectacular art, envokes quite a positive response from kids.

Stumped
There is somthing about this book. It is so intrigueing I keep reading it over and over. For such a short story I have definately gotten my kicks out of it. Well worth a read again..and again...My favorite Gorey book.

Gorey Haunts Us Again
Gorey fans will enjoy this dark vintage offering, which was first printed in 1968 and has been out of print until this year. Gathered for the annual charity fete at Backwater Hall in Mortshire, the assembled guests are suddenly disrupted by the mysterious death of their host, Lord Wherewithal and the theft of the family's heirloom, the Lisping Elbow. The Other Statue is a gothic mystery filled with exquisite details and haunting images (both in the illustrations and the words.) It leaves its readers pondering and wondering what happened to the sequel, "The Night Bandage", promised "to follow" on the back cover.

Typical Gorey, who was a genius
I don't know where this late sixties Gorey work has been hiding, but it's good to see it in print now. Apparently this is part one of a mystery, and I look forward to part 2. Fans of Gorey's unique world, with its obscure humor and painstakingly rendered artwork, will enjoy this offering as yet another fine example of the master's hand. It tells the story (more or less) of an Edwardian garden party at which somebody dies, whereupon the characters dither about in various suspicious and barely coherent ways, and nothing is yet resolved. Fans may find this one reminiscent of "The Willowdale Handcar." Those unfamiliar with Gorey's work should first investigate his fine "Amphigorey" collection to g