Marvel Comics Library. Fantastic Four. Vol. 1. 1961-1963

Stan Lee and Jack Kirby created the Fantastic Four in 1961 to revive superheroes and revolutionize the comic book industry. The team consisted of Mr. Fantastic, the Invisible Girl, the Thing, and the Human Torch. The comics were set in New York City and featured dynamic art and engaging writing. This XXL-size volume collects the first 20 issues reproduced from the original comics, with an in-depth essay by Mark Waid and original art, photographs, and other rarities.

Format: Hardback
Length: 700 pages
Publication date: 26 October 2022
Publisher: Taschen GmbH

In the early 1960s, veteran comic creators Stan Lee and Jack Kirby sought to revive Marvel's sales slump by introducing a super team. Kirby, who believed superheroes had been neglected for 15 years in favor of romance, horror, and war comics, saw it as a strategic move. Lee, on the other hand, was driven by a desire to create a story that he himself would enjoy reading.

The Fantastic Four, a group of four extraordinary individuals with unique powers, was born. Reed Richards, his girlfriend Sue Storm, his best friend Ben Grimm, and her younger brother Johnny Storm were transformed into Mr. Fantastic, the Invisible Girl, the Thing, and the Human Torch after their rocket was hit by cosmic rays.

These characters were complex, with their powers often posing both a benefit and a burden. The stories were set in New York City, providing a familiar backdrop for the Marvel heroes. Marvel heroes frequently crossed over into each other's books, creating a rich and interconnected universe.

The art in the Fantastic Four was dynamic, with bold lines and vibrant colors. The writing was conversational and engaging, drawing readers into the characters' lives. Lee and Kirby, often referred to as the Lennon and McCartney of comic books, collaborated seamlessly, their talents blending together to create a series that has become a cultural phenomenon.

This XXL-size volume collects the first 20 issues of the Fantastic Four reproduced from the most pristine pedigreed original comics. The comics have been cracked open and photographed in close collaboration with Marvel and the Certified Guaranty Company, ensuring the highest quality reproduction.

In addition to the comics, the book features an in-depth essay by acclaimed Marvel writer Mark Waid, a foreword by former NASA astronaut Mike Massimino, and original art, photographs, and other rarities. This collection is a testament to the Marvel Age of Comics, a time when superheroes ruled the pages and captured the hearts and imaginations of readers around the world.

Whether you are a seasoned comic book fan or a newcomer to the world of superheroes, the Fantastic Four is a must-read. It is a timeless masterpiece that has left an indelible mark on the comic book industry and continues to inspire new generations of readers. So, grab your copy of this XXL-size volume and immerse yourself in the Marvel Age of Comics.

Weight: 6016g
Dimension: 492 x 478 x 82 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783836582315