My Captain America: A Granddaughter's Memoir of a Legendary Comic Book Artist

My Captain America is a coming-of-age memoir about the author's relationship with her grandfather Joe Simon, the cartoonist and co-creator of Captain America. It depicts the chaotic New York City of the 1990s and the Golden Age of comics in the 1930s and 40s, and offers a tender and intimate portrait of Joe Simon's creative genius.

Format: Hardback
Length: 242 pages
Publication date: 01 October 2020
Publisher: Pegasus Books

A captivating coming-of-age memoir delves into the author's profound connection with her beloved grandfather, Joe Simon, a renowned cartoonist and co-creator of Captain America. Set against the backdrop of the vibrant and tumultuous 1990s in the Upper West Side neighborhood of New York City, the memoir vividly portrays the author's upbringing amidst a backdrop of drug addiction, burglaries, and a notorious local figure known as the "Wild Man of 96th Street." Within the confines of her parents' tiny one-bedroom apartment, a family of five, including some loud and distinctive personalities, coexisted in a cramped 550-square-foot space. However, salvation came in the form of her spirited grandfather, Daddy Joe, whose midtown studio became a sanctuary for Megan. There, he offered a listening ear, nourishing her with Hungry Man frozen dinners, and providing a much-needed escape from the increasingly hectic home environment. Joe Simon, known as Joe Simon the cartoonist, was characterized by his drawing table, notes, and doodles, but for Megan, he was always Daddy Joe—a beacon of warmth, a nonjudgmental voice with a dry sense of humor, and a steadfast presence in a world that often felt unstable.

The memoir seamlessly weaves together the author's personal narrative with an insightful exploration of Joe Simon's life and career. It traces his journey from his early days as a retoucher of publicity photos and a spot artist for magazines to his partnership with Jack Kirby at Timely Comics, which ultimately led to the creation of iconic characters such as Captain America, the Boy Commandos, and Fighting American. Through vivid descriptions and personal anecdotes, the memoir offers a tender and deeply observed account of Megan's life with Daddy Joe, capturing the essence of their bond and the profound impact that Joe Simon had on her life.

In addition to providing a personal glimpse into the life of Joe Simon, the memoir also sheds light on the Golden Age of comics, a period of immense creativity and innovation that shaped the world of storytelling. Joe Simon's contributions to the industry were instrumental in establishing the foundations of Marvel Comics, and his partnership with Kirby led to the creation of some of the most beloved and enduring characters in comic book history. The memoir pays tribute to the legacy of Joe Simon and his indelible impact on the world of comics, reminding readers of the power of storytelling and the enduring influence of creative genius.

Overall, "My Captain America" is a captivating and heartfelt memoir that offers readers a unique perspective on the author's relationship with her grandfather and the broader cultural significance of the Golden Age of comics. It is a testament to the power of family, resilience, and the enduring legacy of creative brilliance.

Weight: 408g
Dimension: 162 x 238 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781643134642