The Strange Death of Alex Raymond

The Strange Death of Alex Raymond is a master work that explores the lives and techniques of Alex Raymond, Stan Drake, Hal Foster, and other legendary creators, using their own techniques. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history and craft of comics, and is equal parts Understanding Comics and From Hell.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 23 November 2021
Publisher: Living the Line LLC

The Strange Death of Alex Raymond is a remarkable and intricate work of comic art that demands a considerable amount of time and effort to fully comprehend. It is an inspired masterpiece that showcases the boundless creativity and obsessive genius of its author.

Rob Salkowitz, a senior contributor for Forbes, aptly describes it as "a work of obsessive genius that will take a long time to untangle." The Strange Death of Alex Raymond stands as one of the most spectacular comics that have ever been read or witnessed. It is a truly unique and captivating experience, characterized by its bizarre and beautiful aesthetics, as well as its utterly distinctive nature.

Jim Rugg, a renowned cartoonist, expresses his high admiration for this masterpiece, stating that it is "bizarre and beautiful and completely unique." He cannot recommend it enough, although he acknowledges that it may not be to everyone's taste. Rugg describes it as a "master work" and expresses his honor in having had the opportunity to lay eyes upon it.

E.S. Glenn, the author of "Unsmooth," and a cartoonist for The New Yorker, also lauds The Strange Death of Alex Raymond as a "master work." He expresses his deep appreciation for the artistic excellence displayed in the book. Glenn considers it a must-read for anyone interested in the history and craft of comics.

Brandon Graham, a renowned comic book artist, hails The Strange Death of Alex Raymond as a "must-read" for anyone with an interest in the field. He praises it as a brilliant and fitting conclusion to what would have otherwise been one of the most notable unfinished works of recent times. Graham eagerly anticipates holding the completed version of the book in his hands.

Gary Spencer Millidge, the author of Strangehaven and a contributor to Alan Moore: Portrait of an Extraordinary Gentleman, praises The Strange Death of Alex Raymond as a brilliant and fitting conclusion to what would have otherwise been one of the most notable unfinished works of recent times. Millidge expresses his excitement at the prospect of holding the completed book in his hands.

Dave Sim, a legendary creator known for his groundbreaking work on Cerebus the Aardvark, presents The Strange Death of Alex Raymond as a remarkable exploration of the history of comics' greatest creators. Sim employs his own unique techniques to bring these creators to life, seamlessly blending elements of Understanding Comics, From Hell, pulp comics, movies, history, and fiction. The story unfolds through the lives and techniques of iconic figures such as Alex Raymond (Flash Gordon, Rip Kirby), Stan Drake (Juliet Jones), Hal Foster (Prince Valiant), and many more. Sim meticulously dissects their artistic approaches by recreating their artwork, while also highlighting the metatextual resonances that connect them.

The book features a foreword by Eddie Campbell, a renowned comic book artist and writer. Campbell's contribution adds an additional layer of insight and appreciation to the work, further enhancing its significance in the world of comics.

In conclusion, The Strange Death of Alex Raymond is a remarkable and intricate masterpiece that demands the utmost attention and engagement from its readers. It is an inspired work of obsessive genius that showcases the boundless creativity and genius of its author. Whether one appreciates its bizarre and beautiful aesthetics, its utterly distinctive nature, or its profound exploration of the history and craft of comics, this book is a testament to the power and beauty of the medium. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the world of comics and a testament to the enduring legacy of its greatest creators.

Weight: 1344g
Dimension: 216 x 310 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781736860502