Comic Book Rebels: Conversations with the Creators of the New Comics

Wiater ( Dark Dreamers ) and comics artist Bissette interview people involved in the brave new world of alternative American comics--those without superheroes--produced in the wake of the ``underground'' comics of the 1960s. The introduction outlines the parameters of this new era, examining the deepening emphasis on adult-oriented material as well as the revolutionary changes in the business side, such as the rise of self-publishing and the independent artist. Interviews are short, focused and personable. Underground comics veteran Jack Jackson offers revisionist readings of Native American history; Cerebus creator Dave Sim discusses self-publishing; Howard Cruse tells how his life as a gay man has influenced his comics; and comic book pioneer Will Eisner offers a historical perspective on the medium. Two quibbles: there are three women artists among the 22 interviewed, and ethnic minority artists like blacks and Hispanics are only mentioned briefly. Nevertheless, this is a competent survey of both the state of contemporary American comics and of some of the individuals who had a hand in transforming the medium. (July)