The Complete Frazetta White Indian

This gloriously inappropriate '50s comic about a great backwoodsman and "his little Indian friend Tipi" having adventures in 1770 is most notable for showcasing the work of future art icon Frazetta. It's one of those stories of white people becoming the best at other cultures; the White Indian Dan Brand was White Indian's ancestor, who roamed the frontier killing bears after his fianc%C3%A9e was shot in front of him. The pictures are lovely, as expected in a book sold on the reputation of its artist, but strangely static, as though Frazetta was used to thinking in terms of images, not storytelling flow. There's lots of muscled male skin on display, as the lead is nearly naked, which lends new interpretation to the frequent wrestling. Reproduction is dodgy, with fuzziness and color leakage. Interspersed with the Indian comics are true-life war stories and PSAs. Be warned, this is a fan-based publication, with numerous typos in the back cover copy and no serious explanation of the strip's history. Those interested in buying it will already know what it is and why they want it: it's more work by a beloved fantasy illustrator.%C2%A0(Apr.)