All-Negro Comics 75th Anniversary Edition

by Chris Robinson (Editor), Orrin Cromwell Evans (Writer, Editor), George J. Evans Jr. (Artist)

Three quarters of a century ago, Orrin C. Evans lead a team of cartoonists to create the first comic book anthology of original Black characters created by Black talent, with the expressed purpose of entertaining while rejecting harmful stereotypes and pushing boundaries in the industry. This was only 8 years after Action Comics #1, 6 years after Captain America #1 and a whole 19 years before Black Panther hit the pages of Fantastic Four. All-Negro Comics #1 should be among those revered moments in comic book history, but the original print run was quickly removed from newsstands and in the present day, Superman and Black Panther are recognized everywhere while All-Negro Comics is a factoid that cannot be easily found or read.

Genres: Comics, Graphic Novels, African American, Short Stories, Fiction

88 pages, Hardcover

Reviews

[Rod Brown · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm always happy to see a worthwhile archival project. This one reprints the first comic book to be produced entirely by Black American creators, from way back in 1947.

It's an anthology, so it's a bit of a mixed bag, but the energy is high throughout. Ace Harlem is a detective from the Dick Tracy school, processing clues and tracking his suspect to a bloody finale. The Dew Dillies are silly little fantasy creatures who learn to appreciate their differences in a schmaltzy manner worthy of the Smurfs. There's a text adventure story with a quick-witted boy taking on a criminal. Lion Man uses technology to protect his country's natural resources despite the interference of his bumbling sidekick. The Hep Chicks show off their fashion. Lil' Eggie quarrels with his wife. Sugarfoot is an itinerant musician who falls into an old-fashioned farmer's daughter joke.

Various essays lay out the history of the book, and the challenges of being a Black person in the comic book industry. And then some modern creators spin new comic adventures for almost all of the characters named above, and they are nice enough even though the spark isn't quite on par with the 1947 crew.

It's a shame the original comic never got past the first issue, but this handsome package certainly goes a little way toward righting that wrong.


Disclosure: I received access to a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.com.


FOR REFERENCE:

Contents:
• Foreword / Chris Robinson
• All-Negro Comics #1
– Introduction / Orrin C. Evans
– Ace Harlem / John H. Terrell
– Dew Dillies / Leonard Cooper
– Ezekiel's Manhunt
– Lion Man / George J. Evans, Jr.
– Hep Chicks on Parade / Leonard Cooper
– Lil' Eggie / John H. Terrell
– Sugarfoot / Cravat (pseudonym of William H. Smith)
• All-New, All-Negro: America's First Black Comic Book / Qiana Whitted
• Hip-Hop and Comic Books Was My Genesis / David Brothers
• Finding My Path / Shawn Pryor
• Ace Harlem in "A Longer List" / Micah Peters, Ray-Anthony Height, Tony Washington
• Lion Man in "Dr. Sangro Returns!" / Zipporah Smith, Manny Edeko, Tony Washington
• Nana's Memory Quilt / Samantha Guzmán
• Sugarfoot & Snake Oil in "Anything 42 Can Do" / Deron Bennett, Dominike "Domo" Stanton, Tony Washington
• Lil' Eggie in "New Suit!" / Chris Robinson, Ryan Marlow, Tony Washington
• Hep Chicks on Parade 2023 / Jasmine Hatcher
• Dew Dillies in "The Platypus and the Swan" / Sharean Morishita
• Contributors

[Richard Derus · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 5* of five

The Publisher Says: WINNER OF THE EISNER AWARD • The first comic ever created by African Americans, for African Americans.

Three quarters of a century ago, Orrin C. Evans lead a team of cartoonists to create the first comic book anthology of original Black characters created by Black talent, with the expressed purpose of entertaining while rejecting harmful stereotypes and pushing boundaries in the industry. This was only 8 years after Action Comics #1, 6 years after Captain America #1 and a whole 19 years before Black Panther hit the pages of Fantastic Four.

All-Negro Comics #1 should be among those revered moments in comic book history, but the original print run was quickly removed from newsstands and faded into obscurity, remaining largely unknown for 75 years. . . until now.

All-Negro Comics 75th Anniversary Edition (an Eisner Award-winning collection) preserves that history for generations to come, containing All-Negro Comics #1, in full and digitally remastered for clarity, several essays for historical context and contemporary reflection, as well as new stories by Black writers and artists of today, featuring the original characters.

This award-winning volume includes:

• The complete single issue from 1947, digitally remastered! Consistent colors, crisp text, and no damage!
• Contemporary comics and prose stories, featuring the All-Negro Comics characters, written by notable Black creators of today
• Essays that provide historical and cultural context to deepen your reading experience
• A discussion guide and resource list

I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.

My Review: I had no inkling (!) this series of comics ever existed. Which is the point of banning and suppressing books: If you don't see yourself in popular culture, you have no reason to think you belong in it. I myownself, standing on an already enormous mountain of white male privilege, was also given the gift of growing up after Stonewall...I know exactly how important it is to see your Self, your identity and looks, your behavior and thoughts, in the culture around you.

I can't even imagine how much more important it is today, and certainly was in the past, to Black children...adults, too, but comics reach both groups.

The Eisner Award has never been given more thoughtfully and necessarily than to honor these groundbreaking creators, ignored far, far too long:



I liked seeing the cover art, just as art, without the usual impedimenta to get in the way of its kinetic design. It's easier to enjoy as art:


In my defense of personal ignorance about this comic book's existence, I offer the fact I never read a comic book in my life until I was almost ten. I got books whenever I wanted, bought for me or from the library, so I never developed the interest or formed the habit. Of course, no one pitched them to me like Orrin C. Evans pitched these comics:


Silver-tongued devil, no?

So your comics maven will enjoy the Eisener winner part, your Black history maven will enjoy the recovered history and the prescience of Orrin C. Evans in doing it at all, and it looks lovely on the tablet if you've got an ereader! Now, enjoy some of Ace Harlem's adventures:



#ReadingIsResistance

[Raymond · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Discovering All-Negro Comics #1 -- an entire comic written, drawn, and published by Black people when my grandparents were children! -- felt incredible." -David Brothers, "Hip Hop and Comic Books Was My Genesis" (from essay in the edition)

"I must say that, as I glanced through the pages of this newcomer, I felt that it compared very favorably with the best of the comic books. In some features it is really better." -Former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt

A few months ago I listened to episode 561 of the More to Come podcast where Chris Robinson, the editor of the 75th Anniversary Edition of All-Negro Comics, was interviewed about his project.

https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/p...

I had never heard of All-Negro Comics before and was certainly intrigued after listening to the episode. All-Negro Comics #1 was published in 1947 and no new issues were released after that time, mostly because of racism. It was the first comic book with new characters and original stories written and illustrated by Black comic creators. This edition contains a digitally remastered version of the original 1947 comic book, three essays from comic scholars and comic writers covering All-Negro Comics' legacy as well as the continued challenge of being a Black comic creator (from Qiana Whitted, David Brothers, and Shawn Pryor). It ends with a selection of new comics using the characters from the 1947 comic book.

The original comic book contains the following:
-a Black detective comic (Ace Harlem);
-a mythical comic (Dew Dillies);
-a short story (Ezekiel's Manhunt);
-a possible precursor to Black Panther (Lion Man);
-a comedic fashion comic (Hep Chicks on Parade);
-and two slapstick comics (Lil' Eggie and Sugarfoot).

[Scott Satterwhite · Rating 5 out of 5]

Historically, this is interesting. I liked the academic articles in the middle, as well as the revamping (with more depth) towards the end. The history of this comic was a great insight into African American print history in the mid-20th Century. Overall, this was pretty cool.

[Kelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

Did you know that there once was an all Black comic book created by an all Black team of cartoonists?

Lead by Orrin C. Evans, All-Negro Comics is the first comic book anthology of original Black characters created with the purpose of entertaining while rejecting harmful stereotypes and pushing boundaries in the industry. “All-Negro Comics 75th Anniversary Edition preserves that history for generations to come, containing All-Negro Comics #1, several essays for historical context and contemporary reflection, as well as new stories by Black writers and artists of today, featuring the original characters.”

Ace Harlem, Lion Man & Bubba, Sugarfoot & Snake Oil, and Dew Dillies all deserve to be household names. While I’m not the biggest fan of superhero movies, I’d be first in line to see Lion Man. Lion Man isn’t your typical costumed superhero but rather an educated scientist tasked with defending Africa’s Gold Coast. How heroic is that?! Ace Harlem represents “the outstanding contributions of thousands of fearless, intelligent Negro police officers engaged in a constant fight against crime throughout the United States.” With Sugarfoot and Snakeoil, “we hope to recapture the almost lost humor of the loveable wandering Negro minstrel of the past.” Finally, Dew Dillies “will give all of us an opportunity to romp through a delightful, almost fairy-like land of make-believe.” I appreciate the intention.

I want more! It’s a shame that this comic book was intentionally discontinued despite its success and demand from its readers. What a disservice to the comic book community. This reprint should certainly spark conversation and hopefully be the catalyst to push more Black artists and comics to the forefront. Highly recommend!

[Eve]

Disclosure: I received an advance review copy of All-Negro Comics: America’s First Black Comic Book from Image Comics via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

All-Negro Comics: America’s First Black Comic Book is both a remarkable historical artifact and a celebration of resilience in storytelling. Created in 1947 by Orrin C. Evans and a team of Black writers and artists, this 75th Anniversary Edition restores the first comic written, drawn, and published entirely by African Americans, accompanied by essays and new stories that honor its legacy.

As someone who grew up loving retro comics like Archie, I was fascinated to see how this collection captured a very different cultural lens. The humor feels dated in places, but the artistry and intent behind each page are undeniable. The essays bridge past and present beautifully, giving depth to an already powerful record of creativity and perseverance.

This is an essential volume for readers who love history, African American literature, or vintage comics. It’s humbling, illuminating, and worth preserving.

[doowopapocalypse · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC from NetGalley

What a shame there isn’t more. I don’t know that I cared for the modern takes towards the end; the art wasn’t great. Hope to see the characters and creators get more of their due.

[Jason Holtzman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great piece of preserved and insightful comic history!

[tony dillard jr · Rating 5 out of 5]

An important single issue, unknown and forgotten by many collectors, given new life in this 75th anniversary edition release.

In 1947, journalist Orrin Cromwell Evans had a dream to create a comic book devoted to blacks, written and illustrated by black talent. His dream became a reality with All-Negro Comics #1. While another title beat Wilson to newsstands with the distinction of being the first comic book aimed primarily for black readers, All-Negro Comics was comprised entirely of all-new material and solely by black artists. The forerunner, titled Negro Heroes was made up mostly of comic strips that formerly appeared in black newspapers.

Orrin enlisted his brother George J. Evans, Jr. as well as John Terrell and an artist known only as 'Len' among others to craft an anthology series that offered an array of stories for all readers. The first issue introduced audiences to hard-boiled detective Ace Harlem who must solve the murder of a black restaurant owner, illustrated by Terrell. George Evans illustrates an adventure starring a black scientist known as the Lion Man uses science and legend to protect a cache of Uranium from thieves. Len satires black fashion trends in his 'Hep Chicks on Parade' comic strips.

Humor also abounds with Sugarfoot, a sly youth who runs a foul of a farmer and his very attractive daughter and then there's hen-pecked L'il Eggie who can't win against his overbearing wife.

My least favorite segment was the fanciful Little Dew Dillies, a pair of pixies that explore their wetlands habitat. While the story was an example of how Orrin C. Evan attempted to make it where All-Negro Comics offered a little something for everyone, I wasn't alone in my dislike of the Dew Dillies. According to the commentaries that accompany this reissue, original readers and historians have felt that the inclusion of those magical sprites were really juvenile and out of place for such a sophisticated read.

My favorite story was the two-page prose mystery, 'Ezekiel's Manhunt'. Normally, I am not a fan of the composition tales that are included to suffice the U.S. Postal Service for choice shipping fees. However, the amount of care and craftsmanship is unsurpassed, especially compared to the fodder I've dug through in many a Dell Comic or Gold Key offering. Did Orrin C. Evans write this? If so, did he ever write more stories about Ezekiel and his townsfolk? I'd really want to read more!

It was Evan's intention for there to be an issue #2. However, that just wasn't in the cards. For one thing, All-Negro Comics had a cover price of 15 cents when all other titles were only a dime. Mind you, the debut issue was 48 pages. But for black families in the post World War era, that nickel was a lot of money. Evans also had trouble with infiltrating the segregated South with his book. Though the book did reach black audiences in the Midwest and even Canada, several thousand copies were returned unsold.

All-Negro Comics was Evan's baby. However, the stress and effort of trying to make issue #1 a success along with the disappointing sales led Orrin C. Evans to never follow through with the promised sophomore issue.

In response to the legacy of All-Negro Comics, a number of modern day black artists and writers were assembled to produce a what-if retrospective of Orrin C. Evan's promised follow up. Sugarfoot gets under the skin of that hapless farmer once again and the Communist foe of Lion Man's goes round two for that uranium by kidnapping our hero's sidekick, Bubba. Ace Harlem takes another case, only it's left unsolved with a cliffhanger; albeit a rather ho-hum one at that. Eggie's wife browbeats him once more and those Little Dew Dillies return to help a young woman see her hidden talents, while those Hep Chicks arrive in the 21st century. But alas, Ezekiel and his friends are nowhere to be found in this long awaited sequel.

Darn, Darn, Darn.

Like most, I only heard of All-Negro Comics #1 in the past couple of decades. But when I did learn of it, I wanted to read it. And I've only seen maybe 2 of them in the wild. Both were slabbed and asking for insane prices. It was a stroke of sheer luck finding this anniversary edition at my local library on the new shelf. A Kickstarter type labor of love. Because it wasn't distributed by Diamond, I was never even aware of its existence. A must for multiple segments of the comic book collecting community. Black readers, comic historians, both amateur and professional, and fans of Golden Age comics must read this special edition hardback. It's a recreated artifact of pop culture history that should not be overlooked!

Many Thanks to editor Chris Robinson for assembling his team of talent as well as digitally remastering this issue for the next 75 years of readers. And many, many thanks to the Kickstarter backer who made the '1 for You, 1 for Them' pledge that placed a copy of this book in my local library!

[Brian Shevory · Rating 5 out of 5]

Big thanks to image Comics and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of All-Negro Comics: America’s First Black Comic Book. This was an incredible artifact that documents the first (and only) issue of All-Negro Comics, the work of Orrin C Evans, a Philadelphia journalist, and a team of talented Black artists who sought to share Black stories Black audiences and schools by creating this series. Although it ended up being the only issue, Image Comics work with Chris Robinson and the informative essay by Qiana Whitted helps to preserve and share the story of this important work that helped to redefine Black characters in comics for future generations. I was also excited to learn more about Orrin Evans’s story as a journalist who sought to create a comic book dedicated to Black readers. I can’t believe that I have never heard of him or this issue. I wish that I was aware of his story when I was teaching in Philly because this would have been such a great topic to research and learn more about. Regardless, it’s exciting that this work has preserved and digitized copies of the initial issue. The digital version I read is exquisite and shows no signs of wear. The colors are vivid, yet retain some of that muted comic color you’d see on the page. I was surprised at how vibrant and fresh some of the dialogue was in some of the stories as well, especially the Ace Harlem detective story. That character along with Lion Man were my two favorite sections from this collection. They were both more in the traditional mode of comic characters, a detective and a kind of superhero protecting the land from invading mercenaries. The others comics were also interesting to read, although as Whitted notes in her essay, they also have similar issues of representation that Evans and his team were probably trying to address yet also maintain some kind of audience attention (like Bubba in Lion Man or the women portrayed in Sugar Foot and Snake Oil and Ace Harlem). Some of these characters run the risk of perpetuating stereotypes that other comics engaged in, but Whitted explains how characters like Lion Man and even the Dew Dillies present opportunities for Evans and his team to show that Black characters were capable of being brave and adventurous, as well as noting that some Black children may have struggled with companionship and finding friends amid segregation. The messages in these comics were not blatant and explicit, but rather subdued and implicit, which allows the stories, action, characters and humor to be more fully noticed.
I really appreciated the essays that were contained in this collection as well. Whitted’s essay explaining the history of this collection and how the second issue never came to be was fascinating to learn more about. It was also cool to see that Evans envisioned this comic being in schools as a way to appeal to more Black students. Her essay noting Evans’s intention reminds readers of the importance of representation and how meaningful that can be for students of color, especially considering that this issue was published around the time that Kenneth and Mamie Clark conducted their doll studies that eventually influenced the Brown decision. Whitted’s research also helps to explain why there is a longer narrative in the collection that has no real comic panels, reminding readers that comics were highly regulated at this time. I was actually wondering whether there was some pushback from government and parent organizations that tried to strictly regulate comics in the 40s and 50s. While I’m sure that they would face racism, I also wondered whether some of the stories in this comic that featured murder and violence might have faced similar scrutiny to other comics.
The latter part of this collection contains other essays from Black comic artists that testify to the power of discovering this collection, and updated versions of the comics. This was really interesting to see as well since the artists presented the stories in more modern ways that also tried to address some of the problematic characters and representations in the initial issue. The art in these updates is also more diverse in style, yet still manages to be distinct and captivating. The stories are equally interesting. I really enjoyed reading this collection both for the historical significance of this collection but also for the aesthetic elements of these comics. Highly recommended!

[Ada · Rating 5 out of 5]

***zaterdag 15 november 2025 | who sucked me in¹***
✨5 - loved it although to me it falls more in the non-fiction (and thus no star rating) category
From an historical perspective this book is done so wonderfully well. It clearly shows/explains what the intention was for the first issue, the context around it, the criticisms (rightfully so!) about it, the reasons why it (probably) did not succeed, how it influenced others, the comparison with modern struggles, and some 'continuations'.

I loved it. I love that I recognised the beats of some stories (Douwe Dabbert!). I loved the intention of it all and am a bit sad that it never got the chance to be what it wanted to be. I also love the intention behind the copy I have. I love that I can see why they changed some of the humour.

I love that it honoured the past but left everything behind that does not work for us any more.

This book is the kind of thing my nerdy heart adores. Social history by people who look like me and mine. Sequential art in different styles. Essays about comics with critisms that took away nothing but enhanced your understanding of the struggles back then but also right now.

The love and the passion the creators clearly had for this project.

Normally I do not give non-fiction a star rating because most of the time I do not read it for my enjoyment. I did not started out reading this because I thought I would enjoy it so much. I read it because... well actually bought it because the collector in me wanted to have it.

To be honest some of the original stories were shit. They did not accomplished what they intended to do (according to Orrin C. Evans). I do not think I would have enjoyed a reproduction of that first issue.

If I had some more will power I would have liked to write down all my thoughts story by story. Alas I am too lazy for that. It is amazing though just how much recognition went on while reading those old stories.



¹ On the back cover I saw a quote by BJ Kicks, Comics are Dope! I cannot remember how I got interested in this book but before I started I said it had to be someone on YouTube. I am almost quite sure now it was BJ Kicks, Comics are Dope who sucked me in. He has a video about this All-Negro Comics #1 | The FIRST Black Comic Book | Orrin C. Evans | Lion Man | Ace Harlem published on 29 februari 2024.

I do wish I had the hardcover version though. My paperback version isn't even found on Goodreads.

[Jeff · Rating 5 out of 5]

In June of 1946, Orrin C. Evans, an African-American journalist that wrote for various “Negro” newspapers and magazines, made a decision to provide the black community with comic books that did not portray black heroes in the typical stereotypes in other forms of entertainment.

Evans assembled a group of black writers and authors to create the first “All-Negro” comic. There had been a comic being produced at the time, but it portrayed real life heroes of the black community. This was all pure fiction.

We are introduced to such characters as:
Ace Harlem, Detective
Lion Man, a scientist sent by the United Nations to protect the Uranium supply in the Gold Coast from any nation wanting to use it to build a weapon.
Sugarfoot and Snake Oil, two adventurous lads that seem to find trouble.
Lil’ Eggie, who is a hen-pecked husband that would have fit perfectly in the comic section of any daily newspaper.
Hep Chicks on Parade which showed the dress and fashion of black females at the time with a splash of humor.
And then the syfy/fantasy tale of the Dew Dillies.

There is also a tale of two brothers that find themselves in trouble with a criminal threatening their lives. There is a note by the publishers explaining the Post Office required a story be included in the middle of the comic.

The book closes with new episodes of each adventure.

This treasure had been lost many years. This 75th Anniversary Edition had originally released in 2023. It has now been remastered and placed in a nice hard cover.

It was interesting to see how each character was used. Even when leaning into stereotypes, there was a lesson involved in the entertainment. One thing you would not see today is a cartoon advertisement saying, “Remember- Crime doesn’t pay, kids! Stick to church and use up you energy in good clean sports.” Times sure have changed.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.

[Suzette · Rating 5 out of 5]

"All-Negro Comics: America’s First Black Comic Book" by Chris Robinson and Orrin C. Evans is an extraordinary celebration of cultural history, artistic brilliance, and resilient storytelling. This book not only delves into the origins of the first comic book created entirely by African American artists and writers, but it also honors the legacy of those trailblazers with meticulous research and heartfelt narrative.

The authors masterfully weave historical context with vivid illustrations, making the content both engaging and educational. The book shines a spotlight on the fearless creators who defied the social constraints of their time to tell authentic stories that resonated within and beyond the Black community.

What stands out is the meticulous attention to detail and the depth of insight into the socio-political climate surrounding the original publication. The blend of historical analysis with beautifully restored comic panels creates an immersive experience that’s both informative and visually captivating.

This book is not just a must-read for comic enthusiasts, but also for anyone interested in American history, cultural studies, and the evolution of storytelling. Robinson and Evans have crafted a powerful homage that preserves and amplifies the voices of pioneering Black artists and writers.

Highly recommended for its rich content, inspiring stories, and significant cultural impact. A true 5-star gem!

[Denisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a fabulous find. All-Negro Comics from 1947 was created entirely by Black writers and artists, which was basically unheard of back then. Getting to compare the original comics with this updated anniversary edition was really interesting—you can see how much things have changed (and what hasn't). The stories themselves are fun. "Ace Harlem" is a detective story with great dialogue and artwork, "Lion Man" features one of the first Black superheroes, and there's even a cute kids' comic called "Dew Dillies." Yeah, some of it feels dated, but that's kind of the point—it's a time capsule. What really made this special for me as a Black reader were the essays included in this edition. They helped me understand the significance of what these creators were doing in 1947 by pushing back against stereotypes and creating characters we could actually see ourselves in. The essays talk about activism and representation in ways that made me appreciate the comic even more.
The new colorized version looks great, and honestly, this whole collection is just a testament to Black creativity and resilience. Definitely worth checking out if you're into comics, history, or both.

[Karen Yin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't sure what to expect from the first comic book by Black artists for Black readers in the United States, since I wasn't around during the period in which it was created, nor am I the intended audience, but the language, especially the creativity expressed through punctuation, is truly a delight to glimpse in our age of over-adherence to rules.

*** Possible Spoilers ***

From “Ace Harlem”: Two vicious young hep-cats, new to crime, but confident they can get away with it. – And, like all criminals,– they are too smart to get caught – – – – they think!!!

From “Dew Dillies”: Gimme a hand Bibber!........Ol' goolygator got me!

From “Sugarfoot”: What curvesome aroma! What luscious cookery!

Fun writing, right? Four stars for the original anthology and another star for the insightful companion essays included in the 75th anniversary edition.

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

[Alexis Berman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley for my Advanced Readers Copy of this book.

Originally written 75 years ago, this book was a blast from the past. The only All-Negro Comics ever published shows a side of comic book history that I knew nothing about.. I wish that the times had allowed for more issues to be published, but it is nice to see that it is being remembered and shared now. I liked the art and the writing for the original comics featured in this anniversary edition more than the modern recreations but I especially liked the essays that highlight the historical importance of what the comics represented and what the social climate was when they were being written. A strong 3.5.

[DollarBin ComicWin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cultural milestone and a collection of historical significance, the 'All-Nego Comics 75th Anniversary Edition' should hold space next to other important creations of the same time. An anthology featuring gritty noir, folk mythology, a new superhero, and other shorts and prose, this all-original comic is well-produced by a cast of all-black creators from the early 1950s. This is concluded with new stories written and illustrated by contemporary creators who put a more modern spin on these stories. All-in-all, this is an excellent collection for anyone interested in the history of comics, African Americans in the industry, and for anyone who supports creative independence.

[Crowne Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75/5 This historical comic collection is part essay part preservation of American’s first Black comic book. For its historical significance alone, it’s a must buy. However, I also found some of the stories enjoyable despite the marked generational divide and antiquated topics. Ace Harlem is something I could see adapted for the modern age as a detective crime show, for example. And Ezekiel’s Manhunt read like a darker Tom Hardy adventure for young boys. Sometimes the paneling was a little hard to follow since it would use the 6 square box style, but would read left to right. The 50s slang was a special treat!

[Delissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this collection of comics. It’s like a time capsule of a book. As a person who loves comics. I enjoy finding and collecting Nubia, Wonder Woman and Namor comics. This book gave a look back to comic origins. The development of Black characters by Black creators. You can see over time the characters more and more reflect the social and political climate of the era they were written in. You can see the change in how Black women were drawn and their roles over time. We must know if it weren’t for this comics there may not have been a Nubia or Black panther. These comics have a deeper message than just a fun read.

[Relena_reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

The original All-Negro Comics was published in 1947, and rereleased for the first time in this 75th anniversary edition. It was really interesting to see how a collection in 1950 had to function in order to use the mail, including a two page non-comic spread in order to be eligible for delivery directly to people’s homes. The originally collected comics were also fascinating in their range, with one of the contemporary essayists noting that while Evans’ objective was to have a comic for his audience by his audience, he also included a variety of stereotypical moments that may have been called out for being too over-the-top in a White-produced collection. Other essayists also called out the lack of female representation. These seem like problems that probably would have been solved had distribution been continued, but unfortunately this was a one-and-done publication so we’ll never see what Evans could have accomplished with more support.

Thank you to NetGalley for this eARC.

[Gregory · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a celebration honoring the 75th anniversary of All Negro Comics that would have launched after the 1st issue and denied the opportunity because of the Racism of that era especially the Golden Age of Comics. The anthology celebrates the reprinting of the original stories and adds new stories. I would love to see a all new All Negro Comics for the 21st Century and launch forward that didn't happen back then.

This is a book to have for your collection for Comic Book fans.

[Ali Suchy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was mostly a skim read, but some of these comics were more like comic strips and easy to get through. I love the history that can be seen throughout the novel. What an incredible journey these comics have had. I loved seeing the old style compared to the vast variety of new styles. Story wise, I didn't particularly care for any of them but I hope that somebody who is actually black can find joy in them.

[Kai Charles(Fiction State Of Mind) · Rating 4 out of 5]

It wasn’t surprising for me to discover Black comics creators history is not known to the general public, Nor was I surprised to learn that they worked hard to counteract the racial stereotypes that mainstream comics perpetuated for years. I’m grateful this collection exists and that my library Carrie’s it.

[Chad · Rating 4 out of 5]

For the 75th anniversary, Image has reprinted the first comic created by black talent. It's largely been lost to history up to this point. It's quite unique for its time. In addition to reprinting the original comic, there's some essays and then a few new stories using the same characters by modern day black creators.

[David · Rating 3 out of 5]

Comics are the oldest art form imaginable, and any endeavor to catalogue and publish again collected works is a boon. This is a collection of late 1940s African American cartoonists with a wide breadth of hits and misses. Regardless of the good or bad, they all capture a snapshot of the history, culture, and ethos of Black Americans in the 1940s.
Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced copy.

[The Resistance Book Club · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5- This was a great read and piece of work of comic! I loved everything about this! The stories that were in the is comic were exactly what it needed to be because that’s what happened back then! Writing was great, the comic format, color and illustration was phenomenal and on point! Even the word usage!

[Dev · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Image Comics for this ARC of All Negro Comics in exchange for an honest review.

This book made me smile. As a longtime comic fan, I really appreciated seeing so many Black characters featured. It was also refreshing to be introduced to some incredibly talented artists.

[Curious Madra · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thanks Netgalley and publisher for this old skool comic book collection.

Stories were rather underwhelming like they were just completely forgettable which is a shame as they had potential. I guess if they were stand alone stories, i wouldn’t find it as confusing.

[Micheal · Rating 5 out of 5]

A piece of history for my community. Reading this felt wholesome, inspiring, and affirming. To see such a revolutionary idea come to fruition shows that we can do anything and have been doing it since forever.

[Riane · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a short and interesting look into the history of black comics (with the caveat that I don't know very much about comics overall).

Thanks to Image Comics and NetGalley for the ARC.