The Rough Guide to Superheroes

by Paul Simpson, Michaela Bushell, Helen Rodiss

Faster than a speeding bullet this new Rough Guide brings you the mind-bending truth about the fantasy world’s bravest and baddest, telling you all you need to know about the superheroes who save us – and their vile enemies. The guide includes chapters on; Superheroes and Heroines - the essential guide including sidekicks, catchphrases, ridiculous costumes and implausible powers, the villains from Asbestos Lady to Zeelmo and the low-down on the origins and creators - including the artists who created the superheroes, and the key comics, graphic novels and their publishers. An insightful and entertaining look is taken at how superheroes have influenced such icons as Jerry Seinfeld, Elvis Presley and Donald Duck, inspired scientists and changed fashion. Finally, the what, where and why of superhero lore on TV, in the movies, in print and on the Internet and the background, all you need to know about the legends from Batman to Namor the Submariner and the Incredibles.

Genres: Comics, Graphic Novels Comics, Reference, Nonfiction, Graphic Novels

320 pages, Paperback

First published October 18, 2004

Reviews

[Sophie Crane · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you'd like to learn all about comics, this is a good starting point. The book covers the historical context, the creators, the superheroes themselves and the public's fascination with this entertainment genre.

Why are people fascinated with comics? Why the appeal? This book answers these questions, and shows how comic characters have influenced and been influenced by culture, especially in North America. You'll learn about the creators of Superman, the Marvel characters and a host of other creative geniuses who have encouraged us to take a break from reality and enjoy the world where superheroes fight for right and justice.

The book is a fun read, with lots of interesting trivia and surprises. A great look at the philosophy behind, and people's need for, superheroes. Great reading!

[Jesse McCullar · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a non-fiction story about the creators of the stories such as Captain America, Batman, and the justice league. People like Stan Lee, a writer, and comic legend who created a nerdy kid named peter parker based on himself when he started writing for Timely Comics later to be called Marvel comic by him. Or Steve Didco an artist who made Captain America look like an American flag or spider-man like a spider web. Not only that but this book also explores the Christian origins of Super Man and how he was shipped away like Moasis and saved the world like Jesus.

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Because Superheroes are cooler than supermodels.

[Abraham Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

nice book of superheroes!