Discover a treasure trove of comic history with Creeping Death From Neptune: The Life and Comics of Basil Wolverton Volume 1. This remarkable volume is the first of two, meticulously reprinting a wealth of comic stories while recounting the extraordinary career of the talented cartoonist, Basil Wolverton. Through a combination of his personal correspondence and journals, the book provides a fascinating biographical glimpse into Wolverton’s life, from his childhood to his day-to-day adventures as a freelance cartoonist, itinerant handyman, and even a local pastor of the Radio Church of God.

Wolverton’s unique perspective and experiences shaped his work in the Pacific Northwest, allowing him to carve out a distinct niche among the first generation of comic book pioneers. During a time when the comic industry was beginning to solidify into a commercial venture, Wolverton thrived in an environment that afforded him the freedom to delve into the bizarre and the surreal. His creative explorations resulted in a plethora of weird tales of the future, showcasing his artistic prowess and imaginative storytelling.

This volume presents a comprehensive collection of all of Wolverton’s non-humorous comic book stories, which are sure to engage fans and newcomers alike. Additionally, readers will find prime examples of his humorous comics, alongside dozens of pages filled with unpublished artwork. This includes a range of editorial drawings, advertisements, caricatures, pulp illustrations, rejected comic book covers, and unsold features that offer a deeper insight into Wolverton’s creative process.

Readers can expect to be amazed by the sheer diversity and inventiveness of Wolverton’s art. As noted by The A.V. Club, ‘It’s remarkable to see art so twisted applied to such vivid pulp tales – almost as though Wolverton was trying his hardest to be Alex Raymond, but couldn’t help turning out images to rival Salvador Dalí.’ This statement perfectly encapsulates the paradox of Wolverton’s artistic journey—he managed to blend bizarre creativity with vivid storytelling, resulting in a body of work that remains as compelling today as it was during his lifetime.

In conclusion, Creeping Death From Neptune: The Life and Comics of Basil Wolverton Volume 1 serves not only as a comic collection but also as an essential piece of art history. For fans of comics and art enthusiasts alike, this volume is a must-have addition to any collection. Delve into the life and works of a true pioneer, and experience the lasting impact of Basil Wolverton on the world of comics.