This was one of the first real "how to draw comics" books and has become a classic over the years. The book describes the tools of the trade, the terms used, and the "Marvel" creation process, covers the basics of anatomy, form, perspective, layout, and the use of black, gives techniques on inking and lettering, and shows examples of how the art can make a story more exciting. Stan Lee's prose is fun to read and John Buscema's art is very clear in illustrating the principles being taught.

If Buscema's art looks a little dated today, it may be because first off, this book was made to be simple and easy to understand, and the art is done likewise, not cluttered up with intense detail and crosshatching. It may also be because he has a solid foundation of a knowledge of anatomy and how to compose a picture for maximum clarity and effect which, unfortunately, certain influential contemporary artists don't have.

This book does not have the room to go into depth on the deeper concepts of comic theory (how to lay out a page, for instance, or how words and images can be used together to heighten mood). For that I would reccomend Will Eisner's "Comics and Sequential Art." For giving a good, basic overall foundation, however, this book does, however, deserve a place on the shelf of any comic artist.


SORRY, STAN   December 3, 1999
 19 out of 31 found this review helpful

When I was a teenager, this book was the bible for any kid wanting to get into comics. In retrospect, I wonder why--I mean, it's not really informative and it doesn't give anything away--i.e., give you any details on the finer point of comic book storytelling and drawing. In short, it's as instructional as a Lee Ames book, and that's not saying much. Besides, in light of the new direction that comic books are going these days, it's a bit dated. If you really want to get into comics, here are four great books to get you started: The Encyclopedia of Cartooning Techniques (an overview of cartooning, from technical stuff to business aspects), The Encyclopedia of Fantasy and Science Art Techniques, Chris Hart's How To Draw Animation (because animation helps a lot, kids!), and let's not forget Wil Eisner's great book that started it all! Sorry, Stan. My verdict--2 stars; but add an extra star if you're a 12 year old aspiring comic book artist just for it's inspirational benefits.


An essential reference book for all artists!   November 10, 1998
 19 out of 19 found this review helpful

I think every serious or aspiring artist should own this book. I've had a copy since the early '80s, andit became so dog-eared from frequentuse, that I had to buy another. John Buscema is an excellent teacher. After all, if you're goingto learn to draw, you might as well learn from the best; and John IS the best, IMO. Among other things, the book contains vital rules for drawing in perspective, and drawing lifelike human faces and figures. This is not just a book for comic fans, or kids, it's for everyone!


Absolutely incredible....   March 24, 2002
 14 out of 15 found this review helpful

This is not only the best and most comprehensive book in learning to draw comic book style art, this has some of the most basic, yet most critical drawing techniques, techniques such as the vanishing point, character swatches, layouts and breaking figures down into shapes, for example... I did not have this advantage when I was learning to draw. When I started out as a child, I discovered all of these techniques the difficult way, through trial & error...A process that regrettably takes years. I wish I knew about this book when I was a kid. If I had, I would have advanced so much more as an artist, I couldn't even imagine where I'd be today.

Anyways, I strongly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in learning how to draw, period. This really is THE book, people. Search no more. It LITERALLY contains everything I know on drawing techniques (& I've been drawing since I've been old enough to hold a pencil). And not only is it informative, it's extremely fun! The way they present thier lessons, reading & practicing along with it makes you feel like you're goofing off with a comic book, as if you weren't learning anything (although you are). Ideal for those with a 30 sec.(or less) attn. span. The only thing that keeps me from rating it 5 stars, however, is that they should encourage readers to take up more of an interest in drawing real life, things around you, as well as comics. Because it's real life elements that serves as inspiration for the true comic book artist. Real life drawing is the foundation for comic book style art.


This book has its place on any beginner's shelf.   December 28, 2004
 13 out of 20 found this review helpful

I owned this book many years ago and have access to a copy. I even own the recently released digital version.

What Lee and Buscema have brought forth is fine for the aspiring but unskilled artist. You learn the very basic method of producing comics in an old style used decades ago by the 'greats' in comic artistry. Unfortunately, for those hoping this book provides a modern foundation, things have progressed significantly and almost unabatedly.

Those seeking to create comics have to understand the market will not bear another Stan Lee, or even a Jae Lee, imitation. To survive in the tight economics of comic book rendering, an artist must produce something original in style, form and imagination. Rehashing Buscema line work will not 'make the grade', to use a cliche.

That being said, this book has its merits for those willing to start somewhere other than 'real' art books. This volume provides the basic infrastructure to create artwork reminiscent of Spiderman 1975.

My suggestion to all would-be comic artists: eschew this book, learn the human form from all perspectives, poses and attitudes. Learn from non-idealized, non-stylized drawing sessions based on real life. From there, drawing a superhero, in your own way, will become a task far more advantageous commercially and artistically. You will be capable of producing a genuinely original and attractive style, capturing the attention of potential employers.

Other than that, it makes for a decent rainy Sunday hobby.

That's my two cents, here's your change.