{"title":"Frank Johnson","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrank Johnson\u003c\/strong\u003e offers readers a unique journey into the world of graphic novels, blending historical insight with compelling storytelling. His work, such as \u003cem\u003eSecret Pioneer of American Comics Vol. 1\u003c\/em\u003e, explores the roots and evolution of the comic art form with thoughtful detail and eloquence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFans of graphic novels will appreciate Johnson’s ability to combine vivid illustrations with rich narratives that celebrate the legacy of early American comics. These books are both an homage and a fresh perspective on the medium’s pioneers, perfect for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"frank-johnson-secret-pioneer-of-american-comics-vol-1-by-frank-johnson-9781683968993","title":"Frank Johnson, Secret Pioneer of American Comics Vol. 1","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen Frank Johnson, an itinerant musician and shipping clerk, died in 1979, he left behind a startling discovery: more than 2,300 notebook pages of comics and 131 unbound drawings. Among them was a massive, continuous storyline beginning in the earliest surviving notebook dated 1928—before the existence of comic books!—and following the exploits of his own cast of characters across 50 years until Johnson passed away.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDuring this lifelong project, Johnson invented in private many of the conventions and tropes that define comics storytelling, effectively enacting an alternative secret history of the comics medium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis debut publication of Johnson's work is the first of two 600+ page volumes that will collect the best 1,200 pages of his comics, including \u003cem\u003eWally's Gang\u003c\/em\u003e, his 50-year magnum opus chronicling the humorous, cliff-hanging adventures of a group of bachelor friends. Also featured is \u003cem\u003eThe Bowser Boys\u003c\/em\u003e, a seamy, darkly slapstick depiction of bohemian street life that could be considered the first underground comic series. Coming in Volume 2 is \u003cem\u003eJuke Boys\u003c\/em\u003e, an absurd, self-reflexive graphic experimentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCurator and historian Chris Byrne and fine artist and graphic novelist Keith Mayerson have brought this astounding work into the light of day and provide historical background and analysis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Unknown","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47383812407532,"sku":"9781683968993","price":94.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/15393203482787.jpg?v=1773381711"}],"url":"https:\/\/bookhero.co.nz\/collections\/frank-johnson.oembed","provider":"Book Hero","version":"1.0","type":"link"}