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Superheroes!

The History of a Pop-Culture Phenomenon from Ant-Man to Zorro
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( 27 ratings, 9 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Superheroes! is the definitive reference on iconic comic book characters and the genre’s rise from cheap wartime pulp to a global cultural phenomenon. Brian Solomon explores the evolution of superheroes such as Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman, from their 20th-century origins to their vast influence in film and media today. Featuring insights on creators, actors, and directors behind the scenes, this book celebrates the enduring mythology and modern-day legends forged by these larger-than-life heroes.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$6483
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book is ideal for fans of comic books and superhero films, as well as anyone interested in pop culture history and the creative forces behind these iconic characters. It appeals to readers seeking an informative yet approachable overview rather than a dense academic study.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

Superheroes! is the ultimate reference book about the men and women in tights who fight for what’s right and the comic book phenomenon that conquered the world.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Superheroes! is the ultimate reference book about the men and women in tights who fight for what’s right and the comic book phenomenon that conquered the world.

From their origins in stories created by barely grown men during an era of global war and printed on cheap paper for consumption by children, superheroes have grown into a popular culture whirlwind that has attracted millions of fans and crossed over into every form of media.

Encompassing early comic books, indie outliers, and the mammoth fictional universes managed by DC and Marvel, Superheroes! chronicles the rise of a distinctly American invention, the modern-day evolution of the myths and legends of old.

Superman, Batman, Spider-Man, Iron Man, Wonder Woman, the Flash, Captain America, X-Men, the Justice League and the Avengers—they all represent our greatest hopes, and sometimes our darkest fantasies. Pop culture expert Brian Solomon tells a story that goes from the Golden, Silver, and Bronze Ages of comic book history right up to the Modern Age of multimillion-dollar Hollywood movies, and beyond.

Perhaps no fictional genre has endured and blossomed over the past eighty years the way superheroes have. Learn all about the creators who have brought them to life: artists like Jack Kirby and Jim Lee, writers like Stan Lee and Alan Moore, actors like Christopher Reeve and Robert Downey Jr., and directors like Tim Burton and Joss Whedon. They’re all here, in all their high-flying, eye-zapping, goon-punching glory. Up, up and away!

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Critics praise Superheroes! for its accessible and engaging approach, blending history, mythology, and popular culture. VoegelinView notes the book’s suitability for popular readers, offering bite-sized insights and lesser-known comic lore. The Batman Universe calls it a "lighthearted and fun distillation" that clearly presents the origin and development of the superhero genre, making it a valuable resource.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781493064519

Publisher: Hal Leonard Corporation

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 01 May 2023

Country: United States

Imprint: Applause Theatre Book Publishers

Illustration: 30 colour photos

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 22.0mm

Width: 152.0mm

Height: 228.0mm

Weight: 580g

Pages: 352

About the Author

Brian Solomon is pop culture and film writer and English teacher with a master’s specialization in Shakespeare. He lives in Connecticut, with his wife and two children.

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