All-Negro Comics: America’s First Black Comic Book

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Rediscovering History: Image Comics Revives the Groundbreaking All-Negro Comics

Image Comics is proud to present a new, gorgeously remastered milestone in comic book history, the Eisner Award-winning collection All-Negro Comics: America’s First Black Comic Book. This groundbreaking publication, originally created by African Americans for African Americans, will be curated by writer/editor Chris Robinson and feature bonus essays, a discussion guide, and new comics from notable Black creators. This landmark release is scheduled to hit shelves in trade paperback this November.

This new paperback edition features essays, comics, and prose from Eisner Award-winner Dr. Qiana Whitted, David Brothers, Shawn Pryor, Micah Peters, and many more, along with the original work of Orrin C. Evans, George J. Evans Jr., John H. Terrell, William H. Smith, and Leonard Cooper. The talent involved underscores the lasting impact of the original All-Negro Comics.

A Look Inside the All-Negro Comics Paperback

In the Golden Age of Comic Books, pioneering journalist and publisher Orrin C. Evans led a team of Black cartoonists to create the first comic book anthology featuring original Black characters. The goal was to entertain without harmful stereotypes, pushing boundaries in the industry. The original 1947 print run was quickly removed from newsstands and faded into obscurity, however, the significance of this work is now being brought to a wider audience. The book’s release is a landmark event in the history of publishing. You can learn more about the project by visiting the official website.

The original publication’s debut occurred shortly after the rise of superhero icons like Superman and Batman. For other great reads, check out our blog. The remastered edition of All-Negro Comics not only presents the digitally restored original content but also provides crucial historical and cultural context through insightful essays. This allows readers to fully appreciate the pioneering spirit and the challenges faced by Orrin C. Evans and his team.

The Legacy of a Groundbreaking Comic

Published soon after the debuts of household names and even predating the debut of Black Panther, All-Negro Comics #1 should be among those revered moments of comic book history. The fact that it faded into obscurity highlights the systemic issues within the industry at the time. This remastered edition from Image Comics is a vital step in rectifying this historical oversight. It allows new readers, and long-time comic enthusiasts, to experience a piece of comic book history that was almost lost.

The inclusion of new comics by contemporary Black creators further emphasizes the enduring legacy and the continued need for diverse voices within the comic book landscape. This bridge between the past and the present makes this collection an essential addition to any comic book library. For more on the latest releases, be sure to check out what’s new in our comics section. We love celebrating history, but also sharing great comic covers!

The book will be available this November from Image Comics.

Rediscovering a Lost Chapter in Comics History: All-Negro Comics Returns

The new Image Comics release of All-Negro Comics serves as an important reminder of a significant, and often overlooked, piece of comic book history. Chris Robinson and the talented team of creators have brought this monumental work back into the light, allowing a new generation to appreciate its cultural and historical importance.

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