First Comics Companion SC (2025 TwoMorrows) comic books

1st printing. Written by Jon B. Cooke and Richard J. Arndt. Art by Howard Chaykin and, Mike Grell. Cover by Howard Chaykin. The First Comics Companion is the only book dedicated to the history of Chicagos groundbreaking independent comics publisher, which took on the Big Two by storm between 1983–1991. From a modest promotional comic hawking theater subscriptions, First soon blossomed into an ambitious, aggressive imprint with achievements that included adapting the fabled sci-fi play Warp; reviving beloved 70s Charlton hero E-Man; luring Mike Grell over from Pacific Comics to continue Starslayer and launch Jon Sable, Freelance; and releasing one of the 80s greatest comic book series, American Flagg! by Howard Chaykin. Soon followed Elric, Grimjack, Nexus, Shatter, Dreadstar, Lone Wolf and Cub, super-hero Alter Ego, and a resurrection of Classics Illustrated. Featuring the recollections of founders Mike Gold, Joe Staton, and dozens more, this book continues Richard J. Arndt and Jon B. Cookes exhaustive carpet-bombing approach to documenting comics history in fascinating detail—first, last, and always, THE definitive account! Featuring new Chaykin cover art! Softcover, 8 1/2-in.x 11-in., 160 pages, PC/PB&W. Cover price $34.95.