Superman was created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Schuster in 1938. For fans of the ultimate Super Hero, this kit includes a Superman figurine, pin of the famed "S" symbol in gunmetal and silver, and 48-page book on Superman featuring full-color illustrations.

Superman is the original and ultimate Super Hero, and fans will enjoy this kit containing a replica of that famed radioactive material from Superman's home planet - kryptonite. Mounted on a base, the chards of kryptonite actually light up! Also included is a 48-page full-color book on Superman, Krypton, and kryptonite.

Catalogue Number :	B1509
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Genre :	Comics
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If you love Fox network's American Dad, you're going to love dressing up Roger, the lovable space alien who came to live with the Smith family after saving Stan's life in Area 51. Roger is famous for his love of disguises, and our magnetic Roger is just waiting for you to have fun creating endless looks with a full range of magnetic clothing and accessories. Also included is a 32-page book on Roger, with full-color illustrations.

A new edition of the acclaimed Marvel Chronicle.

Dorling Kindersley, hardback, 376 pages, published September 2013

Go on a journey spanning Superman’s world following the twists and turns of his life and career as you meet his allies, loves and deadliest enemies. Out in time for the movie release in June 2013.

Dorling Kindersley, hardback, 232 pages, published May 2013

Dorling Kindersley, paperback, 32 pages, published May 2013

Dorling Kindersley, paperback, 32 pages, published May 2013

Get organized with help from the Peanuts gang! This colorful set features hundreds of gift, craft, and mailing labels, plus a variety of humorous stickers, all decorated with your favorite Peanuts characters and quotes.

Chronicle, paperback, 30 pages, published April 2013

Happiness is a warm puppy! These mini notes feature images of Charlie Brown, Lucy, and Linus hugging their favourite beagle, Snoopy. Perfect for sending a hug to a friend or loved one.

Chronicle, 30 pages, published April 2013

In this irresistibly funny follow-up to the breakout bestseller Darth Vader and Son, Vader, Sith Lord and leader of the Galactic Empire, now faces the trials, joys and mood swings of raising his rebellious teenage daughter; Princess Leia. Smart and sweetly funny illustrations by artist Jeffrey Brown give classic Star Wars moments a twist by bringing these two galactic adversaries together under one roof. From teaching Leia how to fly a TIE fighter, to regulating the time she spends talking with friends via R2-D2's hologram, to making sure Leia doesn't leave the house wearing only the metal bra and a slinky skirt from Return of the Jedi, Vader's parenting skills are put hilariously to the test.

Chronicle, hardback, 64 pages, published May 2013

This collection of parables written by Issai Chozanshi, an eighteenth-century samurai, is a classic of martial arts literature. The tales are concerned with themes such as perception of conflict, self-transformation, the cultivation of chi (life energy), and understanding yin and yang. The "demon" in the title story refers to the mythical tengu, a group of demons who guard the secrets of swordsmanship. A swordsman travels to Tengu Mountain and in a series of conversations learns about mushin (no-mind), strategy, the transformation of chi, and how the path of the sword leads to the understanding of life itself. Some of the fables in the collection—such as "The Mysterious Technique of the Cat"—are iconic.

Shambhala Publications, paperback, 160 pages, published March 2013

From the prestigious comic illustration studio Ikari comes the ultimate guide to how to draw gothic manga. Each vivid, full-color character illustration is broken down into six stages accompanied by step-by-step instructions to take the artist from initial black-and-white sketches to a vibrant, fully costumed collection of characters. This detailed manual is a perfect instruction guide for beginning and advanced manga artists alike. It pairs advanced illustration techniques with step-by-step instructions, and features an original cast of gothic princesses and princes, brooding and tough yet vulnerable enough to take the spotlight of any manga cartoon.

Harper Design, paperback, 384 pages, published February 2013

Written in a noir-style, "Wayne of Gotham" is set both in the present and in the turbulent decades of the 1950's and 1960's: a time of paranoia, protests, HUAC, corrupt police and even more corrupt politicians, utopian idealism, assassination, civil unrest and the Vietnam War. "Wayne of Gotham" is the story two men separated by a generation of tragedy: Thomas, the rebellious heir to the vast Wayne Empire and Bruce, his son whose life is forever altered by witnessing Thomas' death.

The murder of Thomas and Martha Wayne is the torturous point on which Bruce turns to become the Batman. The Dark Knight's file on the case has long since been closed, the foundations of Bruce Wayne's secret life secure in the simple symmetry of a mugging gone horribly wrong. These foundations are shaken, however, when disturbing bits of information begin showing up in the Batman's path that question the accepted story. Batman reopens the case file-and discovers a father and mother that he never knew and the burden of a dark legacy he must now bear.

It Books, paperback, 304 pages, published December 2012

With super heroes nearly extinct at the start of the 1950s, DC Comics reignited the fire that would make them central to modern popular culture by infusing them with science fiction elements. To circumvent the limitations of the self-censoring Comics Code Authority, DC's writers and editors spun ever-more fantastic tales, bringing super heroes and Bob Hope alike into the realm of sci-fi. "DC Comics: The Silver Age" chronicles the transformation, with comics' first-ever "reboot" of Golden Age greats the Flash, Green Lantern, and Hawkman; as well as the increasingly wacky shenanigans of Batman, who was transformed into the reluctant spokesman for the camp sensibility of the '60s with a hit TV series that immortalized the "Dark Knight" as a pop culture icon for generations to come.

Plus a new exclusive interview with Deadman/Green Lantern/Batman artist Neal Adams! TASCHEN's series on "DC Comics" explores the origins of comics' most enduring legends and the behind-the-scenes stories of the men who created them, era by era. Expanded from the Eisner Award-winning XL book, "75 Years of DC Comics", this new series hits the shelf at a reader friendly size with essays updated by author Paul Levitz and over 500 new images across five volumes. Thousands of covers and interiors, original illustrations, photographs, film stills, and collectibles have been reproduced using the latest technology to bring the story lines, the characters, and their creators to vibrant life, making this an invaluable reference for comics fans.

Taschen, 400 pages, published March 2013

  also in this series: The Golden Age of DC Comics Hardcover

This book features super heroes from the Atom to Zatara: 75 years of DC Comics. In 1935, DC Comics founder Major Malcolm Wheeler-Nicholson, published "New Fun No. 1", the first comic book with all-new, all-original comic material-at a time when comic books were mere repositories for the cast-offs of the newspaper strips. What was initially considered to be disposable media for children was well on its way to becoming the mythology of our time - the 20th century's answer to "Atlas" or "Zorro".

Over 40,000 comic books later, in honor of the publisher's 75th Anniversary, and from Batman and Wonder Woman to The Sandman and Watchmen, TASCHEN has produced the single most comprehensive book on DC Comics in an XL edition even Superman might have trouble lifting. Over 2000 images-covers and interiors, original illustrations (including Wonder Woman's invisible jet!), photographs, film stills, and collectibles-are reproduced using the latest technology in digital reproduction to bring the storylines, the characters, and their creators to vibrant life as they've never been seen before.

Telling the tales behind the tomes is 35-year DC veteran Paul Levitz, whose in-depth essays trace the company's history, from its pulp origins through to the future of digital publishing. Massive foldout timelines and an in-depth appendix including biographies of the artists, writers, editors, publishers, and actors who cast the spell make this an invaluable reference for any comic book fan. You'll find them all here.

Taschen Gmbh, boxed hardback, 600 pages, published November 2011

The single most comprehensive book by Paul Levitz on the subject, this volume traces DC Comics's first decades, from its pulp origins up to the comic book burnings of the McCarthy '50s in over 400 pages bursting with comics, art, photographs, and more comics. The first in a new series, expanded from the Eisner Award-winning book, 75 Years of DC Comics, hits the shelf at a reader friendly size with essays updated by author Paul Levitz and over 1,000 new images across five volumes. Featuring a new interview with legendary artist Joe Kubert.

Taschen, hardback, 400 pages, published November 2012

He is the best there is at what he does, but just who is the mystery man known as Wolverine? Learn how sickly James Howlett learned to use his mutants gifts — claws made of bone that he could extend from his fists, and the ability to heal from almost any wound — to live for decades without growing old. See how he survived World Wars and amazing adventures, and learn about the top secret government experiment that covered his bones with adamantium, the hardest metal known to man.

Then witness his transformation from tough loner to one of Professor Xavier’s most famous X-Men, and see how the unstoppable Wolverine inspires X-Men, mutants, and all of the heroes of the Marvel Universe to never give up and always fight the good fight! A prose tale from Richard Thomas.

Hardback, 48 pages, published December 2012

sorry, we're still waiting on full details and cover art for this book, but expect the usual high visual standard we expect from DK publications.

Dorling Kindersley, hardback, page count tbc, published October 2012

EARTH 2717: THE 3RD GOLDEN AGE

Building a better tomorrow today...The planet we call home slowly dies beneath us.Most humans now live in teeming surface "Terrarium Cities," off world colonies or orbiting space stations. All of earth's resources have been depleted.All corporations, nations and technologies have merged into THE CONGLOMERATE, whose Enforcer Battalions now conquer whole planets to feed its shareholders' insatiable appetites.THE CONGLOMERATE, which began with the spirit of the best mankind had to offer, saved humanity from itself by taking us to the stars and has become the most ruthless profit machine to ever exist.Never use a robot when a human will do...

Dishonorably discharged from the Conglomerate's elite Enforcer Corps, Jon is doing a job too lowly for a robot. He leaps at the chance to go on a peaceful, first contact mission to an untainted world. Playing armed babysitter to Samantha, the daughter of a powerful Conglomerate executive, shouldn't be too hard.What could go wrong?Everything...For Jon, it's a relief to get away - on an easy assignment protecting a couple of do-gooders visiting a peaceful new planet. For Samantha, it's a mission to change the world. For Jasson, it's a chance to put his theories to the test.Being marooned on Anomaly where technology doesn't work, the terrain is lethal and the creatures even more so, Jon quickly learns he's not the man he once was.

Dark secrets surround the various species that call this world home. Jon's actions here have the potential to ripple across the void of space, and touch everything in it... Maybe even the Conglomerate...But when Anomaly sprouts synthetics-eating viruses, flesh-eating mutants and deadly magic, it becomes a race against which form of death will come first. Who will survive? Who will return?Join us on an adventure that reclaims our humanity and saves a world! Bonus: includes Anomaly UAR that integrates the print and virtual experience like never before.

Anomaly Productions, hardback, 370 pages, published October 2012

In the spring 2003, kids, parents, teachers, librarians—whole communities—discovered and fell in love with Jeanne DuPrau's story about a doomed city, and the two children who found a way out. Nearly 10 years later, that story, The City of Ember, is a bona fide classic, with over 1.7 million copies sold. Now experience Jeanne DuPrau's vision anew as artist Niklas Asker faithfully brings to life the glare of the lamps, the dinginess of the streets, and the brilliance of the first sunrise.

Random House, paperback, 144 pages, published September 2012

This book is a catalogue for his initial exhibition (held in Tokyo, April 9-May 30, 2012) of his original handwritten drawings collection since his debut to present. The book contains all the works featured in the exhibition that is full-size illustrations, as well as preliminary sketches, production drawings. The works include the domestic advertisement works that is hardly to see overseas. Otomo Katsuhiro is one of the most respected and influential Japanese artists/storytellers in the history of modern comics. He has also worked extensively in animations; from his own, hugely successful adaptation of his epic manga, Akira, which is widely considered to be a pinnacle of the form - a work of astonishing power and visionary scope, with unsurpassed artistry.

PIE Books, paperback, 256 pages, published July 2012

In 1938 Action Comics #1 introduced the world to Superman. In a matter of years, the skies of our imaginations were filled with mutants, aliens and vigilantes. Batman, Wonder Woman and the X-Men - in less than a century they've gone from not existing at all to being everywhere we look. But why? For Grant Morrison, possibly the greatest of contemporary superhero storytellers, these heroes are not simply characters but powerful archetypes whose ongoing story arcs reflect and predict the lives we live. In this exhilarating book, Morrison draws on history, art, mythology, and his own astonishing journey to provide the first true chronicle of the superhero.

Vintage, paperback, 480 pages, published July 2012

Ward Kimball's career as an animator and director at Disney in the 1940s, 50s and 60s is legendary among fans of animation, and the generation of artist and animators influenced by his work are legion. But the work he created outside of the animation studio was equally significant and, arguably even more fascinating. His substantial artistic output, which is gathered together in this monograph for the first time ever, stretches across a wide swath of artistic territory-from fine art to graphic design to animation to magazine cartoons.

Chronicle, hardback, 240 pages, published October 2012

In this original graphic novel, Frank Young and David Lasky tell the story of the pioneering American country music group the Carter Family, who recorded between 1927 and 1956. The Carters had a humble beginning as struggling farmers in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia and eventually became the first superstar group of country music, making hundreds of recordings and selling millions of records. Many of their hit songs like "Wildwood Flower," "Will the Circle Be Unbroken," and "I'm Thinking Tonight of My Blue Eyes" have influenced countless musicians and remain timeless country standards.

Complete with a CD of the Carter Family's most loved songs, The Carter Family: Don't Forget This Song is not only a unique illustrated biography but a moving account that reveals the family's rise to success, their struggles along the way, and their impact on American country music. Illustrated with exacting detail and written in the southern dialect of the time, the graphic novel tells a dynamic narrative that is pure Americana. It is a story of success and failure; of poverty and wealth; of racism and tolerance; of creativity and business; and the power of music and love.

Abrams, hardback, 192 pages, published October 2012

Throughout his 25-year career, cartoonist and screenwriter Dan Clowes has always been ahead of the artistic and cultural movements. In the late 1980s, his groundbreaking comic book Eightball defined indie culture. With wit, venom and even a little sympathy, Clowes voiced the worries of slacker culture even while he comically lacerated its values.

For his graphic novels he has received a slew of awards and his screenplay for Ghost World, based on his graphic novel, was nominated for an Oscar. His comics appear in the New York Times and on the covers of the New Yorker. Clowes even appeared as himself on an episode of The Simpsons in 2007 (alongside creators Art Spiegelman and Alan Moore).

The Art of Dan Clowes: Modern Cartoonist is the first monograph on this acclaimed artist and will be created with unprecedented and fully co-operative access to his personal archives. The book will be heavily illustrated with work spanning his entire career and the text, a collection of essays about the various facets of Clowes's oeuvre.

The book will include his most important and well know images, characters and creations as well as rare sketchbook selections, previously unpublished comic and illustrations and ephemera from his personal collection. Author Alvin Buenaventura has previously published artistic and insightful graphic novels, books and prints.

Abrams, hardback, 224 pages, published April 2012

Celebrate Earth's mightiest heroes, The Avengers.

Discover everything about Earth's greatest super hero team in The Avengers: The Ultimate Guide. The story of every single member, from their powers and their allegiences to their enemies is explored in detail and every page is packed with enough comic-book art to satisfy the most avid fans.

Marvel is one of the most prominent names in the entertainment world, and in 2012 interest will be especially high with the new Avengers movie coming out in May. The Avengers: The Ultimate Guide is the perfect companion to the Earth's mightiest heroes.

Dorling Kindersley, hardback, 200 pages, published April 2012

Here for the first time is the complete history of the sleek, sophisticated, incomparable Batmobile. From its humble beginnings in the pages of Detective Comics, to its reimaginings every decade in the pages of DC Comics, to its unforgettable appearances on the big screen, this book explores each incarnation of the Batmobile in incredible detail and scope. With stunning gatefolds and detailed specs, blueprints, and historical comparisons, Mark Cotta Vaz's Batmobile: The Complete History is an informational and visual delight for auto and Batman fans alike.

Titan, hardback, 156 pages, published May 2012

Since its debut manga RG Veda, CLAMP has steadily asserted itself as one of the most widely renowned teams of manga artists, leaving a durable imprint in every established genre while also devising novel formulas along the way. Exploring a selection of CLAMP manga as well as anime it inspired, this volume examines CLAMP’s broader philosophical underpinnings, its dedication to the invention of elaborate narrative constructs, its legendary passion for multi-layered universes, and its symbolic interpretation of human identity.

Paperback, 270 pages, published May 2012

Outrageous, fascinating and bizarre facts from every corner of the comic book universeWhat comic book artist was the recipient of an on-stage thank you from Paul McCartney and an on-air apology from Johnny Carson? What superhero got his powers by being bitten by a mongoose? What popular NPR host was forever immortalized as a "bad boyfriend" in a notable comic book? In "Why Does Batman Carry Shark Repellent?," author Brian Cronin will answer those questions and more by revealing the most obscure, wacky and surprising facts about comics--from the characters and creators, to the TV shows, movies and merch.

Cronin has teamed up with some of the top comic book writers and artists of today to present 100 trivia lists, including: - Nine Celebrities That Guest-Starred in Comic Books...without Their Permission- Seven Bands That Got Their Names from Comics- Ten Crazy Items Found on Batman's Utility Belt- Five Comic Book Inventions That Eventually Became Real- Five Stupidest Superhero Origins- And much, much more!From Batman to Spiderman, Aquaman to the X-Men, each list in "Why Does Batman Carry Shark Repellent? "will entertain and inform whether you're a hardcore geek or a casual fan.

Penguin, paperback, 288 pages, published June 2012

This is the official illustrated history of Boilerplate, a turn-of-the-last century robot, and its colourful adventures around the world, including some with key historical figures. After losing a loved one to war, the brilliant Professor Archibald Campion invented a robot soldier and unveiled it at the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago in 1893. Unusually, the U.S. was not engaged in any military conflict, and at the Exposition, Edison and Tesla were introducing their world-changing technology, and as a result, the robot, nicknamed Boilerplate, was pretty much overlooked.

However, while Boilerplate was relegated to the dustbins of history, that didn't mean he didn't get out and about in the world. He and Professor Campion had remarkable adventures around the globe that included a trek across Antarctica, the Klondike Gold Rush, fighting alongside Teddy Roosevelt at San Juan Hill, riding in the sands with Lawrence of Arabia, and finally ending up at the frontlines of World War I in France. This 4-colour book is profusely illustrated with incredible period illustrations including photos, paintings, posters, cartoons, maps, and other images.

abrams, hardback, 168 pages, published October 2009

Celebrating the 75th anniversary of DC Comics, these 100 all-different postcards feature the incredible art of DC's comic book covers from the 1930s through the 1980s.

Chronicle, card book, 100 pages, published October 2011

The Unofficial and Unauthorised Guide to the Hit 1980s Series Thundercats

Telos, paperback, 500 pages, published July 2011

Updated edition of this complete A-Z of Marvel characters created in full collaboration with Marvel Comics. Are you a comic-book fan, obsessed by superheroes? This unique A-Z of more than 1,000 classic characters created by comic giant Marvel will satisfy any super-thirst for knowledge. Get closer to Spider-Man, the Avengers, Hulk, Wolverine, the X-Men and more … all your favourite superheroes and villains are here, as well as some weird and wonderful one-offs. Knock-out double-page features celebrate some of the biggest Marvel stars with intimate details on their powers, titanic clashes and action-packed careers. Jam packed with things you never knew, as well as original, Marvel comic-book art – the power and excitement of more than 60 years of comic-book history explodes off every page.

Marvel, paperback, 400 pages, published October 2009

This bumper Marvel Avengers Assemble! Ultimate Sticker Book is packed with more than 250 easy-to-peel colour stickers. Join the Earth's mightiest heroes as they assemble to battle the most lethal villains the universe can throw at them. Featuring your favourite Avengers - Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Hulk, Wasp and Ant-Man - and some of their most fearsome foes.

Great scenes taken straight from the comics mean you can create your own action-packed adventures. Don't forget, you can use your stickers again and again. If you still want more, there are tons of cool facts about The Avengers to dazzle your friends.

Dorling Kindersley, paperback, 32 pages, published January 2012

Written in a noir-style, "Wayne of Gotham" is set both in the present and in the turbulent decades of the 1950's and 1960's: a time of paranoia, protests, HUAC, corrupt police and even more corrupt politicians, utopian idealism, assassination, civil unrest and the Vietnam War. "Wayne of Gotham" is the story two men separated by a generation of tragedy: Thomas, the rebellious heir to the vast Wayne Empire and Bruce, his son whose life is forever altered by witnessing Thomas' death.

The murder of Thomas and Martha Wayne is the torturous point on which Bruce turns to become the Batman. The Dark Knight's file on the case has long since been closed, the foundations of Bruce Wayne's secret life secure in the simple symmetry of a mugging gone horribly wrong. These foundations are shaken, however, when disturbing bits of information begin showing up in the Batman's path that question the accepted story. Batman reopens the case file-and discovers a father and mother that he never knew and the burden of a dark legacy he must now bear.

Tracy Hickman is a bestselling fantasy and science-fiction author, best known as the creator of Dragonlance while he worked for TSR. In all, Hickman wrote over 30 novels in collaboration with Margaret Weis as well as numerous novels and series both as solo works and coauthored with his wife, Laura. Tracy and Laura live in Utah where they enjoy visits from their four children and three grandchildren.

Igniter, hardback, 336 pages, published June 2012

These comics, published monthly between 1951-1972, are a missing link in Eisner's career, and are also a testament to the teaching power of comics. Will Eisner (1917-2005) is one of the most beloved and important creators in comics. The comics industry's most prestigious award, the Eisners, was created in his honour. Ann Eisner married Will in 1950. She runs the non-profit organisation the Will & Ann Eisner Family Foundation and engages in other charitable activities. Eddie Campbell is an award winning comics writer and artist. His work includes From Hell with Alan Moore as well as the autobiographical Alec: The Years Have Pants and The Playwright (with Daren White). He lives in Brisbane Australia. General Peter J. Schoomaker, USA (Ret.) served in the United States Army from 1969 to 2000 and then was recalled to active duty as the 35th U.S. Army Chief of Staff from 2003 to 2007.

Abrams, hardback, 272 pages, published September 2011

Al Jaffee's 'Fold-Ins', which have graced the back page of "MAD Magazine" since 1964, have become an icon of American humour, issue after issue, year after year, each fold-in requires the reader to simply fold tab A to tab B to reveal the hidden gag- a simple idea that masks both the undeniable artistic ingenuity and comic-timing at play in Jaffee's work. 'The MAD Fold-In Box' places Jaffee in his rightful place as the reigning clown prince of comic art.

Chronicle, hardback, published September 2011

This is a lavishly illustrated memoir about a boy who loved Batman and would grow up to turn his passion into a vision of the Dark Knight, and ultimately one of the most successful pop culture franchises of all time. When he was eight, Michael Uslan fell in love with the comic book character known as Batman. He watched unhappily as the dark, serious superhero he knew and loved was turned into the camp '60s TV show starring Adam West, and in 1979 he purchased the film rights to Batman with the goal of realizing his infinitely cooler vision of the caped crusader.

After ten years of desparately pitching a film that no one wanted, he sold and then produced Tim Burton's critically acclaimed and phenomonally popular re-telling of Batman. Twenty years later, having produced every Batman film to date, Ulsan finally brought his full vision of Batman to the screen with The Dark Knight. Michael, a consummate story-teller, recounts his story here, in a memoir that will draw in comics and movie fans, film students, and of course, people throughout the world who love Batman.

Michael Uslan has produced every Batman movie since the 1989 Tim Burton-directed film. He is a well-known name in the business, with many connections in the comic book and film industries. He is a film producer with numerous award winning projects to his credit. He has been a speaker at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art, and at the Smithsonian Institution, and was the first professor to teach a course in comic books at an accredited U.S. university.

Chronicle, hardback, 256 pages, published September 2011

Author: Michael Uslan

At last! It's the meeting of two mind-boggling comedy creations from Matt Groening! They said it couldn't be done. But we don't listen to naysayers, refuseniks, and non-believers. So here it is, folks! The epic story that you've been waiting for ...a story so big, so ambitious, so sweeping that it can only be told in a 208-page, large format, slipcased edition, complete with new material, supplemental stories, preliminary sketches, character designs, and a pin-up gallery featuring the talents of comics industry luminaries Alex Ross, Sergio Aragones, Geof Darrow, Kyle Baker, and Bernie Wrightson, among others.

What would happen if the Planet Express crew and the citizens of New New York City in the 31st century met the Simpsons and the citizens of Springfield ...and how is it even possible? Prepare yourself for a Simpsons saga filled with Futurama! A Futurama fable suffused with the Simpsons! Featuring a plethora of pleasing plot devices including: evil brain spawn, lactose-intolerant space aliens, a giant ball of yarn, flying cars, mistaken identities, world domination, the brittle fabric of reality torn asunder, this is a comic book - collecting sentient planet, the Dewey Decimal system, self-eating watermelons, slave labor, space pirates, power-crazed vampires, super hero battles, unflattering underwear, mad science run amok, and much, much more!

It's a comic convergence on a reality ripping, time altering, space traveling, intergalactic scale! It's the Simpsons/Futurama Crossover Crisis - uncut and all comedy! First published in 2002 and 2005 as two two-part, comic book mini-series ("Futurama/Simpsons Infinitely Secret Crossover Crisis" and "The Simpsons/Futurama Crossover Crises II"), these four hard-to-find comics are collected together for the first time in a hardcover collection, encased in a die-cut slipcase, and packaged with a fascimile of the very first Eisner Award-winning issue of "Simpsons Comics" from 1993.

Abrams, ahrdback, 208 pages, published March 2010

When Captain Marvel made his debut in Whiz Comics in 1940 he outsold the then two-year-old Superman by fourteen million copies a month. Known as the World's Mightiest Mortal, Captain Marvel was really Billy Batson a twelve-year-old boy who was transformed by saying "Shazam!" -tapping into the dreams of boy readers everywhere. In Shazam: The Golden Age of the World's Mightiest Mortal, Chip Kidd and Geoff Spear team up to deliver an amazing book that presents all of the Captain Marvel toys, ephemera, and artwork produced during comics' Golden Age.

This unprecedented assortment of secret decoders, celluloid figures, Captain Marvel club badges, and letters is expertly photographed by Geoff Spear and written and designed by a true Captain Marvel fan, Chip Kidd. The actions figures, buttons, paper rockets, and collectable cards included in Shazam: The Golden Age of the World's Mightiest Mortal often sell for outrageous amounts on eBay or in comic book stores, and many of these rare piece have never been seen before. Kidd and Spear collaborated with the owner of the largest Captain Marvel collection to bring the reader the ultimate Captain Marvel book. While the comics have been collected and repackaged by DC Comics, there has never been a book about the related ephemera of this celebrated super hero, making this unique and beautiful book the first and definitive guide to this seminal super hero.

Abrams, hardback, 246 pages, published October 2010

Since the 1940s, American federal and state government agencies have published comics to disseminate public information. Comics legends Will Eisner and Milton Caniff produced military comics with all kinds of how-to information on recruitment, warfare, and army motors. Prominent artists such as Walt Kelly, Hank Ketcham, Al Capp, and others were enlisted, creating comics where Pogo told parents how much TV their kids should watch; Dennis the Menace took "A Poke at Poison", Andy Capp wandered through a national park talking about safety; and Li'l Abner joined the Navy.

Dozens of lesser-known artists wrote and drew comics such as "Bert the Turtle Says Duck and Cover", "Teenage Booby Trap", "Johnny's First Job", or "Ricky & Debby in Sardineland". They created comics characters such as Captain Conservo, Nutri-Man and Vita-Woman, and the Garbage Gremlins. Smokey the Bear had his own comic. "Government Issue: I Want You to Read This Comic" reproduces an important selection of these official comics in their full reading format, plus a broad range of excerpts and covers, all organized chronologically within thematic chapters.

Earnest, informational, and kitschy, the range of comics included offers an important sociological survey of U.S. political perspectives and public attitudes from the 1940s to the present. Author Richard Graham, Associate Professor and Media Librarian at the University of Nebraska, provides an essay on the history and context of these comics, as well as substantive captions. There will also be a foreword by a prominent public figure from the political world.

Abrams, paperback, 304 pages, published November 2011

Some of those wonderful adverts for the weirdest things, from spy cameras to X-Ray spec, from the old comic books are gathered here.

Insight Editions, hardback, 144 pages, published August 2011

A comprehensive look at the greatest comic book villain . . . ever. Since his first appearance in 1940’s Batman #1, the Joker stands alone as the most hated, feared, and loved villain in the DC Universe. Though his true origins may be unknown, the Clown Prince of Crime’s psychotic appearances in hundreds of comic books has shaped the way we look at Batman, comic books, and ourselves. Indeed, a hero is only as good as his nemesis, so the Joker’s heinous crimes, including murdering the second Robin and paralyzing Batgirl, have elevated Batman to the highest levels of crime-fighting, and we, the readers, to the finest levels of quality pop-culture entertainment.

The Joker is the first retrospective chronicling one of the most groundbreaking and game-changing villains of all time, and contains images from his more than seventy years in comics by comic book artists and writers such as Bob Kane, Bill Finger, Jerry Robinson, Dick Sprang, Grant Morrison, Dave McKean, Neil Gaiman, Geoff Johns, Alan Moore, Brian Bolland, Brian Azzarello, Bruce Timm, and Paul Dini. Also included are images from his various film, television, animated, and video game incarnations, such as the timeless interpretations by Cesar Romero, Jack Nicholson, and Heath Ledger, who won his posthumous Oscar for his portrayal of the Joker in 2008’s The Dark Knight. This book is a must-have for fans and anyone who wants to die laughing. Written by Daniel Wallace, with a foreword by Mark Hammil.

Universe, paperback, 208 pages, published October 2011

Meet your favourite DC heroes and villains with this essential A-Z character guide. From Batman to Wonder Woman, the "DC Comics Character Encyclopedia" tells you everything you need to know about all your favourite heroes and villains. Written with young comic-book fans in mind, the book packs the whole of the sprawling DC Universe into one compact, portable volume and the A-Z format makes it easy to find your heroes in a flash.

Discover each character's individual talents with fact-filled pages featuring stat boxes, power rankings and information on their allies and foes. Exciting full-colour comic-book art makes the "DC Comics Character Encyclopedia" a book that all young comic enthusiasts will look through again and again.

Dorling Kindersley, hardback, 208 pages, published June 2011

 Batman is a cultural, super-hero icon. First introduced in 1939, the alter ego of Bruce Wayne has been known through countless DC comics, a TV series, and mega hit movies. The Batman Files is Bruce Wayne's secret book that consists of journal entries from Batman's war on crime, in-depth villain dossiers and other bat-computer files, faux news articles describing major events in Batman's life, and hundreds of illustrations taken from the comics to be used as crime scene photos, newspaper article photos, etc.

The book will also include blueprints and schematics of Batman's costumes, vehicles, and weapons, and the Batcave, and a variety of sketches made to look like they were penned by the Caped Crusader himself, including a child's drawing of the horrible bat Bruce saw down in the cave. There will also be a few commissioned pieces for the book including reproductions of items like tickets to the Haley Circus, the crest of Bruce Wayne's prep school, and Bruce Wayne's childhood drawings.

Author Matthew K. Manning's work includes scripts for DC's The Batman Strikes!, Justice League Adventures, and Looney Tunes. He has worked for Marvel on Spider-Man Unlimited and Marvel Romance Redux. He also writes about comics, in Iron Man: The Ultimate Guide to the Armored Super Hero, Wolverine: Inside the World of the Living Weapon, The Batman Vault, Marvel Chronicle, The Amazing Spider-Man: The Ultimate Guide, Hulk: The Incredible Guide, Marvel Heroes: Greatest Battles, and the upcoming DC Chronicle.

Andrews McMell, hardback, 308 pages, published October 2011

Now back in print, this hardcover edition compiles the Clockwork Girl comics into one graphic novel, ready to find new fans for its story of Tesla the Clockwork Girl and Huxley the mutant boy, in anticipation of the October 2011 3D animated feature film.

The 3-D luximation animation film version of The Clockwork Girl will release in October 2011 from CJ Entertainment (an affiliate of DreamWorks and Paramount Pictures), with a “dream team” of actors voicing the characters, including Carrie Ann Moss (Matrix), Jeffrey Tambor (Arrested Development), Alexa Vega (Spy Kids), Jesse McCartney (Horton Hears a Who) and Brad Garrett (Everybody Loves Raymond).

HarperCollins, hardback, 120 pages, published June 2011

There is no other anthology on the subject on the market that is at once this colourful, large in format, or lengthy - or provides a pop-culture perspective by an authority. This is a big, thick book with more than 250 illustrations comprised of great vintage covers, a selection of juicy stories reproduced in full, advice columns, and advertising. Its graphic, eye-catching package - which will include a heavy red card stock bellyband with a die-cut heart-shaped frame - will emphasize the book's collectibility as well as its irresistible gift appropriateness.

This book is a valentine to the era. It will be of interest to comics and graphic novel fans, those with an interest in nostalgia, and the chick-lit audience, too. This book is also a real standout in the genre. There are a couple collections that use the original strips from the era, replacing the old dialogue with contemporary dialogue that mocks the original scenarios ("Truer than True Romance"; "Romance Without Tears"); a thin collection issued by Marvel that reprints a select number of strips without any commentary at all ("Marvel Romance"); a collection of romance novel covers ("The Look of Love"); and a book dedicated to a specific romance comic ("Confessions, Romances, Secrets and Temptations: Archer St. John and the St. John Romance Comics"). Chronicle also published "From Girls to Grrrlz: A History of Female Comics From Teens to Zines", but this is a history of girl comics.

HarperCollins, paperback, 192 pages, published May 2011

Author: Michael Barson

This title is for comic-book fans everywhere - an updated edition of the A-Z reference of the DC universe. New and expanded, this one-volume encyclopedia of more than 1,200 of the classic characters created by comics giant DC is essential for any fan. With new entries on the latest DC characters and expanded ones on Superman, Batman, Green Lantern, the JLA, Aquaman, Catwoman and Wonder Woman, all the world-renowned super heroes and super villains are here, as well as the weird and wonderful one-offs.

Special features celebrate some of the DC heroes and villains' more memorable exotic vehicles and weaponry, their titanic clashes, or romantic encounters plus recent story developments including the Infinite Crisis. With a brand new cover designed by Alex Ross, one of the world's pre-eminent comic book artists and thrilling original, comic-book art, the fun and excitement of more than 60 years of comic-book history explodes off every page! If you like this you should also check out the very handsome Vertigo Encyclopedia which has just come out from the same publisher.

Dorling Kindersley, hardback, 400 pages, published October 2009

This is a step-by-step guide to all the tricks - both freehand and digital - to create the best manga characters! Here is an amazing manual of manga for artists of all ages! Concentrating on Shojo manga and anime (a genre targeting female audiences), "Shojo Manga" is a practical, hands-on guide to learning the skills of Shojo drawing.

It includes detailed information on how to apply digital colour, 3D designs, vectorial drawing, and a host of other fascinating and useful design applications. And each project in Kodomo Manga includes step-by-step instructions specifying software, tools, and professional tricks to achieve the big eyes, tiny noses, and love torn expressions central to shojo manga characters.

"Shojo Manga" takes manga artists, illustrators, and graphic designers from initial black-and-white sketches to a vibrant, fully costumed collection of characters. In five chapters, its content will be broken down as follows: Vintage Romance; Love and Pop; Gothic; Magic Lovers; and, History and Legends.

HarperCollins, paperback, 352 pages, published February 2011

William Morrow, hardback, 240 pages, published February 2011

Author: Mary-Lou Weisman

Universe Publishing, hardback, 64 pages, published April 2011

Author: John Patrick Byrne

Universe, paperback, 288 pages, published April 2011

Author: Howard Cruse

A century-spanning voyage through seven thrilling decades of DC Comics. Packed with original comic-book art and key character profiles. Follow this chronological guide to both the characters and the company that created them.

Dorling Kindersley, hardback, 352 pages, published October 2010

The first compilation of its kind in 15 years, More Digressions collects about 100 essays from Peter David's long-running But I Digress column for Comics Buyer's Guide. For this entirely new collection, David has personally selected But I Digress pieces written from 2001 to the present day, and also included many personal reflections and historical notes. This book features a new foreword by the legendary Harlan Ellison, and sports a cover by J.K. Woodward (Fallen Angel) that highlights some of David's comic-book creations.

Mad Norwegian Press, paperback, 416 pages, published July 2009

Spider-Man, Wolverine, Captain America; an explosive A-Z of Marvel Avengers greatest heroes and villains, packed with incredible facts, stats and character histories.

Dorling Kindersley, hardback, 208 pages, published October 2010

The Rough Guide to Manga is the ultimate handbook offering a comprehensive overview of one of the most fashionable genres in today's popular culture. The guide features the manga story: from manga's twelfth-century roots to the rise of English-language manga comics with profiles of influential creators like Leiji Matsumoto and CLAMP as well as publishers to look out for.

You'll find an overview of manga's unique styles, techniques and genres decoded as well as a canon of fifty must-read manga, including the iconic Astro Boy, global hits Fruits Basket and Battle Royale, plus less well-known works like Please Save My Earth. The Rough Guide to Manga demystifies unfamiliar terms and genres for newcomers whilst offering manga fans plenty of new recommendations including listings for manga magazines and websites along with a glossary of terms. Crammed with illustrations, and including a section on the anime connection, this is must-have Manga for beginners and enthusiasts alike.

Rough Guides, paperback, 304 pages, published October 2009

Author: Jason Yadao

Newspaper comics are not only funny, they also reflect their times. In this collection, Brian Walker has amassed more than a half-century of strips, including rare examples provided by the artists themselves. Featured cartoonists include Walk Kelly ("Pogo"), Charles Schulz ("Peanuts"), Garry Trudeau ("Doonesbury"), Bill Watterson ("Calvin and Hobbes"), Scott Adams ("Dilbert") and Patrick McDonnel ("Mutts"), along with many more.

Organized by decade, with biographical profiles and descriptions of different genres and themes, "The Comics" forms a graphic survey of American culture since 1945. Perfect companion to Walker's The Comics Before 1945 for anyone interested in comics history. Revised and updated for the paperback edition this serves as the most comprehensive and graphically stunning survey of post-war comics.

Abrams, paperback, 336 pages, published September 2006

Author: Brian Walker