Heading:
Author: Lee, Stan
Title: SECRETS BEHIND THE COMICS
Place Published: New York
Publisher:Famous Enterprises, Inc.
Date Published: 1947
Description:

99 pp. Illustrated throughout by Ken Bald. (8vo) wrappers. VG+. Slight nicks at spine ends, light corner wear, slight cover toning and a few tiny soiled spots; clean pages; tight binding; an attractive copy.

Stan Lee gives the lowdown on how comics are made. Includes a self-portrait by Basil Wolverton and spot illustrations by Ken Bald of characters including Captain America and Bucky, Blonde Phantom, Tessie the Typist, Millie the Model, the Human Torch, Sub-Mariner, etc.

"In 1947, in the midst of the explosion of comic book genres, Stan also launched his first creative venture outside of Timely Comics.... It was also his first (but far from last) experience with publishing. Incorporating himself as Famous Enterprises, Inc., he wrote and distributed via mail a slim softcover volume of about 100 pages, titled Secrets Behind the Comics. In its own way, it was a groundbreaking book, as it covered virtually all aspects of putting out a professional comic book.... One of the most singular things about the book is that, right up front, as 'Secret No.1,' the reader encounters a fairly realistic drawing of young, glasses-wearing Stan Lee, with a pencil stuck behind his ear, beaming back at him/her.... Stan realized, even then, that readers can identify better with what a writer is saying if they feel they 'know' him." – Roy Thomas, The Stan Lee Story (Taschen, 2019).

A limited edition of 100 softcover and 15 hardcover catalogues are available. Over 200 pages, fully illustrated. Fun reference, great keepsake. Softcovers $40, dust-jacketed hardcover with limitation plate $200. To order, contact ivan@pbagalleries.com or call 415-989-2665

R. Crumb says, "I found [PBA's catalogue] so interesting that I am saving it for the texts that accompany the comics which were put up for auction. This is some of the best commentary I've yet seen on the quality of the content of comic books. I especially enjoyed the reviews of the post-war horror comics. Great. Priceless."

Consignments welcome for PBA's Spring 2021 Comic Book sale. Pre-Code Horror, Golden Age and Silver Age comics, original art and ephemera sought. Send inquiries to ivan@pbagalleries.com or call 415-989-2665