Top 9 Characters Books

Joshua Johnson
8 min readOct 1, 2024

Get ready for a delightful journey through the world of books with our latest roundup featuring Charictures Books. This collection of titles showcases some of the most captivating and imaginative stories that will leave you spellbound. Whether you're a fan of whimsical characters or an adventure seeker at heart, you're sure to find something that tickles your fancy. Dive into our captivating roundup and discover your new favorite read!

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1. The Education of a Comics Artist

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Visual Narrative in Cartoons, Graphic Novels, and Beyond

Embark on a captivating journey through the realm of comics art with Michael Dooley and Steven Heller's comprehensive guide, titled "The Education of a Comics Artist: Visual Narrative in Cartoons, Graphic Novels, and Beyond" . This insightful book offers readers a fascinating exploration of the comics world, from the intricate artistry of editorial cartoons and political comics to the whimsical world of comic strips and avant-garde alternative comics.

For those who crave the development of superhero sagas, a dive into the mesmerizing world of graphic novels, or the intriguing role of comics art in animation, design, and illustration, this book is the perfect companion. Readers will be enlightened by the invaluable insights shared by over sixty experts, educators, and critics, each with a passion for the art, business, and history of comics.

Embracing a total of 364 pages dedicated to the art of comics, this eye-catching book is an essential read for anyone who has ever felt inspired by the captivating world of graphic storytelling. Join Michael Dooley and Steven Heller as they delve into the enthralling world of comics art, where visual narratives come to life in a book that is both visually engaging and informative.

  • Authors: Michael Dooley, Steven Heller
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published Date: May 01, 2005
  • Page Count: 364
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Art
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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2. Amphigorey Again

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Edward Gorey's "Amphigorey Again" is a delightful collection of his inimitable offbeat characters and droll humor. This book revels in the eccentricities of everyday life, showcasing an unparalleled talent that never ceases to entertain, amuse, and confound. Among its pages, you will find previously uncollected work and two unpublished stories - "The Izzard Book, " a whimsical exploration of the letter Z, and "La Malle Saignante, " a bilingual homage to early French silent serial movies.

"Amphigorey Again" also features rough sketches and unfinished panels, giving readers a glimpse into the singular mind of Gorey at work. With a whopping 268 pages, this book is a treasure trove for fans of Gorey's unique and captivating artwork. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt in 2006, it remains a must-read for those seeking a fresh perspective on art, storytelling, and the absurdity of life.

  • Authors: Edward Gorey
  • Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
  • Published Date: July 13, 2006
  • Page Count: 268
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Art
  • Average Rating: 3.0
  • Ratings Count: 1.0
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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3. Old Jewish Comedians

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Step back in time and delve into the world of Old Jewish Comedians with this captivating graphic novel by Drew Friedman. This extraordinary collection takes you on a visual journey through the lives of legendary Borscht-Belt comedians.

From the well-known likes of Milton Berle and Groucho Marx, to the lesser-known stars such as Benny Rubin and Al Kelly, Friedman skilfully paints a fascinating picture of these iconic performers through his unparalleled portraiture. Discover the untold stories and achievements of these magnificent comedians, all captured in this comprehensive masterpiece, Old Jewish Comedians. With its impressive Reuben Award win and a total of 36 pages in this hardcover edition, it's a must-read for any lover of comics and history.

  • Authors: Drew Friedman
  • Publisher: Fantagraphics Books
  • Published Date: October 18, 2006
  • Page Count: 36
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Comics & Graphic Novels
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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4. Idiots in Charge

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Lies, Trick, Misdeeds, and Other Political Untruthiness

"Idiots in Charge" takes you on a hilarious journey through the world of politics, where absurdities and misdeeds rule supreme. Leland Gregory, a brilliant former Saturday Night Live writer, shares over 250 accounts of bumbling bureaucrats from both sides of the political aisle, proving that lies, tricks, and untruthiness often lurk in the most unexpected places. From ridiculous 911 phone calls to topless political e-mails, Gregory masterfully unveils the worst of human nature, leaving readers in stitches as they navigate through the political circus.

This 306-page book is a must-read for those who crave a good laugh and a behind-the-scenes look at the absurdities that plague the world of politics.

  • Authors: Leland Gregory
  • Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing
  • Published Date: August 01, 2007
  • Page Count: 306
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Humor
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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5. The Portable Frank

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Dive into an extraordinary world of comic art with Jim Woodring's The Portable Frank, a must-read for fans and newcomers alike. This captivating all-ages collection brings together the unforgettable adventures of Frank, a character you'll wish had been with you all along. Prepare for a wild journey as you uncover the genius behind Jim Woodring's Frank stories - a truly visionary work that will leave you breathless.

With 202 pages of pure comics goodness, The Portable Frank is a treasure trove for comic lovers of any age. Don't miss out on this unforgettable graphic novel experience, published by Fantagraphics Books in 2008.

  • Authors: Jim Woodring
  • Publisher: Fantagraphics Books
  • Published Date: September 17, 2008
  • Page Count: 202
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Comics & Graphic Novels
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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6. Willie & Joe

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Back Home

Willie & Joe: Back Home invites readers to delve into the post-WWII era through the eyes of renowned cartoonist Bill Mauldin. This volume captures the struggles, disillusionments, and transformative experiences of these early years, as Mauldin returns home to a life altered by war.

Featuring an impressive array of restored cartoons censored by Mauldin's syndicate for their frank depiction of racial segregation and McCarthy-era "witch hunts, " this poignant chronicle offers a powerful testament to the resilience of both the individual and society during times of tumultuous change.

With its evocative illustrations that capture the essence of the era—ubiquitous hats and cigarettes, the domesticity of rubs, burgeoning fears of another war, and tensions over civil rights, civil liberties, and free speech—this second installment in Fantagraphics' series offers an unparalleled glimpse into the heart and mind of a man attempting to navigate the complexities of his once simple life.

Willie & Joe: Back Home is a triumphant exploration of Mauldin's journey, and a testament to the enduring power of art to capture and reflect the spirit of its time. With its 289 pages of riveting content, this book is not to be missed by enthusiasts of comics and graphic novels or anyone interested in understanding the profound impact of war on the human experience.

  • Authors: Bill Mauldin
  • Publisher: Fantagraphics Books
  • Published Date: August 03, 2011
  • Page Count: 289
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Comics & Graphic Novels
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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7. The Itty-Bitty Knitty Committee

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The Itty-Bitty Knitty Committee is a delightfully witty collection of comic strips by the talented Scott Hilburn, bringing his unique brand of humor to the pages of your favorite newspaper or magazine. With more than one million greeting cards sold, it's clear that Hilburn has found a dedicated audience, who regularly enjoy his take on popular culture, human nature, and sporks. Featuring a diverse cast of characters, from argyle-wearing cavemen to pompadour-having humans, this visually stunning book showcases Hilburn's bold pen stroke and incredible artistic talent.

Whether you're a fan of cartoons, humor, or simply looking for a lighthearted read, The Itty-Bitty Knitty Committee has something for everyone. Packed with 252 pages, this captivating collection is sure to delight and entertain readers of all ages. Grab your copy today and join the millions who have already embraced the humor and charm of Scott Hilburn's work.

  • Authors: Scott Hilburn
  • Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing
  • Published Date: March 27, 2012
  • Page Count: 252
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Humor
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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8. It Shouldn't Happen (to a Dog)

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In "It Shouldn't Happen (to a Dog)", the captivating imagination of author Don Freeman takes readers on a humorous journey through the WWII era. The story revolves around a GI who finds himself in a peculiar situation, transformed into a dog.

The whimsical tale is brought to life in beautiful illustrations, offering a clever perspective on life among soldiers at the front line and the people back home. As the Chicago Tribune enthusiastically put it, "This book is wonderful fun! " Don't miss out on this delightful read, as it takes a playful look at a serious time in history. With a page count of 224, "It Shouldn't Happen (to a Dog)" is sure to be an engaging and memorable experience.

  • Authors: Don Freeman
  • Publisher: Courier Corporation
  • Published Date: September 15, 2014
  • Page Count: 224
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: History
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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9. No Laughing Matter

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Visual Humor in Ideas of Race, Nationality, and Ethnicity

No Laughing Matter is a compelling exploration of visual humor in light of race, nationality, and ethnicity. Edited by Angela Rosenthal and David Bindman, this collection delves into the role that racial and ethnic stereotypes play in humor, examining the fine line between broad characterization and exploitation. The authors investigate the ways humor is employed to demean, define, or elevate racial, national, or ethnic identities, and delve into the differences humor exhibits across various media, including cartoons, photographs, film, video, television, and performance.

This timely and essential study will captivate scholars across various disciplines and provide a comprehensive perspective on humor's impact on diverse cultural identities. With 362 pages and a publication date of November 22, 2015, No Laughing Matter is a must-read for those interested in understanding the complexities of humor and its implications on race and ethnicity.

  • Authors: Angela Rosenthal, David Bindman
  • Publisher: Dartmouth College Press
  • Published Date: November 22, 2015
  • Page Count: 362
  • Print Type: BOOK
  • Categories: Art
  • Maturity Rating: NOT\_MATURE
  • Language: en

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