Invisible Men: The Trailblazing Black Artists of Comic Books

Hear the riveting stories of Black artists who drew--mostly covertly behind the scenes--superhero, horror, and romance comics in the early years of the industry.

The life stories of each man's personal struggles and triumphs are represented as they broke through into a world formerly occupied only by whites. Using primary source material from World War II-era Black newspapers and magazines, this compelling book profiles pioneers like E.C. Stoner, a descendant of one of George Washington's slaves, who became a renowned fine artist of the Harlem Renaissance and the first Black artist to draw comic books. Perhaps more fascinating is Owen Middleton who was sentenced to life in Sing Sing. Middleton's imprisonment became a cause c l bre championed by Will Durant, which led to Middleton's release and subsequent comics career. Then there is Matt Baker, the most revered of the Black artists, whose exquisite art spotlights stunning women and men, and who drew the first groundbreaking Black comic book hero, Vooda

The book is gorgeously illustrated with rare examples of each artist's work, including full stories from mainstream comic books from rare titles like All-Negro Comics and Negro Heroes, plus unpublished artist's photos. Invisible Men features Ken Quattro's impeccable research and lean writing detailing the social and cultural environments that formed these extraordinary, yet invisible, men

Author: Ken Quattro
Publisher: Yoe Books
Published: 12/15/2020
Pages: 240
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 2.55lbs
Size: 11.00h x 8.60w x 1.00d
ISBN: 9781684055869


Review Citation(s):
Publishers Weekly 11/30/2020
Library Journal 12/03/2021 pg. 1

About the Author
Ken Quattro and his involvement in comic book history led to his being named an historical consultant on the 2017 Hollywood film, Professor Marston and the Wonder Women. Quattro is the author of hundreds of book, magazine, and online articles. He has also provided source material for television programs and many other comics histories. He attended both Eastern Michigan University and the University of Michigan, studying Fine Art and journalism.