Dave Stevens was an illustrator with an incredibly diverse list of credits. He began his career as an assistant to Russ Manning, inking on comic strips like Tarzan and Star Wars in the 1970s. He also drew storyboards on various projects, ranging from Hanna Barbara’s Superfriends cartoon to movies like Raiders of the Lost Ark. In the early 1980s, he became one of the first independent comic creators to succeed with his own character; he created an adventure comic set in the 1930s that was inspired by classic pulp adventures: The Rocketeer.

Dave Stevens’ The Rocketeer, Book 1 Artist’s Edition is the latest book in IDW’s effort to bring original artwork by a classic talent to a mass audience for a low price. This book includes work from 1982 to 1995. Included in it is the origin of the character, as well the adventures that followed. There are homages not only to the 1930s adventure series but also to female pin-up models of the day, like Betty Page. Tales like this aren’t really told in the modern era of comics. It’s a testament to Stevens’ creativity to see these stories in their purest form, mistakes and all.

This collected edition is unique, because these types of stories are out of the current fashion. It makes this book different from the other collections that IDW has produced. This is a must-have for anyone who studies and loves the craft of comics, from the professional to the independent.
 
Highly Recommended – 4 out of 4 stars

Creative Team: Dave Stevens
Publisher: IDW Comics
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