Charles M. Schulz: Li'l Beginnings

A very well-organized and systematic look at the precursor of what would be one of the most beloved and influential comic strips ever. Before "Peanuts" (a title Schulz hated and was forced upon him at the beginning), Schulz had a weekly 4-panel strip with the St. Paul Pioneer Press which lasted nearly three years. This was "Li'l Folks", and though the strip was often unremarkable and little-noticed, it flashed occasional glimpses of future genius, clearly showing the seeds of what would later be revamped as "Peanuts". There is also some history on Schulz and his beginnings. The best aspect of the book is how the editor, Derrick Bang, has linked each weekly page to "Peanuts", or annotated the strips in some helpful way. He even shows the show more later "Peanuts" strip when a "Li'l Folks" panel is the clear precursor. This is done on the facing page of each strip, and was often at the sacrifice of much empty space, but it is a very helpful technique that adds immeasurably to the enjoyment of the book. This is an often fascinating look at the beginnings of what would later be my first "must-see" comic strip. show less