Title: The Complete Calvin and Hobbes
Author: Bill Watterson
First published September 6, 2005
1456 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780740748479 (ISBN10: 0740748475)
Rating: 4.8
Overview
The Complete Calvin and Hobbes is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of readers around the world. This beloved comic strip, first published in 1985, follows the adventures of a young boy and his loyal tiger, who is real only to him.
Now, you can experience the entire collection in all its glory with this stunning box set. Including three hardcover, four-color volumes in a sturdy slipcase, this New York Times best-selling edition features every Calvin and Hobbes cartoon ever published in syndication.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, The Complete Calvin and Hobbes is an essential addition to any collection.
About the Author
Meet Bill Watterson, the talented American cartoonist behind the beloved comic strip “Calvin and Hobbes.” From 1985 to 1995, Watterson’s career soared as a syndicated cartoonist, bringing joy to millions of readers. However, in 1995, Watterson decided to stop drawing “Calvin and Hobbes” and shared a brief statement with his fans and newspaper editors.
He felt that he had accomplished all he could in the comic strip medium.
Prior to his success with “Calvin and Hobbes,” Watterson contributed drawings and other works to “Target: The Political Cartoon Quarterly.” While Watterson’s talent is recognized by many, his views on licensing and comic syndication, as well as his reclusive nature, have also garnered attention.
Editoral Review
The Complete Calvin and Hobbes by Bill Watterson is a masterful collection of the iconic comic strip series that ran from 1985 to 1995. Watterson, who also wrote and illustrated the series, was known for his distinctive artistic style, wit, and ability to weave profound philosophical themes into his stories.
The Complete Calvin and Hobbes is a massive tome that includes all 3,160 strips over 1,440 pages. The collection is divided into three hardcover volumes and features an introduction by Watterson, as well as commentary and insights into the creation process of the series.
The story revolves around a six-year-old boy named Calvin and his stuffed tiger, Hobbes. The two embark on countless adventures, from exploring outer space to battling monsters under the bed.
The series takes place in a suburban neighborhood and focuses on the dynamic between Calvin’s wild imagination and his family’s attempts to keep him grounded. While the comic strip genre may be considered lighthearted and comedic, The Complete Calvin and Hobbes has a profound depth that transcends the limitations of its medium.
Watterson tackles complex issues such as the nature of reality, existentialism, and the meaning of friendship in a way that is accessible to readers of all ages. The level of creativity portrayed in this collection is unmatched, with Watterson masterfully crafting a world that is both whimsical and relatable.
He frequently breaks the fourth wall, addressing the audience directly and even featuring himself as a character within the story. This innovative approach adds an extra layer of meta-awareness to the already complex universe of Calvin and Hobbes.
Critically speaking, The Complete Calvin and Hobbes is an outstanding piece of literature. Watterson’s writing is impeccable, with every strip showcasing a unique voice and perspective that captures the essence of the characters.
The artwork is also noteworthy, with detailed illustrations that bring the story to life in a way that is both vivid and profound. However, The Complete Calvin and Hobbes is not without its limitations.
Some may argue that the collection’s sheer size can be overwhelming, and the lack of a coherent and continuous narrative may make it difficult to read in one sitting. Additionally, some may find the humor somewhat juvenile, with jokes revolving around puns and slapstick gags.
Despite these minor criticisms, The Complete Calvin and Hobbes is a must-read for anyone who appreciates excellent storytelling and masterful artwork. From casual readers to longtime fans, this collection has something for everyone.
The philosophical themes and relatable characters will resonate with readers of all ages, providing a poignant commentary on the human experience. Overall, The Complete Calvin and Hobbes deserves a perfect score of 10/10 for its outstanding writing, expertly crafted artwork, and profound philosophical themes.
This collection is an essential addition to any reader’s library and a testament to the unparalleled talent of Bill Watterson.
