Image Comics: The Road To Independence

Image Comics: The Road to Independence by George Khoury

I'm still not sure why I bought this book - got it used off Amazon which is definitely the way to go, 'cause $35 is a bit steep. Or you can ask me for it since I doubt I'll read it again. This book is basically a collection of interviews with Image people as they look back on 1992 when Image Comics blew up. That was the time I was heavily into comics so I remember all the hype and the first issues of Spawn, Shadowhawk, Youngblood, Brigade, The Maxx, Pitt, Hellshock, WildCATs, Cyberforce, etc., etc., etc.

Interviewees range from Image founders to colorists and editors. The only person who didn't give an interview is Rob Liefeld 'cause he's a dick. Okay, I don't know if that's why he didn't participate in this book but my trusty Magic 8-Ball tells me "All signs point to yes." His section is kind of an article composed from various sources. Overall, the book isn't that interesting. I was hoping to find out some good dirt and name calling but it's pretty straightforward - memories, struggles, industry reactions.

I think one of the most interesting parts is when Matt Hawkins (editor of Liefeld's line at the time, now he's at Top Cow) got a raise of $70k after being there for 9 months. That was a raise - who knows what his base salary already was. Wow, there was a lot of money to be thrown around in 1992. He also mentions that Liefeld dropped $20k to create a suit for the character of Kodiak (who?) which Hawkins had to wear at appearances. Again, wow.

So if you want to re-live a time of excess in comics, ask to borrow this book. Otherwise, save your money and buy something good, like Bone: One Volume Edition.