Title: Body, Soul, Comics (PB)
Publisher: University Press of Mississippi
Writer: A. David Lewis
Cover: Images courtesy iStock
Design by: A. David Lewis and Jennifer Mixon
Price: Hardcover $ 99.00 US, Paperback $ 30.00 US
Rating: 1 out of 5 stars
Website: www.upress.state.ms.us/
Comments: This book uses a lot of references that can make it difficult to understand if you are not familiar with what the author is discussing. It also uses many complex words. If you are well-read on the subject, that may not be a problem, but other readers may be left wondering about certain terms and references.
Numerous book titles are mentioned throughout the text, including works by this author and many others. If you have not read those books, the references do little to help you better understand this one.
Religion is discussed, particularly Islam and Judaism. Since many comics have roots in religious themes, the book touches on the idea of superheroes dying and returning to life. As a result, a comparison between Superman and Jesus is briefly made, although the topic is not explored in depth.
The author seems to assume that the reader’s knowledge is as extensive as his own. To fully follow the discussion, readers will need to be well-informed about the subject matter.
The book notes that when a superhero experiences a medical condition, comics are often careful to mention if that character is Muslim. Muslim characters are discussed in comics, though not as frequently as some readers and creators would like. The author argues, and many would likely agree, that this representation should continue to increase, and it has done so gradually over time. Some aspects of the Muslim faith are also touched upon.
The concept of graphic medicine is discussed but never fully explained. From the examples provided, it seems to refer to the inclusion of medical issues and themes in comics. Cancer is specifically mentioned as an important subject that has affected many comic book characters.
Religion and medicine are both important aspects of comics, but rather than simply mentioning them, the book would have benefited from providing more examples and clearer explanations.
Overall, the book is well written, but it ultimately says very little
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