The Art of Harvey Kurtzman

The Mad Genius of Comics

by Denis Kitchen & Paul Buhle

Abrams Comicarts, New York. 2009. Oversized hardcover in dust jacket. Green boards with black spine and white lettering and Kurtzman self-drawing on front.  242 pages. Introduction by Harry Shearer. This book argues (quite effectively) that Harvey Kurtzman personally changed the face of humor in the United States. Most people recognize him for two of his creations: MAD Magazine and Little Annie Fanny. But it was his underlying premise that NOTHING was sacred that led to the idea that laughing at ourselves was far better than laughing at someone or something else. I most highly recommend this book. It is well thought out, colorful, thought provoking and funny. It's a great tribute to an important figure in literary history.