Marvel Comics Library. Fantastic Four. 1961–1963

In the early 1960s, Marvel faced a downturn in sales, prompting seasoned comic creators Stan Lee and Jack Kirby to devise the concept of a super-team. Kirby believed superheroes were poised for a resurgence after being overshadowed for 15 years by genres like romance, horror, and war comics, considering it a sound business move. Meanwhile, Lee yearned to craft stories he personally found enjoyable. This led to the creation of The Fantastic Four, a groundbreaking series that transformed their careers and the comic book industry. Notable moments included Reed Richards, Sue Storm, Ben Grimm, and Johnny Storm crash-landing their rocket after exposure to cosmic rays, resulting in their transformation into Mr. Fantastic, the Invisible Girl, the Thing, and the Human Torch in the inaugural issue. These characters were complex, often questioning whether their powers were advantageous or burdensome. Unlike other comics of the time, the stories were set in real-world New York City, with heroes frequently appearing in one another's stories. The series featured dynamic artwork and engaging dialogue. Lee and Kirby were akin to the Lennon and McCartney of comics, their collaboration producing results greater than the sum of their individual contributions. This collection presents the first 20 issues, faithfully reproduced from the most pristine original comics, in collaboration with Marvel and the Certified Guaranty Company. Additionally, it includes a detailed essay by esteemed Marvel writer Mark Waid, as well as original art, photographs, and other unique items. Welcome, true believers, to the Marvel Age of Comics.