In what just might be one of the publishing surprises and hi-spots of 2010, The Library of America will release a 2 volume boxed set featuring the six woodcut novels of Lynd Ward.
God’s Man, Ward’s first book published on the eve of the stock market collapse of 1929, was the first wordless book-length novel to be published in the United States. By the end of 1937 Ward would publish five more novels in woodcuts:
Madman’s Drum (1930)
Wild Pilgrimage (1932)
Prelude to a Million Years (1933)
Song Without Words (1936)
Vertigo (1937)
If one is looking for the origins of the graphic novel in the United States one must begin with Ward. His work has influenced a generation of artists, poets and illustrators and continues to inspire those seeking justice and equality for all.
The Library of America edition is edited by Art Spiegelman who also contributes an essay “Reading Pictures.” The edition also includes nine essays by or about Ward. All the images reproduced are taken from prints pulled from the original woodblocks or first-generation electrotypes.
Though due out in October, you can pre-order the set at the Library of America website. They are currently offering 20% off and free shipping.
And don’t forget the Library of America offers you the tax-deductible opportunity to buy this important book and gift it to a library of your choice.
