From Girls to Grrrlz: A History of Female Comics from Teens to Zines

Robbins gives us a great deal of information about the world of girl/grrlz comics in USA. She showed me that there was more than super heroes stories to read at American comics, and she was able to make clear the politics of Women exclusion in comic market in USA. Great book, I deeply recommend.

Subtitled "A History of [Female] Comics from Teens to Zines", this colorful and attractive book attempts to chronologically plot the development of "girl" comics from 1941 into the '90s. Stuffed with page and cover reproductions, this is a history in which girl's consumed more comics than boys until the 1960s, ranging from preteen fare like Archie to more advanced romance and morality tale comics. In the '60s superheroes began to dominate the market, and the mainstream female comic largely faded into the background. Thus, the late '60s gave rise to "underground" women's comics scene that blossomed in conjunction with the feminist movement. Which eventually begat the full on "grrrlz" comics of the '90s.This makes for fairly quick and simple reading under Robbins' pen, although one that could use a great deal more perspective and analysis. She is more interested in documenting the names or artists, and the plotlines of various comics than she is in a broader discussion of what it all means. She does touch on it from time to time, but these are more interjections (often a little whiny in tone) than a coherent theme. As with most Chronicle books, the production (design, layout, color, quality of reproductions) is outstanding. It's a breezy overview of the subject, but hardly a comprehensive history. I also found myself wishing for information on women's comics from other countries, for comparison.

This book is a great introduction the the world of "girls comics". I think some of the most fun in this book are the really backwards "girls comics" of the 50's that dealt morality on a black/white basis. It is fascinating to see the metamorphosis of the comics as they coincide with the women's movement, and the restrictions of femininity are broken. Trina Robbins is also one of the best people to write this book as she has been an illustrator for many years.One of the best selling points of this book is that it is in full color, on glossy paper. You are definitely getting your money's worth with this book. Enjoy.

I really like this book! I'm 16, and I've been reading comics since I was little. I got some teasing for liking a "boy" thing, but this book proves that comics aren't just for guys. It's interesting to see how comics for women have changed so much, too!

This book gives great insight into the world of feminist comics. A must-read for any comic book lover!