Since I already own a good chunk of the original issues (thanks in large part to a certain Minnesotan), I really didn't
need this book. When I saw the first three volume at a
deeeep discount, however, I knew that I just could not pass up the opportunity to get these stories in such an attractive package. I love Tarzan, but it is nothing like Joe
Kubert's love for Tarzan.
Kubert's love for
ERB's most famous creation is obvious from the artwork, as he creates a lush world that is both beautiful and menacing. His love is made even more clear by his introduction, as he retells how thrilled he was when Carmine
Infantino gave him the assignment. Now, I'm a really, really big fan of Russ
Manning's work on the Gold Key Tarzan, but this stuff looks amazing.
Kubert takes his time retelling the origin story, and it feels like a great serial (although I'm not in love with the framing sequences). There are a couple of weaker entries. I felt that issue #211 had an overly long fight and escape sequence and not enough characterization, especially the villainous. I knew something was different with the art. There is more depth to the inks, giv it a m
ore 'classic' feel. I
was not surprised when I found that some
Burne Hogarth artwork had been worked into the story. #214 was also so-so, as it is based on one of Burroughs' sillier short stories "The Nightmare". It is really not much more than a bad trip after T
arzan ate some rotten buffalo meat. Even the weak stuff is quite solid due to the artwork. It is a nice package and I'm pretty happy with the colors.
Trade Mark: A-