Posted By Dan Greenfield on Nov 22, 2023 | 1 comment

These things happen, folks…

The much-anticipated Mighty Marvel Calendar Book: A Visual History, by our pal Chris Ryall with an introduction by Roy Thomas, has been delayed to 2024 — possibly December.

Disappointing news, yeah. But, hey, at least we now have something to look forward to next year!

The book, to be published by Abrams ComicArts, was announced at San Diego Comic-Con this year, with a planned December 2023 release. The new date, according to the company’s website, is Dec. 17, 2024. But that could always change.

In case you were unaware, here’s the book’s official description:

MIGHTY MARVEL CALENDAR BOOK: A VISUAL HISTORY

The full set of Marvel calendars which ran from 1975–81, collected for the first time in a deluxe oversize edition

From 1975–81, Marvel created seven consecutive calendars that were as artistically designed and captivatingly written as any of their comic books. Each of these annual calendars—whether they celebrated the Bicentennial (1976) or spotlighted a specific character such as Spider-Man (1978), Hulk (1979), or Doctor Strange (1980), featured heroes and villains across the pantheon of the Marvel Universe—and all shared inspired features. These included visual call-outs for birthdays of noted Marvel staff and creators; key moments in Marvel history; special events, famous quotes from fan-favorite issues, and other celebratory mentions; with original art from iconic Marvel artists, created especially for these calendars by Jack Kirby, John Buscema, John Byrne, Frank Miller, Walter Simonson, Gil Kane, George Perez, Gene Colan, Jim Starlin, Sal Buscema, Mike Ploog, and dozens more.

Never before has all of this astounding art been reprinted, and the complete set of covers, interiors, and gorgeously designed monthly entries are reproduced at their original size in this beautiful, oversized hardcover package. Also included is new commentary, rare promotional materials, and an introduction by longtime Marvel writer/editor/historian Roy Thomas. The years might keep ticking away, but the work collected in this special book remains timeless!

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A few thoughts:

Back cover, subject to change

— The delay’s a drag, but that’s life in the publishing biz. Besides, Abrams ComicArts has a track record of delaying or cancelling projects only for them to come roaring back even better than expected. For example, several years ago, the publisher planned a Bronze Age Marvel black-light poster calendar, cancelled it, and instead put out two portfolios reprinting each of the original posters. I don’t anticipate such changes to this project but I’m confident the wait will be worth it.

— Speaking of the black-light posters, Abrams recently released its reprint of the early 1970s Marvel black-light notecard set. There’s also the Marvel Value Stamps 2024 Day-to-Day Calendar. So there’s still plenty of groovy retro Marvel stuff for your stocking this year.

— Wanna know more about the Mighty Marvel Calendar Book? Of course you do. Dig this column by Chris Ryall, which gives you a really good overview of what to expect when the book does hit.

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MORE

— MARVEL CLASSIC BLACK LIGHT POSTERS Portfolio: The Best Comics Publication of the Year. Click here.

— They’re Coming! MARVEL to Reprint Classic 1970s BLACK LIGHT NOTECARDS. Click here.