The History of the Beano: The Story So Far

The first issue of The Beano was published on July 30th 1938. This is the first-ever history of the best-known British comic of all time, reflecting on 70 memorable years.

The book tracks the evolution of The Beano, decade by decade, from the period leading up to its launch The Beano at war, the fabulous fifties right through to the present day: an extensive in-depth look at the development, rise and enduring success of the most influential British comic of all time.

The book includes a facsimile of the original 28-page issue, entitled The Beano Comic, featuring Eggo the Ostrich on the cover, and showing the full text and traditional narrative under picture style stories and the introduction of the speech balloons only format.

The History Of The Beano, published during the 70th anniversary of the creation of the comic, has an insider s view, with previously unpublished material. It charts all the characters who have appeared over the years, as well as the editors, artists and writers past and present who have contributed to this great comic institution.

Reg Carter s Big Eggo was on the very first cover, and remained there for 10 years to be replaced by Biffo the Bear. Lord Snooty, created by Dudley Watkins, and Pansy Potter played their part in the war effort along with Musso the Wop and Winken & Blinken, created by artist Sam Fair. Dennis the Menace arrived in March 1951, closely followed by Ken Reid s Roger the Dodger in 1953.

This is a history which will bring back many memories. The Beano has touched every boy and girl growing up in the UK and many overseas readers, who will remember Tom Thumb, Jonah, Little Plum, The Bash Street Kids (which started out as When The Bell Rings), Minnie the Minx, Jimmy and His Magic Patch, Strang the Terrible, General Jumbo, Billy Whizz, Billy the Cat, Ivy the Terrible, Calamity James, and many, many more. Terrible, Calamity James, and many, many more.