Scarce Graphic Novel, Banned in Utah Schools
Blankets
Publication: Marietta, GA: Top Shelf Productions, 2003. First Edition.
Notes: The often-overlooked first edition, published in a reported 500 copies for sale at comics conventions in July 2003, with a different cover design than the trade edition released to bookstores in late August. In August 2023, Blankets was among the first 13 titles banned from all Utah public schools under a new state law, HB 29.
The book, an "illustrated novel", is an autobiographical account of a Christian boy who grows up, falls in love, and loses his faith. It is included on virtually all lists of the best graphic novels. "Blankets received eight prizes within the comics industry, including multiple Harvey and Eisner awards in 2004, as well as ranking number one on Time's graphic novel list" (The Cambridge Companion to the Graphic Novel, p. 52). Blankets is a true graphic novel, written as a single book and not serialized in comic books. After twenty years, it continues to sell well in both comic book shops and traditional bookstores.
This correct first edition is rather uncommon. 582, [10] pages. Black and white. 6-3/4 by 9-3/4 inches.
Edition + Condition: First edition (states "First Printing. July 2003." on the copyright page). A fine copy in illustrated paper-covered boards with minor bumping to the spine. This copy is signed "Craig" (as the author/artist usually signs) and dated "22 Sep 11" below a profile sketch of the character Raina. (NB: Your cataloguer initially thought the sketch was printed because the ink is laid on so uniformly smoothly, but the page it is on is the half-title, which in un-sketched copies only has the printed word "Blankets.")
ISBN: 1891830430
Item No: #364365
Price: $600