The Essential Peanuts: The Greatest Comic Strip of All Time By Mark Evanier

As a longtime admirer of News from ME, the insightful and endlessly entertaining blog by Mark Evanier, I’ve always appreciated his deep knowledge and passion for the world of comics. Evanier’s contributions as a historian and biographer of the industry are unparalleled—particularly his acclaimed and award-winning biography of Jack Kirby, which stands as a definitive tribute to one of comics’ greatest legends.

Now, Evanier turns his attention to another towering figure in pop culture: Charles M. Schulz. In celebration of the 75th anniversary of Peanuts, he has authored a deluxe commemorative edition that honors the life, legacy, and enduring brilliance of Schulz and his beloved characters. This special volume is a treat for fans, collectors, and anyone who has ever been touched by the charm and quiet wisdom of Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the rest of the Peanuts gang.

Debuting on October 2, 1950, Peanuts has transcended generations and media to become one of the most iconic comic strips in history. Its legacy is woven into the cultural fabric of the world—from the groundbreaking introduction of Franklin, the first Black character in a major syndicated newspaper strip, to the lunar heights of NASA naming Apollo 10’s command and lunar modules after Charlie Brown and Snoopy. The strip’s impact is also felt in beloved holiday TV specials that have become annual traditions, in modern animated films and mobile shorts, and even in the rise of contemporary internet trends like the “Snoopy Girl” aesthetic embraced by Gen Z.

Mark Evanier’s new book is the only official volume created to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Peanuts, offering a rich retrospective that delves into Schulz’s most iconic strips and frames them within their broader cultural and historical significance. This unique tribute is the result of a collaboration between Peanuts Worldwide, the Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center in Santa Rosa, California, and Abrams ComicArts. Together, they’ve created a collector’s dream that’s as heartfelt as it is comprehensive.

Mark Evanier is no stranger to the world of newspaper comic strips — far from it. With a deep-rooted passion for the medium and a celebrated career that includes writing for the beloved animated series Garfield and Friends, Evanier has long demonstrated a unique ability to blend humor, heart, and historical insight. Now, he’s turning his keen eye and encyclopedic knowledge to one of the most iconic comic strips of all time: Peanuts. And let me tell you — we are in for an absolute treat.

In this eagerly anticipated 75th anniversary deluxe edition, Evanier dives headfirst into the legacy of Charles M. Schulz with a fresh, insightful take on the most memorable and culturally significant Peanuts comic strips. But this isn’t just a greatest-hits collection — it’s a thoughtful journey through the decades, putting each strip into rich historical and cultural context, revealing why Peanuts continues to resonate with readers across generations.

The book is a true celebration of all things Peanuts, featuring a warm and personal introduction by Mutts creator Patrick McDonnell and a heartfelt foreword by Jean Schulz, Charles Schulz’s widow. Adding even more depth, sixteen distinguished voices from the worlds of comics, literature, and pop culture contribute their reflections and insights throughout the volume.

And if that weren’t enough to make fans swoon, the visual presentation is a stunner. Designed by the legendary Chip Kidd — known for his iconic work in publishing and design — the book is a work of art in its own right. To top it all off, this deluxe edition comes packed with a treasure trove of collectible Peanuts ephemera, including:

• Beautifully illustrated postcards
• Frame-worthy art prints
• An embroidered iron-on patch
• A curated selection of vinyl stickers
• A facsimile edition of a classic Peanuts comic book
• And more surprises to discover!

Whether you’ve grown up with Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and the Gang or you’re just beginning to explore the timeless charm of Peanuts, this book is a heartwarming, nostalgic, and illuminating celebration of one of the most cherished comic strips in history — all seen through the thoughtful perspective of one of the comics world’s most passionate storytellers. Set to be released on October 7, 2025, this deluxe volume is one to watch.