If
you’re a fan of TV Spy shows you’ve heard of The Man From U.N.C.L.E., I Spy, The
Avengers, Secret Agent Man and several other cult classics.
But,
it may surprise you to know (it sure did me) that there were/are literally
dozens of shows of the same genre dating all the way back to 1951 up until now.
I’m
a sucker for a good spy/thriller TV series.
Exotic locations, beautiful women, nefarious and deadly bad guys, clever
weapons and gadgets, fast cars and all the other trappings of the Spy genre are
guaranteed to keep you entertained.
Author
Wesley Britton and BearManor Media
presents the ultimate reference book for each and every Spy TV series ever created
in their wonderful, fun and fact-filled book: The Encyclopedia Of TV Spies.
Shows
are listed in alphabetical order and descriptions include a complete synopsis
of each show, tidbits about cast and crew and some interesting and little known
insider facts that will keep readers glued to each page.
Black
and white photographs are liberally sprinkled throughout the book. This is the book TV Spy show fans have been
waiting for and it is well worth the wait.
I
found it fascinating, eye-opening and a great read.
You’ve
heard of MAD Magazine-the satirical publication that pokes fun and everything and
everyone. It’s still in print today and
(for now) dominates the satire magazine niche.
However
not that long ago MAD magazine had a serious contender that was every bit as
funny, topical and hilarious. Cracked
magazine features some great art, clever stories and a colorful publication
history.
Mark
Arnold’s If You’re Cracked You’re Happy
A History Of The World’s 2nd Greatest Humor Magazine! Volume 1: The
Early Years delves into the genesis of the humor magazine starting with its
conception.
Cracked
was a direct competitor of MAD Magazine and was only one of several dozen
titles put out by its ‘adult-themed’ publisher.
From
its humble beginnings the magazine soon garnered top-notch writers and artists
and a solid fan base.
As
the years progressed Cracked evolved into a top-tier humor magazine and continued
to be published for many years.
In
the book the early genesis of Cracked is examined. Writers, artists, production people, the editorial
staff all contribute memories of the magazine and a full publication history is
also provided including dates, articles and more.
The
book is everything it’s ‘cracked’ up to be and makes a fine addition to any
comic book or humor magazine fan’s library.