10. Paradox Press’ Big Books Series
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6. Big Book of Little Criminals
This book regales the tales of the worlds dumbest thieves. From the guys that swore they had Hitlers diaries to small-time hoods, hustlers, forgers, fakers and funny money makers. There was even a section on lady criminals. Artists included Steve Leialoha, Ty Templeton, Linda Medley and a particularly nice piece by Frank Quietly about Ma Barker.
7. Big Book of Hoaxes
History’s greatest scams and pranks are all here for your perusal. One of the more interesting ones was the story of Billy Tipton, a jazz musician in the 30’s and 40’s who was really a woman. Also fascinating was the origins of the Boxer Rebellion. (It needs to be read to be believed.) Some awesome artists in this book, like Roger Langridge, Howard Cruise, Jason Lutes and Paul Pope.
8. Big Book of Thugs
A collection of stories about every gang that ever existed. Street gangs, pirate gangs, vigilante gangs, political gangs, gangs of the wild west and the original gang, the Thugees. Really intriguing when you compare it to a movie like ‘Gangs of New York’ (And yes, I realized my blunder. It was Scorsese that directed the movie.) A few of the great contributors to this book are Kim Deitch, Kieron Dwyer, Tom Sutton and Joe Sacco.
9. Big Book of Losers
It’s the only one I don’t have. I’m sure the art is great but I’m not really interested in a book about all the truly depressing figures in history.
10. Big Book of the Unexplained
This book covers impossible entities, lost continents, bizarre phenomenon, the mummies curse, Lochness, and alien abduction. Surprise artists include Sergio Aragones, JH Williams, Ted Naifeh and Rick Geary.
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