Review of "Amazing Fantastic Incredible: A Marvelous Memoir," by Stan Lee

Review of

Amazing Fantastic Incredible: A Marvelous Memoir, by Stan Lee ISBN 978-1501107726

Five out of five stars

It seems very appropriate that Stan Lee would create an autobiography in the form of a graphic novel. As “the man” at Marvel, he was largely responsible for the creation of so many of the comic characters that are now making billions for Marvel on the big screen. Like so many young people that grew into creative writers, Stan Lieber (later Lee)  was a voracious reader as a child. Growing up during the Great Depression, Lee had few toys and friends, so books and his imagination were his entertainment. The development of his imagination was also fueled by listening to radio dramas and providing his own background imagery.

Although he had writing and art help in making this book, everyone familiar with the Marvel Comics of the time when Lee was writing the dialog will recognize his style. Lee is also generous with his praise of others that were in the Marvel bullpen, specifically Jack Kirby.

 Young people are generally unaware of the role that Stan Lee had in creating and developing the super heroes that they enjoy watching in the movies. They may see his cameos and know he was important, but not how important he was. This book is an effective way to learn part of the history of someone that truly is “the man,” due to achievement and not for the simple rhyming quality.