Mark Evanier, a television and comic book writer, has worked in the industry for decades. Along with his impressive list of credits in television and animation, he is also known for his columns and blog “News from ME,” as well as his work as a historian and biographer of the comics industry. One of his most notable works is his award-winning biography, “Kirby: King of Comics.”
Coming October 7th, Mark will be exploring another iconic figure, cartoonist Charles M. Schulz, in Abram ComicArts’ “The Essential Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz.” A collection of some of the most pivotal Peanuts strips, along with commentary from Evanier, Schulz himself, and many others. Just in time for the 75th Anniversary of the Peanuts comic strip.
Now, thanks to the good folks at Abram ComicArts and Mark Evanier, we are proud to present this exclusive excerpt from this exciting book, honoring the great Charles Schulz.
Abrams ComicArts, ‘The Essential Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz’ by Mark Evanier
A deluxe coffee table book celebrating the 75th anniversary of the beloved comic strip by Charles M. Schulz, The Essential Peanuts (Abrams ComicArts; October 7, 2025; $75; hardcover in a slipcase with a portfolio of bonus extras) by award-winning writer Mark Evanier presents the most iconic and essential Peanuts comic strips with fresh historical and cultural context. Featuring an introduction by Patrick McDonnell, a foreword by Jean Schulz, and contributions from sixteen notable commentators, the volume boasts a design by Chip Kidd plus a portfolio of collectible Peanuts ephemera—including postcards, prints, an embroidered patch, stickers, and a facsimile of a classic Peanuts comic book.
The Essential Peanuts builds upon Abrams ComicArts’s celebrated Peanuts publishing program, which includes the Eisner Award-winning Only What’s Necessary: Charles M. Schulz and the Art of Peanuts (Abrams ComicArts; April 2025; $29.99) by Chip Kidd and Geoff Spear.
“Having loved Peanuts since I was about Charlie Brown’s age (and no more successful at kite-flying), I was thrilled when Abrams ComicArts asked me to spend weeks reading and writing about the comic strip that was so much more than just a comic strip,” says Mark Evanier. “The only drawback was that I tried writing the book sitting on the roof of a doghouse, but I kept falling off.”
“As we mark 75 years of Peanuts, this partnership with Abrams ComicArts is a testament to the lasting impact of Schulz’s beloved characters,” says Craig Herman, VP of Global Brand Experiences, & Publishing at Peanuts Worldwide. “Since being introduced to the world on October 2, 1950, Peanuts has been at the forefront of pop culture, and we can’t wait for fans to discover this extraordinary anniversary edition.”
Timed for its 75th anniversary, The Essential Peanuts underscores how and why the comic strip transcends cultural, generational, and linguistic barriers to remain relevant and beloved. By exploring the creative ambition of Charles M. Schulz, his wry commentary on childhood struggles and triumphs, and his enduring influence on art, literature, and everyday life, Evanier not only celebrates an incomparable legacy but also reveals the universal appeal at the heart of Peanuts.
Abrams ComicArts, ‘The Essential Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz’ by Mark Evanier is available now where all great books are sold. Look for our interview with Mark about his career and this project later this week on GeekVibesNation.
Senior Writer at GeekVibesNation – I am a 60 something child of the 70’s who admits to being a Star Trek/Star Wars/Comic Book junkie who once dove headfirst over a cliff (Ok, it was a small hill) to try to rescue his Fantastic Four comic from a watery grave. I am married to a lovely woman who is as crazy as I am and the proud parent of a 21-year-old young man with autism. My wife and son are my real heroes.
