The Complete Crumb Comics Vol.13

Vol. 13 showcases the late 1970s, when Crumb's character the Snoid first appeared. That Crumb creation is a devilish imp, all id and no conscience, that some say is an alter ego of Crumb. Other highlights here include early collaborations with the late Harvey Pekar and a color section of covers Crumb drew for records by old-time blues and jazz musicians that beautifully convey his nostalgia for America's musical past. It also includes one of Crumb's most acclaimed works, "A Short History of America," whose 12 panels chart the nation's progress -- or deterioration -- from unspoiled pastoral landscape to a strip mall wasteland. Crumb's brother Maxon, whom viewers of the documentary filmCrumb will remember as an impecunious yogi who sleeps on a bed of nails, contributes an idiosyncratic introduction offering a unique perspective on Robert's early years.