Illuminating and informative, this biography of comics writer Otto Binder will appeal to fans of comic books, science fiction, and UFOs. Bill Schelly tells an inspiring story of professional and personal growth, sprinkled with exciting illustrations of beloved DC Comics characters.

In this fascinating biography, comic book historian Bill Schelly chronicles the life of Otto Binder, from pulp magazine author to writer of Supergirl, Captain Marvel, and Superman. As the originator of the first sentient robot in literature ( I, Robot, published in Amazing Stories in 1939 and predating Isaac Asimov’s collection of the same name), Binder’s effect on science fiction was profound. Within the world of comic books, he created or co-created much of the Superman universe, including Smallville; Krypto, Superboy’s dog; Supergirl; and the villain Braniac. In later years, Binder expanded from comic books into pure science writing, publishing dozens of books and articles on the subject of satellites and space travel as well as UFOs and extraterrestrial life. Through comic panels, personal letters, and interviews with Binder’s own family and friends, Schelly weaves together Binder’s professional successes and personal tragedies, including the death of Binder’s only daughter and his wife’s struggle with mental illness. Otto Binder- The Life and Work of a Comic Book and Science Fiction Visionary is a biography that is both meticulously researched and beautifully told, keeping Binder’s spirit of scientific curiosity and whimsy very much alive.