In the dark days before the Internet, genre fans often shared ideas and concepts through fanzines. Beginning with the first issue the Hugo-winning Xero (1960-1963), comics played a central role with the regular column "All in Color for a Dime," featuring an extraordinary cast of rotating writers. Lupoff (who co-edited Xero) and Thompson selected eleven pieces for inclusion in All in Color for a Dime. Highlights from the entertaining book include Ted White on M.C. Gaines, Lupoff covering Captain Marvel, Roy Thomas recounting the Fawcett stable of heroes, Ron Goulart revealing lesser-known, second tier heroes, and Harlan Ellison showcasing George Carlson.

Thanks at least partially to these writings, the popular conception of comic books within the science fiction community began to change from contempt to at least a grudging acknowledgment. Open enjoyment and acceptance of the medium would have to wait another 30 years until the arrival of Alan Moore, Frank Miller, Neil Gaiman, et al.

This is one of the best and funniest histories and critiques of the golden age of comic books. It looks at the heroes, the would-be heroes, and the saps, created by the hot house of writers and artists during the 30's, 40's and 50's. Hilarious, and insightful. Read it. ( )