That is not to say this book doesn't get right down to what you'll need to do the job. It includes a detailed shopping list of supplies you'll need for this task - everything from pens and pencils to whiteout. It gives you practical advice (see above), a chapter on creating mood, and illustrations which teach and inspire.

If you're a writer, it may also surprise you. Writers of fiction will find the chapter on creating characters interesting and useful. I visualize using the ideas and techniques described to flesh out my characters even though I am not a bona fide artist. I see that process as more intensive, more intrinsically soul-connecting than searching magazines for the look and feel and essence of a character. The two approaches could, of course, be combined. Writers and book designers might also find the chapter on page layout instructive.

This is not a book for authors, of course. But publishing is publishing. There is a relationship between comics and books of other kinds. Consider chapters titled "Creating Drama," "Staging Action", "Visualizing the Script," and "Designing the Covers." Is there one there that doesn't apply to most writers as well as most artists?

I didn't choose this book to help me with my writing. It chose me, and decided to give me further instruction on the subject. So, artists will love it, of course. But the writing angle? A nice - very nice - surprise.