I realize this post is a bit belated, but I have been busy lately with new responsibilities at work along with a shift in working hours.  I am finally working during normal daytime hours now, but this has given me less time to write.  My sincerest apologies to my few faithful readers…

The late Harvey Pekar

On July 12, 2010, Harvey Pekar died.  Known predominantly for his work as an American underground comic writer, Pekar focused his writing on ordinary life and ordinary people, especially his own life.  Here’s a blurb from the Huffington Post article about his work:

“Pekar took a radically different track from the superhero-laden comics that had dominated the industry. He instead specialized in the lives of ordinary people, chronicling his life as a file clerk in Cleveland and his relationship with his third wife, Joyce Brabner. His 1994 graphic novel, “Our Cancer Year,” detailed his battle with lymphoma.”

His work American Splendor was also turned into an excellent film of the same name, which I would heartily recommend to anyone.  Finally, Pekar was also an occasional music critic, focusing primarily on Jazz criticism; and being a jazz fan myself, you know I can dig that.

So, if you aren’t familiar with the American Splendor graphic novels or the film, check ‘em out.  RIP, Harvey.

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