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More Self-Help Cartooning Resources

© Laura Kraus

As promised, here's the second half of the resources which may make you a better cartoonist.

How-To Books and Magazines

There are a number of excellent "How-To" books for those people trying to learn the art and business of cartooning. The following list provides a sampling of these books and magazines, only a few of which are described on-line.

CARTOONIST PROfiles Jud Hurd, Editor
P.O. Box 325
Fairfield, CT 06430

This quarterly magazine covers several subjects useful to professional and aspiring cartoonists: creators' profiles, how-to articles, and stories about cartoon syndicates. Subscriptions are $25/year.

The Complete Book of Caricature

Bob Staake / Hardcover / Published 1991
Extensive samples from top professionals including David Levine, Mort Drucker and Ralph Steadman combine with step-by-step lessons and exercises to make this the definitive book on caricatures. 300 illustrations.

The Complete Book of Humorous Art

Bob Staake / Hardcover / Published 1996
In this witty and frank guide, 20 of today's top humorous illustrators talk about their work. They delve into such topics as: traditional and unconventional techniques, mediums and tools (from airbrush to toothbrush); the right way to get started in the business; where the money is; inspirations and influences; the ups and downs of illustrating for magazines, advertising, books, animation and other markets; and style . . . "slamitude" vs. subtlety. Preliminary doodles, rough sketches and colorful final art illustrate the artists' graphic wits, which range from sophisticated to offbeat to downright bizarre.

Encouraging Rejection edited by Mark Heath.

Here's a good resource for struggling cartoonists who may feel alone in their difficulty. This six-times-a-year print magazine features an interview with an established cartoonist (such as Ted Goff, Rick Stromoski, John Jonik, Anne Gibbons . . . ) as well as a profile of an up-and-coming cartoonist (who might still be waiting for a first sale, or at the start of a syndicate contract). Both talk about the rejection they've faced and continue to face, and how they handle it. You'll also find a pair of essays on the perpetual topic, along with a cartoon called Discouraging Rejection. Ordering information and a sample interview are also available in Cartooning 101. E-mail.

How To be a Successful Cartoonist by Randy Glasbergen.

This is a very useful resource by the author of the daily panels Today's Cartoon and The Better Half (King Features Syndicate). The

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