Unless I'm mistaken, besides EC Comics this is the only other horror comics annual that was published during the Pre-Code era. Most likely taking a cue from EC and trying the concept out was Farrell, who packaged reprints from their own HAUNTED THRILLS, STRANGE FANTASY, and VOODOO to make up the 100-page VOODOO ANNUAL that hit the stands sometime in 1952 with a cover price of 25 cents. Remember, back then that was the equivalent of 2 1/2 new comics!
The Iger Shop provided various story art. Most notable is "The Shelf of Skulls", a jungle story illustrated by Matt Baker. Currently, this comic has been sold as rare and commands high prices.
The thing that jumps out at me seeing these pages displayed like this is the distinct ways different stories are designed. The first one uses interesting circular shapes and the more angular elements to vary the page. That story "Skeletons have Secrets" is loaded down with dialogue.
ReplyDeleteLikely due to the varied staff at the Iger Shop who all had their individual styles with both writing and artwork. The circular panels eventually stopped being used in favor of the more angular style we usually see today. I think the rounded panels are pretty pleasing to the eye myself.
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