SHOCKING MYSTERY CASES

One of the covers used in THE TRUTH ABOUT COMICS shown in the last post is SHOCKING MYSTERY CASES #58 (Star, April 1954). Overall, it's a typical crime comic of the day, promising "True Cases From Crime Files". However, the lead story diverges from the usual crime elements into the "horror-suspense" realm.

"No Harm Done . . . !" is a bizarre story by an unknown scriptwriter and artist that takes a cue from the crime/horror that EC was producing at the time and provides a twist ending -- but the explanation of what happens comes from way out in left field.

Cover art by L.B. Cole.

THE TRUTH ABOUT COMICS

 

This anti-comics screed was published in late 1953/early 1954 by Back to Bible Publishers, Lincoln, Nebraska. Written by Ruth I. Johnson, it's disapproving sentiment regarding comic books is typical of the times, when similar newspaper and magazine articles sprung up like mushrooms across the country.

Ms. Johnson uses quotes from Dr. Fredric Wertham's article, "What Parents Don't Know About Comics" from the November 1953 LADIES' HOME JOURNAL, all infused with religious intonations warning about the dangers of the foul tomes.

Back to the Bible is a still-active international Christian ministry founded in Lincoln, Nebraska in 1939 by Protestant evangelist Theodore H. Epp (January 27, 1907 – October 13, 1985). His "Back to the Bible" syndicated radio show was heard on over 800 radio stations from 1939-1985. It is not known if his radio program discussed comic books or not, but his publishing company was ready to print any number of this 8-page pamphlet to anyone who requested it.