how many calvin and hobbes books are there? what if we counted the comic strips instead?

Calvin and Hobbes is one of the most beloved and influential comic strips in American history, with its creator, Bill Watterson, crafting a world that has captured imaginations for decades. The series was published from 1985 to 1995, during which time it ran for nearly 14 years, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of readers. However, when discussing the “number” of Calvin and Hobbes books, one often encounters confusion and differing opinions.

Counting Books vs. Comic Strips

The primary source of this confusion lies in the fact that while Calvin and Hobbes appeared in newspapers across America, the official publication of these comic strips as books can be somewhat arbitrary. Watterson himself chose not to publish the entire run of the strip as a book but instead released it in a more selective manner, choosing which comic strips to include based on their quality and impact on the story. This selective approach has led to debates about whether the number of books accurately reflects the total body of work or merely the curated selection made by Watterson.

The Official Publication Timeline

Bill Watterson’s decision to release only a portion of the comic strips as books means that there are fewer volumes than there would be if every single strip were collected. According to official sources, Calvin and Hobbes has been published in the following books:

1. Calvin and Hobbes (1987)
2. Calvin and Hobbes: The Complete Book (1990)
3. Calvin and Hobbes: The Complete Book II (1991)
4. Calvin and Hobbes: The Complete Book III (1992)
5. Calvin and Hobbes: The Complete Book IV (1993)
6. Calvin and Hobbes: The Complete Book V (1994)
7. Calvin and Hobbes: The Complete Book VI (1995)

This official count totals six volumes, though some fans might argue for a seventh due to the inclusion of additional content or special issues. However, these additional pieces do not fit the criteria for being considered full, standalone books according to Watterson’s original vision.

Alternative Perspectives

Some enthusiasts and scholars have proposed alternative ways to measure the impact of Calvin and Hobbes beyond mere book counts. For instance, they might suggest counting each individual comic strip, leading to an astronomical figure far exceeding the six books mentioned above. Others might argue that the true value of the series lies in its storytelling rather than its physical format, making the distinction between books and strips irrelevant.

In conclusion, while the six official volumes provide a concrete number to refer to, the real richness and depth of Calvin and Hobbes cannot be measured simply by counting books. Instead, it requires appreciating the artistry, wit, and enduring appeal of the entire collection, whether it be in book form or as part of the larger, ever-evolving story.

Related Questions

1. How many pages are in all of the Calvin and Hobbes books combined?

   • The total number of pages varies depending on the edition and includes both standard and deluxe editions.

2. Are there any unofficial collections of Calvin and Hobbes comics?

   • Yes, there are unofficial collections that sometimes include strips not found in official publications, adding to the overall body of work.

3. What is the significance of the final strip in the Calvin and Hobbes series?

   • The final strip, published on December 31, 1995, was considered a masterpiece and remains one of the most poignant endings in comic history.