BOOK BRIEF

Calvin and Hobbes (Calvin and Hobbes, #1)

Bill Watterson
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Calvin and Hobbes (Calvin and Hobbes, #1)

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1987

Book Brief

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Bill Watterson

Calvin and Hobbes (Calvin and Hobbes, #1)

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1987
Book Details
Pages

128

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Contemporary

Publication Year

1987

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

GN480L

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Super Short Summary

Calvin and Hobbes by Bill Watterson is a comic strip series that follows a young boy named Calvin and his imaginative adventures with his stuffed tiger, Hobbes. Through their playful and philosophical interactions, the series explores themes of childhood, imagination, and friendship.

Reviews & Readership

4.7

151,578 ratings

91%

Loved it

6%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Bill Watterson's Calvin and Hobbes is widely praised for its blend of humor, creativity, and philosophical depth. Fans laud the dynamic between the mischievous Calvin and his wise tiger, Hobbes, along with the insightful social commentary. Some critics note occasional repetitive themes, but the strip's enduring charm and artistry largely mitigate this minor flaw (Watterson).

Who should read this

Who Should Read Calvin and Hobbes (Calvin and Hobbes, #1)?

A reader who enjoys Calvin and Hobbes by Bill Watterson is likely to appreciate witty humor, imaginative storytelling, and philosophical reflections. Fans of Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz or The Far Side by Gary Larson will find similar enjoyment in the charming and thought-provoking antics of Calvin and his tiger companion, Hobbes.

4.7

151,578 ratings

91%

Loved it

6%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

Calvin and Hobbes debuted on November 18, 1985, and was syndicated in about 2,400 newspapers during its ten-year run.

Bill Watterson, the creator of Calvin and Hobbes, was known for being reclusive and famously refused to merchandise the characters, believing it would devalue their artistic integrity.

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The inspiration for Calvin's character was a combination of the philosophers John Calvin (for whom Calvin is named) and Thomas Hobbes, reflecting the clash of childlike imagination and philosophical logic.

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Book Details
Pages

128

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Contemporary

Publication Year

1987

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

GN480L

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