The Essential Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz: The Greatest Comic Strip of All Time

by Mark Evanier, Jean Schulz (Foreword), Patrick McDonnell (Introduction)

From award-winning author Mark Evanier, a deluxe edition celebrating the 75th anniversary of Peanuts and the life, art, and legacy of Charles M. Schulz, featuring unique bonus materials

“Not many cartoons live into the next generation, and that probably is the best definition of art, isn’t it? Does it speak to succeeding generations? Real art, real music, real literature, speaks to succeeding generations.” –Charles M. Schulz

Seventy-five years after the first Peanuts strip made its debut on October 2, 1950, the beloved comic strip and its iconic characters remain a touchstone for generations around the world. From cultural milestones such as the introduction of Franklin (the first Black character in a major syndicated newspaper strip) to NASA’s Apollo 10 lunar and command modules being named after Charlie Brown and Snoopy, to the classic holiday specials that have aired on national television annually, and the modern-day animated movies and iPhone shorts as well as the Gen Z phenomenon of Snoopy Girls, Peanuts has a lasting influence that few works of art or literature can claim.

Written by Mark Evanier, this will be the only book commemorating the 75th anniversary of Peanuts, examining Schulz’s most iconic comic strips, placing each one in its broader historical and cultural context. Peanuts Worldwide and the Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center in Santa Rosa, California, has worked closely with Abrams ComicArts to produce and include our book in all of their plans to promote the 75th anniversary. This deluxe edition 8 ready-to-frame prints 5 vinyl stickers 8 postcards Iron-on patch Full-color comic book and more! 

Genres: Comics, History, Comic Strips

336 pages, Hardcover

First published October 7, 2025

About the author

Mark Stephen Evanier is an American comic book and television writer, particularly known for his humor work.

Reviews

[Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

It seems like there have been quite a few Peanuts anniversary books over the years: one for the 25th anniversary, the 40th, the 50th, probably the 60th, and now this one for the 75th. I didn’t think I would buy it, but I put it on a wishlist along with other things to help give friends/family some ideas. And so now I have it, and I’m glad. It really is a good selection, with commemtary from the author, from Schulz, and from others. And I found myself repeatedly amazed at how great the selections were, astounding in their genius. I’ve loved Peanuts since I was a kid growing up in the 60s. This renewed my appreciation. I don’t know of any other strip with the depth of humanity that can be found in Peanuts.

[Max · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adore Peanuts and was thrilled to receive this book. There was so much information about Sparky and his life, how he started in comics, how Peanuts was made and changed over the years, how the characters came to be who they are, and so much more. There were hundreds of comics throughout, displaying the most gorgeous artwork, with so many characters, really showing how Peanuts came to be. I smiled, I laughed, I felt sad and happy, and I felt seen. Snoopy and the gang are my absolute favourites❤️

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

75 iconic strips with commentary and supporting strips. An excellent read. In "Peanuts" the human condition is explored with heart and understanding.