The Complete Peanuts: 1945–1952 is the inaugural volume in Fantagraphics Books’ ambitious and acclaimed project to publish every single Peanuts comic strip by Charles M. Schulz, one of the most influential cartoonists of the 20th century. This edition includes Schulz’s earliest comic efforts—such as his Li’l Folks strips published before Peanuts—as well as the historic debut of Peanuts on October 2, 1950, and its evolution through 1952.
These formative years introduce readers to a smaller, rounder Charlie Brown, along with early versions of iconic characters like Snoopy, Shermy, Patty, and Violet. While the visual style and character development are still maturing, the unmistakable tone of quiet humor, philosophical undertones, and emotional depth is already present. Schulz’s sparse, clean drawing style and mastery of timing set a new standard for comic strip storytelling.
