Superman, Spiderman, and the X-Men. To Professor William H. Foster III, comic books are serious stuff and definitely not just for kids. Though many fantastic tales have been told through the pages of comic strips and comic books, some of the most interesting and least told stories, according to Foster, are about the changing image of Black people in American society. If art imitates life, cartoon and comic art might seem an unusual mirror in which to view society. But to Professor Foster, a long time historian, lecturer, and fan, comics are a source of scholarly research and just plain fun. This book represents a collection of his published essays, articles, and interviews that explore the historical portrayal of people of color in the world of comics. Professor Foster has been an expert commentator for both CNN News and National Public Radio. His exhibit on the "Changing Image of Blacks in Comics" has been displayed at a number of venues across the country.