Otto Binder was a science fact, science fiction, and comic book writer -- one of the most prolific in the business -- who began by writing for the pulp magazines and then turned to comics when they paid more money. He wrote more stories about Captain Marvel and his friends and enemies than anyone else, and at DC Comics was instrumental in adding characters and interesting developments to the Superman mythos. Later on he wrote science articles, as well as books on investigations into UFOs. Binder's personal life was often beset with both financial and private problems, and he suffered one terrible family tragedy that nearly derailed him. This is a respectful, absorbing, well-written and researched biography that gives Binder his due while also giving an honest assessment of his work, both good and bad. This is far more than a "fan-boy's" tribute, but a fully-realized biographical and career study of an important figure in both science fiction and comic book circles.
Verdict: Excellent Binder biography. ***1/2.
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