Classics Illustrated Special (1955) comic books 1958

The Story of Jesus. Second printing. "Three Camels" cover. Stories and art by Lorenz Graham and William A. Walsh. The semiannual Specials from Classics Illustrated were educational comics typically about science, history and American culture. This first issue focuses on the life of Jesus as relayed in the four Gospels of the New Testament, from his birth at Bethlehem to his Crucifixion and Resurrection. Birth and Boyhood of Jesus; Preparation for Lifes Work; The Galilean Ministry; Jesus at Jerusalem; Betrayal, Trial and Crucifixion; Resurrection. 96 pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.35.

Blazing the Trails West. Stories and art by George Evans and others. The semiannual Specials from Classics Illustrated were educational comics on science, history and American culture. This issue focuses on Westward expansion in America, including Sacagawea and the Lewis & Clark Expedition, the history of Texas, and roles played by fur traders, prospectors and mountain men. Note the prominent "coonskin cap" on the cover, a symbol of 1950s youth. Featuring art by EC legend George Evans. Blazing the Trails West; Gold, Fur, and Freedom; Daniel Boone; The Lewis and Clark Expedition; The Santa Fe Trail; Fur and Mountains; Kit Carson; The Mexican War; End of an Empire; Frontier Fun. 96 pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.35.

Crossing the Rockies. Painted cover by Gerald McCann. Stories and art by George Evans, Reed Crandall, Norman Nodel, Don Perlin, and Joe Orlando. The semiannual Specials from Classics Illustrated were educational comics on science, history and American culture. This issue continues the focus on Westward expansion in America from the previous issue. High points of the frontier era include the Gold Rush and the Pony Express; low points include the tragic fate of the Donner Party. The transcontinental railroad, the Oregon Trail, the Mormon trek to Utah, and the establishment of telegraph lines are also covered. Featuring art by legends George Evans, Reed Crandall, and Joe Orlando and future Marvel artist Don Perlin. Crossing the Rockies; The Oregon Trail; Death and the Donners; This Is the Place; The Gold Rush; The Apache Wars; The Overland Mail; The Pony Express; Bound by Rails; Meanwhile, Back in the East…; The Magic Wire. 96 pages, Full Color. Cover price $0.35.