Complete Peanuts HC Vol 9: 1967-1968
344 pages; hard cover; black & white
As we rush toward the end of Peanuts' second full decade, Snoopy finds himself almost completely engrossed in his persona as the "World War I Flying Ace" — to the point where he goes to camp with Charlie Brown and maintains his persona throughout the entire two-week period (much to Peppermint Patty's bafflement). Snoopy dominates this volume with his various adventures and his dealing with the return of his original owner, Lila. If you're surprised by that last one, imagine how Charlie Brown feels! Lila makes only a brief appearance, but this volume sees the appearance of what would be Schulz's most controversial major character: Franklin. (Yes, in 1968 the introduction of a black character caused a stir.) Peppermint Patty, working toward her ascendancy as one of the major Peanuts players in the 1970s and 1980s, also has several major turns, including a storyline in which she's the tent monitor for three little girls — who call her "Sir." Introduction by John Waters.