The New Yorker covers: September 27, 2004

Pets come in many species, but cats and dogs are the most popular. The American Veterinary Medical Association reported in 2024 that the dog population in the U.S. stood at 89.7 million, while the cat population logged in at 73.8 million. The cute and lovable critters have worked their way onto the cover of The New Yorker more than a few times.

Ana Juan
"Brought to Heel"

And now, a few words from . . . J. K. Rowling

If you want to know what a man’s like, take a good look at how he treats his inferiors, not his equals.

"What is art but a way of seeing?" Saul Bellow

"Mother and Son," 1950, Eileen Mayo

Movie Posters, 1961: Two adults, please, and a large popcorn!

Today in the history of the American comic strip: August 21

American cartoonists and writers may not have invented the comic strip, but some argue that the comics, as we know them today, are an American creation. Clearly, the United States has played an outsize role in the development of this underappreciated art form.

8.21.1918: Edwina Dumm debuts Cap Stubbs and Tippie, a strip about a mischievous boy and his dog. It ran until 1966.

8.21.1933: William Ritt launches Brick Bradford, as a daily strip. The science-fiction comic ran from 1933 to 1987, under various artists.
 

Brick Bradford

Most of the information listed here from one day to the next comes from two online sites -- Wikipedia, and Don Markstein's Toonopedia -- as well as 100 Years of American Newspaper Comics, edited by Maurice Horn. Note that my focus is on American newspaper comic strips (and the occasional foreign strip that gained popularity in the United States). Thus, comic books and exclusively online comics are not included here.

The New Yorker covers: October 31, 1994

October 31 is commonly associated with trick-or-treating, costume parties, haunted houses and jack-o’-lanterns, but Halloween also has religious roots as All Hallows' Eve, which precedes a Christian holy day honoring saints. The origins of the holiday are open to dispute. Just make sure you get the candy ready!

William Joyce
"Halloween" 

And now, a few words from . . . Pablo Picasso

All children are artists. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.

"What is art but a way of seeing?" Saul Bellow

"Oranges," 1893, George Cope

Movie Posters, 1955: Two adults, please, and a large popcorn!